Iron Stars - enzo-ducote

@Nic awakens in his room as the wall terminal begins to chime. The feast the night before went long into the night and saw Enzo, along with four other squires elevated to the rank of Knight. The Order of the Sundered Ring has a reputation among the wider Elected Monarchy as a brooding order of Knights, especially when their rivals, the Order of Gold share the same field. None the less, when there are bandits to apprehend without mercy, wild beasts threatening to destroy settlements, and other such troubles , the Sundered Ring have done their duty with bravado and expertise in equal measure. There is a time honored practice of the best warriors from each order facing one another in a duel before the beginning of any joint effort between the two groups, though these duels are prohibited by the rest of the electors from ending with the death of one opponent over the other. Relations are sour, but thus far the Grandmasters of both orders have prevented their private disputes from imperiling the running of the Polity- especially this close to The Scream. The reasons for the feud are secrets that members of the Sundered Ring are slowly inducted into over time as they rise through the ranks of the Order. Only the Grandmaster and her most inner circle know the true reason for the feud in full detail. The wall chime pings once again, letting you know a message is waiting. (just pinging you for this first one so we know where your thread is, no need to ping on a reply)

Enzo made a sound between a growl and a groan as he peeled himself off the floor by his bed. He blinked and rubbed his eyes, the light just a bit too bright to nurture his hangover. The taste of wine was still lingering in his dry mouth. It took a lot out of him, but he finally worked up the strength to stand up and detangle himself from the blankets that rolled off the bed with him last night. He walked to the wall, trying to pat his reddish hair down into a somewhat presentable manner. As he tried to pick through his wine-logged brain to remember how this device worked again, Enzo thought back to how things were finally getting interesting in his life. Being a squire sure wasn't glamorous and wasn't as leisurely as his old life, but now that he's a knight he finally had a chance to live a life worth being proud of. "Ah, there we go," Enzo muttered to himself when he finally pulled his messages on his personal device up. "Now let's see who wants what from me." Enzo tapped on the message notification.

The message is simple, a summons to breakfast, accompanied by a morning briefing. You and the recently elevated knights, dubbed Knights-Errant as you are now on a quest for the glory and fame that will once again elevate you to the next circle of the order- have all been called to assemble for a mission of vital importance to both the Elected Monarchy, and the Order of the Sundered Ring itself.

How fitting. A night of feasting and celebration and a morning of questing right after. No time for rest or idleness in the life of a knight. Logging off, Enzo set to grabbing his things from his room. A quick wash of his face, a swift donning of his black mesh armor--which he thought he should replace with the finest armor money can afford when he got the chance--and then he threw his sword into his belt and strapped it around his waist. Enzo stepped out through the doors and marched down the halls with as much a refined step he could muster, the effects of alcohol fading away with every clack of his boots against the floor. He tried to look every bit as important as he thought he was as he began his way to the summons.

You see one of the other Knights-Errant at the top of the stairs. He is sandy haired and a year younger than you. You remember him from hunting a beast a year ago. Both of you were squires then, assisting the mounted knights while you were on foot, keeping the beast back and contained with the other squires and pages, all fighting it from several directions at once with large spears. Your comrade wounded the beast gravely with a thrust to the side, though lost his spear in the process. You remember saving his life, pulling him out of the way as a talon lashed at him, narrowly missing the both of you. It was from this fight that you had both garnered the eyes of Order leadership. "Morning Ducote" he says, "Still sleeping it off too?"

Ahh yes, Enzo remembered this man. He was quite the fighter--more so than Enzo ever was. He remembered that he saved this man's life because he was their best chance of making it out of that fight alive. After he pulled him out of the way of the beast, Enzo gave the squire his spear so he could keep fighting and fell back on using his sword. Apparently the knights saw this as a sign of bravery on Enzo's part. "But of course," Enzo rested one hand on the pommel of his sword with a carefree lean, "We could have killed any beast on this planet with how much we drank last night. Come, let us face the new day together." Enzo gestured down the stairs with a nod of his head. Whatever it was they were tasked with, Enzo wanted to have all the support he could have. Especially if it involved running wild beasts through with spears. "Tell me, do you have any thoughts on our recent communication with the outside world? I hear we made contact with our siblings from other far-flung planets once again. I wonder if they require our guidance and protection in these dark times." Enzo tried to keep the conversation going as he racked his disorientated thoughts for his fellow knight's name.

"Hard to say. Last I heard all we knew was the message had been received, and Galnet was going to send it to everyone else. We're going to be getting monthly updates from them from now on. Don't think anyone's offered to reach out to us directly yet though. If we did hear, doubt we'd know this early on yet anyway. We're not exactly high in the pecking order of it all. " You remember after a moment his name is Dante.

"But there lies the issues, friend," Enzo cast his eye to his companion without turning his head, "we're not high in the pecking order yet." Unfounded pride, of course, but Enzo found little reason to assume that their fair back-water polity wouldn't become a major player in the future. "It's a time of legends, or so they say. I believe we'll find our part to play out there in the stars." Enzo continued to the briefing, trying his best to not look too curious or excited about his first task as a full-fledged knight

Briefing has been put together by Grandmaster Mariam. and some thought has been given to the fact you all might be hung over. Strong tea, dense bread, and a fat heavy meal of bacon, sausage, eggs and bread has been set aside for you. As Knights-Errant about to go on their first mission this group of four is being given the honor of eating first. The other two errants, knights who you have not met before are also here. Each of them have already made a large plate and look to have been in quiet conversation with the Grandmaster- no doubt the obligatory congrats and accolades on their recent promotion. "We're assembled" The Grandmaster says upon seeing the two of you enter. "Make a plate, soak up the drink you had last night. We have something urgent I'm assigning each of you to"

Enzo was not one to stand out by being overly-polite, so he abided by the Grandmaster's request and began helping himself. Plenty of bread and meat was needed for a knight to keep up his strength, after all. He made sure to stick close to Dante, even offering him a particularly large slice of bacon to nurture whatever rapport they may have. He'd need a strong sword-arm to accompany him, after all. With the matter of breakfast settled, Enzo took his seat beside the other questing knights to listen to what Mariam had to say.

"We've had reports of a beast. A big one, and a nasty one" she says, showing you a map of the local area. The Order of the Sundered Ring is a head above most of the other orders in having its own stronghold and towns around it. (each hex is 200km ,so the knighthold is shown on the map of Kost, but isn't the only terrain feature there) "These people grow our food, fashion our weapons and armor, and so on. They depend on us for protection and a beast ripping through the southern towns isn't something we can tolerate. Most of the other knights are going to be riding to secure the other towns to ensure the safety of the rest of our tributary settlements. We also have a group heading west to the forest to look for nesting grounds or any clues about the sudden surge in attacks. that leave us with you, our hunting team. You are Knights- Errant, and most of us were bloodied as knights with a beast hunt. You will be the newest members of a long standing tradition in finding the beast and bringing it down. "

Now that sounds simple enough. Find the beast, kill it, and try to make sure not too many others die along the way. Enzo could see to that. Enzo took a draught of his tea then spoke "And did the reports say much about this beast? Where it was last seen or any natural weaponry we must be specially weary of?" He cast his eye to the two other knights-errant sitting with him. He was confident in Dante's skill, but he wondered of the skill of the others. No matter, he will learn soon enough.

"We don't have many details. This is going to be a recon in force, unfortunately. None of you are new to fighting beasts, you'll have to use your wits and your skill to survive this one"

"Then so shall it be done." Enzo had said his piece. He wanted his actions to speak for his abilities to the Grandmaster. He was curious as to how dangerous this specific beast was, but he was sure witnesses and survivors from the villages would give ample information. Enzo sat back and let his compatriots speak their mind, focusing instead on his breakfast and shoving enough of it down to make the throbbing pain in his head and stomach fade away. He would need all the strength he could get before setting out on another hunt.

"You will each be given a grav bike with a battery reserve and ghost driver for this assignment. You'll need to be resourceful and use what you have otherwise. As soon as you're finished eating, we'd like you all to set out. People out there are depending on us, and we can't let them down"

And so Enzo ate. He was eager to ride out on his grav bike--it was a fair sight more impressive than riding out on a horse like some still do. Before the eating was finished, Enzo introduced himself to his fellow knights. He also suggested that they split into two teams to spread out and find the whereabouts of the beast and any information they can gather once they disperse. Of course, Enzo suggested he stick with Dante.

The group is not willing to split up until at last reaching the first town to the south and talking to the people there. No one wants to be caught with only one person for backup against a beast of unknown size and power, with no clear idea of where it currently is hunting or living.

(Woops, that's what I was meaning to suggest lol) With the matter settled, Enzo left to finalize preparations. He did not have much he needed to bring from his personal belongings--much was spent, sacrificed, and lost along the path of becoming a knight. But he grabbed his backpack and personal device from his room all the same before heading to claim his grav bike with the other three. When it was time to depart, Enzo was ready to go on this first quest to claim the Beast's life.

(lets get a D10 for our first hex as we move south and explore the countryside

(We got ourselves a nifty thrifty 5)

You are each release from breakfast when you are ready and your personal combat gear is waiting for you by the grav bikes you will be taking on your exploration. Order workers have ensured everything is clean, packed, fitting properly, and that you are otherwise ready to be as successful as possible on your hunt. The four of you begin moving south of the order's hold in the mid morning sun and after driving for two hours come to a lone shack built on top of a hill that has a commanding view of the countryside around it. Thin smoke comes from a vent pipe in the side of the structure.

Enzo brings his bike to a stop, bringing it about in a wide arc and swinging it perpendicular to the view on the horizon to get a better look at the scene. He rested one leg on the ground and leaned on it. "Have any you an idea of who lives up there?" Enzo called out to the rest of the knights. "With a view like they have, I would imagine they can see most anything that happens down below. Shall we stop by and explain our mission?" Perhaps whoever was up there would have an idea of what beast was rampaging beyond. And if not, maybe they would know where to go to begin asking questions...

None of the knights know who is living up there. By decree these lands are not to be settled and are reserved for the use of the knighthold, so whoever is living there, or whatever is living there, is doing so illegally.

"Well then, let us introduce ourselves. I'm sure that if given the options of paying for their criminal transgressions or helping us on our journey, they are sure to make the right choice. It shan't take long. With me, men." Enzo started his bike up once more and headed towards the shack on the hill.

(are we approaching quietly, or openly? )

(Openly--with the confident swagger of a man who can do no wrong)

As your bikes proceed up toward the top of the hill an armed homesteader emerges, shouting at you to get off his land. He has an antique looking shotgun, and both barrels are squarely pointed at the knight just ahead of you. You're not sure if it is capable of shooting, or if it can harm your companion, but the homesteader seems intent on keeping you away from his dwelling unless something is done to calm the situation.

Enzo calls to the others to hang back, pulling ahead of the others and waving his hand as if to say he has the situation under control. He brings his bike to a stop, raising his palms up to the man to show he has no weapons in his hands. "We come not for you nor your land, good man. If we wanted to force you out, we would have already done so by now. We come asking if you have heard or seen of the beast that has been ravaging the nearby lands and its people. We are tasked with taking its head." Enzo called out over some distance, since he did not really feel like being shot at today. And he had much more important matters to take care of than a simple illegal homesteader.

(Talk/cha)

(Got a humble 9--also just realized I could roll here so I'll do that from now on) (edited)

“Beast? No beast around here. What did you see?” He asks , the hostility suddenly out of his voice

"As of now, we have seen no sign of the creature save what our Grandmaster has told us." Enzo took the opportunity to begin approaching the man at a leisurely pace so that he could speak without shouting. "But rest assured, what we have heard is quite ghastly. It is likely to make its way up to these parts if it is not stopped in due time. Have you any word on any travelers who have said anything out of the ordinary?"

“Nothing here. Close to the hold there isn’t much people under threat I think. Anyway. Yer trespassin” he says racking the shotgun for emphasis

Enzo stopped and placed his hands up once more. He knew when he was beat. "Of course, of course. We will be on our way, trespassing on one's land is a great crime." Enzo made to turn away but stopped to raise a hand to his chin. "Which reminds me: Before I leave, may I ask your name? I would like to verify our records to ensure that you have the right to remain on this land." Enzo quickly added "So that our future patrols and questing knights do not needlessly disturb you, of course." It was pointless platitudes, Enzo knew that both parties involved knew he was threatening the man. Perhaps he was trying to see if the man would reveal any information of what he was doing here. Perhaps Enzo just didn't like being threatened by a mere commoner.

The shotgun in his hands racks at the mention of asking for their name. "Why don't you and yer shiny friends make tracks and skedaddle," He says, spitting a wad of chewing tobacco onto the ground

As much as Enzo would like to see if it was possible to stay and harass the man into racking his shotgun until all its shells were ejected, he figured he wasted enough time as is. "But of course, thank you for the information and your cooperation." Enzo gave the man a nod of his head and returned to the bikes. "The man has nothing of value," he said upon returning to the knights. "I say we make note of his location for later. Perhaps we can use him as a training opportunity for squires in a lesson of law and enforcement." He would then mount his bike, preparing to leave. "Shall we continue our hunt?"

(d10 for the next area, but the group is keen to move on)

Nic

used /roll

Enzo Ducote Request: [1d10] Roll: [2] Result: 2

Continuing to move further south past the crazed homesteader, your bikes continue whistling through the air, their prows cutting the currents apart like descending blades. Thin smoke on the horizon has one of your companions gesturing towards it ,something has happened again, and no one is sure what.

Enzo follows his companion's gestures and redirects towards the smoke in the distance, keeping an eye out to see if there was anything unusual about this smoke or if there was any noticeable desolation as they approached

It smells like wood smoke. Based on the maps you have there was a small hamlet in that area responsible for growing grain. It was not the only settlement doing so for themselves, and tithing some to the fort, but it is one of many, and one close to the chapterhouse itself. There are no signs of people running from the settlement so far, but the fire is undoubtedly coming from the buildings and surrounding woodlands there.

Seeing no reason to delay, Enzo continued along towards the village. If the knights could get ahold of someone, they could perhaps begin narrowing down the scope of their hunt.

As you move close to the village within 300m of it down the game path its hunters use the bikes are forced to travel single file, with you in front. The first of the soot covered locals emerges from the brush 100m ahead frantically trying to flag you down . (edited)

Enzo swerves his bike out of the way, coming to a drastic stop slightly to the side of the path to give the other knights room to navigate to their own stops. Enzo looks to the citizen and motions him over. "You! What happened here? Is there an attack?" A better man would have asked if the citizen was ok, but Enzo was not a good, let alone better, man.

"Creature! Killing everything!" he shouts. As he turns to the left you can see he is missing a hand and arm, is blood soaked and otherwise is about to go into shock.

Enzo leans forward and looks to the source of the smoke, squinting his eyes as if trying to get a better look. There was nothing Enzo could do for the man. He was no doctor. "Come men, with me! We must stop it before it escapes!" (Is it possible to reach the source of the smoke by bike? If not I'll just leg it with the boys)

(we can get there with the bikes but depending on where the creature is , like if its super cramped or there's a lot of buildings, the bikes might not be the best to hunt it from. When attacking from a vehicle, the speed difference between the vehicle and what you're shooting at is also a penalty to hit, and you wouldn't suffer this on foot, so generally speaking its probably best to dismount for this anyway when we get closer- at least for a few levels until your attack bonus can buff out the penalty) (edited)

(Sounds good to me, I'll just ride the bike closer to the town and dismount when we get close enough to see what's going on)

10:42 AM

Approaching the town square the building 100m from you collapses , and the twisted creature known as a Balewing emerges from the ruins. It has just finished eating one of the locals, and a hand and arm but nothing else falls from its multi part mouth. It roars and shrieks, challenging your band directly.

(Great googaly moogaly thats horrifying) Enzo would have taken a step back if his body didn't freeze at the Balewing's sight. It took a concentrated effort for the man to snap out of what felt like an eternity's worth of hesitation--yet was only but a second. "Dante, with me! You two," Enzo pulled his sword free, "Surround it! Attack from all sides!"

(initiative)

Nic

used /roll

Enzo Ducote Request: [1d8] Roll: [4] Result: 4

(Let's go, there's a chance I may act before the nightmare horror)

Nekosmash

used /roll

Nekosmash Request: [d8] Roll: [7] Result: 7

(Balewing, then you and your comrades. You can roll them too and I'll let you know their modifiers when its time so I don't overwhelm you with info. ) Seeing prey, and that you are not running, the Balewing cuts off its pursuit of the fleeing towns folk and begins to float toward you on its rotting vulture like wings. (move and action to dash, closing to 50m)

11:11 AM

(You are up)

Enzo runs forward with his men, readying his weapon for the creature's incoming onslaught. (Enzo will use his move action to go forward 10 meters and then go into total defense)

(what do you want your companions to do?)

(I'm gonna have Dante stick with Enzo, preparing his defenses as well, and the other two to just spread out in either direction, doing the same with total defense.)

(For clarity sake, everyone is moving up 10m and taking total defense ?)

(Yep, basically--I'm betting that the balewing can only target one of us at a time lol)

The balewing glides forward, barreling into Dante, though its glide has prevented it from also making a bite or scratch with its talon claws for the moment. (move and it needs to dash to get into melee even though it didn't use the full move it needed. Main is still gone to do so, now its back to you)

(The fact that it hasn't hit us yet makes me think now's the time to strike without getting insta-gibbed by the big scary monster.) Enzo hesitated for but a moment: The beast was finally before him. While he considered himself a talker more-so than a fighter, he had to strike if he wanted to even walk away from this alive. He raised his blade and rushed to the Balewing, striking down and hoping to bite deep into the beast. (Gonna move on in and attack with my sword, and I'll try and have the other three strike at the beast as well. I'll go ahead and roll for my attack here first)

Nic

used /roll

Enzo Ducote Request: [1d20] Roll: [8] Result: 8

Your blow misses the Balewing as your sword whistles through the air. (your companions can also reach it and attack. They'd be rolling a D20+3)

(Alrighty let's go, perhaps they are stronger than me)

Nic

used /roll

Enzo Ducote Request: [1d20+3] Roll: [14] Result: 17

Nic

used /roll

Enzo Ducote Request: [1d20+3] Roll: [18] Result: 21

Nic

used /roll

Enzo Ducote Request: [1d20+3] Roll: [16] Result: 19

(Those rolls were from Dante first, the other two knightly goons second)

(all three hit, weapon damage is D6+1 for each)

Nic

used /r

Enzo Ducote Request: [3d6+3] Roll: [6, 3, 1] Result: 13

(That's a total of 13 damage for all 3 combined)

The Balewing is wounded and there is a large gash torn in its leathery wing. With it no longer being able to hover it props itself up on its chicken like legs, snarling. It bites down toward Dante with its warped jaws, filled with serrated teeth

Nekosmash

used /roll

Nekosmash Request: [d20+3] Roll: [9] Result: 12

(misses)( There is a crunch and a spray of sparks as the bite closes on Dante, but does not break through the proud armor of the Order of the Sundered Ring's newest knight errant.

9:14 AM

(back to you all)

(Gonna roll for all of us, starting with me, then Dante, than third goon, and fourth)

Nic

used /roll

Enzo Ducote Request: [1d20] Roll: [11] Result: 11

Nic

used /r

Enzo Ducote Request: [1d20+3] Roll: [18] Result: 21

Nic

used /r

Enzo Ducote Request: [1d20+3] Roll: [4] Result: 7

Nic

used /r

Enzo Ducote Request: [1d20+3] Roll: [6] Result: 9

Nic

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Enzo Ducote Request: [1d20+3] Roll: [10] Result: 13

(accidentally rolled one too many times, but I think that's one hit from Dante)

Nic

used /r

Enzo Ducote Request: [1d6+1] Roll: [1] Result: 2

(Its only one hit, j ust need Dante's damage)

(Rolled that hefty 2 damage for Dante)

The balewing roars as another wound rends it’s fresh. It bites back toward one of the other knights , sparing you and Dante for a moment

Nekosmash

used /roll

Nekosmash Request: [d20+3] Roll: [19] Result: 22

Nekosmash

used /roll

Nekosmash Request: [d8] Roll: [6] Result: 6

The bite is severe and your companion reels back, their wounds heavy

With the knight injured, Enzo redoubles his efforts and tries to get just one solid strike in on the balewing, attacking alongside Dante. (Enzo, Dante, and the other knight attacks once again while the injured knight will disengage from the beast and pull back out of the fight.)

Nic

used /r

Enzo Ducote Request: [1d20] Roll: [7] Result: 7

Nic

used /r

Enzo Ducote Request: [1d20+3] Roll: [14] Result: 17

Nic

used /r

Enzo Ducote Request: [1d20+3] Roll: [11] Result: 14

(Enzo, Dante, other knight. In case Dante's strike hit, I'll go ahead and roll now, please disregard if it's a miss)

Nic

used /r

Enzo Ducote Request: [1d6+1] Roll: [2] Result: 3

(the 17 and 14 hit , so we need one more damage roll, the wounded knight will use their main action for fighting withdrawal so they won't take an opportunity attack for leaving melee, and their 10m move will be heading back toward the bikes)

/r 1d6+1

Nic

used /r

Enzo Ducote Request: [1d6+1] Roll: [4] Result: 5

(O bb we're cooking with gas now)

The balewing bleeds openly from several gashes carved into its side. Weakened and angered it is at its most dangerous as it attempts another powerful bite down on Dante

Nekosmash

used /roll

Nekosmash Request: [d20+4] Roll: [11] Result: 15

Thick armor keeps the creatrures jaws from wounding Dante, but he is winded and his chestplate is deformed in several places from the impact of fangs

9:39 AM

(back to you guys)

Despite his inability to get a solid strike in, Enzo continues his assault. The creature is surely on the verge of defeat, and Enzo wanted to claim the final blow for himself. The knights continue to clash with the creature. (Rolling for Enzo first, Dante second, and third guy last)

Nic

used /r

Enzo Ducote Request: [1d20] Roll: [11] Result: 11

Nic

used /r

Enzo Ducote Request: [1d20+3] Roll: [14] Result: 17

Nic

used /r

Enzo Ducote Request: [1d20+3] Roll: [19] Result: 22

Nic

used /r

Enzo Ducote Request: [1d6+1] Roll: [2] Result: 3

Nic

used /r

Enzo Ducote Request: [1d6+1] Roll: [2] Result: 3

(And thats a total of 6, 3 from Dante, 3 from other guy)

Dante swings his sword in a mighty two handed horizontal blow. The creature groans and wobbles as the strength in its wings gives out. While the blow was not struck with enough force to be a beheading one, a torrent of blood rushes from the creatures neck. You all know a fatal wound when you see one, and everyone takes several steps back to not be caught in the death throes of the beast.

"You, with me!" Enzo called to the other, uninjured knight. "We must secure the town. Dante, see to it that it dies without complication." Enzo, seeing the Balewing mortally wounded, immediately set to trying to organize the knights. With the damages done to the town, it was critical to ensure that the locals see that the knights of his order sought not only to protect them, but minimize their casualties too. With the fire and destruction the beast wrought, Enzo decided it was necessary to begin staunching the flow of damage. Enzo would try to rally together any civilians still in the area to try and put out any remaining fires before searching for wounded among the wreckage.

(lead/cha)

Nic

used /r

Enzo Ducote Request: [2d6+1] Roll: [3, 2] Result: 6

(If it's cool, I'd like to go ahead and use my expert ability to reroll that)

(sure! go ahead!)

Nic

used /r

Enzo Ducote Request: [2d6+1] Roll: [5, 3] Result: 9

Seeing the knights organizing bucket brigades and search parties , people begin coming back to the village to get the fires under control and search for those who had become trapped in rubble, or otherwise were unable to escape the village in time. It seems like out of the population here, about 10 had been killed, and several homes destroyed as a result- including the village bakery.

9:37 AM

The smith in the area has chains, and though the body will need to be burned, the head can be brought back to the order as proof of your combined deed. Your companion also needs medical attention that is beyond what the village can provide.

All things considered, the beast's attack could have been much worse. With the fires extinguished and people rescued, Enzo left the honor of beheading the now-dead Balewing to Dante. He was the one who struck the final, and majority, of the blows after all. Upon his insistence, he would have the head chained to Dante's bike. Upon bidding the people of the village farewell and telling them he would try in some regard to provide the village with help in repairing, he would mount up his bike and prepare to head back to the order's stronghold. The most important matter was seeing the head returned. The second most important was seeing to the wounded knight. The third most important, of course, was writing a report on the homesteader and devising a way to utilize him as a training tool for all future squires after disarming him of his weapon.

THe drive back to the stronghold is taken at a faster pace since you've explored this part of the countyside already. Upon returning to the stronghold, the large bell in its steeple begins to ring, announcing knights-errant returning from the field. There are cheers and the bell continues to clang as you get closer, and lookouts must have reported to the senior officers that you have returned with a victory, and with the head of the beast. As you pull into the courtyard most of the knights and squires present have come out to greet you and cheer on a successful first mission. (3xp, 5000 credits. We'll handle the level up and any shopping and then we'll get into a new mission)

(Neato Burrito, Gonna go ahead and roll that HP here)

Nic

used /r

Enzo Ducote Request: [1d6] Roll: [4] Result: 4

**Level Up**
Level: 2
Focus: Specialist (Lead)
Old HP: 6
HP Roll: 4
New HP: 10
New Skills: Know-0, Stab-1
Current AB: +1

(Looking over possible things to buy, I was just wondering if it's at all possible to buy/pay someone to apply a modification for Enzo's sword? Basically was just hoping to give it the "Customized" mod from pg. 91 of the core book. The Only other thing I wanted to ask was whether Enzo would be able to continue borrowing generic gravbikes from the Order so that I can save up and get him a snazzy one?) (edited)

(Hp is incorrect. It is 7. It’s not additive )

1:41 PM

(If you roll more than your existing health total you get the new hp. If you roll less you just get +1 hp For now you can borrow some generic bikes but you can save up for your own. Mods also need to be maintained so you need the fix level required to install it to also maintain it, so having an npc put it on for you won’t work unless you pay 10 times the cost and have them masterwork it but you can only do that to one mod per item. Masterworking a mod means you don’t have to maintain it)

(Alrighty cool, went ahead and just changed my hp to the correct value, and I'll just be holding onto the money then for future purchases)

3:24 PM

(Wait woops I needed to roll two d6, so I'll keep the roll of 4 from earlier and just roll a second here)

Nic

used /r

Enzo Ducote Request: [1d6] Roll: [2] Result: 2

(Ok so got a total of 6, which means the hp would just be 7 so we good)

(any thoughts on a theme for the next mission? Or do you want me to pick something)

(Could we perhaps do something with either a group investigation/hunt? Or perhaps driving off some bandits or rabble or something? I'd like the chance to break out me talkin' pants)

(There aren't any players available right now, but we could do some bandits somewhere if that sounds good to you)

(Actually, @Korgel Glamusk is available right now too, so I can set something up for the two of you. )

Both Enzo and Korgel receive messages on their compads at the same time. One here, in the knighthold of the Order of the sundered Ring, and the other in Kost Relay, having just returned from a large colony development project. The order is the same for both of them, and in the case of Korgel, transport is being provided. A large and organized group of bandits calling themselves a 'free company' have taken root in the wilds east of the knighthold. There are rumors that these bandits and brigands are being paid and equipped by the Order of Gold, but thus far this proves to just be a rumor. The directive is simple, all hands are being requested to respond to the issue, dismantling the bandits and finding any possible connections to other organizations within the Elected Monarchy. The landing zone is a small flattened field, a kilometer east of the knighthold, and Enzo is once again accompanied by only Dante.

"Tell me, Dante, do you think the enemy deserves more or less mercy if they are but a mere pawn in the schemes of our greater foes?" Enzo stood by Dante's side, his hand resting on the pommel of his sword hanging from his hip. "It is like hating the hound for the orders of its masters. Either way, the hound must be put down all the same, but I wonder if we should feel pity for the mindless beast." Enzo pondered aloud to his knightly companion, waiting for his new compatriot to land. He knew very little of the man; only that he was a talented and useful individual. He stood there, as if trying too hard to seem unimpressed for any onlookers and the man who will soon be landing

During the travel, Korgel searches for any information on the network that could give a clue on a possible reason for the Order of Gold to involve themselves with these bandits. He ponders in the silence of the shuttle: “First time working with a Knight, my mother always said that they can be a trusty bunch, even if a bit old fashioned. Maybe a good relationship will be born.”

(all we know is the Sundered Ring and Order of Gold have some enmity between them ,but the reason for the dispute is not known to the general public)

2:02 PM

The shuttle sets down at the edge of the forest that flanks the eastern side of the Sundered Ring's towering stronghold. Dante and Enzo wait patiently next to their grav bikes, and a third basic model with a ghost driver has been checked out of the knightholds stockpile of vehicles for the incoming technician. Vectoring thrusters ensure the landing is cushy and soft, before the ramp begins to winch outward and lower, allowing Korgel to descend.

Korgel nears the duo, trying to remeber something about knight grades before giving up. He starts doing a military salute before interrupting and greeting them, a bit embarrassed. "I suppose you are the knights I'm supposed to meet. Korgel Glamusk, here to help. Sorry about the salute, I'm not used to working with knights."

"It is of no concern," Enzo stood at his full height, away from his casual slouch from earlier, "Just ensure you do not salute us anymore and all will be well." He never seemed to expand on this, whether it was because he didn't want Korgel to worry about formalities or because he seemed to think such matters were beneath him, it was unclear. "I am Enzo Ducote. My comrade here is the esteemed Dante. And you will help us crush the Free Company. Come, Korgel, we have much to do." The man's standoffish attitude would have been outright comical if he didn't seem to think he was self-important enough to get away with it. All the same, he mounted his bike and awaited his companions to mount theirs. "Have you ever killed a man before?" Enzo asked as casually as if he were talking about the weather.

Korgel follows Enzo to the bikes, taken aback by the question. He mulls on it a moment. "No, never had the necessity, fortunately. Quite a big moral call for anyone to make. I think for self defense, it would be a good reason. Have you ever needed to make such a call?"

"It's not your call to make," Enzo said as he reached the bikes and slung his leg over one. "If you are given the order to kill a man, you kill him. If one were to threaten to fight you to stop you from finishing your mission, you kill him. The morality is quite simple, really. The ones you kill were already dead when the order was given." Enzo checked the bike to make sure it was good to go. "But I am much better at giving the orders than I am at killing. Dante has a much greater aptitude for that than I."

"I think that someone is still making that call in the end. And you can decide whether to follow that order, especially if it goes against what morality would command. I see you have a very clear idea of what to do anyway. While I don't share that ease of spirit, I can certainly appreciate the pragmatism of it in real life. " Korgel mounts on the bike, checking the systems. "Also a curiosity, do you always greet people with philosophical questions first?" says with a wide joking smile. (edited)

"No. Typically I say 'hello,' first," Enzo was either entirely oblivious to the absurdity of his response or was entirely sarcastic. It was hard to tell, really. "Let's see if we can end the trip without adding a first kill to your record. I would hate to impede on a comrade's morals on a routine operation."

"Let's hope so. What info do you have on these bandits? From the scant information I received, they seem hardly routine"

"You know as much as I do, if not more," Enzo said. "Most brigands and bandits get their first taste for blood and wealth from a benefactor. Some paid for by nobles, others by merchants, and these from a rival Order. I'm sure we have some bandits originally funded by my own order running about in our rivals' lands too. All a part of the game, you see."

(caight up, just didn't want to interrupt the RP, You dont need to stop now if you're enjoying it, but when you're ready for me to move things along just let me know)

"Ah, wasn't expecting such a "routine" in the Lords' lands." Korgel says with a perplexed face. Thinking for himself: "Seems like a waste of precious working hands, maybe there is a deeper need to these political games..." (I guess we can move on, I'll let Enzo decide)

"Oh no, from how I see it it's quite simple. Someone doesn't like somebody else, or somebody has something someone else wants, and eventually someone does something about it. Imagine if you had the means to send a dozen men to avenge yourself for any slight, real or perceived. It'll make all the more sense in time." (I'm good to go whenever)

THe intelligence briefing received from the Order indicates the woodlands are a hotbed of activity by these bandits, namely along the handful of trade roads that snake through the forest , connecting the stronghold and its adjoining settlements in a spiderweb of thin, poorly maintained roads through the woods. Merchants, craftsman, and other itinerant travelers with business in other parts of the Order's holdings travel these roads frequently and are the most common targets. Heading out along the first of these roads you find, you travel at a low speed for close to an hour before finding a wagon that has been recently attacked. The wooden wagon has been thrown onto its side and it has been partially burned. The fire did not seem to take, and only a handful of the planks have ugly black scorch marks on them.

Korgel readies his pistol, while waiting from feedback from his more martial companions. He looks at the nearby woods for signs of bandits. (edited)

(notice/wis)

Korgel Glamusk

used /roll

Korgel Glamusk Request: [2d6+0] Roll: [4, 2] Result: 6 Reason: Notice/WIS

As Korgel scans the forest, Enzo moves towards the wagon itself and begins to look it over to see if anything stands out or has been left behind.

Only the burned remains of the cart, cut open sacks and smashed crates have been left behind, along with a few scattered goods like a few rusting iron bars, and scraps of food. Whoever attacked this cart fled north through the woods snapping branches in their wake, and careless as to not leaving a trail about the direction they were running.

Enzo calls Korgel and Dante over to him, pointing the remains of the cart out. "Looks like we found our guys. Korgel, I'll have Dante stay by your side to ensure your head stays on your shoulders. I'll have you lead the way and I will follow shortly behind in the case we stumble across an ambush, that way they won't catch all of us in it and the other party can intervene and catch our foes unaware."

"That would work. In case of ambush, I can move both me and Dante out of danger and come to you. I'll keep my eyes open" Said that, Korgel activates his Spatial Awareness ability (Effort committed until it's turned off) and moves ahead with Dante, while trying to be stealthy.

(Sneak/dex from each of you. That will basically set the dc for any notice checks the bandits in the area will need )

Korgel Glamusk

used /roll

Korgel Glamusk Request: [2d6+0] Roll: [4, 1] Result: 5 Reason: Sneak/DEX

Nic

used /r

Enzo Ducote Request: [2d6] Roll: [6, 5] Result: 11

Nekosmash

used /roll

Nekosmash Request: [2d6+1] Roll: [6, 6] Result: 13

The group continues down the thin game trail in single file, traveling cautiously in the direction the fleeing bandits took off. Foot placement is carefully monitored and movements are done slowly, with great care. After traveling for half an hour through the increasingly dense woodland, a single shot rings out from the trees, intentionally sent into the ground by Dante's foot from a concealed shooter. They call out. "That's close enough Crown agents. Your equipment, leave it in a pile by your feet, turn around and run, and I will let you live"

(Uh oh--does Uh, does Korgel have a gun, btw? Just in case diplomacy fails?)

(Not the shooty type, but I have a pistol)

1:06 PM

(Does Korgel see who is speaking and their location?) (edited)

(No, they're shooting and talking from a concealed position. We know they're in front of you somewhere in the thick woods judging by the directions of both the shot and their shouted commands, but they're remaining concealed as that is their main advantage right now) (edited)

Korgel tries to buy time for Enzo to act while still hidden. He rises its hands and leaves the pistol on the ground. "Calm down please! Can't we talk like civilized people? I'm only a technician, not a soldier. My buddy here is my bodyguard. We are not assaulting anyone. We saw the destroyed cart and were searching for survivors."

From Enzo's place further back, he tried to see if he could see where the shot, or voice, originated from. With any luck, Korgel could keep them talking long enough to prevent all of their deaths, or at the very least his.

(Notice/wis Enzo)

8:38 AM

"You won't find any. Leave your stuff and turn around. I'm not going to kill you if you comply" the voice says, measured and calm. "I won't hesitate to though if it looks like you're going to try something funny. So do the right thing, all of you leave your stuff and turn around"

Nic

used /r

Enzo Ducote Request: [2d6] Roll: [5, 4] Result: 9

"Ehm... Ok ok... What guarantees do we have that you don't shoot us as soon as we leave everything here? Also, it feels weird to talk to foliage. You got us, we are disarmed, can't you show your face? I'm not used to this military shenanigans and frankly I'm not wearing brown pants today, if you catch my drift..." Korgel looks around frantically while speaking, to keep attention on himself and blur facial expressions.

Nekosmash

used /roll

Nekosmash Request: [2d6+1] Roll: [5, 3] Result: 9

(ties go to the player, so Enzo will notice the shooter's location in a sec here once I move the scene. Korgel is trying to do some convincing at the same time, so lets get a talk/cha for that, at a +2 since what Korgel is saying is reasonable, and we'll see what happens from there)

Korgel Glamusk

used /roll

Korgel Glamusk Request: [2d6+0] Roll: [6, 3] Result: 9 Reason: Talk/CHA

(forgot to add +2, so 11)

The shooter is concealed on a tree stand 50m ahead of you. Native vegetation and camo wrapping has been piled up and blended to create an almost perfect blind. Years of training have allowed Enzo to spot it, but it would be invisible for those without any kind of advanced training in the art of war. "I tell you what, let's make a deal. You drop your weapons, and I'll come out, and we'll talk about this like gentlemen. You can leave your armor and your stuff on. I don't make a move until the guns are down though"

"Ok! Thank you for your understanding. We are leaving every weapon on the ground." Korgel instructs Dante to do the same, and drops the pistol and dagger on the ground, but not too far away from his feets. (edited)

(dante will do the same, is Enzo? Just so I can see what the scene does)

Enzo unstraps his sword from his waist and walks out alongside Korgel. He holds his weapon by the belt and lowered it down to his feet. From there he nods at Korgel then at Dante before returning back to looking at where the shooter was.

The shooter emerges from their hiding place. You can see them spending a brief second to zip down from their shooting stand on a rope that you did not see before. He has left his rifle behind. He stands 40m from you and has a pistol on his belt. "Close enough. You're cooperating, lets not ruin this. Turn around and walk away"

"Before going away, I would like to know why I'm risking my life today. Stealing doesn't require any killing usually and you seem quite calm for a "job gone wrong" day. So I would assume there is something else behind this. As said, we were searching for ways to help people. This would include you."

"That wasn't my side of the operation. Not sure what went wrong. This isn't how we do things though. Someone probably tried to be a hero"

"I think we could help in keeping things calm in the region, if you would allow us to collaborate. Even with unwarranted heroes, if people are getting killed, things could spiral out of control quick and put some unwanted attention here. There were enough victims with the Scream already, after all. People are needed to put things back to normal on this planet. What do you think?" Korgel glances at Enzo and Dante, making sure they are ready to fight if collaboration doesn't come. (Korgel tries to convince the bandit to collaborate, maybe he will lead us to their HQ)

Enzo joins in with Korgel, all too aware that the man still held his gun on his person. "And would you like to explain how things are meant to be done? There was certainly a lot of violence for an accidental happenstance." (Enzo will just jump in and assist Korgel with his endeavors)

The shooter ignores Korgel for the moment, unwilling to betray his fellows with nothing guaranteed. "If we rob someone, we take the goods. Never their lives, not unless they make a move on their own , like pulling a gun- then we're at threat and acting accordingly is unfortunately something that needs to happen. Gotta pick yourself when it comes down to them or me"

"Fine, not sure that qualifies as self defense, since you are robbing people, but I can understand that survival instinct."

10:23 AM

Korgel signals the others to be on their way. "Our offer still stands, but we can go away now"

(What is enzo doing during this, it looked like you were thinking about making a move on this guy)

(yes, I still want to make a move, but want to discuss it before with Enzo)

(If you have a way to sneakily do this in scene that's fine, but unless one of you is telepathic we can't use OOC to do that I think thar defangs the tension from the scene)

(sorry for the misunderstanding, thought you were confused by my lack of attacking the guy, so I explained why I was waiting before doing something more proactive. I'm waiting for Enzo's player to see if he does something, otherwise I can start something.)

(ah! got it!)

@Nic Any thoughts? )

Enzo nods to Korgel and then to the bandit. "Perhaps we can strike an accord, then, for the both of our parties. We wish for peace in our lands, you for your safety and wealth. How about we help you set up your operation elsewhere?" Enzo gestures to the two of them, "we have already been sent to investigate, and the incident down at the road is sure to turn some heads. What if we washed these transgressions away. We will help you if you help us."

"I wouldn't be able to make that call alone. You can pick your weapons back up, if you shoot me in the back you're going to lose your chance at this forever. Follow me, I'll bring you to talk to the boss"

Enzo turns back to Dante and Korgel with a faint smile. "Let us see if we can collaborate then, Korgel." He retrieved his sword and reattached it to his hip, following the bandit.

Korgel retrieves his weapons as well. "Finally some level-headedness in all this violence", following the bandit and keeping his Spatial Awareness active

(notice/wis for each of you on the way to the camp)

Korgel Glamusk

used /roll

Korgel Glamusk Request: [2d6+0] Roll: [5, 1] Result: 6 Reason: Notice/WIS

Nic

used /r

Enzo Ducote Request: [2d6] Roll: [4, 3] Result: 7

Walking through the woods you both think you could find your way back here again if needed, as you pick out several landmarks on your trek through the woods. The bandit camp is a large camp that is home to 30 men. All of them look to know their way around a weapon, and are living lives of relative comfort based on a combination of what they have taken from the locals, and from large supply crates that are manufactured and look to be somewhat new. These crates are devoid of symbols.

"Pretty cozy place you made here. Those crates are from the place where we met?"

"Some of them are probably" he says, as he continues leading you into the center of the camp. A large tent, with wooden reinforced sides and a ceiling that has been bulked out with metal supports looks to be your destination. There are two bandits outside standing guard, each of them with a combat shotgun.

Korgel looks around, faking a search for the boss of the camp, while trying to spot any network infrastructure present that could be useful for later.

They exist in this hidden area disconnected from the wider grid, but upon entering the tent to meet with leadership, you do see they have a comm server set up for their own local use. Enzo recognizes their leader as a knight of similar rank, in the Order of Gold. They are missing an eye from when you had seem them last, and the sigils on their armor have been covered with a black sash, representing shame.

Korgel eyes the knight, but interrogates himself on the covered sigils. He remains silent, noticing that Enzo seems to recognize him.

(all we know about this from a lay person's perspective is knights will sash their emblems if they've done something to bring dishonor to their order. It's a ceremony of sorts, and they;re publicly humiliated , but their honor can be restored if they do something noble or glorious for the knighthold. While dishonored, they cannot avail themselves of any of the knightly order's facilities, and other knightly orders will also shun them)

"An unexpected development... interesting" Korgel mumbles to himself. "Could this be a way for him to redeem himself?" thinks instead, avoiding giving away his speculation to a possible enemy.

12:55 PM

(since this seems an important moment for Enzo's character, I'll wait for him before pushing forward the situation)

(sounds good, we'll give it a day or so and then we'll move on. I don't want to keep you waiting either)

@Nic

(Well korgel we can push on here and I’ll do my best to balance the mission accordingly I know this is well outside your wheelhouse

"Nice to meet you, I'm Korgel, technician. Here are Enzo and Dante, which were travelling with me as bodyguards. With your friend here, we were hoping to find this operation a less heated place to move to. Your... "activities" are starting to turn some heads..." Korgel says

"I see. What kind of heads?" the disgraced knight asks, flipping through what looks to be a logbook. The writing is meticulous and very neat, with a daily breakdown of supplies in and supplies out. Despite the banditry, you can see that there is a shortfall of food and medical supplies for the number of people living here.

"The kind from the city with big sticks. Me and my friends here are interested in resolving the issue, with less trouble as possible for everyone. " Korgel points to the logbook. "And it looks like you already have your fair share of troubles."

"We might. Us going deeper into the woods isn't going to fix them though, so you're going to have to do better than just politely asking us to leave. What can you do for me to make this an attractive option?"

9:27 AM

(So far he seems polite and non threatening, so the bandits around him are guarded, but they're not going to snap shoot you to death if you disagree on something right away)

"You are right, this solution would just give you some extra time and switch the next faction that wants you away or dead." Korgel thinks about it for a moment. "I'll be open, I'm not that privy on faction's drama and I don't keep up too much with it, I consider this a waste of time and effort, when we have a civilization to build back among the stars. I also was expecting a run-of-the-mill bandit group to just move away or destroy in some way, but I see that something more is going on here for you and your people. I see that you have been shunned by your Order. I would assume from your activity here that you plan on doing your own thing from now on. I would also assume that you need allies for that and that Orders are not going to give that without just turning you into some external militia to grind against the enemy Order until you are no more. Would I be assuming correctly until this point?" Korgel does a pause, checking the leader's expression for clues on how close Korgel got to guessing the truth.

(talk/cha)

Korgel Glamusk

used /roll

Korgel Glamusk Request: [2d6+0] Roll: [5, 4] Result: 9 Reason: Talk/CHA

"Almost like you were here when it happened" he admits. "So what is your proposal. You had my interest when you entered the camp, but now you have my attention"

"I wasn't expecting this, so I will have to ask first my employer, but your people have shown quite a good adaptation to living in the wilderness and remaining undetected... when you don't kill at least. Would you be interested in such an affiliation, where your action could greatly affect this Monarchy, instead of dabbling in Orders' drama?" (edited)

5:04 PM

(Korgel's intention is to recruit this group as saboteurs for the Masks, in case their supposed role was not clear)

"On this we slightly disagree. We do think what we're doing is aiding the Monarchy, by ensureing an Order with elective power that is full of such traitorous dogs does not get the chance to pollute the election pool any further. There are far more noble organizations that could take their place.

"So here my limited knowledge on the political games between factions becomes evident. The rumors I heard about you were that you are supporting the Order of Gold against the Order of Sundered Ring. I would suppose the "traitorous dogs" would be the Sundered Ring? What did they do? Do you have past history with my friends here?" (Not sure how to approach Enzo, is he an NPC now?) (edited)

(We'll say he is until we hear back from him)

8:43 AM

(lemme know if that changes your approach here or not, otherwise I;ll answer)

(It's fine like this, it's a really obvious question to make for Korgel as an outsider of all this in any case)

(okay, we will need another talk/cha here, and the reason for this is the Order's hold this grudge as like a very secret thing. At his rank he might not have the entire story, or an edited version of the story, but the lore fragments he does have were hard earned. he's been exiled, so he is not keeping with all the order's traditions, but he's a very traditional personal accomplishment type, so he's going to need to be convinced to part with the sparknotes version)

Korgel Glamusk

used /roll

Korgel Glamusk Request: [2d6+0] Roll: [5, 3] Result: 8 Reason: Talk/CHA

He dismisses all his guards from the tent, and waits to ensure the receeding footsteps are gone. You are both invited to sit. "This is a story I worked hard to learn myself. I will admit to you that my rank within my former order did not entitle me to all its secrets. I understand my estranged brethren in the Sundered Ring here work under a similar system, so he will understand the magnitude of what i am bestowing on you. There is no doubt there is a controversy between our orders. It stems from a battle, where.. well... perhaps you should tell this tale, we will tell it together." the knight says.

9:22 AM

Enzo clears his breath. "This happened in the days shortly before the Elected Monarchy was the official system we were using- during the unification wars. We were contracted to fight alongside the Mountain Lords, against the House of Jewels. The Order of Gold had been summoned as well to fulfill a previous Oath made to the Mountain Lords. Their resplendent grav bikes arrived at the top of a nearby hill, after battle had been joined. Hundreds were dead already, and hundreds more would die by the end of the day- many of them my forebearers and great heroes of our Order. Messages were sent to the Order of Gold, telling them to join the fight, and to help us. When the momentum of battle turned against us, the Order of Gold charged, but into our flank. A defeat became a rout...became a massacre. ... " Enzo says ,almost as if he is experiencing the betrayal for himself, despite being too young to have taken part in that Pre-Scream battle.

Korgel stands there, speechless for a moment, then looks at the knights. "This... is terrible... on so many levels... the waste of life, the destruction of trust in the Monarchy. The Orders could accomplish so much more together." Korgel looks at the shunned leader. "Did you went away when you discovered this?"

"I did not need to ascend to higher levels of the circle for more of the story. I heard enough. I did not leave right away, but my methods on sme of my assignements on Order endeavors after learning this news...they...the Order did not like how I was handling things, even though I was not doing anything our Grandmasters haven't in the past. I think they didn't like looking in the mirror. I never failed to accomplish what the order wanted, they just disagreed with my methods. The sash of shame was the final straw for me. Several of my brethern, our squires, and some folks we met after joined us, and here we are"

(what would be needed for an Order or House to lose its voting rights? At this point, removing this conflict at the root by eliminating one of the Orders would be a good medium-long term objective for Korgel I think. To remove a source of instability and conflict, as well as maybe giving the Masks more leverage on the new faction that would arise)

5:17 PM

(Also, what is known about this battle pubicly?)

(They just know there was a battle and the Mountain Lords were defeated. Shortly after, a few battles down the road in the unification wars, the MEM was born, so it wasn't the subject of an investigation or anything. A vote would have to held after accusations were proven true. A majority of houses would need to approve, and a replacement would need to be elected)

Looking at Enzo: "After this, why didn't your Order publicly disclose this traitorous behavior? Even if this was before the Monarchy, it doesn't give trust to the Order of Gold not to be bought at the first occasion like a simple mercenary group."

"Dropping the issues between us was how the Monarchy was stabilized and established. We were forced to drop the issue, in order to both become electors. In exchange for peace and power, our Grandmasters at the time did exactly that, though the eminty has continued between us."

"That was a long time ago, now the Monarchy is much more stable. This traitorous seed can't be left to fester. We are opening to other civilizations now, they would probably be open to negotiating their services. I think finding proofs about this and, maybe, more recent events might be enough to trigger a vote to remove them from the voting pool. Some recording of that event in their archives will be what we need. How will people react then to knowing that an untrustworthy mercenary group is given a voting seat?"

None of them here seem to want to do anything that would destabilize the monarchy. "This is knightly business between gentlemen and we'll handle it as such. The intrigue of court politics isn't worthy of our time, even though it is what caused the rift between us. For me and my men here..."the disgraced knight says from behind the desk. "We've simply chosen to stop participating, and that feels like a reasonable enough choice given the current state of the Monarchy. The political drama is for the Grandmasters, not for honest fighting men like myself, and your friend Enzo here"

"Fine, I prefer resolving issues at the root usually, but I'll stand by your decision. Returning to our original issue, you and your poeple are still seen by the Monarchy as bandits. Becoming an asset for the wider society instead of a "parasitic force", no offense, could help in keeping your neutral status. One thing still doesn't add up though." Korgel gestures on the side. "According to our intel, you were being supplied by the Order of Gold and working for them. Why are you collaborating like that with "traitorous dogs" then? If you need work, I'm sure we can find some in the wilderness here that the Monarchy will be happy to support." (edited)

"What you see here is our last shipment. We were sent out here to keep The Sundered Ring on edge, and to keep them from expanding into our holdings. We were ordered to be even more aggressive, but after our last robbery- the one you probably saw on the road - we decided no more. Innocent people don't need to die over the squabbling of two knight houses. The Sundered Ring wouldn't take us. not for what we've done to cause trouble around their holdings. And we can't go back to The Order of Gold. There doesn't seem to be much of a role for us now in all this" (edited)

"That resolves our main goal of the day by itself then. This would mean, you need some work? I can ask some people, maybe we can find a solution for your situation."

"We;re in a good position here thing's considering, and if we leave the woods without something in place, including guarantees for our safety, the only thing waiting out there is the hangman. We'll let you go, if you think you can work something out for us - but if we see you in these woods again without some sort of guarantee in hand, you'll be as fair game for robbery purposes as everyone else"

"That sounds reasonable, we'll do our best" Said that, the group moves toward the outside of the encampment.

9:59 PM

(Once at a safe distance outside the forest, Korgel will try to communicate with the Masks. I think the dataslab is good for that? His intention is to ask for a role of the free company as wilderness keepers for the Masks, acting as their eyes and ears in the region)

10:00 PM

(I will be travelling until July 3rd, so I might be slow to respond)

(sounds good! Thanks for letting me know and your Dataslab can communicate with them, so feel free to type out what you'd be telling masks, and we'll see how things go!) (edited)

Once a safe distance out in the open, Korgel quickly checks for any traces of comms interception and moves away from Enzo and Dante. If the channel is secure, he sends a message saying: "Contact with free company made, leader seems a reasonable person, not happy with the direction where the Order of Gold is going and political infighting between Orders. They will stop working for the Orders on their own choice now after causing victims, but will continue robbery if left unchecked. Group is mostly formed by ex-knights and fight-capable people. I propose their recruiting. They will be useful as eyes and ears in the wilderness regions for other Houses and Orders, while keeping down wildlife population to controllable levels. House of Masks involvement not revealed. Awaiting new directions." After sending the message, he rejoins to the duo.

(3xp, 5000 credits)

1:55 PM

The message is returned after several long minutes, asking you to let these soon to be reformed bandits know to stay in place, and a Masks representative higher up in operations than yourself will handle getting them fake identifications, and otherwise re-blending them into the population. Acts of banditry between now and that meeting that get discovered will void this deal.

They return to the free company, reporting the news. "I hope this will be enough for a fresh start, away from politics, like you were hoping."

(they will also owe you a favor, so if you're on Kost 1 and need help with something, or manpower, masks can get them to you. We can move back to your thread and if you don't have any mission ideas I can run some things by you like we've been doing)

(archiving until Enzo returns)