Episode 1.08 - Character Journal - Hinrik

Jarl,

I've recently gotten information from a our common acquaintance in the desert that your nephew has aligning himself with the dastardly Oswald Locklight in ways that may prove detrimental to you.  Keep your eyes wide and let me know if you believe our interests in the matter align.

Hinrik

Episode 1.08 - Character Journal - Hardwick

So, today, I learned how to stay quiet...and I hated every moment of it.

After leaving the big city we set off on "official business" under the guise of bringing libations to the army stationed around the city. On the way, we were to stop by a cache of weapons and supplies left for the resistance.

We were being careful as we approached the spot we thought the supplies were hidden. We spotted three men digging in the general area, obviously searching for something. The first was a mountain of a man. Over 9 feet tall. The second, as normal as can be described. The last, was a short man. He was doing most of the talking.

I stayed and watched while the others decided what to do with them. They decided to talk with them to try and find out who told them about the cache. I hung back in case a fight broke out. I targeted the big guy first.

As the others brought them back to camp, I stayed back in the woods... silently waiting. That was the roughest time of my life. I had to be so quiet... how do those hunters do it?? Next time I'm just staying with the group or shooting the big guy in the head as a precaution. It wold be better than being quiet.

By the way, they were apparently on our side the whole time... figures.

Episode 1.08 - Character Journal - Corrie

Caro Diario,

Thankfully we keep South and are heading towards a true and just endeavor there. Or so I dare hope. Who knows what folly may come of it with this mercurial crew. Who are these comrades? Though we live together bosom close and spend months of hard travel, I seem to know them not.

Praise all the Heavens that this encounter with the Diggers was a mild one. I fear I am the only one in this company worried about how we get in the besieged city. How formidable are the defenses? How to avoid the red heart patrols? Should we attempt disguise? Och! And then once in, how do we get out? This merchant plan can only take us in so far, unless the watch of these dark Legions falls far short of its repute.

And this is just our most pressing task. The secrets and rumors we've heard, especially of my late kin (Deities protect their souls) are maddening me when I try to rest. And yet to fly off and investigate will not revive them. If this latest whisper is true, the architect of their woe is long dead. Should I just let this lie and feed my heart with the honey of forgiveness rather than bitter vengeance's gall? How can I do this and stay steady when I am in the land of sorrow and want? But that's just the most dear and personal of these rumors. If the foretelling of war and treachery is true then our work is monumentally hard.

Heavenly Host, every day I need your help and wisdom more. May you protect and guide this Company towards the right action. Leaven us with mercy and sagacity. Protect us from hubris, folly and malice. And send down sorely needed luck and Providence for the tortured souls of this mean and pitiless land.

Corrie

Episode 1.07 - Character Journal - Hardwick

MY FACE WAS GOUGED!!! Now before any of the ladies had a chance to really see it, I was healed by the brotherhood and I'm ok... but man that was a crazy fight

We busted in to some bar/inn thing looking for the mole of the rebellion only to find he was the brother of one of our company. Standing there was a pile of metal armor with apparently some guy who apparently was too stupid to know when he is dead. We fought him and his small band for just a moment. I shot him through his stupid armor with an arrow and then again in the leg only to watch him leap through the air...on his damned dead leg.. and reach out and slash me in the face!!! How does that happen???

Gah... I need to start wearing a mask or something.. just to keep that crap from happening.

Well, we are finally moving on from this town for new adventure...wish me good fortune.

Summary - Episode Seven: Swords and Secrets

Season One, Episode 7: Swords and Secrets

Episode 1.07 - Character Journal - Trent

As it turned out, Norah required us to dispatch her greasy little shit of a brother Kaden, as he was attempting to sell out the Everburning Cinder and most likely our own group as well. We arrived at the location, and after a moment’s hesitation in trying to determine what might have been the most time consuming and convoluted battle plan my compatriots could come up with, I, along with my squad decided to go through the front door and kill everything we could see.
I immediately put my sword through Kaden, and while I didn’t specifically mean to, I avoided any major arteries and organs. The rest of the fight was hectic, but it was over quickly, with minimal casualties. The old warrior managed to hit me pretty good, but it was the archer’s hits that took his attention from me and most likely caused the injuries that killed him.
Most of the information we got out of him was inane garbage about Free Valley noble doings that meant nothing to what we were trying to accomplish, but we did manage to get the name of another mole in the Everburning Cinder.
Kaden was only slightly more useful, and whether or not he ends up living is going to be entirely up to the Everburning Cinder. It was… curious… that the Thane fought so hard for us to keep him alive when even his sister was more than willing to slit his throat for what he’d done. But it’s irrelevant now.
We spent the next month preparing for our next mission down south to Manc. I felt that it was time to attempt to create a new sword. I received the needed materials from Master Simon de La Pole, on the condition that I do the honorable thing and marry the Lady de La Pole's daughter, of whom I had spent time with previously. I did not consider this much of a chore, as I have said before she was quite pleasant to behold.
Then again, I would have to wonder what she may think about it. I suppose it’s something I’ll have to worry about another day.
My attempt to make the sword though was met with failure. The sword itself was impeccable, as thirty years of crafting experience would show through, but it has been too long since I attempted to imbue, and that part of the process failed.
I decided to give the sword to Mercutio, as it is too fine a blade to gift to someone whom I do not trust, and it was through him that I was able to escape from prison and begin this new life. He does not have to know that it was meant for a much higher purpose, and he never needs to know it. I hope that my mistakes this time will allow me to learn and remember better what I was taught and make the next attempt successful.
But now we are off to Manc.

Episode 1.06 - Character Journal - Hardwick

So, about a week ago, I had this dream.  I was completely nude and riding a gigantic wolf through a forest when we came to this clearing. In the middle of the clearing there was a curved sword stuck deep in the trunk of a great oak tree.  The moon shone brightly through the opening of forest before me.  The wolf then spoke, "Go take the sword."  I got down, strode up and pulled the sword from the tree.  At that moment... I woke up with a splitting headache.  I felt a new power running through my my body...it felt almost, furry.

The next night, it was like I suddenly knew what all that new power meant.  I understood new spells in my head... and unfortunately, I understood that they could only be cast at night.  Such a weird power.

Episode 1.06 - Character Journal - Corrie

Caro Diario,

What a knave, I cannot imagine having such malice between brother and
sister. The merchant woman deserves much better than this. With
cunning, we can turn this to our advantage, though it is tricky work
to learn what we need and stay hidden, especially in these unwelcoming
lands. We could use this duplicitous meeting to lead us to our hidden
enemies. Might this be more work of those Border zealots or some new
cabal? If the former, I'll relish their comeuppance.

And yet, the urgency of this chase makes it easy for me to put aside
the horrors of the slums and the refugees. O, the miseries of this sad
lot. O, city of woe city of sorrows. All for the march of armies and
borders did this happen, all for the W. ambition. And his evil grows
even now and he makes capital on the deaths of sorcerous men. Are
hopes of peace shattered thus, by an unholy weapon of terrible might.
How can such rabble -- dare I hope a true rebellion comes of these
little mobs and riots -- stand against this power?

If the Heavens listen to us poor souls -- hear us now, or we will see
the earth truly made ash as the lands fall under the W. shadowy reign.
Leviathan is here in these lands and we must summon all our wits and
our bravery or it will drag us down.

-C

Episode 1.06 - Character Journal - Trent

    I just wanted to be rid of the broken ribs and what I assume was a fracture of the bone around my eye. I did not particularly care how it happened. If I had to sit in a monastery for a month, tending a garden, so be it. Broken ribs do not generally promote good moods. I will admit that the transference process, while more painful, was considerably less time consuming. Either way, I am rid of injuries that may have cost me my life had I needed to fight with them. And that is a good thing.

     Our meeting with the Steel Lady was enlightening. Knowing that the Witch Lord is now gathering sorcerers implies that the plans for the room are not only in motion, but are at such an advanced stage is very troubling. To pervert the abilities of my people, and to a more egregious degree, for the benefit of someone who is not Dinda is something that I must make every effort to stop. No one should have that much power.

     Regardless of my indiscretions with drinking, the results were, I would have to say coincidentally fortuitous. There are times though that even when I may be a bit too far in my cups and not make the best of decisions, I'd still like to remember what I did. For good or ill. The girl I woke up to was quite pleasant to behold, and I would have liked to have at least had some recollection of the time I spent with her either way. I will say that the blowhard Thane is beginning to grow on me.

     Now we have a mission. On one hand I regret that I am asking my cohorts, who are basically only co-workers in a company, to undergo what is essentially a shadow operation deep within enemy territory. Many of them are barely capable and most likely even less willing to undergo such a dangerous task. But if the Witch Lord is able to complete this room, and gains this power... well, there is nothing that anyone will be able to do to stop him for doing anything he wants.

     I must cut this short, it seems Norah needs me for a task...

Episode 1.05 - Character Journal - Hinrik

A contract between Hinrik and Bearach

I, Thane Hinrik Fullspring, also known as Sir Henry Fullspring, enter into the following agreements with the Elf Bearach, master of the Wyld Desert, each swearing to uphold the agreements below upon the Threads the Fates measure out our lives on.

1. Article 1
   1. Bearach will ensure Earl Oswald Locklight publicly murders his father, Duke Lennart Locklight, and then men loyal to the duke will murder Earl Oswald Locklight in response. This must be completed within 9 months.
   2. In exchange I promise to deliver my first born son as well as a girl in the slums of Tribute by the name Agostina within one year. Bearach will keep the children until they have seen 18 summers, at which point they will be free to follow their own path as an adult. Bearach agrees to ensure the safety of the children while they are in his care. Bearach agrees to allow me and my son’s mother to visit my son 3 months out of a year. Bearach will inform me of whom my first born son is if I have one already or he will tell me with whom I must sire my son if I do not have one.

2. Article 2
   1. Bearach will supply information and aid in recovery of the hero Gerard’s artifacts as well as identification of whether the sword I now carry is Gerard’s sword. Additionally Bearach will aid in the acquisition of treasures suitable for selling at a high price.
   2. In exchange I promise to bring Bearach the Ruby Of Elagablus, a jewel in possession by an Ashen Kingdom revolutionary in the northernmost province of the Ashen Kingdom

3. Article 3
   1. Bearach will supply information about the Jarl Tryggvi Stangbern and his people, the Ashen Kingdom, and the Nevilles. The information should be not be common knowledge and have the potential to provide me with monetary or political gains.
   2. In exchange I promise to protect a certain individual named after the deal is struck. I will be obligated to intervene to ensure the individual is not killed at a certain time when our paths cross.

It is agreed that once the deal has been struck neither party can alter the terms. If either party fails to attempt, in good faith, to uphold their obligations then the Fates will exact a suitable punishment.

Thane Hinrik Fullspring

Bearach

Episode 1.05 - Character Journal - Corrie

Dear Diary,

Whew, these overland journeys will be the death of me. So much eerie business in this waste -- a bit c'est trop. Not too thrilled with this fellow, B. I'd hate to think of owing a favor to that bastard. Asking us to take a child? Nasty business!

Terribly pleased to see the Company forming up a bit better. Really must look into getting a decent kit for entertaining. I felt a bit caught out at the Jarl's hall with just my traveling clothes. Dashed difficult to get any decent whispers when you look like the kitchen help. I might try to pick up a few techniques from these mountain lads. We seem to get in the stew rather more than is sensible. And I'll bet that won't slack up much with them and "their honor" breezing around the place with us. Phwoar, they sure know how to take a hit though. Or maybe Mercutio could train me up a bit. I think quicker dodging might be more my thing, really.

Well, better turn in. Ought to be rested up for Tribute!

C

Episode 1.05 - Character Journal - Norah

Mother,

I hope this letter finds you well. I haven't spoken to you in so long, and I know it's my fault for leaving so abruptly. Come to think of it, I haven't heard from Kaden in a while... has he been in touch with you? If you were interested, I have been busy setting up a trading business, which is going well. That is part of the reason I am contacting you now, it has been a long time since I have been home and the route I'm on now will take me to Tribute. I thought maybe we could catch up, since it has been so long. I will stop by when I get into the city.

I hope to see you soon.

– Norah

Episode 1.04 - Character Journal - Hinrik

A letter sent via multiple anonymous channels to Simon Neville

To whom it may concern,

I’ve recently come into possession of some interesting reading material from south of the border.  Interestingly enough some of it quite prominently features a notable rapscallion by the name of Simon Neville.

It seems Master Neville has plans of improving his family's holdings in Restport by gambling that his homeland will be invaded by it’s southern enemy.  Of course he hedged his bet by selling sensitive information to the enemy.

A thought occurred to me while reading this fascinating account of treason; who should I share this with?  I certainly considered letting everyone know - perhaps by commissioning an article in the Restport Herald.  I then thought, well no, that may be an excessive reaction to something that could perhaps be a misunderstanding.  I then considered letting a select few know, perhaps Earl Oswald Locklight or Duke Esmond Fullspring for example.

But then I thought, that I should really give Simon the opportunity to right his wrongs.  To that end how do you suppose he could repent for his deeds?  I suspect an excellent first step would be to donate his undeserved income to a true patriot.  How do you suppose Simon would take that?

Any recommendation on how best to proceed would be most appreciated.

Regards,

A concerned patriot.

Episode 1.04 - Character Journal - Norah

Jerrod –

I received your letter and parcel that needs to be delivered, we are on the move now. It seems like we have a lot to move this trip, I am looking forward to our load being lighter on our way back. On a more important note, I have a suspicion of who the mole might be. I don't want to say too much, but I plan on looking into this more on my own. I will let you know what I uncover in Tribute.

– Norah

Episode 1.04 - Character Journal - Trent

[Missing Scene]

Episode 1.03 - Character Journal - Trent

I don’t particularly know what to make of our recent journey. A decision was made to recover the information gleaned from the Frumentarii that was previously thought lost or unknown. Sorina offered up her vessel to take us to Snakefang Straight, the location of the shipwreck that held this information.
Being mostly useless on the open water (and to my dismay, completely unused to sea travel), I stayed below decks, doing my best to keep from showing any signs of sea sickness. I was more fortunate than some of the others, because when the storm whipped up, I was one of the few of us landlubbers who were not overtly sick. The storm did give us one advantage though; it caused our little stowaway to reveal herself as well, as I heard her retching underneath the covers that she had concealed herself with. It was fortunate that the Thane knew her, as I was more than willing to throw her overboard.
While the child was largely inconsequential, an annoyance more than anything, the item that she had smuggled aboard with her was completely the opposite. She had stolen a great sword from her family, and when I took it from her, it attacked me.
Come to find out, this sword was one that was wielded by the Demon of the Free Valleys. Considering the effect it had on me when I merely touched it, I don’t have much reason to doubt that the sword is genuine, as stories had been told of how the demon had cut down countless Ashen Kingdom troops when they attempted to liberate the valleys from his iron grip.
After the magician inspected the sword, he gave it over to the Thane, who, to what should be no one’s surprise, immediately declared himself the new Hero of the Free Valleys and called the sword his own.
I hope you can see why I may find this somewhat troubling.
We ended up in the straight, which looked like a shipyard for the damned. With David’s help, we were able to find a path up into the cliffs, where we met an ancient priest of the goddess Asasara, the same goddess of the temple we discovered during the Adder Crag fiasco. I’m not a fan of coincidence.
After conversing with the priest, I found that he and his now absent apprentice believed that they had recovered items from the shipwreck we were looking for, as well as the lone survivor of the wreck, who had died not long after. The priest told us that if we were to perform a devotion, that he would allow us to take the items that he had salvaged. I agreed, and he prepared a tea and lead us to a chamber.
I can’t particularly say what happened at that point. It didn’t make much sense, and I only have vague recollections of what went on. We were drugged (which was of no surprise, mind you), and we seemed to have some kind of joint hallucination, and we woke up and we got what we needed. And then others asked for more, because apparently we need all the help we can get. I don’t particularly disagree with that, but even so, panhandling is such a disgraceful practice.
The documentation we received was both enlightening and disturbing. It will take me some time to digest the information that I found, but suffice it to say that even if I was not sworn by blood to reveal the secrets of my people, I would still keep this information from my new companions. I can only hope that the documentation was just information, and not something that has already begun to be implemented. Because if it has, I shudder to think of what could be wrought of it if it comes to pass.

Episode 1.03 - Character Journal - Corrie

Now it is clear, these folk are a rabble. They have no way to guide others because they are new as babies born themselves. And the soldier, who is canny to the world’s ways will not lead. He is a defender and born to support a true leader. Likewise the Cigany woman. Though she and the trader are rich, they run a crew of men far different than their accounts. Which is to say with slack and full play in the line. Though I must credit her full marks for that stormy passage. I thought sure we would die on the rocks. Still it is better to want rule than chafe under iron discipline of a petty tyrant. If this company will last and make a real worthy enterprise someone must take the wheel. All must deliberate well, decide our course and hold fast to it. Sometimes I envy that hawk the soldier keeps. I would look down on high and check that what we’ve done has caused no lasting evil. How is that young girl in the hill lands? How fares the priest? Does the evil army march on us? What dark purpose does the traitor bring to the North? Och, I will take my leave of this company for a week or so. A break away from this motley crew will do my heart and body good. I should reacquaint myself with the port folk and see what intelligence I can find on all these loose ends.

Episode 1.02 - Character Journal - Corrie

Well, best not to elaborate too much on these days, lest this fall into the hands of others. My heart goes out to that Cigany girl. They are a traveling people, I hope she made it away. At some point, this crew will need a captain. The foolishness and havering of the night’s work has made that plain. And what code have these members of my company? They seem to care little for propriety one minute and then cleave to it wholly the next. Best stay back and hold still from now on, and let this play out a bit.

Prologue - Episode Three: Snakefang Strait - Part Three

Prologue - Episode Three: Snakefang Strait - Part I
Prologue - Episode Three: Snakefang Strait - Part II

Continue for Part III...

Episode 1.02 - Character Journal - Hinrik

A letter- Sent via a trusted source

Dearest Karin,

It has been too long since my eyes have had the pleasure of taking in your beauty, and I hope I will have the opportunity to change that imminently.  Until that time, be assured, you will be in my dreams; with any luck I will stray into your as well.

My time since last writing you has been rather strange.  I held a dinner party for a prestigious general surveying the Ashen border.  It was going quite well until he mistook something I said and took offense.  I still have no idea what exactly I said, he never gave me the opportunity.  I can only assume our difference in accents or uncommon phraseology caused the confusion.  At length, he turned, quite literally, into a feral wolf and I had to cleave his head in two.

A week later I uncovered a bandits nest.  I did not have time to dispatch the ruffians, but I believe I will return post haste to cleanse the countryside and claim the most beautiful jewel so that I might be reminded of a fraction of your exquisite pulchritude.

Until we have the opportunity,

Your servant, Hinrik