Last Stand of the Dorinthians (Chapter 4- The Second Invasion)

[Nephtys]

[sblock=Dartis & DT]

"I too owe you a drink for your ingenuity and resoursefulness. Indeed my friend, I would like to put your crafty mind to use as the Spy Master of Dorinthia. Well should I have any say over the matter that is." adds Dartis with a grin. "But as to your other concern. Well keep your eyes peeled for any threats to any Dorinthian. There are too few of us as it is. Of course, I'd be most appreciative of any threats you stop my way in particular." Dartis adds with a wink.

"It would be an honour, sir, and I will keep a look out for any threats coming our way. Both from the outside and our own ranks. The Dorins may not be as chivalrous as you. Take care around them, or take care of them, my offer still stands."
[/sblock]

Dartis gather his friends together over some food and drink cobbled together. "My friends. I know you are tired, I know you are sore and injured. We have all given much to defend out town. But to know we were not the target gives me fear that our neighbours are in trouble. My plan is to ride forth, we few, for I will not detract from the city's defenses. But for us to ride to the elves and offer what aid we can. It may be symbolic, but I wish to show the elves that Dorinthia is a neigbour and an ally worth having. Additonally I feel it may be the best way to help ensure that the orcs are defeated or driven away from our city. But I have known some of you for longer than others, but I still value all of your efforts, and thus all of your opinions. Is this a wise course? Even if the elves survive the orcs, will they not betray us to the Tallione, unless we show them there are more advanages to keeping us? Please, my friends, let me know your thoughts."

Barok picks his teeth with a piece of bone, leaning back in his chair casually, yet growing more empassioned the longer he speaks.
"And if we go to rescue the elves will they then aid us? Will they take their depleted numbers and throw them against the Empire in our defense? Will they be of use, or will they continue to be a liability? Seems to me we'd be better off if we let them wipe out each others. Then we could finally settle these forests and use their rich soils to rebuild our people, to make new farmlands that could feed our refugees. Then we would have a solid base for retaking our land at a time of our own choosing, when the Empire is weakened or distracted. And then this would be the New Dorinthia that Baron Dorin died defending."

"The Elves... they will always consider this land theirs. They will always resist our settlement of these forests, as they always have in the past. They are as much a threat as the orcs, and if they had their way the forests would once again grow to smother the heart of Dorinthia. I say, let them die, and then deal with the orcs.
"Or why not use the orcs to make war against the Empire? They fear us. They should, after this defeat. And they fight for loot and glory. The Empire is rich, decadent, and a far better target for them than our poor nation of warriors. And then, when the orcs are weakened and burdened by loot. Then, let us stab them in the back and make a deal with the Empire, with our blades at their throats, for peace and the return of our country."

 

[Deuce Traveler]

Dartis
[sblock]
When you approach Kyle and tell him what is on your mind, he looks at you in surprise. "So now we get to decide who the new baron is? I shouldn't be stunned that this has come up, since we do need to know who will be making the decisions, but it's still not something I desire to deal with right now. Still, that's a poor response on my part, so I will tell you honestly how I feel. First, I have no interest in being a lord, so I am out of the running. On the other hand, I have faithfully served the old baron, Dren, and I feel that it is my duty to continue to do service for either Syra or Cal should they seek the position. If they do not, then I will happily continue my work in your name."

The conversation with Syra doesn't go well at all. First, she ignores your summons and asks that you come to see her in Baron Dorin's old office. Second, she smirks grimly at your words when you arrive. "It is a nice offer, Baron Kalnian." Just by her choice of words you know this could be going better, although the elder Lady Huffring looks upon you with approval as she stands by her side. "But I already have an offer for my hand, and it is with a gentleman I very much approve. Of course, he is asking me to give up my current occupation and live with him in some forest, but I assure you I will convince him that a courtly life is a better life. And if he isn't willing to surrender these fancies for his lady, then... perhaps I will give greater thought to your proposal." She escorts you to the door, although Lady Huffring gives you a half-smile that tells you where her own preference for Syra lies.

You decide to go see Cal.
[/sblock]

Barok
[sblock]
Rix walks up to you as your leaving the halfing family's general store. "I just wanted to tell you good-bye, one sneak to another. After spending some more time with my fellow kobolds, and also listening to some of their stranger ideas about this town and looting, I've decided it's time to go. I'm taking the tribe with me since they see me as their new leader. Maybe I can teach them a few things out there so that they can live next to humans one day. It's just not going to happen right now, and it's better to go before there is a misunderstanding... or even an understanding. I'm off to say bye to Alexander. If you see Danica, tell her good-bye, too. I just have trouble trying to explain myself to her. Oh, and I doubt you'll see Kel, but if you do let him know I thought he was alright, for an elf anyway."

After your discussion with Rix, a messenger boy asks you to stop by and see Cal...
[/sblock]

Ventus
[sblock]
Silas and you had mentioned to Cal and Kyle that building a wall around the town might be a good idea. Immediately, Cal volunteered you to lead the project since the militia were still helping to clear the debris and bodies while the cavalry patrolled the area and killed straggling orcs. With five men you survey the land and realize that wooden pallisades are the best route to go for right now. The five town guards Kyle sent with you are a rough sort, but among his better educated since it is obvious they can do simple math and read. With parchment and ink to write with, they await your instructions on the kind of defenses you want built. The town stretches for about a mile diameter in all directions. Because it is set to grow from the swelling amount of refugees, the town will probably be expanded to double its current diameter. There are hills to the north and west covered with woods and shrubbery, while to the east there is light forest, and to the south a difficult to cross winding creek. Farmland will have to be tilled outside the walls as there will not be enough wood for the defenses to encircle the harvests. There will probably be a couple hundred men available to help build the defenses, at most. Other men are trying to build new structures and continue farming for the town.

After you are done, you go to see Cal to report how the defenses will look.
[/sblock]

Silas
[sblock]
Hector the Incredible finds you after your talk with Dartis. He looks nervous and ashamed as he says, "Hello, Silas. I know I haven't been the most supportive of your work in the town, since it wasn't easy having another wizard around. Still, I'm having a hard time dealing with the fact that I was holed up in my home while you were using your magic to really make a difference. A lot of people are actually talking about it, and I've lost the confidence that I once had with my apprentices. I can't live like this competition, and it's not like you are going away never to come back. I was hoping that with your experience, maybe you could teach me some things. Maybe a few spells you might know or maybe some moves in case it comes to a fight. I need to do something to get my confidence back," the wizard says, his eyes downcast.

As you are about to talk, a small boy tugs at your sleeve and asks that you go see Cal right away.
[/sblock]

Danica
[sblock]
Kyle Radnal eventually finds you and gives a broad smile, "Danica, look at you. It hasn't been that long since you last left and you came back with the confidence of a woman." He says the last part with a hint of sadness, and you realize that Kyle looked at you as a daughter he never had time to have. "Cal wanted me to find you for a meeting he wishes to have, but let's chat awhile. How has your time been? I've seen that you've become very handy with a crossbow. What do you think of this Dartis character? Do you know he approached me earlier asking me if I would support him being our ruler?"
[/sblock]

Caramip
[sblock]
Your playing with some children, when you hear another small voice behind you, with an adult tone. "So this is what a gnome from the east is like, eh?"

You turn and see Phly Loughphray behind you, a gnomish noble and ambassador to the Dorinthians. You hear that he was away from the main defenses during the fighting and saved himself, some other gnomish delegates, and a number of Dorinthians by using the illusions that he was known to be an expert with.

He continues. "Cal wanted to have you see him when you get the first opportunity, but I thought I would come by and have a chat first. Tell me, what is it like to work so close with humans as you do? I heard your lands were taken over by the Imperials, but now you seem to have a working relationship with them. If I tread on soft tunnel earth, please let me know."
[/sblock]

Nikolos
[sblock]
Heron Silvertongue, the main priest of the Dorinthians pulls you to the side when he can finally get you alone. "I meant to speak with you earlier, Nikolos, one priest to another. I wasn't sure what to think about your arrival, but now that I hear that you saved a number of my fellow countrymen I want to help you. I have heard that you have several men that need a room and board until your return. I can help you with that, except I need a favor in return. Our healing magics are not enough for the amount of wounded that we have, and I was hoping that you can lend a hand. A lot of what we are dealing with at this point are the mortally wounded, and all we can do for them at this point is ease their suffering before their final moments. I know I'm pressuring you, and I apologize since I don't know you too well. Still, we can truly use the help. Cal is hoping you can go see him right now, but if you are willing to render aid please stop by the temple later."
[/sblock]

You talk some more before going to see Cal in a building he has set-up for his cavalry units. As you and the rest of the party trickle in he offers you a seat at a large table and your choice of some adequate wine. Once everyone is ready, he foregoes formalities and heads straight to the point.

"I started my day trying to prepare for your proposed trip into the elven lands to render support, when suddenly rumors of Baron Dartis Kalnian reached my ears. Supposedly, my cousin here has aspirations to rule here. The way I see it, most people want me to take over for my father, or at least expect this to happen. I myself care little for the title right now. Two weeks ago I would have taken the title of ruler without hesitation, and would have been willing to fight Lord Kalnian to a duel for it. But these last few weeks have given me much to think about. Kyle Radnal doesn't want the position as he renounced his royal title a long time ago, but still he and I have grown to understand each other more of late and I feel he might support me. Syra, though, has been ruling in all but name for some time now, and it will not be easy to make her relinguish her claim. She also has Alexander's support and love, and is trying to convince the poor man to court her and marry into nobility. Lord Kalnian may not be as established in this town, but he has shown his worth to enough people and I also sense that he has the influential support of six other heroes who happen to be sitting at this table," Cal says pointedly while searching your faces.

OOC: Not proofread, so bear with me on grammar errors.

 

[Blarkon Dragonslayer]

Nikolos
[sblock]
Nikolos looks a little surprised, since he'd been healing to the best of his abilities since the first moment he'd actually met the Dorinthians. Still, he smiles and nods. "Your assistance with housing my staff is most appreciated. Please don't hesitate to put them to work, in my absence. Gnaden is a gifted scribe, and is also versed in the mundane arts of healing. Liza, his wife, is a good cook. Redd and Shirte are good in a fight, should another arise, and they also have strong backs for labor, should it be needed. As for the assistance with healing, I'll be right over, as soon as I've seen Cal Dorin."
[/sblock]

At the cavalry barn, as Cal Dorin has his say, Nikolos simply listens, sipping his wine. So far as he was concerned, this was a matter for Dorinthians, not a Craecian priest far from home. He liked Dartis, and thought he'd make a good ruler, but there seemed much else for him to be doing, just at this time. Finally, though, he does speak. "I will support Dartis in whatever course he chooses to take. I know him to be a good leader. As are you, Cal Dorin. So far as who should rule your people, if things cannot be decided, perhaps a ruling council might be a way to pool your diverse talents, for the betterment of your remaining kingdom."

 

[hafrogman]

[sblock=Dartis]Ventus silently considers Dartis's words for a moment. He shrugs slightly and looks to the Dorinthian.

"In the end, I am still a soldier, as always. When battle presents itself, I fight. Today I fight for your people. I do not require them to forgive me my past, merely to accept that today I fight beside them. I think that they have learned that lesson." [/sblock][sblock=DT, Town Wall Committee]Ventus stands himself on a hilltop, looking down over the town, trying to best visualize the defenses that he thinks will be needed. More refugees, more buildings, more to protect, and more to lose. His own expertise is far more in dirt and temporary field fortifications, but he has seiged and stood atop enough walls to have some idea of what is needed. A simple soldier at heart, he has no qualms seeking the advice of the men sent with him, bouncing ideas of them and getting their opionions on the defensive capabilities of the Dorinthians.

"Without more information regarding this attack, I fear we must act as if the town is at war with unknown agressors. Larger scale fortifications will be a long term goal, but for now, a defensible position is the most pressing need. Even as it is, the town is too disperse to be encompassed quickly, and another attack could come long before a larger wall could be completed. I recommend a small scale inner wall around the center of the town, containing most of the vital functions. In the event of another attack, civilians will retreat within the walls. Once the inner pallisade is complete, a second, more extensive wall can be planned."

Scratching a quick schematic into the dirt at his feet, Ventus attempts to plan a wall for construction, well within the current town borders. It should contain as much of the town operations as possible, central command, water source (well?), food storage. And if possible, he will attempt to incorporate any heavy stone construction buildings as part of the wall. The walls themselves should be simple vertical wooden poles, with archery platforms to capitalize on the strengths of the Dorinthian defenders.

In his report to Cal he also recommends a sentry position hidden in the hills to the north west, to attempt warning in the event of more attacks.

He leaves open to debate the size of the second phase walls. The town may grow and require larger construction, but he is not sure if sufficient troops currently exist to defend such a large scale fortification.[/sblock]

Ventus shakes his head slowly at Barok's words.

"Do not mistake corruption for decadance, the Empire is mighty. Recall the most recent war your people held with Tallione. W. . . They won, your nation was wiped from the map. I do not know why the invasion of Dorinthia was one of destruction and not conquest as in the past. However, there must have been SOME purpose. New Dorinthia exists either because the Empire is unaware of its existence, or because they no longer see it as a threat, or because they have no desire to move to outright war with the Elves. If it is either of the first two reasons, presenting yourself and trying to bargain with the Empire could lead to disaster. If it is the third . . . then the securing of an elven allegiance is of paramount importance."

With the arrival of Cal, Ventus sits back to listen to the discussion. He remains silent on the subject of leadership. His own views might not be accorded much weight. . . or indeed they could be viewed as a mark against a leader. After all, his last move in Dorinthian politics was the toppling of a king. Regardless he had no position to espouse in any event. Dartis seemed capable enough, but he had no measure by which to base an opinion of Syra. Perhaps though, Dartis's greatest flaw was his penchant for adventure. To ride off to the rescue of the elves. Noble, heroic, important. It could be all those things, qualities of a great leader, but not of a civic planner. The town needed heroes, but it would also need someone to shape it and hold it together. Who would do that with Dartis gone?

 

[GlassEye]

[sblock=Dartis]Silas, afraid his tactless presentation of his worries may have offended Lord Kalnian, is much relieved when Dartis assures him that he is working for Dorinthia's best interest. "Thank you, Dartis. As for the elves," Silas begins, "I shall think on it."[/sblock]

Later, at the dinner arranged by Dartis...

"...Is this a wise course? Even if the elves survive the orcs, will they not betray us to the Tallione, unless we show them there are more advanages to keeping us? Please, my friends, let me know your thoughts."

Silas listens, eating almost absent-mindedly, as Nikolos and then Barok speak. When Barok finishes Silas drops the bone he just cleaned of meat onto his plate with a clink. He glances at Nikolos, "You speak of our 'value' to the elves." Silas nods consideringly but then turns his attention to Barok with a scowl. "And you speak of the elves usefulness to us, the possibility of future conflict, and treacherous acts." He shakes his head and looks like he is making a great effort not to say something else to Barok. Finally, he continues, "The elves were our allies once, and may be again. Whatever decision they make in the future is for the future. Now, now we can stand with them against those who would take from them what has been taken from us. Does 'value' and 'usefulness' matter? For practical considerations, it does. But aiding them is the right thing to do, and for that reason alone, for me, it is enough." Finished speaking, Silas sits there looking around at the others then grabs up his mug and takes a drink.

[sblock=Ventus]Silas will lend Ventus what knowledge he has about fortifications. It's mostly academic, learned at the feet of his father and his mentor among the Caernite scholars, but some of it was learned first hand facing the Tallione forces. "Ventus, I will aid you in whatever ways you require. Just say the word. And, I know it will be some time in the future before we are ready to build with stone, but my father is a master stonemason. I am sure that his expertise could be put to good use."[/sblock]

[sblock=Hector]Quickly speaking to the young boy sending him on his way, Silas says, "I will come along as soon as I am able." Grasping the dejected man by the arms he says, "Hector, my friend. Look at me. There is no need for us to ever compete. The people of Dorinthia have need of us both. And in truth, you have talents of magic that I can never match. Speaking of which, I have come across a gnomish book of magic with many spells in it that I have been unable master. I have no doubt, however, that you will easily learn them. Come, let's go take a look at the book." Silas will take Hector and show him Astraughlay's spell book (chock full of illusiony goodness that Silas can't cast but that Hector should be able to) and let him copy from it. Leaving him there at work, Silas heads off to Cal's meeting.[/sblock]

Arriving somewhat late to Cal's meeting, Silas shuffles in and gets seated just in time to hear the nobleman's pronouncements. Suprised that matters have come to a head so quickly he hesitates, wine glass held almost to his lips, before he takes a fortifying sip and sets the glass down. Oh, it's my fault! Wanting to speak, still he hesitates, afraid of making matters worse.

 

[Fenris]

Dartis looks at Cal for a moment, then erupts, "By the Rider Cal! You're Baron not Syra. Alexander is my commrade and friend. If he is happy I wish him the best. But I know he cannot be happy within the bounds of a city. And I have reservations about whether his presence as a ruler would split our people."

Dartis walks up and takes Cal by the shoulders "Cal, we are family, bound by the blood of Berl Dorin. I would never fight you for the throne. I know that we both have the best interests of our people at heart. We both see support among the people for each of us. We have both worked hard to rally our remaining people. And damnit yes I believe I could rule as well as you. But would not a cagy politician seek to stay here and consolidate his power? And what do I seek Cal? I seek more aid for our people, more security by leaving. By seeing aid outside the city.

Not for one moment did I regret seeing you released from the grasp of the dryad Cal. Even though it meant another rival, another challenger, all that was in my heart was gladness to have found another Dorinthian, and all the better my cousin.I could have left you in her clutches Cal. But would I have been worthy then? Could I have called myself a Dorinthian?

Cal, too much needs to be done to worry about succession. We must build better defenses. We must build a wall, we must secure allies outside of this city. We must put our people first. I say we form a council of nobles and rule as a group. But if not, and I doubt Syra will agree, then I must still do what I can for our people Cal. I cannot stay here and play politics with a girl still dreaming of a fairy tale.

There is still too much to be done, you know this in your heart. What matter who is king if they rule over a graveyard? I will do what I need to for our people, just as I know you will. And I will not see our people divided, by anything or anyone.

I am going, alone if needed, to Saleentra. Do what you will here, I would listen to Ventus and build a wall. But remember Cal you are Baron, do not let anyone take from you what your father gave you.

Long live Dorinthia, Long live Berl Dorin and long live the Rider, may he return in these dark days again."
Dartis embraces his cousin and walks away to be be alone with his thoughts

 

[Nephtys]

Barok
[sblock]
Rix walks up to you as your leaving the halfing family's general store. "I just wanted to tell you good-bye, one sneak to another. After spending some more time with my fellow kobolds, and also listening to some of their stranger ideas about this town and looting, I've decided it's time to go. I'm taking the tribe with me since they see me as their new leader. Maybe I can teach them a few things out there so that they can live next to humans one day. It's just not going to happen right now, and it's better to go before there is a misunderstanding... or even an understanding. I'm off to say bye to Alexander. If you see Danica, tell her good-bye, too. I just have trouble trying to explain myself to her. Oh, and I doubt you'll see Kel, but if you do let him know I thought he was alright, for an elf anyway."

After your discussion with Rix, a messenger boy asks you to stop by and see Cal...
[/sblock]

[sblock=DT]Barok smirks, "All hail the Kobold King. Heh, sometimes I admire the ways of your people. At times it just hurts my teeth being around all this chivalrous sweetness. I love Dorinthians, but they're often too damn Good for their own good. Guess that's why they need people like us, huh.
"Good luck and all that. Maybe I'll be heading your way one of these days if things don't work out here."

He shakes his head, smiling as the Rix walks away. He's in love with the Sorceress, with a bloody mammal. Not that I mind her mammary parts, but for him that's just perverse. How the hell did that happen? And how the hell would they get together anyway? Do the parts even fit?[/sblock]

Ventus shakes his head slowly at Barok's words.

"Do not mistake corruption for decadance, the Empire is mighty. Recall the most recent war your people held with Tallione. W. . . They won, your nation was wiped from the map. I do not know why the invasion of Dorinthia was one of destruction and not conquest as in the past. However, there must have been SOME purpose. New Dorinthia exists either because the Empire is unaware of its existence, or because they no longer see it as a threat, or because they have no desire to move to outright war with the Elves. If it is either of the first two reasons, presenting yourself and trying to bargain with the Empire could lead to disaster. If it is the third . . . then the securing of an elven allegiance is of paramount importance."

"It's not that the Empire is not powerful, but that's not the reason you beat us. Dorinthia fell because of the idiot madman on the throne. With better leadership we'll get better results. And I'm not suggesting we treat with the Empire now. Even if they must know where we are and they must, (There are spells for that stuff right Silas?) there would be no point to negotiate until they are weakened.

No, what I'm saying is that the Orcs will be more useful to us than the Elves when it comes to fighting the Empire. Because even if the orcs wouldn't mind slaughtering us all they would rather attack a richer foe, if only to fight a war of raids. The elves are too few. And the littles sissies don't like breeding enough to risk the few fighters they have in a war they have no reason fighting, especially after just having fought the orcs."

Later, at the dinner arranged by Dartis...

Silas listens, eating almost absent-mindedly, as Nikolos and then Barok speak. When Barok finishes Silas drops the bone he just cleaned of meat onto his plate with a clink. He glances at Nikolos, "You speak of our 'value' to the elves." Silas nods consideringly but then turns his attention to Barok with a scowl. "And you speak of the elves usefulness to us, the possibility of future conflict, and treacherous acts." He shakes his head and looks like he is making a great effort not to say something else to Barok. Finally, he continues, "The elves were our allies once, and may be again. Whatever decision they make in the future is for the future. Now, now we can stand with them against those who would take from them what has been taken from us. Does 'value' and 'usefulness' matter? For practical considerations, it does. But aiding them is the right thing to do, and for that reason alone, for me, it is enough." Finished speaking, Silas sits there looking around at the others then grabs up his mug and takes a drink.

"Damn it man! We're talking about the survival of our people. That's the only morality we need. The 'right thing to do' isn't the right thing to do unless it serves that purpose. Did the elves save us from the Empire? No. So why should we save them? Haven't we already done enough, already far more to help them than they have done for us? Haven't our people already died enough fighting the enemies of the Elves?"

You talk some more before going to see Cal in a building he has set-up for his cavalry units. As you and the rest of the party trickle in he offers you a seat at a large table and your choice of some adequate wine. Once everyone is ready, he foregoes formalities and heads straight to the point.

"I started my day trying to prepare for your proposed trip into the elven lands to render support, when suddenly rumors of Baron Dartis Kalnian reached my ears. Supposedly, my cousin here has aspirations to rule here. The way I see it, most people want me to take over for my father, or at least expect this to happen. I myself care little for the title right now. Two weeks ago I would have taken the title of ruler without hesitation, and would have been willing to fight Lord Kalnian to a duel for it. But these last few weeks have given me much to think about. Kyle Radnal doesn't want the position as he renounced his royal title a long time ago, but still he and I have grown to understand each other more of late and I feel he might support me. Syra, though, has been ruling in all but name for some time now, and it will not be easy to make her relinguish her claim. She also has Alexander's support and love, and is trying to convince the poor man to court her and marry into nobility. Lord Kalnian may not be as established in this town, but he has shown his worth to enough people and I also sense that he has the influential support of six other heroes who happen to be sitting at this table," Cal says pointedly while searching your faces.

Barok listens, keeping his snide remarks to himself.

Long live Dorinthia, Long live Berl Dorin and long live the Rider, may he return in these dark days again." [/COLOR]
Dartis embraces his cousin and walks away to be be alone with his thoughts

Barok chokes on something and coughs violently for a few moments. Damn it, there goes my future fief, my wealth, my title, my power and respect. Damn it man, damn your bloody honour.


ooc: No offense intended with the elf remarks, personally I have no problem with elves, it just seemed like something Barok would say.

 

[Kobold Stew]

Dartis
[sblock]

Danica
[sblock]
Kyle Radnal eventually finds you and gives a broad smile, "Danica, look at you. It hasn't been that long since you last left and you came back with the confidence of a woman." He says the last part with a hint of sadness, and you realize that Kyle looked at you as a daughter he never had time to have. "Cal wanted me to find you for a meeting he wishes to have, but let's chat awhile. How has your time been? I've seen that you've become very handy with a crossbow. What do you think of this Dartis character? Do you know he approached me earlier asking me if I would support him being our ruler?"
[/sblock]

Kyle Radnall[sblock]

Danica blushes when she meets with Radnal once again. His men had taught her so much, but she bites her lip when he mentions the crossbow, and smiles.

"There's something I've been meaning to tell you. This crossbow--I'm proud of it, and I'm proud of what you taught me, you and your men. But I'm a different person now. A better person. Someone who I thought I should have been, but never was. Here. Watch."

She places her crossbow on the ground, and she sits up straight -- the arch of her spine extending, and adding inches to her height. She flipps her hair back, and it falls down over the mended blue blouse she had bought, and she whispers, "Ka-pow..."

Sparks fly from the fingers of her left hand, rising up like fireworks, and dancing in rainbow shapes, which she sculpts into dancing marionettes of light with her right hand -- pulling an arm, then a leg, so that it looks like a ballerina twirling.

[Prestidigitation]

"That's just one of the things I can do. There are others, sir. I'm good with the crossbow, yeah... but there are some things that I feel I'm becomeing Great at. things I didn't tell you about, but that I now know I shouldn't have hid. So I hope you'll forgive me. I owe you so much, and it's you who made me who I am..."

Her voice trails off a bit. But then she picks up at the questions about Dartis.

"Lord Dartis has helped me a great deal. In many ways, he has carried on with what you started for me. He is kind, and a great leader, I guess... He wants to help Dornithia. And I've been helping him with that, in whatever way I can. To tell you the truth, your opinion of him matters as much to me, as mine does to you. I hadn;t kown he approached you, but my sense is that he is not working for himself. He is serving his country. Or, at least, the memory of it."

She looks him straight in the eye, and then her face explodes with a laugh... "Ka-Pow!" And then she giggles, and gives Radnall the hug that she thinks he has been waiting for since he first saw her again.

[/sblock]

 

[Deuce Traveler]

Ventus
[sblock]
Cal happily accepts your proposal, and is astonished by your grasp of the situation and realistic goals you have set forth. He promises to get men started right away.
[/sblock]

Silas
[sblock]
Hector seems surprised by your generosity, and carefully holds the spellbook with appreciative and shaky hands. The amount of knowledge inside is impressive and valuable. "Thank you," he says as you depart.
[/sblock]

Barok
[sblock]
Rix laughs at your comments regarding him as a kobold king, but grows serious as you offer to visit. He seems to see into you, and yet accept what he senses, "You, more than almost all others, will be a welcome guest should you journey to us." With that, he turns and goes away.
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Danica
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You are somewhat surprised to see that Kyle doesn't seem shocked at your revelation, instead he hugs you back before taking another good look at you. "I know a thing or two about secrets, and I guessed yours a long while back. Some of the boys might have been fooled, but I've seen too much. I'm glad you finally felt comfortable enough to tell me, and I want you to know that I'm always here for you, sorcery or not."
[/sblock]

Cal chuckles, but looks tired for a moment as he looks away from Dartis. "Yes, you're right. Right and wrong, but more right. You've been a good man, and I know you have no wish to duel or fight with myself or my sister. However, we are still Dorinthians and we still burn with want and fight for our dreams. Deny it as you like, Dartis, but should you truly not want such a responsibility... should your blood not boil with passion for what may be yours, then you are no son of Dorin. You are right that Alexander does not desire to sit as a lord, and yet my sister wants both him and a title. She will have to choose. For now, let us forget politics. It is a tasteless affair, and I much prefer war. In politics, unlike in combat, you never have allies. Just tools to be manipulated.

I think that I understand Kyle Radnal now and why he turned away from his title and land. It was the political machinations that drove him to renounce his claim once the king demanded he disown his traitorous father. Instead, he broke the sword he was to swear on oath upon and walked away, something I never understood until losing my own father. The man was lucky not to have been condemned and put to death."

Cal takes another bottle of wine, pours himself another glass, then passes it around to the rest of you. He sips his drink and stares into his glass before continuing. "Let us turn to more pleasant things and leave the domestic policies to my sister. Such as taking revenge upon the orcs. Using Ventus' plans and some of Silas' suggestions, I'm content in using my men and that of Radnal's to fortify the area and try to make repairs. You've discussed a mission to the elven lands in order to render support, and both Syra and I believe this to be an important piece of our defense. We do not need a hostile elven nation to our northern border. If you wish to go, I will be able to provide supplies for you."

 

[Nephtys]

Barok
[sblock]
Rix laughs at your comments regarding him as a kobold king, but grows serious as you offer to visit. He seems to see into you, and yet accept what he senses, "You, more than almost all others, will be a welcome guest should you journey to us." With that, he turns and goes away.
[/sblock]

Barok looks at the kobold, surprised by his sincerity. Then shrugs, smiling a little, and goes to loot the battlefield on the hill.