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>>6369778
You are Prince Alric Perenolde, the second heir of Alterac, renowned swordsman, secretly a mage in training, boyfriend to Malevus Silverthread and most importantly really seasick.
For the past six days the weather hasn't been to your liking. The winds had been strong and rocked the ship quite a lot, slowing the journey back to Southshore down a lot. You had tried to spend as much as possible on the deck and trying to have the fresh sea air help you, but the rocking motion was your biggest weakness and so you spend most of your time resting in your bed trying to sleep through all of this.
Malevus had kept you company by praying and blessing you from time to time. It had helped a bit, but it was no panacea. Her holding your hand helped a bit more, having her there calmed your mind a lot. But it was no solution, only solution would be you getting your feet on even and steady ground.
Seagulls could be seen circling over the ship, you looked up and down. In the distance you could see the Alteraci Mountains breaking the horizon. Finally you could smile and you found strength within you.
“Prince Alric.” Beric greeted you.
Beric of Strahnbrad was your main trader. The short bald gnome looking man was known for his short temper and similar appetite for swear words, but not once he had left you hanging.
“Beric.”
“Feeling any better?” He asked.
“Not really.” You replied and sighed. “A couple more hours though.”
“Seasickness, fucking awful.” He said.
“You are lucky.”
“I can’t imagine how you are feeling.” Beric said.
“Dreadful.” You said and leaned on the railing trying to keep your light lunch within you. You hadn’t vomited not once and this close to the shore you wouldn’t do so. “What is what you want?”
“Just to inform you, my talks in Stormwind City were rather fruitful. The merchants there now know what we have to offer and I think we might be able to extend our trade there.” Beric told you.
“What does that mean?” You asked.
“More coin, not now, but in the future.” Beric replied.
That’s good, at least it was something. Beric had done his job as your trader in Stormwind and extended your influence through the merchants.
“Anything else?”
“Not much, other than I will be having my hands full in Southshore. I won’t be visiting Dawnholme much if not at all.” Beric said.
“Thank you for the warning. Send me a letter before autumn comes, I want to know your ideas and such by then.” You replied.
“Of course, we both will be rich through this.” Beric said and laughed.
You were fairly sure that Beric was somewhat lining his own pockets with the trade, but you let it slide. He was loyal to you and has helped to formulate the whole market fair and caravan system that directed plenty of coin to your own coffers. Now he had his own problems with the current leadership in Southshore, but you were sure he would manage them.
Now though, you were really close to the shore.
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>>6369779
When the ship arrived to Southshore you were the first to disembark. Getting firm ground under your feet did wonders and it didn’t take long for you to shake the shaking motion away from your mind. Stretching your back you watched as the rest of your men and Malevus followed you and with the ship tied to the pier, they carefully disembarked your horses as well.
You gave the command, it was still morning and if you were to ride fast you would reach Dawnholme before evening. Mounting your horses with your knights, you told the Royal Foot Guards to follow you when everything was ready in Southshore. They were not to hurry at all, you would survive without them easily.
Riding through Southshore, it didn’t take that long for you to get through the gate and reach the open road ahead of you. It felt so good to be on familiar grounds that you laughed and pushed Epona to pick up speed. The ride back home would be so enjoyable.
…
You reached Dawnholme before it was evening and you rode past your own people who saw their Prince for the first time in a month or so. Dismounting Epona, you left her for the stablehands as you marched directly to your home. While you had been away, the Stonemasons had finished most of their work on the cellar and the homestead rested on its foundations and not on wooden stilts anymore.
“I am home!” You shouted as you pushed the door open.
“Alric!” Taretha shouted out as she had been startled by your sudden appearance.
“Tari!” You could only reply as you walked to her and carefully leaned down to hug her. She was still pregnant and knitting something.” How are you?”
“Ready to burst.” She lamented and laughed. “It is so great to see you.”
“I am so happy as well.” You replied.
“How did your trip to Stormwind go?” She asked.
Malevus stepped through the front door wearing her new black clothes, her eyes brightened as she saw Tari and she too walked to her to hug her.
“Not you too Malevus…” Tari laughed as her hug reached Tari.
“I have missed you so much…” Malevus replied, rubbing her cheeks with Tari’s. “You look wonderful.”
“Monica visited a couple days back, she did my hair.” Tari said. “You have also received some letters.”
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>>6369780
“Alric!”
Your foster-mother Maura shouted out as she came to see what was the commotion.
“Mother.” You replied as she hugged you and then moved to hug Malevus next to you who seemed surprised. “Where is Normand?”
“In his office as always.” Maura replied. “He should come down to see his son sooner than later.”
“Well that is typical of him.” You laughed. “So Tari…”
“Alric!” Normand shouted out and stomped down the stairs as you were going to speak with Tari.
Normand Garside, your foster-father, walked to you and shook your hand before shaking the hand of Malevus as well.
“Welcome home.” He said to you, your old man had grown and trimmed his beard to be a short one
“Father… I wasn’t away from home that long.” You replied.
“You were away long enough for us to become concerned.” He said to you. “So how did the trip to Stormwind go? You must have a lot to tell us?”
Well…
You had a lot to tell them, but you had no idea where to start. Maybe it was better to start from one thing and go through everything one by one.
Choose one:
>Tell your mother and father about you and Malevus. They deserve to know with Taretha already being in the know.
>Call your officers for a meeting and tell them everything about Stormwind and what has happened. You need a strategy meeting for what is to come.
>You are going to wait till tomorrow for all of this. You are dead tired and you wish to keep everything closed and shut till then. Those letters interest you a lot.
>Other, write in.
QM: Choose one from where to start. I know you want to go through everything.
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>>6369782
Welcome to Alterac Resurgent Quest! I am your QM Medivh and I am available to answer near any question be it about the Quest itself, world or the characters. So go ahead and ask those questions, I will try to answer them as best I can without spoiling things to come.
That being said, I hope all the readers, lurkers and players have a splendid time with this. We put a big story arc behind us and are stepping into something new and wonderful. I have gotten my own notes together and what we are going to face is going to be top fun or !!FUN!! depending on your choices.
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>>6369782
>Tell your mother and father about you and Malevus. They deserve to know with Taretha already being in the know.
Yeah we can keep what Varian did and everything about Stormwind for later talk. It's definitely a long talk to have, in comparison to something happier. We might as well just call everyone important under us for it, even say Chief Ragis.
There is still other good news we can deliver, so is not just going to be that long political talk either. Like going to Hampton and tell him he doesn't have to coordinate the faith in two settlements. And we can ponder on Radan, if making him a paladin is politically feasible.
>>6369785
So where to start :
- Did Tari already tell of the possible names for the kid?
- Nalice is in our service now. So does it make sense to keep Eligius spymaster training going ? I don't mind because Eligius is clearly good at it, and we have invested a considerable amount of his time by now on it. But its a question to think upon.
- We are going to have a talk with VanCleef soon again ? I recon Erefor and the rest of Stonemasons will be happy to hear they will arrive.
- When we can get a spar with Sir Cyrus or Bakhtet ? I know Cyrus is still with Pai and Eligius doing the suicide mission but how much time it will take for them to be back (unknown shenanigans and troubles aside) ?
- What happened in Stormwind will affect our work relationship with Garrick Blacksteel (dwarfs voting for us there) ?
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>>6369782
>Tell your mother and father about you and Malevus. They deserve to know with Taretha already being in the know
Hmmm I can imagine who sent a letter. Blackmoore will need to hear what happened and the news about the Camps. Budget cuts, loss of control over some camps, more orcs sent to his camps. The loss of budget is somewhat mitigated by regional defenders in the north and Dalaran using their troops to man the camps. Plus we are sending him 100 men.
The whole Varian going mad arc, being stripped of his throne, Malevus arc should help I think to know there's an actual King who got fucked harder than him schadenfreude, Arthas as well who was the support behind Garithos. Varian would have been a vote for even more budget cuts I have no doubt.
Will he enter the Darrowmere League with how things turned out? Maybe? Spite towards the Alliance leadership, economic opportunities in the League, the sentiment of the Durnholders.
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>>6369785
Magic session using the bonus we got from training with Jaina soon? I did have ideas but most of it was battle magic. I was thinking about social magic. For instance Malevus's clarity of thought. If you could seemingly alleviate someone's fear and anxiety with your presence and words how powerful is that in talking to people and convincing them your plan is good? Could be very powerful on non-mages. A sort of Inner Fire that Alric invoked in the gnoll frost mage duel. Would that be doable? Could be very handy in a few up and coming social encounters here.
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“Malevus, I think it is the time.” You said to her.
“A time for… oh, oh right yes.” She quickly realised what you meant. “Tari already knows.”
“I know…” Tari started to say, but stopped when you took the hand of Malevus. “That of course.”
“What is going on?” Normand asked you.
“Just that me and Malevus…” you started to say to him, but before you could continue your mother hugged the two of you.
“I knew it!” Maura shouted out. “I am so happy for the two of you.”
Malevus was thoroughly surprised as Maura hugged her and you. She looked at you and then at Maura.
“How did you know?” She asked her.
“A mother knows his son and the way the two of you kept looking at each other… even a blind man could notice something was going on.” Maura told you and continued as she let go of you. “Well Normand didn’t notice.”
“I thought that you and Calia… that is why I didn’t believe what others were saying.” Normand defended himself.
“Yeah… it didn’t work with Calia, the distance made it impossible.” You told him and continued. “What are the others saying? What do you mean?”
“Your officers some believed that you and Malevus and some didn’t. They even made bets.” Normand told you.
“Bets?” You had to ask.
“Oh, Madam Martin told me that there’s a betting ring…” Malevus said to you.
“A betting ring? Why didn’t you tell me?” You now asked her.
“I forgot! We had so much to do!” She replied.
“Well fine, I need to raise that up with the others.” You replied and pinched the bridge of your nose. This was annoying.
“When did the two of you… start dating?” Normand asked you. He was really bad at this.
“A couple months back? Officially I am still courting her, but… I think we are already past that.” You said and looked at her.
“Alric is giving me the time to become a Paladin first. To realise my dreams.” Malevus added.
“So till then courting it is.” You finished.
Maura hugged the two of you again and you hugged her back.
“Welcome to be part of the family.” Maura said to her.
“I feel like she has been part of the family from the start.” You laughed. “One thing just led into another and now I am the happiest man alive.”
You leaned closer and kissed her which made Maura practically beam with happiness.
“So will the two of you…” Normand started, but got interrupted.
“Of course they will.” Maura said and let go of Malevus and you. “We will move your belongings to Alric’s room tomorrow.”
“That quickly?” Malevus asked her.
“Of course!” Maura replied.
“She wants grandchildren.” You said to Malevus who turned bright red nearly immediately. “We have talked about seven children, a nice round number.”
“Alric!” Malevus protested as Maura beamed with happiness.
“Though mother, you have to practice first with Tari and her child. I want Malevus to realise her own dreams just as much as she does.” You told her.
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>>6370095
Maura kept hugging the two of you for a moment before letting go of you. She took hold of her hand and nodded towards the kitchen.
“Let’s go wash the dishes, I want to talk with you.” Maura said and dragged Malevus with her, leaving you with Tari who was still sitting and Normand who was still surprised.
“So Malevus? An elf?” He asked you.
“She is very beautiful.” Tari replied for you. “And they have sparred together so much. Malevus is practically his shadow.”
“Tari is right, one thing led into another and soon we realised we were in love.” You told him and smiled.
Normand nodded as if he understood what Tari and you told him.
“Makes sense, just make sure she will be happy.” He said to you.
“Don’t worry about that.” You replied and yawned. “Light I am tired, I think I will go to rest. We can talk about Stormwind and everything that happened tomorrow.”
“Alright, I will tell the others to be ready to be present.” Normand said.
“Good, you do that.”
It felt really good to be back home. Your family, Tari and everyone else were here. And with Malevus by your side, a new chapter would open. A chapter you very happily allowed to open.
…
Having helped Tari to get up the stairs as she was quite pregnant, you watched as the Royal Foot Guards carried your travel chest into your room. There were a couple letters on your desk. You looked at them, but decided to not open them yet, that can wait till tomorrow as well. Your room was untouched, everything was there where you had left them and so you just kicked off your boots and took off your jacket.
It didn’t take long for you to find yourself comfortable under the blanket, propped up by several pillows as you waited for Malevus. Finally after a while she pushed the door to your bedroom open and walked in carrying a set of spare clothes and her own pillow.
“What did Maura want to talk with you about?” You asked her as she set them down and closed the door.
“About us, how things are going and so on.” She said to you and started to undress. “You know, very motherly stuff.”
“I wasn’t joking about the grandchildren…” You said with a playful tone.
Malevus stopped taking off her trousers for a second, but continued after a pause.
“I know…” She said.
You watched as your girlfriend undressed completely and carefully joined you in the bed under the blanket. With a wave of your hand the candles extinguished themselves, throwing the bedroom into near darkness. You felt her press against you, but you could feel her be all tense.
“What is it?” You asked her.
“This is your bed…” Malevus whispered.
“Yes and? We have cuddled here before?” You asked again.
“But that was then, this is now…” She replied. “It is different.”
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>>6370098
“I don’t think it is that different” You said and continued. “We just had clothes on then, now we don’t.”
“Still…”
You wrapped your arms around her and held her. Slowly her tenseness started to disappear as you caressed her hair.
“When we have time, I am going to do my best to court you. We shall go for long rides, I will pick flowers for you, we could be in a sauna together.” You said to her.
“That is not courting, that is getting clean.” She chuckled.
“I will wash your ears.”
Malevus now laughed and hugged you back.
“You know how to talk to a girl.” She said to you.
You held her still. Right now you were the happiest person in the world as the two of you just stayed there unmoving. Slowly the sleep started to take over you. You would end up seeing some of the sweetest dreams you had in a long time.
…
Malevus snored as you got up from the bed very carefully. Putting on your clothes, you allowed her to continue sleeping as you left the bedroom.
You looked at the letters on your desk and then thought what else should you do before the officers arrive. Probably it would be worth getting a bit prepared as a lot happened in Stormwind.
Choose one:
>Open the letters and see what and from whom they are from. They could have something useful to you.
>Go eat breakfast and tell Normand the main points from Stormwind. You want his opinions before the meeting.
>Other, write in
QM: We are going to go through both so choose which one you want first.
>>6370002
It is on a list of what Alric will do in the coming days and weeks.
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>>6370101
>Open the letters and see what and from whom they are from. They could have something useful to you.
Give me the letters
When is Gravis's wedding scheduled?
Can we build Noble Manors in every province? Would the Leadership bonus stack?
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>>6369965
- Did Tari...
She has said that she has couple names on her mind, but she doesn't want to say them as not to tempt the fate. First to give birth and then tell everyone what the name will be.
- Nalice is...
Nalice will continue teaching Eligius as she might not be always present. After all she has her own things going on with the artifacts and other Nalice things.
- We are...
The Stonemasons when they hear the news will be euphoric. A lot of them have their husbands in Stormwind so getting the families together is going to be something they hadn't expected to happen any time soon if at all. Unifying the families is going to win you a lot of their favour.
- When we...
Sir Cyrus is with Eligius and Bakhtet with the Dark Irons. How long will it take for Cyrus to return? I don't know. Could take weeks, could take months. I have the next Pai and Eligius segment planned out. We will see their adventure continue in this thread hopefully.
- What happened...
Shouldn't have any real effect. Garrick Blacksteel won't care what the Bronzebeards are on about as long as they don't directly take action against the Dark Irons. That is least of his worries as how his Clan is doing matters the most to him.
>>6370109
Betrothal happens first with the wedding maybe come next year. Hilde is not of age yet where her mother is alright with her moving in with Gravis.
And no the Leadership bonus doesn't stack.
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I sure hope the Town Hall taxes will be ready this season.
Could build the Abbey since we have our own priest set to arrive. If we sell some supplies we could afford the Keep, or If one of the Blacksteels could serve as Master Smith we could make the Foundry for mastercraft arms and armor.
Town walls and gate wouldn't be bad if it would help against the ogres and kobolds?
Or a couple Windmills. I wonder if Wiklish is making good progress on his miniaturized gear.
But if the Trolls have made themselves a problem maybe some military units or mages would be nice. I guess the next batch of Dalaran magic users won't arrive till next year? I wouldn't mind getting those Veteran Stonemason Knights alongside our own veteran knights. What will the Epic upgrade of knights turn them into I wonder.
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Taking a seat and a sharp knife, you opened the first letter or more accurately a scroll by breaking the vax seal. Opening it, you found that it was from Garrick Blacksteel. The Dark Iron had sent a report just several days ago so the content was still fresh.
Master Blacksteel went through what they had been working on. The platforms on which the machinery will be installed are nearly finished, the expected usage of timber has been greater than expected as more logs have to have been driven into the soft ground. This had the unfortunate effect as all this work had just pushed more water above ground and with rains washing Strahnbrad Hills, there had been minor flooding which had caused delays. Goblin bucket brigades and quickly dug ditches did help them a bit, but with the ground too soft the machinery couldn’t be moved in and installed.
Delays, but nothing that couldn’t be fixed. It was expected that a project of this size will have its own issues, but with autumn slowly arriving it would be better if there was no rain for some time. But it was clear, the oil rig wouldn’t be finished before the autumn.
Taking the second letter, this time in an actual envelope, you opened it and found that it was from Raethan, the corrupt captain of the guard in Dalaran. You had hired him to keep his eyes open and to recruit potential migrants and mages to your service from Underbelly. He wrote that he had a good number of people ready to move to Dawnholme, including a couple of mages, but there were issues when it came to Dalaran. His superiors aren’t going let this happen again and so this will be the last set of migrants from Underbelly. He also described how Kirin Tor had sent their own guards into Underbelly and caused a ruckus down there, dragging several of the more unsavoury people out from there. None had returned and now those remaining are very worried that they would be next, especially when the potential migrants are going to leave soonish.
So unsurprisingly Raethan had been approached by several people, to whom he had to say no as your guidance from earlier this summer made it pretty clear. Just craftsmen and workers with a couple of more unorthodox mages would be allowed. Raethan wrote that he would have approximately eighty willing workers ready to migrate, two sorcerers, one witch and four students. But then there were the ones who had approached him and he wanted your opinion on whom to take in and to whom to say no to. Making things clear, he had listed all of them, making your decision making easier.
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>>6370366
Already agreed migrants from Underbelly:
-80 Peasants
-2 Sorcerers, 1 Witch, 4 Students
Additional migrants from Underbelly:
>20 Peasants, thugs and petty criminals
>20 Peasants, rogues and cutthroats
>10 Peasants, occultists and strange folk
>10 Peasants, goblins
Additional specialists from Underbelly:
>Witch with a shady past
>Occultist known for being a student of Kel’Thuzad
>A known Warlock with good reputation
>Fence known for dealing in illegal goods
>Master Alchemist with a past in poisons
>Escaped troll hiding from Kirin Tor authorities
Total Resources:
0 Wealth, +15 per season
4 Supplies, +3 per season
515 Peasants
QM: Additional migrants and specialists for you to choose from. Choose as many as you want. Total Resources updated to reflect the coming Stonemasons.
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>>6370367
>10 Peasants, occultists and strange folk
>10 Peasants, goblins
Alric is pretty eccentric I think at least the occultist strange folk and goblins could be swung in. Make it a nice even 100 new pop.
I'm tempted with the thugs and petty criminals who could either start a new life, or be handy for spymaster rogue stuff thats vital but isn't necessarily legal. Too bad Eligius and Nalice aren't here they're the ones whose opinions could be handy.
Also did some mage or warlock keep a pet troll lol. I wonder if they're a voodoo priestess or something? Could be very handy since we have two trolls tribes to interact with soon.
I kind of want all of the specialists for various reasons. Magic is amazing too.
>Witch with a shady past
Could be added to witch gang?
>Occultist known for being a student of Kel’Thuzad
I'm curious that they didn't leave with Kel'Thuzad, maybe they had a falling out over the whole necromancy thing or something. Could be handy for predicting Kelly's movements if we want that Dalaran favor, I figure we wouldn't have to hunt him down but we could offer intel they'd appreciate, or for the magic of the human body that was Kelly's big achievement in regular magic.
>A known Warlock with good reputation
Warlock who uses his magic for good apparently? Might be a nice companion for Eligius.
>Fence known for dealing in illegal goods
Good for the Spymaster. I'd guess they have their own contacts and suppliers. Maybe handy for
>Master Alchemist with a past in poisons
We do need a master alchemist for gunpowder and the final alchemist building. Plus spymaster poison stuff. Or a poison tester. I watched Apothecary Diaries recently and enjoyed it, very fun show.
>Escaped troll hiding from Kirin Tor authorities
As above, she's listed in the specialists so I figure it's a troll priestess of their magic or some such.
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>>6370367
>20 Peasants, rogues and cutthroats
>10 Peasants, occultists and strange folk
>10 Peasants, goblins
>Occultist known for being a student of Kel’Thuzad
>A known Warlock with good reputation
>Master Alchemist with a past in poisons
Fuck it let's necromax
Do we know what tribe is the escaped troll from?
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What a dude. Hes done damn well getting so many Underbelly people and specialists I must say. Dude works for like 1 wealth a season, 4 wealth a year, if I remember right. It is quite nice to have someone over there and I suppose if this is the last he can focus on rumors and such. Could he turn his eye to surface Dalaran for migrants?
Kind of funny that Dalaran doesn't have some more famous colonies and outposts considering magic and cleverness could certainly allow them to overcome more places anyone else would consider inhospitable. I read an absolutely gorgeous manga called Witch Hat Atelier and the capital city of mage society is built at the bottom of an ocean. They have pretty good reasons for it as well.
Anyway my thinking is we can grab as much as we want. Officially its inevitable that some people will slip into the caravan or even just follow it on their own terms. Then if there is trouble its for Alric, Williams, and Boyd to step in first to intervene with a talk first. Then perhaps for Eligius and Nalice if that doesn't settle things lol. Almost anyone that can be saved from getting disappeared by Dalaran is probably a plus in Nalice's book.
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>>6370367
>20 Peasants, thugs and petty criminals - pic related, time for hard labour rehab
>10 Peasants, occultists and strange folk
>10 Peasants, goblins - Wiklish gets his people
Specialists:
>Witch with a shady past
>Occultist known for being a student of Kel’Thuzad
>A known Warlock with good reputation
>Fence known for dealing in illegal goods
>Master Alchemist with a past in poisons
>Escaped troll hiding from Kirin Tor authorities
I think we can make use of all these people, and if nothing else for the troll then we link him up with the nearby tribes and make them an ambassador.
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“ALL” You quickly scribbled on the letter. Only the rogues and cutthroats mentioned would be left behind, those you didn’t want. You would have to write the reply later tonight and give further guidance, how to send them here and the usual be careful.
All the specialists Raethan told you about would be useful in various ways. More variety in magic, the fence could prove very useful for Eligius, you didn’t have the Master Alchemist at hand. The warlock of course was concerning even with a good reputation, but as long as he won’t cast any magic in Dawnholme, things probably will be without much if any issues.
But the troll, an escaped troll from the dungeons of Dalaran hiding in the Underbelly. That was very interesting. Why was the troll in Dalaran in the first place? Just captured and taken in? If they had managed to escape, then getting even a modicum of safety in Dawnholme could be enough to sway it to help you. Sure you might need to keep the troll in your dungeon for appearances, but in return promise of safety and maybe helping you with the trolls in the mountains with information or maybe as a translator if they don’t speak common, could be enough to keep the troll happy.
Moving into the last letter, you opened it and found out that it was from Kris Legace in Stromgarde. As it was the oldest letter you quickly realised that it had arrived just a couple days after you left for Stormwind. You had to sigh as what Kris had told you could have been useful in Stormwind. She went through all the news about the local nobility being disgruntled, King Thoras having his issues, the economy faltering. Basically everything you learned in Stormwind.
But she did continue with an interesting bit of news, the Syndicate had been sending even more people to Stromgarde. She doesn’t know what they are planning, just that more people have been brought in.
You pinched the bridge of your nose. That piece of information could have been really helpful to you a couple weeks back. Either way, you should probably eat some breakfast as your stomach was already protesting.
You were hungry!
…
As you sat down with a bowl of porridge, fresh bread with butter and a cup of herbal tea in front of you, you were joined by Normand.
“Good morning Alric.” He greeted you.
“Morning Normand.”
Awkward silence fell over the two of you as Normand didn’t know how to continue.
“I read the letters that have come, we are going to get more migrants from Underbelly.” You told him and noticed that he was still distracted. “Father, just speak with me.”
“It feels strange…” Normand leaned forward and whispered. “You and Malevus…”
“You still bothered about that?” You felt his reaction was a bit funny.
“It was normal when she was downstairs, but now…” Normand whispered.
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>>6370684
“Gu… mornng.” Malevus mumbled as she came out of your study. Her hair was a mess and her clothes just thrown on. She wasn’t a morning person at all. She walked and sat down next to Normand opposite you.
“We were just talking about you.” You said to her. “Normand was wondering if you slept well?”
“I did, I slept like a baby…” Malevus said with still her eyes closed.
You just smiled as Normand felt embarrassed.
“I will brush your hair after the breakfast, can’t have you look like that when we tell the news to the others.” You told Malevus.
“I can ask Tari…” She started to say.
“Let Tari rest, she looked so tired yesterday.” You replied.
“You are right…” Malevus muttered as Maura brought her similar breakfast to yours. “Thank you Maura…”
Her being sleepy made her so cute and you had slept really well too. Tomorrow morning though you would be dragging her with you to some sparring.
“The officers will be here in a couple of hours.” Normand switched topics.
“Good, because I have plenty to tell you.”
“Lieutenant Gravis already hinted to me that it was a quite eventful trip. He didn’t want to tell me anything, told me to wait till today.” Normand told you. “What exactly happened there if he was so cagey about it?”
Malevus opened her eyes and looked at Normand before starting to eat her porridge.
“A lot…” She mumbled.
“Alric… how much is a lot?” Normand asked.
>Tell him everything, don’t leave any details worth telling out.
>Concentrate on the big political picture. Varian forced to join a Regency Council, The Edict lifted in one year’s time, the changes to the Internment Camps.
>Go through the stuff that affects us in the near future. The Internment Camps, fall of Katrana’s status and Nalice.
>Normand can wait a bit, just continue talking about minor things like Malevus as Normand seemed rather interested in all that.
>Other, write in
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“Malevus you awake?” You asked your girlfriend.
“I am, I… I’m just not a morning person, you know that.” She lamented.
“Well good, because you are going to add a lot to what I am going to tell now.” You said to her and looked at Normand. “Well. It's the kind of a lot that it will go in the history books. This will take a while Father.”
Normand looked at you for a second and then nodded.
“Surely it wasn’t that bad.” He said.
You started to laugh and even Malevus joined in the chuckle. Oh it was bad.
…
“Oh by the Holy Light…” Normand cursed.
He had been repeating that several times as you had gone through everything.
“And now we are here.” You finished.
Malevus had done her part telling what happened to you while you were in jail and her going through her events again had been a bit of a doozy even for you. You had felt your heartrate rise as she described the thugs Varian had hired who had tried to apprehend her. Her description of Arthas and Jaina was just an icing to the cake.
“You weren’t in any danger?” Normand asked.
“No, I was not. I could have escaped any time I wanted. But I was more worried about the others so I didn’t do it.” You told him.
“And got us to go through all that.” Malevus lamented.
“I couldn’t have done the first move, unless Varian had done something to you or Jaina.” You said back to her. “I wouldn’t have moved without that.”
“If something had…” Malevus asked you carefully and you decided to speak the truth.
“I don’t believe Varian would be alive right now.” You said to her.
“Oh by the Holy Light…” Normand cursed again. “What the hell happened in Stormwind!”
“What are you talking about?” Tari asked as she left her room and started to slowly make her way down the stairs.
“Just what happened in Stormwind.” You casually replied to her. “How are you feeling?”
Tari was wearing a white chemise that was doing absolutely nothing to hide her pregnancy, her usual blue long sleeved shirt was on, but no way with the stomach on the way it could be closed.
“I am praying for the day I give birth.” Tari said and shook her head.
“Then just rest, you don’t have to be part of the meeting.” You said to her.
“I have done your paperwork while you were away, I know the numbers.” Tari said and took a seat.
“Alright, then you can be part of it.”
“But really, Varian?” Normand asked and still couldn’t believe what he had heard.
“His mind wasn’t there, the loss and then seeing shadows where they weren’t.” You explained to him.
“What you had told me was a lot, I don’t know what to say.” Your father said to you.
“Well, don’t be worried, the officers will agree with you. It is hard to believe everything I have told you, but it all happened.” You said to him.
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>>6370754
You had left things like you and Nalice and you thought that Malevus hadn’t told everything related to the dress making and her interactions with Nalice and Katrana to him. Which probably was for the best. Those details weren’t relevant here at all.
Normand didn’t know what to say here. You had flooded him with the information and he was just scratching his beard while glancing at you and Malevus. Stormwind had been a quite doozy of an adventure for those who weren’t there.
…
One by one your officers had started to arrive. First Captain Cromwell followed by Lieutenant Beckston. Lieutenant Radan had made a full recovery and he was followed by Gravis, Rover Brothers and all three of your mages.
Malevus took a seat at the head of the table next to you after you ordered her to sit there while the rest of them gathered around the table.
“It has been a while.” You said to them after they had sat down.
“It has Prince Alric.” Cromwell replied. “Lieutenant Gravis was all silent when asked what had happened in Stormwind.”
“Plenty has happened, I told Normand what had happened and he could just repeat oh by the Holy Light.” You replied and got your officers to give glances amongst themselves. “Oh it wasn’t all that bad.”
“It was.” Normand replied.
“Oh Father, it wasn’t that bad.” You waved his concerns away and looked at your officers. “So shall we begin?”
>Start with Malevus and you, and the betting ring. You aren’t exactly happy about it so better put a stop to it.
>Tell them everything, it should floor them just like it did Normand.
>Concentrate on the big political picture. Varian forced to join a Regency Council, The Edict lifted in one year’s time, the changes to the Internment Camps.
>Go through the stuff that affects us in the near future. The Internment Camps, fall of Katrana’s status and Nalice.
>Other, write in.
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>>6370755
>Start with Malevus and you, and the betting ring. You aren’t exactly happy about it so better put a stop to it.
>Tell them everything, it should floor them just like it did Normand.The winner of the betting ring is Alric, because he won Malevus
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>>6370755
>Start with Malevus and you, and the betting ring. You aren’t exactly happy about it so better put a stop to it.
>Concentrate on the big political picture. Varian forced to join a Regency Council, The Edict lifted in one year’s time, the changes to the Internment Camps.
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I wonder who is making the most money off of this betting ring? Probably Boyd as the biggest gambler and hes very observant. Maybe Martin if she needed some cash.
Would the Troll need to be in the dungeon? Is a troll ""bodyguard"" hired by goblins believable and acceptable. Would they be more welcome in the Dark Iron camp. If they were a priestess or a shaman would the Witches be interested in her connection to nature spirits, plenty of cabins and glades.
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No update today, I have no energy to do any creative writing. I will try to get the update out tomorrow at some point.
>>6371105
Trolls are still generally seen as a threat who just very recently threw their lot in with the Horde. Goblins at least have the defence that not all of their cartels fought with the Horde, trolls don't have that.
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>>6371227
Yeah thats a toughie. It wouldn't help much even if it was a tribe that left the Horde before the war ended. I suppose theoretically a tribe that was so isolated it never joined could exist, but it would be difficult to convince others.
The war ended a good number of years ago now if it was a war prisoner. Or a more recent captive on some kind of expedition. Unless its like a Thrall situation where some mage picked up a troll child whose gotten old enough to run away from home lol.
Could a half troll pass with some precautions and careful manicuring of any tusks lol. Some makeup, a wig, and clothes and gait that can obscure the slightly longer limbs.
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There was a chorus of nods across the table and everyone leaned in a bit to listen.
“But first we have something to tell you lot.” You started to tell them. “I have heard that there’s this betting ring going on, about me and Malevus.”
Silence fell upon the room and careful glances were shared.
“Now I do not care how you have done the bets, what were your guesses. That I am not interested in.” You told them and continued. “So who handles the coin? Williams?”
The mute mage with his bald scarred head nodded. Unsurprisingly the gambler was the one who kept the count.
“Everyone pay him.” You told them.
You watched as everyone around the table started to fish out some coin as Williams took out his notes and started to collect the coppers. Only Tari hadn’t done any betting as she just looked at this and was rather amused.
“Tari, you didn’t bet? It would have been easy money.” You asked her.
“It didn’t feel right if I had done so.” She said and shrugged.
“Right choice.” You replied.
Soon Williams had the coin in front of him and as he started to count them, you stopped him.
“Put the coins in the bag.” You ordered him and he scooped the coins and did as told. “Now give that bag to me.”
Williams paused for a second before throwing the bag to you. You caught it easily and handed it to Malevus.
“You can use this to buy something nice.” You told her.
Malevus was struggling to not laugh as she just nodded and smiled. You took her hand and looked at your officers.
“Let this be the lesson, I do not like if people make bets about me or whom I am courting.” You told them. “You understand that?”
“Understood.” Cromwell replied immediately. “And congratulations.”
“Thank you, now back to the business.” You replied and let go of her hand. That should be enough to get the news out. “So in Stormwind City, it is better that we start from the beginning.”
…
Maura had brought everyone more tea to drink at one point when you had gone through the details. Malevus had explained some things when necessary and as the events progressed, the new cups of tea were definitely needed. As Normand was already told everything once, you skipped some details and allowed some things to be explained better, especially as most of the people in the room were military men.
But as the talk went into the Stonemason’s, the Master Mason Erefor Pelija who had stayed silent till now perked up. He listened carefully when you went through your talk with Master Mason Edwin VanCleef and when you reached the point of convincing him to take his men and come to Dawnholme, Pelija just leaned back and took a deep breath.
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File: Sir Radan.jpg (25.2 KB)
>>6371792
“Good news?” You asked him.
“Prince Alric, I couldn’t have imagined a better morning.” Pelija replied to you.
“They will be here in a few months, so you better have everything ready by then.” You told him.
“The work is not finished, but we will have the things ready for them.” He replied proudly.
“That is very good to hear, I trust that you can accomplish that.” You replied and smiled.
Stonemasons in Alterac would be a tremendous boon to you. Not just because they are really skilled craftsmen and builders. But because there’s plenty of skilled fighters and warriors in their midst. Hundreds of potential soldiers for you to hire and to bolster your forces. In long run this would be something that could decide where Alterac stands in the future.
…
“That is a lot.” Beckston said and shook his head. “Varian and Arthas? Fuck me.”
“I know it is hard to believe, but when things fell apart, they really did fall apart.” You replied to him.
“I don’t like that, too many moving parts.” Cromwell said.
“When have things been easy for us?” You asked.
“That is true.” Was Cromwell’s reply.
Radan raised his hand carefully. The rat looking man was still careful when asking questions from you.
“Radan, you don’t have to raise your hand.” You said.
“Prince Alric, what do you think will affect us the most? What should we be prepared for?” He asked you.
That was a good question, what would you rank as the most affecting? Several things did come to your mind and you scratched your chin.
>The lifting of the Edict is easily the thing that impacts you the most, but that is going to happen in one year so you have the time to get ready.
>The Internment Camps requiring your men, or the mercenaries, is going to be a short term point of interest with the orcs on the move.
>The economic benefits of the Oil Rig trump over everything, hence trolls that could threaten it is a worrying issue.
>Syndicate is and will be a thorn in your backside. They might not seem much, but as long as they are ready to send assassins, they are an immense obstacle to you.
>Other, write in
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>>6371794
>Syndicate is and will be a thorn in your backside. They might not seem much, but as long as they are ready to send assassins, they are an immense obstacle to you.
Everything we do is obstructed by them, or the Alliance. And now the Alliance should be more of a partner.. probably.
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>>6371794
So preparations for whats to come. Lets say training to fight ogres and kobolds for the Edict if we pick it, or that they will then have to protect peasants while they build and hold ground. Logistics and so on.
When we left for Stormwind didn't we leave someone in charge of training them against orcs using whoever had recent experience?
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>>6371805
The footmen who guarded the Internment Camps for some time have been teaching what they learned to the others. That is mostly how to capture them, move them around and so on. Your soldiers that either fought with the Horde or against it have also been teaching what they know, but of course their numbers are rather few. But with the help of the generally high veterancy amongst your troops, they are slowly learning and getting used to the idea of fighting against them.
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“As much as the Edict being lifted is a piece of great news or the Oil Rig a gigantic economic boon for us, those or the Internment Camps looming over us, none of them pose an immediate danger to me.” You told them and your tone was rather serious. “The Syndicate is and will be a thorn in my backside, they might not seem like much, but as long as they are ready to send assassins, we can’t rule them out.”
“Are you afraid that they might try something?” Normand asked. “But you told us about the truce?”
“Truce only holding back the hand of my brother?” You said back to him. “King Terenas might be a fool to trust him, especially if he can’t keep the rest of the Syndicate in line.”
You hadn’t told Normand yet that it was actually Beve whose idea was the truce, that would have to wait till later today.
“I would be foolish to think that nothing will happen.” You continued. Eligius and Pai were out there trying to rescue your little sister and to kill Creedy for Pai. That is an action that will require a reaction.
“We have to keep our eyes open then.” Cromwell said.
“Yes, we might have to recruit more City Guards with all the newcomers here, but we should be fine.” You told them.
With Eligius away it would fall on the few spies he and Nalice had trained to do the most of counter-Syndicate work here in Dawnholme. At least Nalice was returning shortly which should help you a lot and she would bring some of her people with her.
“So the Syndicate… I don’t like the idea of fighting against other humans that much. “Beckston said. “Especially the ones who like all the cloak and dagger bullshit, no offense Master Pelija.”
“None taken.” The Stonemason replied.
“It is what it is.” You shrugged. “But right now we have one year to get our things sorted out, so watch for the threats within and the threats out there somewhere.”
“A lot of work in our hands then.” Cromwell said. “We will have the tally of our men ready soon, while you were away most of the men that would recover have already done so. Just a few more weeks and we should have the final number of our losses.”
“Thank you.” You said. The Durnholde Campaign had been rather bloody and you had taken nearly fifty percent casualties across your men. Thankfully Madam Martin and Malevus had managed to prevent unnecessary deaths, but not all men would recover. “So shall we continue?”
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>>6372008
The discussion continued till it was already past noon. Nothing major was decided, just for the most part getting everyone on the same page.
The Stonemasons would continue their work on Dawnholme and with the news of rest of their people arriving, they would make sure that they would have roofs over their heads. Your officers meanwhile would finish their work on getting the Army of Alterac back up to a fighting shape with drills and patrols. On that front things had gotten back to mostly normal, but with the casualties being that heavy, your patrols hadn’t ventured that far.
At least thankfully none of the patrols had found anything, nor had the combined Tarren Mill, Stonedon and Barovs patrols that had taken care of looking for Strahnbrad Hills. No signs of anyone trespassing into your lands was a piece of good news.
After a brief lunch with Normand, Malevus and Tari, you stretched your back and thought what to do next? Because boy were there things for you to do.
>Go see Dawnholme with Malevus, your people deserve to see your face after a bit over a month and at this point the word of the news has probably already spread.
>The Stonemasons have mostly finished the work on your homestead. The cellar was ready and the extension was being finished right now. Go take a look at their work.
>You need to send letters to many people. Blackmoore needs to learn the news of what has happened and then just the usual thank yous to your friends who helped you so much.
>Delegate the work to the others and stretch your mind. You already sparred with Malevus, so only practicing your magic after a way too long of a time remains.
>Other, write in.
QM: We will go through bunch of these smaller events before we get to the end of Summer and the start of August.
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>>6372009
>Go see Dawnholme with Malevus, your people deserve to see your face after a bit over a month and at this point the word of the news has probably already spread.
There is also Hampton; and maybe considering to drop that proposal to Radan. Everything was going well here, so i don't think we have much to say with Ragis. Could visit Tarren Mill maybe for our friends there.
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>>6371804
It will always be a question of patrolling. Spotting infiltrators, assassins, and saboteurs. Occasionally of armies and warlocks. The biggest boon, besides Nalice and her agents, I think would be asking the Stonemasons especially VanCleef and his men about their experiences. The shoe is on the other foot now lol. I suppose the first tier of stone walls and gate would at least help funnel traffic.
We've seen how effective syndicate assassins can be. Magical tools, poisons, smoke bombs etc. People skilled in stealth, but also in talking with people to get what they want. They got into the RD just by getting themselves hired lol and we can't exactly do anything directly about that. Taking the place of a reclusive Durnholde knight they had killed. There are so many ways to try bending people from the noble to the humble citizen. I'm not sure theres a whole lot our soldiers and officers can do on these fronts.
I suppose if we had more mages with good sense for finding magic tools in wagon checks. Its not quite a wc3 tower with magic sentry but what can you do...Oh right
>Gained: Gnoll Anti-magic trinket ward plans.
'The practical uses were obvious, to protect important locations or people from magic. Your home, Nalice's home. Maybe the barracks too. Or used to nullify magic used elsewhere, like the illusion landmines or the Fel pool. It wouldn't hurt if Boyd and Williams prodded it and looked if they could get something out of it.'
They were going to work on these plans that would be good to check up on.
>>6372009
>Go see Dawnholme with Malevus, your people deserve to see your face after a bit over a month and at this point the word of the news has probably already spread.
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>10
>3
Rolls are Dawnholme mood which is splendid and a small random event that you will see tomorrow. Because no second update today. I have been watching the Olympics and boy did the Canada vs Switzerland in women's hockey push me into a foul mood. It is so stupid how big of a skill gap there is between North American teams and the rest. Now I am in a no writing mood.
So I could ask now that we are back in Dawnholme, what should be done? Are there any tasks for Alric you want to see? The season update stuff will come as will the magic training, but anything else?
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>>6372241
Oof.
Getting Melon to look at the Elf Armor intended for Malevus as her Knighting gift when Uther gets here. Maybe Melon would like to come out and see Uther when he gets here...Then we steal Melon from Dalaran.
Darrowmere League Diplomacy. Its not public for a year but the Edict is lifted. Joining the Alliance after a year probationary period. The Internment Camp changes and orcs on the move. 100 more mercs under our influence, and about 200 Stonemason mercs sitting in Dawnholme who have gotten basically pardoned. We've basically doubled the amount of troops in our sphere of influence including friends and allies. Though I don't see Durnholde Hills and Lady Imswit's green knights in the pastebin, and the Darkshire trade goodies.
Lordaeron accepted that we have Durnholde Hills. Ideally Blackmoore and Durnholde were to enter the League to make it quite a bit stronger and tempting to join up. Hard to say with the results of the meeting.
Message Jandice to ask if being able to toll the Darrowmere river trade would be enough to win her family's support. It would be extremely inconvenient for Alric to try to toll the river even though he would control considerable portions of its upper length. If Alric tries to run a toll on the Darrowmere he'd probably get into a trade war with Southshore where they start increasing tolls on each other lol. But if the Barov's are the ones doing it? They already have their hand in Southshore's governing merchant council. I think its a Win-Win. Ofc we also ensure they aren't tolling us or anyone else in the League if possible.
Sit down and work out how long the former syndicate prisoners have to work the labor camps before they can have their own probationary period to become citizens. Although perhaps that should be done when we have Eligius on hand. What if they have family somewhere we can send for, that could really up our peasant numbers and they'd be less likely to freak out over time.
Check up on Wiklish and see how his miniaturized gear research is going. The gnoll ward research. Did the spies pick anything up while we were gone. Monica's inn.
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>>6372241
I'd like to see an alchemist hut, foundry and gunsmith made when possible but costs money which is in short supply.
Immediate
>town hall business, select a mayor and ministry
>regional diplomacy, unfortunate that we haven't built bridges with Southshore after the poisoning or much else
>general civilisation development, whatever can generate wealth fast
>permission to make river-boats, so Shoredon can develop a port and ship-building
>magic training, lean how to fling fireballs from hands or sword
>more trade with Blacksteel
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“Shall we go and see the town?” You asked Malevus.
“Us? Alright.” She said and seemed unsure.
“What’s wrong with the idea?”
“What if they just… I don’t know…” She replied.
“Don’t worry about them, they will accept you without any issues.” You said to her and took her hand. “This will be fun, don’t worry about it.”
“Alright if you say so…” She replied again.
Malevus was nervous which was unsurprising. It had been a couple hours since the meeting with your officers and by now the word must have spread about everything. Be it the Edict, the Stonemasons or you courting Malevus. Though at this point most of your military already must have suspected that, but the common folk? To the peasants it might be a bit of a surprise.
…
The Stonemasons had practically dropped their tools and stopped working when Pelija had told them the news of VanCleef and the rest coming to Alterac. When you had stepped out of your homestead past the two Royal Foot Guards standing guard, you and Malevus both saw the festive mood starting to gather in the town.
“We might have an improvised feast in our hands.” You told Malevus and looked at her.
“They do seem quite happy.” She replied.
Malevus was wearing her usual normal clothes and not the new black ones from Stormwind City. That was probably for the best, otherwise there could have been too many nosebleed patients. You wore your normal clothes as well, no need to dress fancy.
Walking past the stables, Sir Gravis greeted you and joined you with Sir Thomas, they would be your escort today. As the sun shined and the weather was really good, you observed the surroundings. While you had been away the Stonemasons had continued their work. The older loghouses had been thoroughly upgraded, second and third floors had been added. Between them newer houses made in style now familiar to you from Stormwind City had been built. These narrow houses with three or even four floors, steep roofs and painted walls had been well decorated by the carpenters who had clearly consulted the local Alteracis. It was strange to see a mix of what you had seen in Stormwind and what you remembered from Alterac City.
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>>6372472
The sewer dug underneath the main street had been nearly finished as well. The road through Dawnholme was still slowly being covered in cobblestone and the smaller sewers that collected water and dung were work in progress, but at least there wasn’t a gigantic ditch in the middle of the town anymore. The main street and the connected smaller streets made these smaller town blocks, with the houses facing the streets and the backyards being walled and connected together. Central wells, latrines and places for market stalls had all been planned. In a couple of locations, ground had been reserved for future buildings for ease of access to them, right now being used as storages for all the building materials. And in a couple other locations, the work was progressing in turning them into small parks for people to enjoy. You would later learn that the grown trees already planted had been very carefully dug out elsewhere and moved to these parks with the help of Madam Martin. But before that happened, you had to blink several times behind your dark glasses as you could swear those trees hadn’t been there before.
In the center of the town was the building you had been waiting for the most. The Town Hall was still covered in scaffoldings, but all the walls and the roof were already up. Even the compulsory to Town Halls clock tower had been finished, but the clock itself hadn’t been installed yet. The whole building would be finished before the autumn would arrive, you were sure of that and then you could finally delegate most of the paperwork and duties to clerks and other paperpushers.
And maybe most importantly, start more efficiently collecting taxes.
While you had been away campaigning or in Stormwind, it really felt like Dawnholme had grown considerably. The progress seen had been astonishing and with very good planning and well-thought growth, Dawnholme was turning into a very orderly small town. A place you would very happily call your home.
…
>10
>3
When you first stepped into Dawnholme holding the hand of Malevus, the locals that were discussing the news or watching as the Stonemasons were preparing their celebratory feast, turned to greet you. You could see a mix of proudness and a surprise in their eyes. They were proud because of the work you had done and accomplished in Stormwind, but also they were surprised to see you holding her hand.
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File: Malevus staring.jpg (73.6 KB)
>>6372473
The men bowed and the ladies did deep curtsies as you nodded back to them. Short praises were said as the common folk made way to you and Malevus. You could hear some whispering, but quickly the surprise faded away and smiles replaced the surprised looks.
“They are such a cute couple.”
“Prince Alric and his squire? Doesn’t surprise me at all.”
“Lady Malevus a cute!”
If the Alteracis were a bit more reserved, the Stonemasons weren’t. The moment you reached them, the burly workers surrounded you and Malevus, clapping both of you on your backs and shouting their praises. To them the news of VanCleef coming to Dawnholme was the best news they had ever heard. Even if this meant that they wouldn’t get paid for the work they had done for Stormwind would be forfeited, this was an opportunity to start again and they would take it.
You spoke with them as they showed all the work they had done and the image you got from them was simple, you had won their loyalty.
…
“See it wasn’t that bad.” You said to Malevus as you sat down on your porch.
“I felt terrified for a moment…” Malevus replied. “But you are right, I think they might accept me.”
“You really were afraid that they would say no to you? You know that is pish posh, they know how loyal you are to me, they know the work you have done to help with the wounded. How many soldiers did you manage to save? Or how many times have you prayed with the locals?” You said to her.
“You are right, this is just new to me.” Malevus lamented. “Boyfriend and all.”
“And that boyfriend happens to be a Prince.” You continued.
“Yeah…”
Malevus leaned against your shoulder as the afternoon started to turn towards the evening. You gave her a kiss and enjoyed the moment. Today has been a good day and tomorrow should be as well. After a moment she stood up.
“I need to go see the men who are still wounded.” Malevus said.
“You go do that, don’t let me stop you.”
She smiled before leaving to tend the wounded. You meanwhile stretched your back and stood up as well, there would be things for you to do while she was away.
Choose one:
>Explore the cellar of your homestead and see how the secret escape tunnel down to the prison and dungeons goes. You want to see what Lady Nalice has planned for it now that it is finished.
>Jaina gave you plenty of tips and now would be the time to test them out. While in jail you had meditated a lot, but to actually put the effort into real practice? You could do that now.
>The letters to Blackmoore and the others should be written and sent. It is important to keep contact with your allies and neighbours, especially with Blackmoore. He needs to know the news.
QM: Choose one now, rest of them will be tackled in the coming days and weeks. Going to pace them a bit. And thank you for those task reminders, good stuff there.
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>>6372474
>Explore the cellar of your homestead and see how the secret escape tunnel down to the prison and dungeons goes. You want to see what Lady Nalice has planned for it now that it is finished.
Poking around the cellar and the tunnel(s?) shouldn't take too long.
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>>6372474
>The letters to Blackmoore and the others should be written and sent. It is important to keep contact with your allies and neighbours, especially with Blackmoore. He needs to know the news.
Best not to leave our main guy hanging
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Those letters don’t write themselves, better get to work.
Greeting Tari who was downstairs looking at some papers with Normand, you found out that they were about the budget and the coin. While you had been away and Tari had gotten real bored staying cooped in at the homestead, she had bugged Normand a day or two before he had brought all the scrolls and ledgers for her to see. Not just the ones from recently while she had been in Dawnholme, but the ones going back to the start of all of this.
“You didn’t really have much back then, did you?” Tari asked.
“Not really no. Me, Normand, Cromwell, old Bill Rover and twenty men.” You said to him and shrugged. “Now I have a couple more.”
“That really is an understatement.” Tari laughed.
“You need help?” You asked.
“No need, I have Normand here.” She chuckled.
“Alright, I’ll be spending some time with a bunch of letters then.” You replied.
Beric had told you that Tari had an incredible head for numbers and it did show. How someone like Blackmoore had been wasting her like that, pure criminality. Now she was here though, happy and smiling. You liked that.
…
Those letters really didn’t write themselves as you stretched your back and yawned. You had forgotten how uncomfortable the chair you have behind your desk really is, as you got reminded by the awful plank you had as a bed in the jail.
First you wrote a letter to Captain Raethan, instructing him on who to send to Dawnholme. You made a huge point on safety and doing things by the numbers, you didn't want Dalaran come knocking and asking to want their sewer folk back. They needed to make sure that no incidents would happen along the way either.
Next you wrote a quick reply to Kris Legace, wishing her good health and that nothing bad would come from her new loud neighbours. This letter didn't make much sense to anyone, but it wasn't sent by you or from Dawnholme. It was better to avoid connecting you with her through the letters.
Jaina would have a long letter waiting for her in Dalaran from you, thanking her for everything she had done for you. Kael’thas received similar, but in Thalassian. You apologised about your poor grammar of course, at least you hoped he would feel amused by the effort. Letter to Muradin and Magni, to Daelin Proudmoore and King Terenas. You wrote to everyone you had met in Stormwind that hadn't tried to throw you into jail. They were just basic courtesies, but courtesy goes a long way.
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>>6372739
Finally you wrote a letter to Blackmoore, but at this point you were already rather tired so you kept it short and gave him just the details he needed. Blackmoore's position is guaranteed, but some of the Camps in Stromgarde would be closed. To help with the defence you would be sending hundred men and in return to all of this, he would keep his promise and join the Darrowmere League.
“You look tired.” Malevus said when she stepped into the study.
“I am, but I got all the letters ready.” You replied and massaged your brow.
“Go take a bath, you can brush my hair after I have finished with mine.” She said and gently caressed your hair.
How could you say no to that?
…
>8
>8
Malevus was panting and you could see the sweat on her skin.
You had slept like a log hugging and cuddling with her, so when you woke up early, you had dragged her sleepy form out to spar.
The morning sun gently washed over you as wooden training swords impacted again and again, until you called a short break. She could hang with you, but this really was rather tiring stuff.
Though there was a rider that had come from the east. He had ridden immediately to the barracks and went inside. You had to wonder about this for a while, until you got an answer on what had happened.
“Prince Alric, Lady Malevus.” Cromwell greeted the two of you when he stepped out of the barracks with a scroll in his hands and walked to you.
“Captain, what has happened?”
“Trolls, our patrol had seen trolls for the first time.” He told you and handed you the scroll. “Our orders are to stay back and send a messenger immediately.”
“Good thinking.”
Reading the scroll the situation wasn't that bad. Last night your patrol had seen a trio of trolls on the troll side of the northern border. Both sides had immediately withdrawn and no tracks or anything had been seen nearby. When they had reached Stonedon, they immediately sent the rider.
“Well done.” You replied and passed the scroll back to him.
“What are your orders?” He asked.
That was a good question. What were your orders?
>Bolster your patrols near where the trolls had been seen temporarily. If the troll scouts are on the move, they should notice this.
>Order more reinforcement from Dawnholme to Stonedon, you are not going to get surprised by some trolls.
>This sounds like a great excuse to go see the situation there personally. Plan a quick visit to Strahnbrad Hills and back.
>Other, write
QM: Rolls were the threat level of the surprise and what it was?
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>>6372742
Is it really troll scouts, or are they making their presence known as a way to initiate talks?
>This sounds like a great excuse to go see the situation there personally. Plan a quick visit to Strahnbrad Hills and back.
>Other, write
Why wait for our Troll to arrive when we can go pick them up ourselves? Bring a carriage, bring the elven armor for Melon, get to deliver our letter to our boys personally, we leave with the Troll. Then we see whats really going on with these trolls and what tribe they are.
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>>6372742
Continue the alcohol offering where they were last seen, while also:
>Bolster your patrols near where the trolls had been seen temporarily. If the troll scouts are on the move, they should notice this.
Peacemaking and deterrent
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“Have our men in Strahnbrad Hills to patrol that area a bit more and with a few more men, if needed ask Chief Ragis to lend some of his soldiers for this task.” You said to Cromwell. “I feel like they are just scouts who happened to spot our men a bit too late, or we were just lucky to spot them.”
“Understood, I will have the messenger to return immediately.” Cromwell replied to you and nodded.
Your Captain Austyn Cromwell was your most reliable and experienced soldier. A veteran of the Second War, he had stayed loyal to Normand and the idea of free and independent Alterac and so he was one of the few people that heard Normand’s invitation to come to join you, even without knowing any details of what it would involve. He was a soldier through and through, strong jaw, strong arms and in combat carries a heavy two-handed battleaxe.
“When was the last time we delivered some alcohol to them?” You asked him and continued. “I don’t like to think them as a tribute and more like a show of friendly intentions.”
“I will see what we can do.” Cromwell replied.
“Thank you Captain.”
He left to handle the issue, leaving you to stand in the training yard with Malevus who was leaning against her wooden training longsword.
“I think that’s enough for today, we both have things to do.” You said to her. “But maybe we could go do some riding in the afternoon? Around the countryside?”
“That doesn’t sound bad.” She replied. “I will ask Maura to pack us something light to eat.”
“Not a bad idea!” You said to her and smiled.
…
It has been two days since the trolls had been sighted and since then nothing had happened. The bolstered patrols hadn’t seen anything new, no tracks or new totems built. The alcohol had been delivered to the same place as before, but it would probably take some time before it gets retrieved.
You meanwhile had settled into the daily rhythm of sparring with Malevus in the morning, doing some actual work till afternoon and then doing things together with Malevus or helping Tari with whatever she was doing. In the evening you continued your language lessons and had your first music practice with Malevus in several weeks.
But now you stood in the cellar of Lady Nalice’s home and looked around.
“Right then.” You said to yourself.
You had seen Eligius and Nalice do this many times as you walked to the half-faded wards drawn on the walls. They were supposed to keep any magic use hidden and not leak it outside. Pressing your hand against a ward, you concentrated on the mana within you, feeling it spread through your body into your arm and hand, before channeling it into the ward. The faded ward slowly started to glow again and you called the job a good one. Now just to repeat it a couple more times.
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>>6372979
Having gone through some of the notes left by Nalice and what you had made, you prepared yourself by staring at the fireplace and snapping your fingers once. A small fire instantly happened and spread across the firewood. That was a solid warmup and you could feel the slight tingling on the tips of your fingers as the fire within you was now scorching and filling you with warmth.
Jaina had given you plenty of tips and guidance which had gotten you to think how you could push your magic forward, especially your fire magic. Right now you could create fire and weave it around, or set something you concentrate on hard enough on fire, but what next? Several ideas were in your mind that could be potential next steps to take, but you had difficulties choosing just which one? The progress of course would never be easy and would take time, but at least you would have a goal to work towards. After cutting out several more outlandish ideas, you had remaining four in mind.
Now just to make the decision which one to concentrate on.
Study and progress on:
>Fireball, to learn how to throw fire that hits and engulfs the target.
>Fire Bolt, to create a bolt of fire that flies fast and strikes hard, destroying the target through pure power and not just by setting it on fire.
>Fire Blast, to weave fire together and blast it out from your hand, setting things on fire close to you.
>Incendiary Fire, to push your existing fire to burn even more brightly and with force that can set things that don’t normally burn on fire.
QM: Remember that Alric’s fire is rather liquidy. The four options are basically following. Multipurpose spell, strong single target armour defeating, wide crowdcontrol and magic napalm.
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>>6372742
I want to plan something for the ogres for when we eventually retake Gallow's Crossing and the ogres will want to take it back.
Say we've taken Gallows Crossing, the palisade position. The road continues in to the north, and theres a narrow mountainous passage to the southwest. How possible would it be to launch a volley of wiklish rockets at the nearby mountains to cause an avalanche to close the passages, or even bury an approaching force of ogre if we caught wind of them. We Mulan them lol.
Buys time to fortify Gallows Crossing, maybe a nice dunk on the ogres, and allows us to pivot and focus on Syndicate held Strahnbrad until the passes are cleared by sun or by labor. I don't imagine anyone would really want to try pushing deep into Alterac while a Syndicate knife was hovering behind us, but then again if Beve had control of Strahnbrad it could be different.
>>6372980
A mental/social magic option isn't available eh, a conceptual fire to burn away their fears and anxiety.
Well the important thing is rather to be able to put any of these spells through the Cinder Sword so theres at least something we can point to. Boyd can fireball all day and we can pump that if hes with us.
I guess I lean towards Incendiary, because it could burn an elemental if the trolls had shamans or nature voodoo etc. Maybe Firebolt could also hurt it through pure power.
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>>6372982
I guess my second point would be, which of these spells would help Alric defeat Falconcrest? The Anti-magic trinkets are pretty tricky, but perhaps environmental attacks would be the way to go. What if Alric had Fire Bolted the stone walls behind or above Falconcrest causing shrapnel to burst forth. Or we set the stone floor on fire which won't hurt us but denies him ground to maneuver.
Is Firebolt fast enough to knock the teleport trinket out of his hand lol. Although if it actually hits maybe he wouldnt even have a hand anymore.
That said if we can swing the Cindersword and launch a fireball or a fireslash its never a bad idea to have a true ranged option.
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>>6372980
>Incendiary Fire, to push your existing fire to burn even more brightly and with force that can set things that don’t normally burn on fire.
magic napalm seems the most natural given our fire is more liquidy, I guess
also NAPALM ALL GNOLLS
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File: Georg-von-Reichweins-Revolver-1597.png (611.9 KB)
>>6372980
>Incendiary Fire, to push your existing fire to burn even more brightly and with force that can set things that don’t normally burn on fire.
Although I suppose Fel Fire also kind of did this? But thats a weapon of last resort or if Alric is really angy.
Not to be snub the armour defeating Fire Bolt either, but perhaps Alric could get a nice dark iron revolver pistol for his birthday lol. Something like pic related.
>>6372988
If I remember we we're around the Barov estate training with Jandice to see what our limit was, and Alric sorta falls over exhausted lol. It was totally a flamestrike.
I think Incendiary will have an added bonus we can try. Let 'the sword' turn regular arrows into burning napalm arrows by setting the metal arrowheads on fire.
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>>6372982
>>6373032
It was remnants of the old bandit camp and it was mostly just stoking the fire to burn really big. Goes hand in hand with the fire weaving and what Alric did later to the gnolls which was using already existing fire.
It is good to remember that Alric is still super beginner when it comes to his magic and is learning bit backwards. There's a lot of stuff Alric doesn't know that is stuff mages of Dalaran learn first before learning things like Fireballs while Alric is going immediately for applications in combat.
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>17, Success!
You had seen Jaina throw a ball of fire at the gnoll shaman or how Boyd had done the same several times during the campaign. Utility of a spell like that was immense, just like it was to modify that idea into either a stronger bolt or maybe a wave of fire that pushes your enemies away. But you thought that those applications, while really useful, would be just applications of your fire as is. At the end of the day the strength of that ball of fire would be determined by your own strength.
By your own fire.
Holding your hand away from your body with open palm up, you concentrated and a small fire appeared on it. The fire size of an egg burned clean, the reds and yellows of it were calming to you as you watched the flames lick upward, but due to the nature of your fire it more looked like the liquid flames struggled reaching high before collapsing down. Droplets of your fire fell down on your hand where they sizzled for a second or two before disappearing. Your fire had never hurt you which you found peculiar, but it made sense.
As magic and arcane is about willing the reaction into reality, concentrating on the nature of the magic which is wanted to be cast, you let your mind race. Images of fiery desolation, scorched landscapes, dragonfire and imagining things that can’t burn burning. You could feel the small flame floating above your hand grow hotter as it burned more vividly. Pushing your fire like this would help you a lot more in the long run than learning a new spell, because when you finally learn a new way to shape your fire and use it, its effects will be a magnitude stronger.
A bead of sweat appeared on your brow as your held your concentration and the fire burned more brightly. It sputtered, sending sparks flying as the fire intensified. More droplets of liquid fire dropped on your hand and in an instant you felt them burning your hand. You pulled your hand back and lost your concentration, imagining the fire would disappear just as fast, but it didn’t. Instead the small flame fell on the sand floor like a liquid, spreading around a bit. It didn’t extinguish immediately as the fire continued to burn for several seconds until it had used all the mana you had put into it.
“Well that’s interesting.” You said to yourself and kneeled down.
The spots where the liquid fire had burned were still hot, but they didn’t burn you anymore as you touched the sand. Not hot enough to turn it into glass, but enough to make the sand stick together. The sand had burned for a few seconds.
You looked at your right hand, there were a couple small round burns where the liquid fire had dropped. They didn’t hurt that much, just your typical burns, but it did give you a lesson. You need to learn how to control a fire like this more as right now it was too volatile and incendiary. But the first step has been taken, you just need to refine it further.
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>>6373394
“Alric, what happened?” Malevus said as she took your hand.
“The fire burned me.” You replied.
“It burned you?”
“First time for everything.” You shrugged. “Can you heal my hand?”
“Maybe I shouldn’t, to teach you a lesson.” She mused.
“Pretty please.”
“Alright.” She rolled her eyes.
As she prayed and covered your hand with hers, you could feel the Holy Light and her connection to it. It didn’t take long for her to be finished as she let her hands go and you looked at your palm. There were just small red dots remaining where the burns had been and it didn’t hurt anymore.
“Thank you Malevus.” You said and smiled.
“You asked me nicely.” She replied.
“And now I will reward you.” You leaned in for a kiss.
It was the evening and tomorrow would be a new day with new events, but now it would be just you and her.
…
Two more days had passed without any groundbreaking events.
Malevus had moved most of her belongings into your room, leaving her former room empty for sudden visitors. You had to have another closet and a wardrobe brought upstairs to fit in all of her clothes, but that wasn’t that big of a deal thankfully. Malevus meanwhile had been rather nervous about it, another very very clear sign of her and you sharing the same room and bed. This was a serious relationship!
The trolls had also fetched the couple bottles of alcohol and no new sightings of them had happened. Things were rather calm on that front which was exactly how you wanted it to be. You had also spoken with Stein, the Chief of the City Guard, about what was going on in Dawnholme. For the most part it had been peaceful, but with more people in the town, unsurprisingly more small incidents like people getting into scuffles after drinking too much had happened. Similarly the Syndicate prisoners and bandits working hard labour had behaved
“Alric!” Monica shouted out as she walked through your front door.
“Hello Monica.” You greeted her. “It has been a while.”
She walked to you and hugged you. She was wearing her usual green dress and then the Alteraci cloak you had given to her. She was after all your representative in Tarren Mill.
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File: Innkeeper_Monica.jpg (53.2 KB)
>>6373395
“You should have come to see us after returning. We heard the news and couldn’t think they were true!” She said and took a seat around the large table downstairs.
“It wasn’t that bad really.” You said and got Tari to give you a look. You had been going through some reports with her. “How have you been?”
“Not bad not bad, business is businessing.” She said and took out a letter giving it to you. “From the Mayor.”
“Anything important?” You asked as you took the letter and opened it.
“Shouldn’t be, we spoke before I came here.” Monica said.
Fowley had been one of the people you had sent a letter to and now he returned the favour. He thanked for your aid and for everything you have done for Tarren Mill and the region. It was a courtesy letter, but Fowley had mentioned that the visiting Dark Irons and goblins still made the locals a bit nervous. Maybe it would be worth visiting Tarren Mill soon and help ease the situation?
“You really just came to see me?” You asked.
“And Tari as well.” Monica said. “Jokes aside, I am here to check on the inn. It should be near finished.”
Oh yeah, you allowed Monica to be the one operating it. Now that you were thinking, Monica being here could actually be useful to you.
>Go to see the new inn here in Dawnholme with Monica. Having accommodations like that is important for a growing town.
>Ask Monica for some help when it comes to the Stonemasons. There’s going to be more of them coming and they are going to need more work. Can she try to find them projects in Tarren Mill?
>Has Jandice or other Barovs been in Tarren Mill lately? Does she know?
>Other, write in.
QM: You made normal progress with the Incendiary Fire, no obstacles and no breakthroughs so this will take some time before Alric feels that he has learned it properly.
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>>6373396
>>Go to see the new inn here in Dawnholme with Monica. Having accommodations like that is important for a growing town.
>>Ask Monica for some help when it comes to the Stonemasons. There’s going to be more of them coming and they are going to need more work. Can she try to find them projects in Tarren Mill?
>>Has Jandice or other Barovs been in Tarren Mill lately? Does she know?
About alrics magic. Hes fire not burning him it really seems it would be rather easy for him to learn immolation.
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>>6373396
>Go to see the new inn here in Dawnholme with Monica. Having accommodations like that is important for a growing town.
The Eligius agents working there might have something on hand too.
>Ask Monica for some help when it comes to the Stonemasons. There’s going to be more of them coming and they are going to need more work. Can she try to find them projects in Tarren Mill?
>Has Jandice or other Barovs been in Tarren Mill lately? Does she know?
>Other, write in.
Southshore Merchant Council, her next goal once this inn is complete? What would it take for Monica to be able to get a seat on it?
Reginald is a friend, now leading the RD. They must account for a massive amount of business for Southshore and the area. Anyone who can get their business is bound to make a boatload of money. Soldiers on leave want to spend their coin. Drinks, food, entertainment.
Then we'd have three friends on the table. Four if a Stonemason rep could get on it. A shame we had to hang our corrupt trader or he'd have been an easy addition. A Blacksteel or a Wiklish goblin seat could work if they have something lucrative enough using the oil, in the end the council is about local money and business acumen. Considering we haven't made much progress on that front we should try some ideas.
Devote some agents to gathering intel on the other council members to see if they can be bent, by us or someone else who might be doing that already. Considering how many legal battles they seemed to be throwing at our little sailor mouthed trader I think its only fair.
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And speaking of the spies Eligius and Nalice recruited, could I have a roll for them. This is for new recruits that they have managed to acquire. 1st d3 is the number of recruits, 2nd tells us are their Alteracis, Stonemasons or Underbelly refugees and 3rd d3 if they are actually any good.
>1d3
>Three rolls
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Rolled 3 (1d3)
>>6373402
I know I'd like immolation. Its a bit tricky in the battlefield tho if his flames can still hurt his allies, then again they do usually give him some space once he gets into it.
>>6373538
That reminds me I hope Alric's fancy new fire magic related hand tattoos didn't get burned lol. Maybe he should try wearing the gauntlets of his armor since they have protection against magic worked in. Or use the sword since its one big fire magic focus anyways, and the scabbard is enchanted to put out its fire as well since thats a bit of a concern lol with the napalm fire. Might wanna try peaking at whats written in there.
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Well out of those three who is the most inclined to spy stuff? Stonemasons one might assume. Although the Underbelly folk have also lived in a black market zone next to people actively hiding out for presumably a good chunk of their lives while the Stonemasons riots were a year or so ago plus some buildup before that.
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“Can I tag along?” You asked her.
“Yeah sure if Tari allows you to go.” She replied.
“Go, stretch your legs.” Tari said to you.
“If that is the case, then lead the way Monica.” You said.
The weather continued to be good. There had been some slight overcast and drizzle during the night, but outside of that it had been mostly sunny. What you had heard, the farmers were expecting a good harvest even with the heavy rains that had washed these lands recently.
“So you and Malevus?” Monica teased and gently elbowed you.
“What of us?” You playfully replied.
“I am not surprised.” She replied and continued. “Where is she by the way?”
“Tending the wounded I think, there are still many who require her help or are just happy to see her.” You told her. “You get to see her later tonight.”
“I can’t wait!”
Monica was her usual energetic and chirpy self. The business had been going well with plenty of customers to serve. Tarren Mill had been receiving a lot of coin through traders and merchants that had come to sell their wares. You asked Monica how Tarren Mill would make profit from buying their wares, but apparently the local craftsmen had formed a guild and started to make things out of materials not locally available. For a second you thought if you could provide more materials for them, but Monica had to disappoint you that they would have bought the materials from you if you had them in the first place.
But it was a sign that Tarren Mill’s own economy had been growing. The fact that manufacturing had developed and their import and export business was delivering results was only a good sign. It also meant that they must have more coin to spend which could benefit you.
“I have a number of Stonemasons arriving here in a few weeks and it won’t take too long for the majority of work here in Dawnholme to be finished.” You said to her and continued. “Tarren Mill could benefit from their expertise.”
“You want us to hire them?”
“If plausible yes, they will be available and you have seen how good of a job they have done.” You told her. “It is better for all of us if they are employed, if Tarren Mill grows, you want the best.”
“You are right, I will bring this up with the Mayor and the others.” Monica mused.
…
>3
>2
>2
Carpenters were making the final touches as others were moving in the furniture when you stepped in. They briefly paused their work, but you waved them to continue. Monica really proudly showed you the places starting from the cellar that was still empty of the beer kegs and wine jugs to the better rooms on the fourth floor. Everything looked pretty damn good and this inn would serve Dawnholme really well.
Monica showed you the backrooms and there you saw one of the men whom Eligius had recruited to help him. You remembered that he was a scribe of some sort and Monica introduced you to him.
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>>6373913
“We have our paperwork nearly done as well. I would have asked your own scribe, but he wasn’t available.” Monica said and meant Eligius.
“Yeah, he has been away for a while.” You told her. “Can I see the papers?”
“Of course… I will go see the work and give you some privacy.” She said to you, leaving you alone with the scribe.
“May I?” You asked him and he passed you the papers.
They were rather normal, just ledgers and such for purchases and coin used. Nothing special about them.
“Eligius is away, do you have anything to report?” You asked the scribe.
“We haven’t spotted anything new.” The Scribe said to you. “Mostly concentrated on keeping everything together.”
“Alright, fire. What about Sahvan?” You asked.
“He has been speaking with the Stonemasons. Through him we have gotten a trio of new recruits.”
“Sahvan really? And Stonemasons?” You had to ask.
“Yes and three of them. Don’t know how he did it, but he did it.” The Scribe said and continued. “We are still watching them, but more people to look for threats outside won’t hurt us.”
“Good, very good. With Eligius away, you have the lead.” You told him.
“When will he be back?”
“He will be back.” You replied and the Scribe gave you a polite bow.
You joined Monica and followed her through the rest of the tour through the inn.
…
Malevus had dragged Monica and Tari with her to the sauna, leaving you alone back home. Well alone wasn’t exactly true as your family was there and so you were drinking wine with Normand and watching as a small fire entertained the two of you in the fireplace.
“You really weren’t in danger when in jail?” Normand asked you.
“No I wasn’t, I could have escaped when I wanted and if something had happened to me, Jaina or Kael would have caused hell.” You shrugged.
“You are too casual about all of this.” Normand could just shake his head.
“I was fine…” You told him and waved his concerns away.
“You just say that, by all accounts you were in big danger!” Normand replied. “Going toe to toe with all those Kings.”
Your father was still quite concerned about the events in Stormwind City.
“And I had an equal number of allies with me.”
“Of which some might not be there next year, Lord Uther is retiring!”
“Don’t be worried about this, that is next year. We have the time to push everything to our advantage till then.”
The front door opened and Monica stepped in, followed by Tari and Malevus. All three of them were fresh from the sauna.
“Did you get clean?” You asked them.
“It was splendid.” Malevus replied. “We will loan your room for a moment, clothes and hair you know.”
“Of course of course.” You replied and let them do what they wanted.
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>>6373914
Normand looked at you as they disappeared upstairs.
“You might feel at ease, but those men aren’t where they are without extensive skills in politics.” Normand said to you.
“Do you think they just let things go?”
“Cut the losses, come back the next year. Thoras got what he wanted, but Genn? What about Varian, he must not let this go without a punishment?” Normand said to you.
“Normand, you are too worried about this.”
“Alric, you are too lackadaisical.” He said to you.
“I might be, but I was there and you weren’t.” You said to him and continued. “Normand, I know you are worried, that is your job. But I was there and in one year I am sure that where we are standing has changed. Alterac will be stronger, Alterac will stand. One year is a long time for them to make all the mistakes and for us to grow.”
“If you really think so.” Normand said and shook his head. Your father wasn’t that easy to be convinced.
…
The ladies had joined you and Normand downstairs. Cups of wine were served, not to Tari of course, and it felt like this was going to be a good evening. Laughter started and continued as the evening continued.
“Alric you can’t keep making us laugh like that.” Monica replied as you told everyone how you had slipped while running up the stairs from the jail. It was an exciting story and kept everyone entertained.
“I mean, I did slip.” You said and shrugged.
More laughter followed and then came a deep sigh from Tari as she took a deep breath. She looked at you and held her stomach.
“Tari, is everything okay?” You asked.
“Alric, I think it is the time.” She said to you.
Your face lost its colour and you stood up. You were prepared for a lot of things, but not this. She was going to give birth.
“Malevus, Monica! Can you help her to her room!” You quickly said to them.
They sprung into action and helped Tari to stand up. Alric, what should you do! You have no idea what to do in a situation like this!
>Stay by Tari’s side and give her all the emotional support you can.
>You have no idea how this works so you should stay out and let the professionals handle this.
>Try to direct the traffic to the best you can, you must be able to do something useful here.
>Other, write in.
QM: It is time!
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>>6373915
Will it be a girl or a boy I wonder. I hope they both survive, we've gathered as many good people as we can to help, and as far as I know Katrana or the Syndicate hasn't tried to poison her. Will the child take after Tari or Blackmoore, blond or black hair. Unless the baby was a ginger lol.
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Rolled 2 (1d3)
>>6373915
>Stay by Tari’s side and give her all the emotional support you can.
Damn now ?? Thankfully we slaughtered that gnoll tribe. Gotta deal with any other near threat.
(▨_▨) Alric hands about to suffer. Free pain training.
Normand will likely get Maura. Someone needs to go and get Madam Martin. Maybe Sir Raleigh too ? Ehr idk there. Hampton is working in Tarren Mill. Maura, Malevus and Martin can probably handle this i recon, maybe they will call more womenfolk. We have also those witches uh.
>>6373931
Gonna see what this roll says.
1 One boy
2 One girl
3 One girl, One boy
I think there shouldn't be issues. But we do have several options for ensure things don't go badly. The Syndicate probably didn't care enough of her, now they just might. Katrana idk. She doesn't want to piss off Alric, but she can get jealous. Hair, i think they might be of Blackmoore.
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>>6373939
Beautiful future Alteraci Bureacrat, or why not a mage with the help of Nalice. You love to see it ! Joking here. We don't know how Medivh will choose. Could be a boy easily too, and that can be a future Steward or a Knight ready for say "Alterac Stands !". They definetly will have good looks with Taretha being their mom.
We could even tell Thrall about this if everything goes okay.
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>>6373939
His poor mangled hand will need a little healing light too.
A baby girl would be nice.
I suppose if Tari didn't survive this ornin future it would be a strong motivator for Necromancer Alric who wants to keep everyone important to him.
Once Greedy is dead or knocked down a leg I suppose it would be to Falconcrest or the Warlocks to try anything...Except Beve would be pretty mad at her husband if he did lol.
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You watched as Malevus and Monica helped Tari up the stairs and followed closely behind them. You opened the door for them and allowed them to go in as Tari just threw herself into her bed.
“Can I…” You started to say.
“No!” Malevus replied and helped Tari to be comfortable.
“I won’t accept no!” You said immediately back to her.
“Then make sure that the midwife will come here, alert Raleigh and send a rider to Father Hampton.” Malevus replied to you.
“Understood!” You said and half ran out of the room.
Leaping several steps downstairs, you quickly found yourself on the bottom floor and from there outside the homestead. You looked around and saw the two Royal Foot Guards standing guard outside the door.
“Inform the midwife that she is needed here, call for Raleigh the True and send the fastest rider to Tarren Mill, we need Father Hampton here.” You told them.
“Understood my Prince.” One of them said and marched away to deliver the orders.
You looked at the remaining man and nodded to him.
“It is time.” You said to him and stepped back inside.
Stomping the stairs back up, you entered Tari’s bedroom where Malevus and Monica had made Tari comfortable by stacking pillows behind her back. You kneeled down by the bed and took her hand to hold.
“I’ll be here for you, whatever it takes.” You said.
“You don’t have to.” She replied.
“But I will.” You adamantly said back to her.
Tari held your hand as you just smiled.
“Don’t worry about anything. Everything will be alright.” You said to her and looked into her eyes with your Fel green eyes. “I promise to you.”
Tari looked at you and held your hand. She nodded once and smiled. She knew you would be there for her. And you smiled back.
…
The midwife had arrived soon, she apparently had been informed by Tari and Malevus way earlier to expect this assignment. Raleigh was here as well and with Malevus he had said his prayers and blessed Tari, giving her a sliver of strength she didn’t have before.
You stayed kneeled and held her hand as others brought hot water and fresh towels for Tari. She breathed heavily as the midwife gave her the instructions. It would take a while before she would be ready to push and before that you all would do your utmost to make her comfortable.
One hour passed and then the next as Tari struggled. The midwife gave her the advice what to do, but the baby didn’t want to make their entrance to the world. Tari cried of pain and you could only hold her hand as she squashed yours. You didn’t let that hinder you as you said your silent prayers in Common, Elvish and Draconic as you let her hold your hand as hard as she did.
…
“Push!” The midwife commanded her.
Tari struggled and cried. You couldn’t avoid crying yourself as you watched her struggling through this.
“Push again!” The midwife commanded her again.
1/3
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>>6374035
Malevus to her left and held her other hand as Tari pushed again and again. You were sweating as was Malevus as you watched Tari go through all of this.
“I can see their head.” The midwife said all calm, she had done this dozens of times.
“Not much more.” You said to Tari and felt her squeeze your hands.
Tari cried as she pushed and pushed, this wouldn’t be an easy pregnancy or giving birth at all. She struggled and fought until in the end…
A baby started to cry, the cry filled the room.
You held Tari’s hand and smiled.
“It is a healthy baby.” The midwife said and took the shears to cut the umbilical cord.
“You hear that?” You said to Tari.
She was weak as she smiled and turned to look at you before nodding.
“A healthy baby girl.” The midwife said as the cries filled the room. She raised her for everyone to see.
Black hair, stocky body. She looked very healthy for a baby as she cried in her hands. The midwife stepped forth and gently gave the baby to Tari who couldn’t stop crying. You let her hand go as she took her baby and held her close to her body.
“Congratulations.” You said to her. “She is beautiful.”
Taretha cried and laughed as she looked at her baby. Carefully hugging her, the mother gave her love.
“What is her name?” You asked carefully.
“If she had been a boy… then Faralyn after my little brother who died young.” Tari told you and continued after several deep breaths. “But she is a girl… so… Faelyn it is…. after my grandmother…”
“Faelyn is a good name.” You said to her.
Tari smiled and cried as she held the baby, Faelyn was slowly stopping to cry.
“Do you want to hold her?” Tari asked and turned her head towards you.
“Yes.”
Very carefully she passed the baby covered in everything birth related to you. You didn’t care if it made a mess of your shirt as you very carefully took the baby into your hands and pressed her closer to your body. Little Faelyn cried and looked into your Fel green eyes. She stopped crying and her hands reached left and right as if wanting to take a hold of you.
“She likes you.” Tari said, her voice all weak.
2/3
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>>6374038
Faelyn, a child of Lord Blackmoore, yet everyone thought she was yours. There she was, all innocent to the wider world. She wouldn’t know the truth in many many years, only when she was an adult. She looked at you, her short black hair reminding you of your own as she tried to struggle out of your hands. You smiled and looked at her once before sighing.
Inside of you, you just wanted to acknowledge her as your own, but the words of the others rang in your mind. Normand had reminded you that in no chance could you take her as your own as it would cause a mess of your own inheritance and how your heirs would work. But as the rumours were, people here in Dawnholme and elsewhere were thinking that she would be yours, Blackmoore would be thinking that she would be yours and to defend Tari from him and to keep the alliance between you and him alive, you had kept that lie alive. Acknowledging her would make her your heir which would give you plenty of time to produce an actual one to continue your lineage. Having an heir would be powerful, as it would give you legitimacy in the eyes of the people and the others.
Holding her in your hands made you think about all of this. Little Faelyn could help and fix all of your problems when it came to having an heir until you and Malevus would produce one, whenever that would be. She could be a key to fixing many things, but it all would be a lie.
You smiled and looked at Tari and then at small Faelyn who tried to reach for you.
Where would you go with her…
>Discuss
QM: We will have a discussion period first before we go voting.
Alric has several options available. He could fully acknowledge Faelyn as his child, making her a Princess of Alterac and a Perenolde. This would make everyone acknowledge her as your child even if she was born outside of marriage. Alric could acknowledge Faelyn as his child, but as his bastard which would make her your heir yet outside of marriage making her second class when your true children are born. Alric could deny her as his child which would go against everything the rumours and others expect, but still keep her close to him as a promise to take care of her. Alric could push her away fully. She is not his and not related to him whatsoever and all that it involves.
There’s options and between options for you. This will be the last time I will be asking about Alric and Taretha from you so think twice and post once. We will have the actual vote some time tomorrow based on how you discuss this.
Btw I have been rolling for the pregnancy all this time. How things have gone and what gender the child would be was known to me many months ago.
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>>6374124
I'm a bit sleepy but I'm leaning all the way. In terms of politics there seem to be more good than bad. Our alliance, our popular support, having an heir and the legitimacy of that.
Lets be real and say Alric got kidnapped, had to go on some mission, or in a battle gone wrong separated from his people for a considerable length of time where that would cast doubt on his survival. It would probably be a good thing for the surviving retainers to have someone they can rally around until Alric gets back.
I suppose you could even argue that a legitimate heir opens the door to an arranged marriage alliance between Alric's daughter and some prospective prince or high noble like Anduin. Theres really not very many young princes and princesses lol.
We were pretty lucky Faelyn is a girl. Not to dismiss any potential drawbacks but Alterac inheritance seems to favor a son over a daughter anyways so an eventual boy from Malevus would end up the superior claim. Or the traditional method that they go to a monastery when they're of age lol. So any drawback seems easy to mitigate.
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>>6374039
Oh its this shit again great! This is a really bad way of doing things just continually making us vote on the same thing over and over again feels more like you are trying to force an outcome you want rather than it being a decision by anons. This is what the third vote regarding what we will do regarding the child and if i remember the other two times right it was voted that we will NOT acknowledge her as ours. And QM acknowledged the other votes but not the decision on those votes, what gives? If this passes against past consensus what was the point of those votes in the first place it would be 2 to 1. If i remember right monica had something like that going on aswell just continuous voting on weather we date her or not.
Im just going to stay consistent with my previous votes and thoughts on the matter. Reject her as being a perenolde but keep her close and take care of her. To go otherwise would be to lie to literally everyone regarding her parentage not the least of all herself. Its honorable and consistent to stay true on the matter that she is not ours what the rest of the world thinks on it is irrelevant.
>>6374175
The scenario where Alric could disapear without anyone knowing where he is lets say extremely unlikely and all im thinking is you gave QM some bad ideas with that one.
We already have all the legitimacy no one is really questioning if we are a perenolde. And if they were having an heir would not change that in the slightest.
>>6374124
Personally the harshest would be bastard or full rejection. Full rejection for obvious reason. But being a bastard is being a ''lesser'' noble who will immedietly be thrown aside legally for a full heir. When shes old enough we can share her actual parentage with her and its the easiest to do if we DONT make her a perenolde. If Norma and Garside are any indication you can have a family without them being blood related she will of course still have her mother.
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>>6374175
Personally i like viewing your post as fel infected part of alrics personality Felric if you will. The part which cares not for truth or the wellbeing of the child. But purely pragmatic view of the child is a resource that i can use and throw away when not needed.
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>>6374178
I think its perfectly human to hold little Faelyn in his arms and to feel a renewed confliction far stronger than any of the previous moments of speculation. To be moved to at least the potential for action I don't feel disregards the previous efforts on planning what might be best. Its coming face to face with it or 'her' in this case lol. Plans meeting game day decisions and what comes out on top is naturally at least a two vote affair in quest terms.
As for lies to everyone well if I may be so bold Alric does lie and shift things around. A lot. If it suits him and his companions all the more so. For fairly good reasons usually, but also some selfish ones. like wanting to fight Hellscream. When I posted that it was about honor and trespass that was an excuse to be able to duel him and I think thats true for Alric as well on some level lol.
Alric has so many secrets hes hiding, and he even enjoys it at times. Especially if it means hes gotten his way in some political maneuver which benefits his people and his loved ones. So I can't say that it matters much to my perception of Alric if he puts another secret lie on the pile.
>The scenario where Alric could disapear without anyone knowing where he is lets say extremely unlikely
Ahh now this one I can actually point to. Alric getting a 1 in 10,000 chance magic heart attack was extremely unlikely, we know it and Alric knows it. RNGesus gives and takes. Sometimes you get a four 1s on a 4d10 lol.
>>6374190
Well I do like FelMalevus. I am you and you are me, and all that. I enjoy her shenanigans so your words here really tickled me thank you lol. As for Alric's relationship with the truth I had some comments above.
As for the wellbeing of the child I'd be fine letting others dig into the meat of the emotions and troubles of a lesser social status any of the lower options would bring. I'd perhaps just say that the higher we make her status the less I see her getting confronted in life with the petty negative sides of people who could point to it, maybe she'll be tough enough to handle it, hopefully she never gets traumatized to such a degree that the blood of blackmoore awakens in her as it were.
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>>6374274
There is a massive diffrence between holding the child and wanting to give her a good life versus actually legitimizing her. For me absolutely nothing has changed as the legitimization is a political question not a moral/ethical one. and for me it fails ethically and morally due to the massive deception required.
Sure we lie when its necesary but this isnt a one off thing its a lie for life. I doubt the child would love to hear one day that she is not a perenolde at all and that she is actually a blackmoore. Why complicate things? or downplay the size of the lie as if its a small thing. I get that other anons may not view alrics personality the same way but i do think he would atleast hesitate a bit before commiting to such a massive lie and for what? I atleast think that alric tries to be honorable and do the right thing. Its only lately that we've been getting a bit more ruthless.
The scenario is not the same however. Everyone knew alric was alive and where he was. Him missing possibility is not a unlucky roll question but how can a prince who is constantly sorrounded by people or bodyguards disapear and unable to either send a messege or have a messege sent by someone else confirming that hes alive.
I do wonder if alrics moral/ethical actions affects hes fel and the reason we cant get rid of it is due to immoral actions or our straight up bloodthirst. Is no one else finding the ''spar'' with malevus in the stormwind estate concerning as fuck?
Im sure she will be fine being bothered by mean kids is basically more manageable than the truth that you have been lied your whole life about your parentage and that you are essentially a fake. Assuming of course no one else spills the beans by accident or intent.
I did get a funny idea that perhaps we could pressure blackmoore into legitimizing her as hes own. Before stormwind i was just willing to let blackmoore lie. But when hes king calls him basically a enourmous piece of shit hes become more of a liability than a boon. Hes position is weak and right now we are hes only guarantor. And i dont think it has been mentioned before but does blackmoore even have a heir? It would sate my autism for truth and put her in a good noble position and hell even strenghten our position in durnholde. Not an easy thing despite being a massive drunkard hes politically adept enough to try something but its an option?
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>>6374287
I don't mind putting the moral/ethical aside though a massive deception for its impact it would be a fairly easy lie I think. Now then as you say its a political decision, and politically its very extremely useful to have an heir on hand.
Nobles do be living lies forever. Just look at Lady Imswit and her gay but loyal soldier husband who will be raising Gravis's child. They might never tell that kid, who should also be due fairly soon now that I think of it, he or she is a bastard not even borne out of love but of maintaining their name. How many people know or suspect, and if someone did say then its just a petty jealous rumor. But Lady Imswit need never tell her future son. Actually if she has a daughter she will have Gravis on hand for another go now that hes engaged to her daughter lol, which is probably what she said to Gravis as we left Durnholde having secured the marriage. For noble honor, for the happiness of the family and house who need an heir, and the children will have a better life.
Indeed the scenario is not the same but Alric does have quite the adventurous and dangerous streak of striking into the thickest part of the enemy to fight the biggest badest boss. Or hunting old death knights in burrows with only his squire and some orcs. Its not too outlandish to me that he could go into danger risking being cutoff and maybe be stuck in a pickle for a while. Or thrown in jail again but without his fancy magic clothes lol. I'm just saying he certainly lives dangerously and everyone knows it even if he brushes it aside.
Oh I should say it does, or that the fel unlocked some aspects of it. It was a significant event in his life thats effected him deeply. Higher battle highs in his dueling passion, lower lows in his anger. If FelMalevus had more experience it might have done better at seducing him for his love of the women in his life. Its also basically impossible that he doesn't lead the army or kill the enemy general, so its very unlikely to avoid the natural sources of fel his body soaks up like a sponge. Yeah I was a little surprised how far he pushed that Malevus spar, and I'd say so was Malevus. Push come to shove shes come through a lot in the Stormwind Arc so shes become more resilient. Though having to effectively train someone in combat does require some ruthlessness, which doesn't help when he also enjoys the Thrill lol.
Nobles do be living lies forever*.
Oh God absolutely not. Atleast not while hes alive. Tari would never go live with him again I'd hope, nor allow for separating the child from her. Maybe if he was dead and we arranged for him to have signed something shortly before his death lol. But that would be another lie most likely signed by Langston. That said he doesn't own much land at all? Hes like a Viceroy administering the land for the King until his death or dismissal or change in office? I don't think he has an heir or none of them have the courage to appear in public to face Blackmoore.
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>>6374315
Except she isnt. We cant exactly marry her to royalty. as you said yourself that there arent many options and even if there were we wouldnt necesaraly want her to marry options as it gives hostile nation more legitimacy on alterac itself such as stromgarde/gilneas and if Varian has any say the last thing he will marry hes son to is a perenolde.
Lady imsvit is doing it because its literally do or die for her. We are under no such pressure. The child will be hers and actually be a damn imsvitt by blood aswell. Third she is a small noble not a prince of a whole kingdom.
Sure he lives dangeriously but again none if it necesarily requires us to have a heir at hand. At this point people should just expect alric to be disposed for a second before burrying him. If hes body aint found he aint dead.
They were striking to kill. And it really does go back into the shit rolls question if malevus rolled shit like we did when we got our heart attack would alric have maimed her? straight up killed her? What if we make a bad decision or roll shit in the bakground and the secret of the childs parentage leaks to numerous foreign spies we have in our nation. Why lie at all? for basic ruthless gains? Wheres the 7 or was it 11 malevus baby factory plan. I dont see much benefit in having her legitimized. and it just creates complications and lifetime of lies and possible fuckery that id rather just not deal with whatsoever
I wasnt suggesting that she goes to live with blackmoore merely that he acknowliedges the child. Maybe we could do something like that or anything as long that legally the child has a claim. Nalice does have that hes new mistress a dragonspawn?
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>>6374331
Forgot to talk about Blackmoore. i was under the impression that he is a lord of the region and that the camps is a sidething he is in command of. That by the end of the day hes still a noble. But QM could elaborate on that one.
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>>6374331
She is. If shes the heir to royalty then shes royalty if Alric was ever lost, princess or not. Is she only royalty if Alric dies in a theoretical scenario, or as heir while he lives its like a weird blending of colors? Is a Royal Bastard still Royal lol. If we wanted an alliance with someone, or someone wanted an alliance with Alterac, its an option. Anyways its not like royals are the only option for marriage, Malevus herself is a high noble as are the Barovs. I wouldn't have minded Jandice for Alric either as shes a fun lady. If the Barovs had someone unmentioned in their line or in a branch family I could see making that match.
Just for reference if Medivh wants to answer who would get final say on Anduin if they did try to arrange a future political marriage? The Regency that holds power, Varian who holds 1/3rd of the regency power but is also his father, or Anduin himself before or after he gains his Throne in full.
I'm not arguing that theres great pressure merely the points given to us are useful and it strengthens our position at little cost. If we ignore political gain or detriment, I don't think Alric would mind the lie if it would bring his closest companions great joy which in turn makes him happy. But with political gain I see solid potential in it. It outweighs any potential drawbacks I've seen in regards to inheritance since a son or 7 with Malevus after shes attained her Paladin pauldrons would have a much stronger claim anyways...But thats not for at least a few years since we aren't going to ask her to give up her dream.
I've more or less accepted that Alric's dueling is dangerous. Maybe the answer is just for Malevus to have a more equal sparring partner in Raleigh or Gravis or Cromwell. Or wait for Nalice's Dragon lifeblood purging of the Fel and see if that helps his attitude but I won't hold my breath. I'd have to think on any other solutions.
Hmmm well I'm not sure how he could acknowledge the child and then live with the fact his child is publicly just living with Tari and us. Not that he can't sign a paper and make a declaration, more like I don't know if he'd have a self destructive meltdown as hes rather emotionally unstable. Hes already lost his foster son Thrall who he treated like dirt. A normal noble could live with it as being a ward to his lord, but Blackmoore isn't normal.
In any case we might just be considerably opposed and quite well entrenched in holding our points lol.
>>6374333
Yeah he might be the actual lord of the land I'm honestly not sure. I suppose there could have been some awkward situations if he was still lord of the land but lost the Camp Lord office where the most important camps are situated and he demands out of spite they be removed from his land or something.
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>>6374343
>In any case we might just be considerably opposed and quite well entrenched in holding our points lol.
Pretty much its back to rehashing the same points over and over again. I dont find the lies or the ''benefits'' of legitmizing the child worth it at all and basically doing so would make alric a slightly more evil just another grain of sand in the hourglass of evil. Dramatic i know.
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>>6374353
Very dramatic lol, so I'll play with some drama as well.
Setting aside benefits or cost, legitimizing the child will give her a better happier life. Alric can determine the social status, respect and greater opportunity that walk hand in hand with it. Not growing up believing shes a bastard or lower than a bastard with a fuller rejection. Not having a (adoptive) father. Or childishly painful thinking like 'Alric is the father but rejects her for X' etc etc.
In the same vein we've been living a lie to Blackmoore and the local region that Tari is our mistress to protect her this whole time, so I'd find it hard to call that evil and dishonorable. So why is a lie that protects Faelyn evil and dishonorable.
Inevitable public and social ridicule and disrespect is one thing, but a person is also capable of hating themselves for reasons beyond their control. For the trouble of the lie Faelyn can know she was embraced more fully than ever required or even deserved, and if against good reason that its such a bother makes it worth even more.
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>>6374391
We can still give her a happy life without legitimizing her. Again this just goes back to the same old arguments. You cannot 100% be sure she wont ever find out her parentage and if she finds out shes not a perenolde you dont think they might have a problem with that?
The closest thing to lie regarding is lies by omission we havent exactly been screaming about what our relation to tari is. It is simply what others themselves speculate. If we outright said that tari is our mistress yeah wed be lying.
Lies are bad for the mind and soul anon :)
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>>6374414
She can be more happy and face less of the unpleasantness of society by legitimizing her. I'm not even saying don't ever tell her I'm saying when she finds out the truth, the truth of the matter is Alric didn't have to legitimize her, didn't have to roundaboutly adopt her, but did anyways because it was personally important.
Nay nay nay. We absolutely outright lie to Blackmoore on it. Our alliance with him is built on a lie of what we were doing with Tari in our chambers at Durnholde and that we basically bought Tari as a concubine from him in return for securing his position when we can.
Alric is born out of the Kingdom of Lies and Betrayal. The inheritance of Alterac is fought over by an organization living and dying over secrets and assassins, masterminded mostly by his family. His spymaster in training is a warlock whose life he saved. He lives a secret double life where he is a mage/unwilling warlock with a dragon woman lover. He knows good and well that Thrall will invade with the might of at least two Orc clans including Hellscream which by any prediction would probably ruin the Durnholde region, but he can't stop it and he can't warn the Alliance without the poison of a Perenolde talking with an Orc. Brought home a few hundred experienced terrorists who escaped justice by chaotic circumstance and Alric's silver tongue. Alric is drenched in lies and secrets, and he loves it.
Kind of sounds like a YA novel put down like that lol.
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>>6374039
Very complicated situation. I think regardless of what option we go with, even if we straight up named Blackmoore as the father, there are always going to be some people thinking this baby is ours.
Pushing her away effectively would require us to fully commit, and what's required to do that would likely hurt Tari. I can't see us doing that in character, but I could see Tari offering to do that for Alric, helping him avoid scandal. Still, I don't think it would necessarily help with the politics of this. So I'm just gonna rule it out.
Just taking care of her and treating her like a ward seems like a politically safe option, but it could also make Alric seem dishonorable or cowardly for not recognising a child people are thinking is his. I could also see the ambiguity hurting Tari and maybe even our political relationship with Blackmoore if rumours get out of hand about Faelyn's parentage.
The bastard option is tempting since it balances the politics of the situation with protecting Tari and the girl. Best case there is minimal political fallout from the choice and the girl can just live a comfortable life. Worst case there's some succession crisis in the future and she becomes a puppet or a target, unprepared for what is required of her. Not to mention bastards and lines descended from bastards can also cause their own problems.
Full acknowledgement is also tempting. It eliminates ambiguity now and provides a banner for our loyalists to rally around if we die. Like the bastard option, it demonstrates that we can produce heirs. Having an heir and having plans for the appointment of a regency council in the event we're killed would also help with our assassin problem since we have that continuity. We can continue on with living our life without forcing Malevus to settle down to give us heirs. With male-preference primogeniture, Faelyn should have more freedom to live her life once we produce a male heir, if that's what she wants. We could also best keep Blackmoore away from Tari and the child this way, I think, since there should be no question of parentage. That guy is basically a rapist that should have nothing to do with either of them. But on the other hand, this would put a target on the girl, she would be forced to be involved in politics to some degree even if a male heir takes her place, and there's always the possibility of problems like others finding out the truth, however unlikely. Another possible big downside as well is that I imagine some Alteracis would prefer a human ruler than a half elf that looks foreign and will outlive them, possibly causing issues for potential Alric/Malevus heirs, though I imagine a bastard could also cause this problem.
Not sure what the best idea is. I think I lean full acknowledgement, though I can see other arguments. Political advantage is nice, but whatever best protects Tari and her child.
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>>6374039
I vote stick with the script, that Tari and her daughter are welcome in her house, but we make no claim about parentage. If queried, then announce she is not of Alterac's royal family (Perenolde) descent and leave it at that.
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>>6374178
Yeah I am sorry, I have tried to learn from this and hence I will try to avoid such things in the future.
>>6374343
Varian has the say of any political marriages, the others can't force Anduin to marry anyone against the wishes of Varian.
Now with Olympics gone, congrats to Team US for the hockey gold, let us continue with the vote. I love this talk you have had, proper discussion about the situation and I feel like all the bases were touched here. I will present the options and then you get to choose one you want to go with. After that we are done with Tari and Faelyn, the decision will stick. I will let this vote go for a day.
Choose one:
>Legitimize Faelyn as a Princess Perenolde. The child is yours and will be part of your family now and forever.
>Acknowledge Faelyn as yours, but do not legitimize her. She will be a bastard born outside of marriage.
>Faelyn will be your ward, you will take care of her, but you won't acknowledge her as your own. Ambiguity and deniability would protect her and Tari.
>Do not acknowledge Faelyn, she is not yours and actively deny that. She will live a good life, but not under your roof.
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>>6374792
>Legitimize Faelyn as a Princess Perenolde. The child is yours and will be part of your family now and forever.
I think it works out nicely for a happy family. Once Nalice and her agents arrive I'll feel secure with their safety as well.
>Varian has the say of any political marriages
Fair enough. Although if Varian was killed or vanished then I suppose its a different story isnt it.
One other point, was Blackmoore actually Lord of Durnholde or does he have to leave if he ever lost his office over the Camps?
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>>6374800
Lord Commander of Internment Camps is a political position to which Blackmoore is appointed. Terenas can strip him off that position, but right now his bacon is secured, but if he was told to go kick rocks, he would have to leave. I don't think it is ever mentioned in lore, but I would say that Blackmoore is a low level noble. He has his own banner after all.
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>>6374812
Thankies. I figured but wasn't sure myself, but low level noble to general and then to Lord Commander of the Camps is quite the rise. Especially with his family history as well. Still not enough to buy a wife tho lol.
Which reminds me we should probably tell Nalice about Thrall's invasion so she can decide what to do with Annabelle.
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>>6374792
>Faelyn will be your ward, you will take care of her, but you won't acknowledge her as your own. Ambiguity and deniability would protect her and Tari.
This question was raised before, and I don't see any reason to change the answer - Faelyn is, if anything, more useful to us as blackmoore's bastardess and, combined with the deed, a potential heir to durnholde.
It would also be humiliating publicly for Malevus to simultaneously be our consort while living with "our" child from another.
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>>6374837
>>6374838
I was gonna mention the Durnholde thing but you spotted it lol.
Anyways Malevus herself had asked us previously to recognize the child, knowing she can't provide an heir for some time, so shes fine with it.
A daughter doesn't inherit before a son so unless we get in bed with Tari to make one I don't see a real problem.
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>>6374792
>>Faelyn will be your ward, you will take care of her, but you won't acknowledge her as your own. Ambiguity and deniability would protect her and Tari.
Pretty consistent with what we went with last time and said we will do. The potential risks/problems dont really outweight the benefits. Just keep it simple and dont fuck up perenolde succession .
>>6374812
Really weird i would think he would atleast be the lord of durnholde. And the commander just takes care of the camps. Its a bit off that a literal who would be in control of the camps in the first place especially considering blackmoores personality.
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>>6374874
Managing orc camps is probably not something a lot of people want to do., think The Dirty Jobs of Lordships lol. Or that someone might be a little too enthusiastic about it like a Garithos that would try to cull the orcs because he hates orcs. Anyone beforehand who was trying to accumulate enough political support to take it is probably countered by their political opponents. So they end up with someone like Blackmoore who is too unpleasant for either side to want to approach, who for better or worse has Langston to handle the paperwork and Alric to handle his politics.
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>>6374904
Then of course the Wars are over and dudes wanna go home. The real noble lords with power and skill have their own lands they want to take care of after so many years. No one -wants- the orcs on their land either so they picked Durnholde that seems to have no surviving big lord whom the local lower nobility owe their allegiance to besides the King (until Alric stole their hearts).
I suppose if I had been in their place a Paladin might have been suitable if they weren't so busy, but we just saw Uther vote in the big Meeting so perhaps others were disinclined to give the Silver Hand more power and money.
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I just want to say I rather disagree with the trend of ambiguity and I'll explain why.
In my opinion ambiguity has not served Alric well in the relationships that actually matter. It didn't help our position at the King Meeting where, along with the unfortunate durnholde hills landgrabbing, it made space for people to attack our position and doubt our motives (because his motive WAS landgrabbing) because Alric continued to hide behind ambiguity. If we had doubled down on ambiguity with Kael on our magic do we think he'd have been as helpful as he was? Jaina as well? I don't think so.
No one will think well of Alric for having Faelynn and Tari in his house and just saying nothing. Is it his child or not? Is it his heir or not? People will want to know if Dawnholme dies with Alric or not, it is the future of this land they live in and care about. If the fate of something I care about is in the balance I don't want ambiguity, especially if I believe he was almost assassinated about a year ago (which is what we made the story ofc) and that he was a cripple with a cane for months. Then Fel Tainted for presumably the rest of his life which I doubt theres many stories of such a person living long.
It just seems to make Alric look undecisive and dishonorable that he wont owe up to it being his child which is what everyone believes. What Ambiguity are we trying to sell people that already -believe- its his child. The only thing this could do is make people wonder if it really isn't his child, which is exactly what we don't want to happen because it would undermine our alliance with Blackmoore.
Blackmoore will want to know why we aren't claiming the child as ours even as a bastard, why we aren't making her an heir which has considerable political benefits. If we didn't -want- the child why did it happen and how? He is paranoid enough to remove all the mirrors out of Durnholde while Thrall was there.
He knows hes a low level noble with a dishonored father and a bad personality, he believes others want to take advantage of him and frankly hes right to be suspicious. Ambiguity can only feed his paranoia when we are trying to get him into our League.
Between reinforcing our alliance with him which is built on this lie we have to maintain, or allowing ambiguity which can only deepen the space between us I would reinforce it so we can get him in the League.
Thats my last word on this matter though I'm always up for discussion.
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>>6375303
You have a really bad tendency to bring up examples that do not apply in the slightest to the current sitation and act like its the same thing. Kael straight up called us out it was either directly try to lie to him or not. And for Jaina it was to protect her and not to drag her into our problems.
We are under no pressure of having a heir immedietly the people can and will wait. If were so concerned about our heirless realm maybe the better option is to simply take it easy for a while rather than get dragged into a massive lie and fucked up false succession.
>It just seems to make Alric look undecisive and dishonorable
This just genuinely pissed me off. It is completely irrelevant what people believe in. The honorable option is to hold to the TRUTH not appease the masses of gossipers. Even your moral reasoning is entirely dependant on others perception of alric instead of actual truth of the matter. Doing the right thing isnt always the easiest or convenient.
As for blackmoore. Stormwind made me realise just how weak hes position was. And the after vote QM answer that hes even smaller than that and the only thing keeping him to real relevance is the camps. And if he loses that he is nothing. He already owes us to join darrowmere league for holding hes position in stormwind. If he gets uppity about the child in any way. We can simply tell him that the king himself thinks hes a subhuman shit and we wont stick our head out for him. The other thing is our alliance is not dependant on the slightest on the child. like how could it really? Tari was something he threw at us to keep us happy and have good relations with him being a good host and all that. There is neither pact or deal or contract that matters in the slightest for the child.
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>>6375339
I don't get why you think of it as a massive lie. That is to say I get why you would say it, but if Alric adopts her he would consider her his child. Just like the Garsides consider Alric to be their child. I don't think hes living a massive lie at that point.
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>>6375347
Where was talk of adoption anywhere? The options are claiming that she is ours as a perenolde not that we are adopting her as a perenolde. The lie is of course us claiming that the child is ours by blood which it aint. Am i missing something here? No it isnt Go reread the original Voting post QM outright says it would be a lie.
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You held Faelyn for a moment and smiled. She was such a small thing, one day she would be a grown adult, but before that she would have her whole childhood ahead of her. A childhood that you hoped would be peaceful.
“I can’t acknowledge her.” You said to Tari as Faelyn still tried to take a hold of you.
“I know.” Tari replied faintly.
“But you and Faelyn will never miss anything, my home will be your home now and forever.” You said to Tari and gently passed the baby back to her.
Faelyn started to cry again and Tari started to soothe her.
“It is better this way.” You said to her.
“You don’t need to repeat yourself, I get it. Why live in a lie?” Tari replied back to you. “I just want to say thank you, thank you for everything.”
“You don’t need to thank me.” You replied and smiled. “I will let the others in, I guess they want to hold the baby too.”
“And I want to rest…” Tari lamented.
You chuckled, Faelyn would be the most popular and liked person in your home for a long long time.
…
You let everyone else in. First the midwife helped by Malevus checked Tari and finished the birth. You don’t really understand any of that so you went outside to catch a breath and some fresh air.
Tari’s parents visited her, as did Normand and Maura. Monica was there as well and in the end the midwife had to shoo everyone away and let the new mother and baby to rest. Raleigh and Malevus prayed and blessed Tari and Faelyn. You spoke with the midwife when she was ready to leave, she told you that the child birth had been rather swift in how things progressed, but when it came to Faelyn actually popping out into the world, that was really hard for Tari and she would need rest.
You thanked the midwife before going back in. Malevus chose to be on standby and sleep in Tari’s room just in case and so as the day had already turned deep into night, you went into your own bed and stared at the ceiling.
Faelyn, a lot would change in your household. But you were sure that things would be alright, everything would go well.
…
You woke up early and after carefully peeking into Tari’s room, found all three of them asleep. Leaving them alone, you ventured downstairs where Maura was already up and working in the kitchen making breakfast. Soon you had a bowl of hot porridge and a cup of tea in front of you.
As you ate it, there was a knock on the front door and the Royal Foot Guard stationed outside opened it, allowing Father Hampton to step in.
“Good morning Father.” You said to him and nodded, motioning for him to take a seat.
“Good morning Prince Alric.” He replied. The one armed priest was wearing typical robes worn by the priests without much liveries at all. “I came here as fast as I could.”
“You aren’t late, please take a seat and eat.” You told him.
“I can’t say no to that.” He replied.
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>>6375361
It didn’t long for Maura to bring him a bowl of porridge and a cup of tea as well.
“Taretha is fine as is the baby, Faelyn is her name.” You told him as you ate.
“Holy Light has then blessed them.” He replied.
“Malevus and Raleigh had their fair share of involvement, Malevus is with the two of them right now.” You told him. “They are asleep right now.”
“Let them rest then.” He said and started to eat.
“When they wake up, then you get to see them.” You told him.
“If Taretha carried the child for nine months, I can wait a couple more hours.” He said to you.
…
You and Hampton continued to talk. You told him about what had happened in Stormwind City and got into the parts that would involve and interest him. When you got on what had happened to Malevus and what the Church had done and responded, you could see in his eyes a reaction.
“King Varian is a fool.” He said. “The Church is supposed to be as neutral as possible.”
“Sadly he didn’t see it like that.” You replied.
Continuing to how the things ended, Hampton seemed rather worried about the events.
“To imagine so much to happen in such a short time.” He mused. “That must not be everything?”
It wasn’t, there were things he probably should know or be informed about.
>Tell him about Brother Antiochus and him arriving to Dawnholme to be the priest here when he has healed.
>Have him know the reason why the Church didn’t reply to the letters, they didn’t want you to gain more legitimacy.
>There is going to be a warlock, with a good reputation, amongst the refugees arriving from Underbelly. You are going to be open about it and Hampton should be informed so that if/when the word spreads it is not a surprise.
>You trust him as a priest and as a Father to keep secrets. Tell him that Faelyn is not your child, you are not going to acknowledge her, but keep her as your ward.
>Other, write in.
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>>6375356
Im saying it here as I realize it. Also my power went out from a blizzard so I may not be posting when my phone dies lol.
But I'm asking you now if you think Alric calling her his child is the same as adopting her or not. Does Alric feel like he's living with a lie to call an adopted daughter his child.
Telling people she has our blood is a lie so great that you think Alric can't or shouldn't live with it. Fine. But you aren't particularly against having an heir which is politically sound, and emotionally satisfying.
So then don't lie. Adopt her. Make the announcement that we have adopted Tari's child as our heir. Unless there's an honest to God law against a Prince being able to adopt someone even if they were by chance infertile he can have an heir and not live with this lie. Everyone will just assume, or through planted rumor, presume we call it an adoption because we won't marry Tari or in how the Alterac Laws of inheritance works. A future son of Malevus is vastly stronger in every way including that Faelynm would be an adopted daughter. No lies, and an heir who will be supplanted in future unless Maljob dies unexpectedly. What are your thoughts on that?
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Stay safe blizzard (real) anon.
>>6375361
>when it came to Faelyn actually popping out into the world, that was really hard for Tari and she would need rest.
Hm.
Seems normal. Medivh remind me if our house windows are reinforced ? I am just thinking since syndicate assassins have not tried almost everything yet. And a mother with a newborn is one of the weakest targets existing.
>>6375362
Uh thats a lot of options with Hampton. Tbh i think he might be the kind of man to understand Faelyn is not ours. If given enough time to put it together.
Well telling about Antiochus is a given. Its good news since he will not need to go up and down between two settlements. The letters idk. Should we ? The warlock well. If its going to be known anyway maybe we could say it ...... and telling about Faelyn is one step from anyone asking "who is the father". I am not sure Hampton will react well to that info. And I really don't want Blackmoore anywhere near this kid.
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>>6375362
>Tell him about Brother Antiochus and him arriving to Dawnholme to be the priest here when he has healed.
>Have him know the reason why the Church didn’t reply to the letters, they didn’t want you to gain more legitimacy.
Inform the priest that more Dalaran immigrants will arrive, with shady magical pasts, also more Stormwind immigrants, with shady rogue pasts.
Warlocks and assassins, yep.
Answer him on Faelyn's parentage that Taretha was pregnant before entering Alric's service and leave it at that if he asks.
>>6373396
>but Fowley had mentioned that the visiting Dark Irons and goblins still made the locals a bit nervous
Ask Hampton how the goblins and dwarves are going around Tarren Mill, and the general state of the town.
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>>6375362
>Tell him about Brother Antiochus and him arriving to Dawnholme to be the priest here when he has healed.
>Have him know the reason why the Church didn’t reply to the letters, they didn’t want you to gain more legitimacy.
>You trust him as a priest and as a Father to keep secrets. Tell him that Faelyn is not your child, you are not going to acknowledge her, but keep her as your ward.
There is no way we can tell him there's a warlock on the way...
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>>6375362
>>Tell him about Brother Antiochus and him arriving to Dawnholme to be the priest here when he has healed.
>Have him know the reason why the Church didn’t reply to the letters, they didn’t want you to gain more legitimacy.
>You trust him as a priest and as a Father to keep secrets. Tell him that Faelyn is not your child, you are not going to acknowledge her, but keep her as your ward.
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>>6375362
>>Tell him about Brother Antiochus and him arriving to Dawnholme to be the priest here when he has healed.
>>Have him know the reason why the Church didn’t reply to the letters, they didn’t want you to gain more legitimacy.
>You trust him as a priest and as a Father to keep secrets. Tell him that Faelyn is not your child, you are not going to acknowledge her, but keep her as your ward.
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>>6375362
>Tell him about Brother Antiochus and him arriving to Dawnholme to be the priest here when he has healed.
>Have him know the reason why the Church didn’t reply to the letters, they didn’t want you to gain more legitimacy.
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>>6375362
>Tell him about Brother Antiochus and him arriving to Dawnholme to be the priest here when he has healed.
>Have him know the reason why the Church didn’t reply to the letters, they didn’t want you to gain more legitimacy.
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>>6375369
>>6375400
>>6375362
I appreciate the well wishes! power came back
>Tell him about Brother Antiochus and him arriving to Dawnholme to be the priest here when he has healed.
We also don't have an Abbey for Antiochus lol, so maybe he might have some thoughts on that. Is it uncommon for the Church itself to build a church or monastery if they were so inclined?
>Have him know the reason why the Church didn’t reply to the letters, they didn’t want you to gain more legitimacy.
He was a Silver Hand Paladin, and hes asked Malevus if she would spy on Alric, but that was more because of the Fel Taint which is a real concern for him and not necessarily politics. Hes still a good guy for having come to Dawnholme so often. Still not a great look for the Church to deny a bunch of honest folk their regular guidance and healing. Is it strictly 'Neutral' for the Church to play politics in that way?
>You trust him as a priest and as a Father to keep secrets. Tell him that Faelyn is not your child, you are not going to acknowledge her, but keep her as your ward.
If we want Hampton's support and trust we have to trust him a little.
>Other, write in.
Ask him about Radan becoming a Paladin. Hampton's history and opinion would be helpful if not any connections he still has. Is Hampton a Redemption kind of guy or favoring one of the other Paladin flavors?
>Other, write in.
Ask him about the Paladins who could replace Uther as Head. I mean we could ask Raleigh but but Hampton is more neutral as a priest I think. Whoever is the new Head Paladin will be someone we have to work with or around next meeting.
>Other, write in.
The Barovs in Tarren Mill
We asked Monica earlier about the Barovs but I missed any mention of them if there was one? It sounded like business was doing well but thats not quite the same as what the Barovs are up to if anything.
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“It is not everything.” You said as Maura delivered the two of you new cups of hot tea.
You asked him about whether he knew Brother Antiochus and Hampton sadly had to say no to that. When he had visited the Church of Holy Light after the Second War and studied there, he didn’t stay there for that long. He might have met him, but it has been some time already and he can’t remember his face. He was surprised when you told him Antiochus was an Alteraci and the one who had helped Malevus, he was more surprised when you told him that Antiochus would be coming to Dawnholme after he has healed up properly and taking the duties of a priest here.
“So now they are finally sending a priest over?” Hampton asked you.
“Yes, they couldn’t say no if he wanted to return to Alterac. But why they hadn’t done anything before, answer is simple, some of them thought answering the letters could have given me legitimacy. It was all politics.” You shrugged.
“Of course…” Hampton was visibly annoyed right now. The one armed former Paladin had warned you of Raleigh and some of the Church politics before, but he didn’t seem to have expected something like this.
“But now they can’t deny me, especially with the Archbishop kindly speaking being quite mad at Varian for what he did and tried to do to Malevus.” You told him.
“For a right reason, the Church of Holy Light is a holy place, no thugs should even attempt to enter and Light forbid attacking one of ours!” Hampton replied to you and raised his voice, a rare show of his emotions. That was common with opinion amongst those of the Church at least.
You continued to talk with him about the Church and events related for some time until you heard the door open upstairs. Out stepped Malevus who seemed rather tired, her red hair quite messy and ears drooping.
“Good morning Malevus.” You said. “Did you sleep well?”
“Good morning… Faelyn woke up several times…” She replied and walked the stairs down. “Good morning Father.”
“May the Holy Light bless you Lady Malevus.” Hampton replied.
“You should go to bed.” You said to her.
“I will, just need to quickly eat and drink something…” She said to you and shuffled into the kitchen. It didn’t take long for her to shuffle back up and disappear towards your bedroom.
“Shall we go see the mother now?” Hampton asked you.
“We can, but there’s something you should know and I trust you as a priest to not talk about it.” You said to him. “Faelyn is not my child and I am not going to acknowledge her as mine. But I shall take her as my ward and make sure she and Tari will never be missing anything.”
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>>6375814
Hampton gave you a curious glance and then nodded.
“Prince Alric, you have your own reasons and I shall not judge them.” He replied to you and continued. “Taking care of the child, especially if she is not yours, is a good virtue and you shall be in my prayers for it.”
“Thank you Father.” You said and smiled.
Hampton seemed to understand the situation even if he might not have known the big picture. You wondered that when the word spreads would others think so as well? Probably, taking care of others is definitely a good quality.
…
Hampton and you had moved upstairs and found Tari awake holding Faelyn. Tari was also tired while Faelyn seemed to have the time of her life trying to reach and grab everything around the room. You spoke briefly with Tari and let Hampton take a seat and talk with her in private.
It took Hampton some time before he came back down and joined you again at the table. He had spoken thoroughly with Tari, asking if everything was alright and then having taken the notes he required for his ledgers. It was the job of the local priest to keep a tally of births and deaths and with Hampton for now being the only priest around, it was his job. In the ledger it would read that Faelyn Foxton was born to Taretha Foxton with unknown father, but birth location would have your homestead written there. You accepted that and you went through some other things with Hampton before he left to perform his other duties in town.
…
The day progressed and Tari kept having visitors from your and her families and friends. In the end Malevus had to drive everyone else away and let the poor mother rest for Light’s sake!
But even if basically everyone involved were tired from last night, everyone was happy. There was something magical in a new life, in a baby having been born. When in the evening Tari found enough strength to come downstairs, everyone was there waiting for her. Faelyn had fallen asleep and this brief moment gave Tari enough time to hug everyone involved and with the help of Malevus, take a quick bath.
With Faelyn having been born, life would find its rhythm again. Just with one small human being who was always hungry, or sleeping, or keeping everyone close by awake being in the mix. That would require some getting used to.
…
It had been three days since and you hadn’t ventured that much out from your home. Outside of a few short visits to see your officers and check on things, you had mostly stayed in either studying or from time to time helping with Faelyn. For some odd reason she didn’t cry when you were around, which made changing her nappies an easier task.
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>>6375815
But today you had decided to do something else, it had been a way too long of a time since your last visit to that one large rock which had the secret mailbox for your and Thrall’s communications. Today you would visit the large rock and see if there was anything new there for you. Sir Gravis had volunteered to escort you, but you had politely declined for you had Malevus with you and through that the perfect cover story. You were taking her out for a romantic ride into the countryside.
“How are you feeling?” You asked her after making some distance away from Dawnholme.
“Tired, she is so energetic when awake. If you aren’t playing with her she makes so much noise.” Malevus lamented.
“I like her.” You said to her.
“Because you aren’t watching her all the time.” She replied and shook her head.
“It will get easier in a week or two.”
“I am not complaining, she is so cute and seeing Faelyn with Tari, it is the most beautiful thing I have seen in a long time.” Malevus replied with a slime.
You continued to ride for a while and saw the farmers going through the fields. Soon they would be ready for the harvest and with that the autumn that was to come.
“Alric?”
“Yeah?”
“Do you think Thrall will do something this year?” Malevus asked you.
That was a good question. You knew his intent and he had apparently two small clans worth of warriors ready to help him to achieve his goals. But would that be enough to do more than just one or two camps? You weren’t sure, were they ready? Would they need more arms and armour?
>Thrall will act this year, will it be an attack into a camp or something else you weren’t sure.
>The lethargy must be something he needs to solve first. If the orcs are lethargic, will they even follow him out of the Camps?
>He won’t act, he is not ready. The Warsongs must collect and acquire more arms for themselves and the orcs they will free from the Camps.
>They need more allies, more warriors to succeed. Blackrock Clan remnants? Trolls? Ogres? You have no idea.
>Other, write in.
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>>6375816
>The lethargy must be something he needs to solve first. If the orcs are lethargic, will they even follow him out of the Camps?
I mean as far as Alric is aware only Fel energy could really motivate them. They aren't all willful sons of bitches like Grom's orcs. We don't exactly have our orc buddy Astu who owes us our life to tell us more about orcs now that hes over in the camps unless we want him back as a training orc. Perhaps Alric is just missing something.
We haven't gotten a warning which I think he promised to give us. If they learn about the Strom camps being moved to Durnholde they'll need to communicate, and may need to shift some things around.
But on the one hand if he was going to attack I could see Fall being a good time for several reasons.
1 The orcs are going to need a lot of food so not only will the camps have some stockpiles being prepared for winter but the harvests of the nearby farms will be ripe for plunder if they want more. What season is the best for traders to be present?
2 Once news spreads that the attack has happened the Alliance could have trouble rallying men away from a harvest if they had wanted numbers, even if it would just be militia.
3 If they needed time to resolve the lethargy or figure out what they want to do going forward, the Alliance moving men and supplies in winter would presumably be difficult.
4 Attacking while the strom camp orcs are being moved could be a lot easier for that part of their campaign.
5 If Thrall is wary of our army and Durnholde's army then attacking during the fall right after our Gnoll Campaign would probably be a solid time. Wounded and tired men. Recruiting to cover losses. Supplies were spent on the campaign.
Beyond that how much news and intelligence does the Syndicate share with them? How much does Thrall really understand of human politics? Blackmoore did give him a full education including history and strategy if I remember from the books.
Should Thrall attack before, during, or after the Kings Meeting if hes aware of it and how the Kings would react differently? Is it worth delaying a response from most of the kingdoms until their King can get back from the meeting to issue orders but give them a chance to coordinate at the same table? Or better that they'd have to decide whether its really their problem to send their army into southern lordaeron when the other kings aren't face to face to question their honor and oath to the alliance, before even trying to coordinate. I'd probably pick the latter.
So if not this Fall I could see it next year.
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“Maybe, but he needs to solve the lethargy first.” You said to Malevus as you passed several more fields. “If the orcs are lethargic and we have seen them how they are powerless to act or do anything more than sit in their own piss and manure. If they are lethargic, will they even follow Thrall if the gates are brought down?”
Malevus didn’t know an answer to that so she didn’t reply.
“Hellscream has kept his Clan together by pure willpower, but I could see it in him and in those who were with him, the orcs are weak. The demonic energies and Fel that kept them going just aren't there.” You said to her.
“What if they replace those energies that fueled them?” Malevus mused.
“You could be right, it certainly would make some sense.” You shrugged.
You were trying to do the same. Could Thrall find a solution to all of this? Maybe, maybe not.
…
The ride continued and soon the paths in the forest disappeared. You had forbidden the hunters from going past the last hunting cabin to prevent them from “disturbing more ancient tombs”. Which was true, the ancient tomb in which you had fought against the death knight Umo Shadowheart was located there, but the real reason was so that no one would stumble upon the large stone and your way to communicate with Thrall.
Passing clearings, you stopped for a break and watched as deer enjoyed the fresh grass. Passing birds flew high above you and nature itself was so verdant and alive. With or without any messages present, to come here was the right choice as it was so calming and refreshing.
Reaching the large stone, you dismounted a small distance away from it and took off your glasses. You didn’t see any tracks, not that you were a tracker. Still you approached the large stone carefully looking around until you reached it. Between it and the pine growing next to it was the spot and there was the leather bag you had left there. And inside it was a letter.
“We have something.” You said and took out the letter that actually was a piece of birch bark and on it was writing. “He has left us a message.”
“What does he say?” Malevus asked.
You opened the piece of birch bark and read what Thrall had written down with a piece of charcoal. They had found Pai and received the message. She left soon after. Thrall thanked you for delivering the message, praising your honour and due to that you deserve to know that there won’t be any freed Interment Camps this year.
You took a deep breath and sighed.
“What is it?” Malevus asked.
“He won’t act this year.” You said to her.
“That sounds great!” She said.
“No war this year, we aren’t in a hurry.”
“What else is there?” She asked.
You continued to read. The Clans just aren’t ready, they need time to prepare. Then there was something you didn’t expect to see in writing.
“He wants to meet me, when is the next full moon?” You said and asked.
“In two weeks.” She said.
“He’ll be here then.” You told her.
“Will you come or just leave a message?” Malevus asked.
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>>6376105
>No, it will be too dangerous to make this trip that often. Someone might take notice. Better to just leave a message.
>Yes, you will come see Thrall. He wouldn’t invite you to come see him without a reason.
>Other, write in
QM: Not that many options with this. To go or not to go, both have negatives and benefits.
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>>6376106
>>Yes, you will come see Thrall. He wouldn’t invite you to come see him without a reason.
If we want to convince thrall to go easy on durnholde it would be easier to do so face to face. I guess its worth the risk.
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>>6376106
>Yes, you will come see Thrall. He wouldn’t invite you to come see him without a reason.
>Other, write in
A different forlorn landmark like the actual tomb of Umo Shadowheart? Where we dueled Grom? Somewhere easier for Tari to go and get some air so he can see baby Faelyn. He may not get another chance.
Change it up a little eh. Go on foot and Malevus does have her prayer against fatigue, everyone knows Alric doesn't hike he thinks its lame so they can't possibly be going very far. Probably just boinking in the woods or a cabin. Good way to force Alric to work on his athletics.
If we wanted to do a funny bit then have Gravis dress up like Alric and scamper around town. Goggles hide the eyes, Callia's scarf around his face, on horseback, and something to tuck the hair into. Plus Malevus or the other bodyguards to answer questions and pretend the Prince has some congestion. Ofc Gravis would ask why and where hes going that such a distraction is necessary.
If Alric was further along in his magic I could probably suggest something that sounds like a rock album as flying on wings of fire. I don't think Thrall completed his Shaman training either or he could try to make some rather unnatural fog in fall and winter lol.
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“I am going to return here, but I need to think about how to slip out of Dawnholme.” You said to Malevus and using your finger and a bit of mana wrote a short reply in case Thrall is here first.
“I will come.”
“There, done.” You said, folding the birch bark and putting it back inside the bag.
“What did you mean by slipping out of Dawnholme?” Malevus asked you.
“Well I can’t just leave without noticing anyone and me coming here that often, at some point someone gets curious and might follow me.” You told her and continued. “And as much as we could explain the trips as romantic getaways, twice in two weeks.”
“We could attempt…” She replied and blushed a bit.
“I love you, but we need to think of other things and places to have our picnics.” You chuckled.
“You are right… once is understandable, twice gets suspicious.” She replied.
“Though don’t worry about it, we will think about something.” You said to her. “But now, let’s go enjoy the view.”
The view from the large stone was as good as always. Seeing as far as Southshore, seeing the houses in Dawnholme and if you looked carefully the people milling around. Seeing Malevus lounging next to you nibbling on the cookies Maura had made and packed for you was quite a sight as well. Moments like this should be treasured and so when you kissed her, you didn’t stop there.
And she didn’t protest.
…
>8
>5
One week had passed since then and life in Dawnholme had continued as is. Little Faelyn kept Tari awake and tired, the little ball of energy demanded constant attention and even with Maura and Tari’s mother taking turns with Malevus to keep Faelyn occupied, Tari barely had time to rest. So you did the unthinkable and ordered Tali to not work at all. She protested as she likes working with the numbers, but her rest is more important than some bloody numbers.
During this time you did receive a message from Strahnbrad Hills that the alcohol had disappeared and no further troll sightings were seen, except a pair of new totems had been erected along the border between your territory and theirs closer to the mountains.
You also received a letter from Durnholde, it wasn’t written by Blackmoore, but Langston. He thanked you for all the work you did in Stormwind City and the letter continued with usual platitudes of friendship, cooperation, yadda yadda so on and so forth etc. The letter had Langston’s signature and a scribble by Blackmoore so he had seen it. Two days later you received another letter, this time just from Langston where he explained everything.
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File: Nalice.png (775.5 KB)
>>6376676
Blackmoore had been livid when he heard the news of the decision made in Stormwind. To lose the Stromgarde Internment Camps and having to move the orcs here was news he didn’t want to hear. It took Langston considerable effort to calm him down. Blackmoore’s position was secured, you were going to send him all those men to help, it was just a minor inconvenience compared to what could have been. Blackmoore had calmed down and went on a several day long drunken stupor. Langston would do his best in trying to get Blackmoore to honour what he agreed with you regarding the Darrowmere League and him joining it, it might just take some time to get him to see the benefits right now.
Of course Blackmoore was acting difficult, you just hoped that he would honour his word and not back down. Though you would have the leverage of hundred or so men soon enough in Durnholde.
…
It had started to rain a bit and day later in the evening the front door to your home opened. In stepped without saying a word a rather wet looking Lady Nalice who stopped in front of you and gave you a deep curtsy.
“Prince Alric.” She greeted you.
“Lady Nalice.” You stood up and greeted her back. “Let me help you with your cloak.”
You took the wet cloak off her back and spread it on one of the chairs close to the fireplace where a small fire kept the humidity in the room away.
“How was your journey?” You asked her.
“Very wet and windy, I enjoy arriving here thoroughly.” She replied and joined you by the table. “There is some news.”
“What are they?” You asked.
“My assistants will be arriving here in a week or two, and I have also received the rest of my belongings from Lady Katrana, was that your doing?” She told you and asked.
“Yes, yes it was.”
“Then I need to thank you.” She replied.
A lot had happened since her leaving Dawnholme and she didn’t know everything. It was probably smart to continue the talks in your office in a more private environment.
>Nalice should be informed of Eligius and what he is doing right now. The operation to rescue your little sister Alicia from the Syndicate.
>It was your sister Beve who asked for the truce between Alliance and the Syndicate. Not your brother so you are still worried about their actions against you.
>The trolls in the mountains are concerning you a lot. Is there anything Nalice could do about them or does she know what are they doing there?
>Tell her about your worries about orcs being on the move and threatening the Internment Camps.
>Have her learn about Thrall and your knowledge of him. That should surprise Nalice.
>Other, write in
QM: Plenty to tell, but what are topical right now or worth telling her? Rolls were the trolls and how did Blackmoore react.
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>>6376679
Finally my Nalice is back! Alric knows how to deal with the cold and wet be it blizzard or rain. They were interrupted from what should have been a nice solid week or two in Stormwind.
>Other, write in
What was her last thing to do in Stormwind anyways?
I haven't forgotten, but will she feel like telling? Propose it as a game of exchanging things the other doesn't know. Bring out the Durnholde Deed as we were also keeping that a secret which plays into what will happen with Durnholde after an orc invasion. Shes our schemer now, lay out the plays.
>Have her learn about Thrall and your knowledge of him. That should surprise Nalice.
Well if we're talking topical have the meeting with Thrall in another week is right in front. A way to get out without notice. The fact Thrall and Grom could be hitting the camps as soon as next year and what to do about Annabelle.
>Nalice should be informed of Eligius and what he is doing right now. The operation to rescue your little sister Alicia from the Syndicate.
She'd find out very quickly that Eligius is gone with several other high value assets. Considering Eligius and Pai gang was able to pretend to be syndicate returning from the area it wouldn't be too hard to send agents over to make contact, if thats where we want to send them.
Theres also the truce made by Beve, which just so happens to coincide with an increase of syndicate activity in Stromgarde reported by Leglace. As far as we know Stromgarde is more or less Falconcrest territory? Or at least not the big brother's territory. So I think Alric could find that a bit sus.
At least thats how I see which are the ones we could really lay into Nalice and get things done.
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>>6376679
>It was your sister Beve who asked for the truce between Alliance and the Syndicate. Not your brother so you are still worried about their actions against you.
>The trolls in the mountains are concerning you a lot. Is there anything Nalice could do about them or does she know what are they doing there?
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>>6376679
>Thank her for joining us directly in Alterac, and her efforts in Stormwind securing possibly the best outcome that could be expected. Maybe comment on the arrangements between dragons and humans as no small thing (segue into the arrangement with Lady Prestor?)
Current actions:
>Nalice should be informed of Eligius and what he is doing right now. The operation to rescue your little sister Alicia from the Syndicate.
>It was your sister Beve who asked for the truce between Alliance and the Syndicate. Not your brother so you are still worried about their actions against you.
>Have her learn about Thrall and your knowledge of him. That should surprise Nalice.
Future actions:
>Tell her about your worries about orcs being on the move and threatening the Internment Camps in a year.
Also the more immediate arrival of many Stonemasons to Alterac to reunite the group. Nalice would know many.
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So Thrall is on the move? Do we have his adopted human sister safe? Because that is gonna be the only thing to keep us alive when Thrall inevitably targets us. It is not like we can help him unleash the reformed horde...
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>>6376679
>Nalice should be informed of Eligius and what he is doing right now. The operation to rescue your little sister Alicia from the Syndicate.
>It was your sister Beve who asked for the truce between Alliance and the Syndicate. Not your brother so you are still worried about their actions against you.
>Have her learn about Thrall and your knowledge of him. That should surprise Nalice.
All important and need to be talk about now
The rest can wait for a later talk
>>6376874
Are you new to this quest ? Because you will be surprised by what we did by just reading through this thread.
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>>6376679
>Nalice should be informed of Eligius and what he is doing right now. The operation to rescue your little sister Alicia from the Syndicate.
>It was your sister Beve who asked for the truce between Alliance and the Syndicate. Not your brother so you are still worried about their actions against you.
>Have her learn about Thrall and your knowledge of him. That should surprise Nalice.
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>>6376874
But for answer your questions :
>>6376105
>“He won’t act this year.”
And
>Do we have his adopted human sister safe?
She is quite safe. See recent updates.
>when Thrall inevitably targets us.
I doubt he would target the Dawnholme Principality. Especially after what Alric did for him. He will go for Durnholde though
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“Shall we head to my office?” You asked her. “We have a lot to talk about.”
Nalice gave you a polite nod and followed you up the stairs and into your office. You motioned her to take a seat as you circled your desk and sat down as well.
“So I don’t know where to start as a lot has happened which we didn’t have a chance to talk about in Stormwind.” You told her.
“Where is Eligius?” Nalice asked you.
“My little sister Alicia Perenolde is being held by the Syndicate so I sent Eligius, Pai, Bill Rover, Otto Wanz and SirCyrus to go rescue her from Lord Creedy.” You told her matter of factly. “They should be somewhere in Strahnbrad, probably beyond.”
Nalice paused and looked at you curiously.
“Prince Alric, you have a little sister?” She asked.
“Yes, quite a surprise. Creedy is holding her as a royal hostage so if Eligius manages to rescue her, my brother will have an edge over Creedy. And if Pai manages to kill him, that edge won’t be needed.” You told Nalice and continued very matter of factly.
“Smart thinking, but to give Eligius such a mission.” She said.
“He is more competent than you think he is.” You said to her. Nalice had always thought less about him, probably because Eligius is afraid of her. “He will succeed.”
“If you say so Prince Alric.” Nalice replied and gave you a polite smile.
“Syndicate won’t like it when that happens, but I think we have a way to mitigate the damage. The truce, you must have heard about it already?” You said and asked.
“Yes, yes I have.”
“It was the work of Beve Perenolde, not my brother.” You told her. “She wanted the truce. I don’t know what her plans are, but if something was to shake the balance within the Syndicate, I imagine she could jump in and twist the situation to her benefit. To our benefit.”
“Do you trust your sister?” Nalice asked you.
“Tell my little brother to remember the flowers red, white and blue.” You said and smiled. “Just me and her know the meaning of that. She wouldn’t include that in her call for the truce without thinking about me.”
Nalice gave you a blank stare and seemed to accept the answer.
“There’s one more thing that you should know Lady Nalice.” You said to her.
“What is it?”
“Thrall is on the move, he plans on rescuing the orcs in the Internment Camps with the help of Grom Hellscream and the Warsong Clan. His own Clan, the Frostwolves are hidden somewhere in the Alteraci Mountains.” You told Nalice.
“Orcs… of course.” She replied and you could hear the disdain in her voice. “How do you know about this?”
“I have met him, I know Thrall.” You said to her again rather matter of factly.
You could see Nalice thinking as she processed this information.
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>>6376985
“Taretha nurtured Thrall when he was a baby, the one person who treated him as a person and not as an object is here with me.” You told Nalice and continued. “He owes me, he owes me a lot. And because of that I have met him and I know what he is planning. Because he told me.”
Nalice looked at you for a second and started to laugh before her laugh turned into a grin.
“A Perenolde working with the orcs? Prince Alric, I thought you would have learned from the mistakes your father made?” Nalice said to you and grinned.
“Any issues with that?” You smiled back to her.
“None at all, you do surprise me from time to time.” She replied.
Nalice seemed to approve whatever moves you were making with the orcs even if they were orcs. Being a red dragon made her rather aware of what they did to her dragonflight during the Second War and she had expressed that to you.
“Orcs… when will they act?” Nalice asked.
“Not this year, they aren’t ready.” You told her and continued. “In a week I will travel into the mountains and I will meet with Thrall to discuss the matters.”
“You seem troubled?” Nalice asked, she could see straight through you.
“I can’t slip away that easily.” You told her. “Not this often. People will talk.”
“I can help you with that.” She replied.
Nalice was an accomplished mage and a spymaster and so many things on top of that. If anyone, she could help you.
>Couldn’t she turn you invincible or something, allowing you to sneak out without anyone seeing?
>She doesn’t have to do a thing or be concerned about the meeting. Just get her bearings in Dawnholme and settle in.
>Malevus will come with you and you will need your horses.
>Nalice Surprise Box.
>Other, write in.
>>6376874
Welcome to the Quest, other anons already answered most of your questions, but if you have anything more just go ahead and I will try to answer them as best as I can.
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>17, Success!
“You can?” You asked and then remembered that Nalice knew the magic of disguises and other tricks. She was a dragon taking human form after all.
“Yes.” She said.
The eyes of Nalice glowed for a second and two in front of you as she casted a glamour to hide her current form. The black haired woman with rust coloured eyes shifted in front of you. Her eyes turned Fel green just like yours, her nose turned into the shape of yours. Hair lengthened and her chin resembled yours.
“Prince Alric.” Alric said to you.
“Lady… Prince Alric… you look quite like me.” You replied to him.
Nalice was still wearing her own clothes, but her face and head looked quite like yours. She was your doppelganger all in all.
“I will take your role for a day or two.” Alric said to you.
“Well it would take me a day or two to see Thrall, I do need to take my horse and Malevus will come with me.” You told him or her.
“That I can handle.” Nalice or Alric replied to you.
“And I could handle you before that.” You said to her or him. It was getting confusing.
“You could? I can’t wait for that to happen, but to be… attracted to yourself?” Alric or Nalice said to you playfully.
“I know the effect I have on women, but on men?” You raised the question and grinned.
“Want to find out Prince Alric?” Nalice or Alric asked you.
The door to your office opened and Malevus stepped in as she stretched her hands and back. She stopped as she saw you behind your desk and then she turned to look at the person sitting in front of you. Nalice or Alric turned and looked at Malevus.
“Alric? Alric…” Malevus said and pointed at you and then the glamoured Nalice.
“It is Nalice, she arrived earlier.” You told her.
“Nalice?” Malevus asked and looked at your doppelganger.
“That is how we will meet with Thrall, she will take my part.” You told her.
“It is a smart plan Lady Malevus.” Alric or Nalice said to her.
“I… I can’t, which one of you… how can I…” Malevus muttered to herself.
“I am the real one, we can have a close inspection later on.” You told her.
Malevus blushed and looked at you and then at glamoured Nalice.
“Nalice will pretend to be me while we are away. That should make me go away, I think she can play convincing me for the majority of my officers, isn’t that right Lady Nalice?” You said and asked.
In front of you the glamour dropped and the raven haired Nalice appeared in front of you. She looked at Malevus and then at you before standing up.
“Your plan will work Prince Alric.” Nalice said to you as she stood up.
“It was less mine and more her’s.” You said to Malevus. “But it should work, we both know it.”
Nalice bowed to both you and Malevus.
“Prince Alric, Lady Malevus. I shall make my leave.” She said and after your nod stepped out of the study.
“Alric, what was that?” Malevus asked as she left.
“Glamour, what about it?” You said.
“She looked like you?”
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>>6377153
“That’s the trick.” You said and pointed out. “Now shall we continue till close inspections?”
“Alric…” Malevus protested.
“How is it?”
“How can I say no to that.” Malevus replied.
…
Two days later you found yourself in the house Nalice was using wearing your black clothes enhanced for magic.
“Prince Alric.” Nalice greeted you..
“Lady Malevus.” You said to her.
“Have you continued your lessons?” She asked and went into business immediately.
“I have, but I did make a choice of my own.”
“Oh?”
>Tell her about the help Jaina gave you. She was of great help.
>You have been pushing for more incendiary fire instead of something new. That was your choice
>What does Nalice have on her mind, something else?
>Other, write in.
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>>6377155
>“Lady Malevus.” You said to her.
Poor sleepy Medivh, mixing up his ladies
>Tell her about the help Jaina gave you. She was of great help.
Its been some time but Jandice helped -a lot- I'd say much more than Jaina did lol. Jandice's scenes of helping were actually quite sweet and memorable what with the magic writing using our finger. The big bonfire of our magic limit. Her estate illusions and dueling an image. I forgot if and when it was stated outright but the implications that Dalaran wasn't telling Jandice everything because they're suspicious of her past student relationship with Kel'Thuzad.
>You have been pushing for more incendiary fire instead of something new. That was your choice
If I had to push for anything else now that I think of it? Smoke. A nice smokescreen to hide Alric's magic if he has to start blastin or skedaddle with Malevus in tow.
I suppose last I recall the lesson with Eligius she left us with before the Gnoll Campaign was magic sensing, which did prove useful in hunting down the Gnoll Mage. Spotting its wards that let it observe its whole territory. Spotting the Syndicate warlock.
Too bad we didn't spot the magic landmine before we it set off lol. But using the Fel inside to break the illusion was a pretty neat trick. Plus we did try using dragon runes to weaken it before stabbing it with the anti-magic dagger. That point of progress to mana-drain as Alric soaks up a bunch of ambient mana.
That we picked Incendiary Fire because of how the fight with Falconcrest went and his gadgets. Really theres been quite a few magic encounters.
If theres one Fel magic I think had the best chance of ever getting agreement to learn it would be the Fel Shields those Gnoll Warlocks used to block Boyd's fireballs. Just a nice solid barrier magic to block damage.
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>14, Failure!
You stood there and spoke to her.
“Lady Jaina Proudmoore learned about my magic and instead of acting like someone from Dalaran, she decided to help me. She pushed me forward, gave guidance and tips.” You told Nalice as you followed her down the stairs into the cellar.
“Lady Proudmoore?” Nalice asked.
“Yes, I know she is a Dalaran mage, but she is my friend, I can trust her.” You replied. It was good that you explained where she stood and how she didn’t follow what Dalaran might have expected her to do.
“Fine, if you say so.” Nalice replied to you. “Then what have you learned?”
“This.”
You opened your palm and a fire appeared over it. You concentrated on it and took in the lessons from the first time and the times afterward. You had been practicing a bit and the moment the fire intensified, you kept it steady.
“I have tried to get it to burn with more power, more intensity.” You said to Nalice and continued as sparks flew out of the fire. “The first time I did it, I had to drop it and it continued to burn on the sand.”
Nalice studied your fire for a second before nodding.
“Please continue.” She said and you did as told.
Concentrating on the fire, you pushed more mana to it as the fire brightened and started to burn even hotter until…
You had to pull your hand back and let the small ball of burning liquid fire fall on the sand. It splattered and kept burning there.
“Damn it…” You muttered and looked at your hand, thankfully you didn’t burn your hand, but you couldn’t hide your disappointment. “I can’t keep the fire together and if I touch it, it will burn my hand.”
Nalice looked at you rather thoughtfully and kneeled to look at the burning remnants of the fire you had created that still smouldered on the sand.
“More training is required Prince Alric.” She said to you and continued. “You have the right idea, but what is required is for you to be protected from it.”
“So a ward or something?” You asked.
“Just better control over the fire is needed. And that requires us to practice, practice a lot.” She replied to you.
“Like lighting the candle a thousand times?” You asked.
“Something in that style yes.” Nalice said and smiled.
Sounds like you had quite many evenings ahead of repetition after repetition.
…
>18, Success!
Nalice stood behind you and as you held your hand forward, she pressed herself against you and took hold of your arm.
“Please begin, I will protect you.” She whispered to you.
You nodded. Nalice had gone through some theory before this with you. In her opinion you just aren’t ready to handle such hot fires, but with some time and getting used to it you would. You need to learn to accept the incendiary fire as your own and not be afraid of it, because the moment your concentration falters, you lose the control of the fire.
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>>6377899
The fire appeared above your palm and you pumped more mana into it, changing it to burn hotter. Sparks started to fly out as you got closer to the point where you had previously failed. Then you felt Nalice casting some sort of a spell as this tingling sensation spread from her hand to your arm. The fire sparked and grew in intensity, reaching a hotness that felt scorching in your hand, but it did not burn you even if droplets of liquid fire fell on your skin. You pumped more of your mana into it as the fire grew in intensity, properly turning into this all burning incendiary fire that had been your goal from the start.
“Drop it on the sand.” Nalice told you and you did as told.
The liquid fire fell and spread on the sand while burning. You took a deep breath as Nalice stopped her spell that protected you. She still held you as she spoke.
“This is our goal, you need to be able to do this without my help.” She told you and finally let go of you.
You watched as the fire sizzled and slowly died down.
“That was quite intense. The heat of the fire, it was something else.” You said to her.
“Familiar to me, but unfamiliar to a human like you.” Nalice replied.
>Nalice is talking about dragonfire, isn’t she?
>What sort of training do you need to perform to get used to this incendiary fire?
>That spell Nalice casted? What was it, you didn’t recognise it from your reading of theory.
>Has she progressed in her studies when it comes to the Fel inside of you?
>Other, write in.
QM: Took me a while, but here's the update.
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>>6377902
Nice update, glad Nalice is back. Of course I'd like it all.
>Nalice is talking about dragonfire, isn’t she?
Love me dragons and Aspects. The Dragonfire inside already seems to have made Alric rather tolerant to extreme heat, if not his own fire. Unlike poor Boyd who has burned himself so badly.
Which reminds me he must also have some nice tips.
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>>6377902
>>Nalice is talking about dragonfire, isn’t she?
>>What sort of training do you need to perform to get used to this incendiary fire?
>>That spell Nalice casted? What was it, you didn’t recognise it from your reading of theory.
>>Has she progressed in her studies when it comes to the Fel inside of you?
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>>6377902
>That spell Nalice casted? What was it, you didn’t recognise it from your reading of theory.
Did Nalice use Fire Ward? That's neat.
>Nalice is talking about dragonfire, isn’t she?
>What sort of training do you need to perform to get used to this incendiary fire?
More dragonmagic please
>Has she progressed in her studies when it comes to the Fel inside of you?
Write In:
what has she seen non-dragons being capable of with fire magic? How far can we go with this?
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“Are you talking about dragonfire?” You asked Nalice.
“No.”
“But isn’t it quite similar to this?”
“Partially Prince Alric.” Nalice told you and continued after a pause. “It is better to explain it to you. Dragonfire and its type depends on the Dragonflight. Us of Red Dragonflight can breathe immense destructive fire, while those of Blue, for them it is frost.”
“Frost? Like snow?” You had to ask.
“Not exactly, it is magical in nature and will freeze you down to the bone, but it is not ice or frost as you know them.” She said to you.
“I see, so the fire I am trying to create is similar to the dragonfire, but not quite exactly like it?” You mused.
“Correct, it does resemble it, yet only a dragon can create dragonfire.” Nalice told you.
You scratched your chin and thought about it. That kinda made some sense to you.
“Lady Nalice.” You started as she liked the honourifics. “So for you dealing with an incendiary fire like that is an easy task? I didn’t recognise the spell you casted that protected me.”
“Correct, you might recognise the spell as something Dalaran calls us Fire Ward, but it was not that. It is just something that comes naturally to me.” She told you.
“Can I learn that?” You asked.
“Fire Ward? Yes. What I did? Probably not as you are not a dragon.” She told you.
“Well sounds like I need to learn that Fire Ward then, right?”
“No.”
“No?”
“Spells like that are temporary solutions, we need a permanent solution.” Nalice told you and smiled.
“And which is?”
…
Nalice had explained that you need to keep repeating this exercise time after time. Get more used to creating this incendiary liquid fire of yours and getting more familiar with it. As arcane magic is all about imagining what is not real into reality and tapping into the inherent nature of the elements involved, you need to do the same thing here.
“So I just need to start believing that the fire won’t hurt me?” You asked her.
“Correct Prince Alric.” Nalice replied.
“Though I presume it won’t be that easy in practice…”
“That would be also correct. It is a long winding road.” She told you. “But you are already on that path.”
“So it doesn’t really hurt me if this takes some time.” You shrugged.
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>>6378242
Following Nalice out of the cellar, you made sure your mage clothes were tidy after the training. Nalice hadn’t yet received her belongings, you learned that her assistants would be the ones carrying them when they arrive in a few weeks. But she had enough of her belongings here that she could jump back into her previous work as your personal teacher of both normal knowledge and magical knowledge, along with keeping her eyes open when it comes to spymaster business. With of course Eligius gone, what she could do on that front was lacking as she didn’t want to reveal everything about her, but she would do her part.
“Have you looked into the Fel issue?” You asked her. “Have you even had the time?”
“Yes, I have. But what I require is still with my assistants. Right now I cannot do much at all about the Fel within you.” Nalice said and walked to you, pressing her hand against your chest.
You could feel the grip within you, the Fel reacting to her sensing it. Nalice looked into your green eyes with her own rust coloured ones. Her gaze lingered with yours a bit too long, though you didn’t mind.
“There will be a solution, I will promise you that Prince Alric.” She said to you.
“I trust you Lady Nalice.” You replied.
She moved away from you and went for her table. You had left papers and scrolls you had been previously reading laying there and she studied them. A bit awkward silence fell into the room, as if it was your turn to say or suggest something.
>Nalice has had shortcuts previously, those old elven and Dalaran tricks to learn magic for example. Does she have anything for learning how to protect yourself from the fire?
>Could consulting Jon Boyd be useful? He is a pyromancer and he has burned his right arm and right side of his face quite badly.
>The secret chamber beyond the dungeon has been finished. What exactly was her plan for it, maybe it would be worth checking it out.
>Other, write in.
Nalice the Lover:
>Flirt
>Flirt and a bit more
>Not now, it is not proper
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>>6378243
I trust Nalice to teach us effective ways, so seems like shortcuts and Dalaran methods might not fly.
>The secret chamber beyond the dungeon has been finished. What exactly was her plan for it, maybe it would be worth checking it out.
>Ask her about the court mage Medivh
I forgot if we have done this yet.
>Flirt
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>>6378243
Reminder to show her the Fel Turnip and whatever we could do with that. Maybe trap a mean fire spirit and use it as another fire magic trinket lol.
>Could consulting Jon Boyd be useful? He is a pyromancer and he has burned his right arm and right side of his face quite badly.
Why have a pyromancer who we've favored with trust if not to tap him for his experiences. It might be a nice scene to sit in on whatever lessons his and Williams students are learning, how long they expect their education to last, if they will all become pyromancers and arcanists. We can always decide whether to use what hes learned on his own or not.
>The secret chamber beyond the dungeon has been finished. What exactly was her plan for it, maybe it would be worth checking it out.
Hopefully its got some furniture.
>Other, write in.
More Dragon Runes.
Theres already the seed of Nalice's magic having grown and influenced his body to condition him against great heat, where he can bully Foecourt in the sauna lol, and that is stable. Draw it out even further. How far can they refine it. His first magic mutation was that it went into his hair and made it shiny and resilient lol so as far as magic influencing the body its a pretty well established means. But this is far more stable than mutation with Runes building off his own body.
Also pretty funny that I don't think anyone ever brought up the hand tattoos. Just more Alric eccentrics.
>>6378244
I believe we did talk to her about Medivh soon after we found his grave in Stormwind
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“Master Pelija’s Stonemasons had finished their work on that chamber beyond the dungeon. I haven’t yet checked it out, but I did visit it when it was half-finished.” You told Nalice.
“Oh have they?” Nalice asked.
“Yeah, want to go check it out? Apparently you had asked them to build it in the first place.” You asked her.
“I did, there is a very specific purpose for that location.” She said and stood up, leaving the papers for later.
“Then shall we go?” You asked her. “You can hold my hand.”
Nalice gave you a polite smile as she walked to you, taking your hand. Her touch was warm.
“Please follow me Prince Alric.” She said.
…
>24, Crit Success!
The evening had turned into a night as you followed Nalice through Dawnholme. Clouds had gathered overhead and you could feel a slight breeze on your face. It might rain a bit soon, it felt like it. Dawnholme was silent as people had gone back to their homes or gathered together with their friends. Lights shone through the windows and just a few passerbys walked past you with the City Guards standing vigil at several street corners. Nalice avoided most of them and slipped past a patrol of the City Guard with you right behind her. It felt strange to skulk around like this in your own town, but you were doing things that were supposed to be secrets after all.
Finally past several houses was a yard and there was a small cellar. Nalice opened the door down and you followed her into the darkness. Casting a small orb to follow her and provide light, you passed the jars with pickled goods and reached a nondescript wall. A simple hook to hold something had been attached on the wall and with a pull, Nalice easily took it off. With the hook in her hand, she inserted it into a small crack between the stones on the wall and you heard a click.
Suddenly in front of you the whole stone wall opened and Nalice pushed it like it was a door before putting the hook where it was originally.
“A secret door, that’s quite crafty from the Stonemasons.” You mused aloud.
“They have their expertises.” Nalice said back to you.
“I hope they don’t have more surprises after this.” You replied.
As you stepped in, you could see the counterweight mechanism that made the door work somehow. Releasing it, you watched as the door closed behind you. It was really nifty work from them. Following Nalice further down the tunnel that zig-zagged a bit, finally you found a wooden door which you pushed open.
“This is the antechamber Prince Alric.” Nalice told you as you entered a small room with a domed ceiling.
“Antechamber for the main chamber? But why, what is the purpose of this place?” You asked her and waited for an answer.
Nalice motioned you to follow her and walked down a short hallway before pushing twin doors open, entering the now finished large chamber you had visited once before.
“Beautiful, just like I wanted it…” She mused rather uncharacteristically for her.
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>>6379213
The large round chamber was illuminated by her spell, revealing to you the quality of the work. The walls had been smoothed out, stone benches lined the walls and the drainage system kept moisture from collecting here. There even were ventilation tunnels dug on the ceiling that went somewhere, providing the chamber with fresh air.
“Lady Nalice, what is the purpose of this place?” You asked again.
“Prince Alric, this will be the meeting point for you and for those who know about you. And beyond that, it can be used to cast spells without alerting the people living above us or those who are of the Church.” Nalice explained. “Master Pelija was made to believe this was part of your escape tunnel system and to store equipment and artifacts worth hiding from prying eyes.”
“That sounds… a lot.” You didn’t really know what to say.
“There is still work to be done, wards need to be applied on the walls, ceiling and the floor. Strong spells need to be casted to protect and obfuscate the location and the purpose of this place.” Nalice told you and looked at you before smiling. “This is my gift to you Prince Alric.”
You felt your back straighten immediately as you smiled back to her.
“Thank you Lady Nalice.” You said and gave her a polite smile. “You know how to please me.”
“And you know how to please a Lady.” She replied, leaving her words hanging in the air. You could cut the innuendos in the air with a knife.
But that aside, this left you with a lot of questions in your mind. She must have had more reasons why the chamber was built than just being able to cast spells. And she must have had plans for this place for people other than just you.
>Will Eligius and his coven of witches be able to use this chamber? What does she think of those witches?
>Why a chamber? Why not a tower or other building aboveground? You know a mage tower?
>If this is her gift to you, how can you repay her? A gift back?
>When will we introduce this place to the others? Boyd and Williams learned about your magic during the campaign.
>Is she planning this place to be used for rituals? Wards to keep away the Fel magic used?
>What will be her role in all of this? Will she tell others that she knows magic?
>Other, write in
QM: Took me a second to get this out, last of Nalice social updates for now before we get back to normal work. The dragon lady likes when you hold her hand.
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>>6379717
>The dragon lady likes when you hold her hand.
This is a blue board, none of that obscene lewd business here!
>Will Eligius and his coven of witches be able to use this chamber? What does she think of those witches?
How public this will be, though I am sure she has disdain for all junior magic users.
>Why a chamber? Why not a tower or other building aboveground? You know a mage tower?
Probably disdain for Dalaran's theatrics with mage towers too?
>If this is her gift to you, how can you repay her? A gift back?
Time for more lewd.
>Is she planning this place to be used for rituals? Wards to keep away the Fel magic used?
Will she be using Fel, Shadow or Demonology magic here? Will any others? Imagining Eligius learning to cast Eye of Kilrogg to help his spying is funny.
>What will be her role in all of this? Will she tell others that she knows magic?
>Master Pelija was made to believe this was part of your escape tunnel system and to store equipment and artifacts worth hiding from prying eyes.
So it could be used as an Enchanter's workshop to make magical armaments too? Sweet. We can look for an Enchanter among the people of Dalaran's Underbelly
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File: 1770537105180394.jpg (1.0 MB)
>>6379717
What a sweetie, very nice. Could use some more traps before I call it a real dungeon, and I bet they could grow some nice mushrooms down here with a little setup, among other dark plants. Maybe a statue. Something for atmospheric lighting be it glowy mushrooms or crystals, but its hard to beat masses of candles which the witches probably make themselves. Scented ofc lol.
>Will Eligius and his coven of witches be able to use this chamber? What does she think of those witches?
Ah yes the Eligius harem of witches who try to get him to play pin the tail for the harvest ritual. One of these days they'll probably get him so they can strengthen their witchy bloodline. But It was Nalice's idea to have him lead the witches so I'm sure thats still the plan.
>Why a chamber? Why not a tower or other building aboveground? You know a mage tower?
Natural (dragon) affinity for caves. How deep is too deep lol.
>If this is her gift to you, how can you repay her? A gift back?
Good question. A good time? Ideas for dragon runes that would make her human body more real/permanent? An adventure for a relic? Permission to check out the ancient tribal chief burrows as an archeologist might be nice. Find some goodies, lore, or clues pointing to goodies.
>Is she planning this place to be used for rituals? Wards to keep away the Fel magic used?
Any actual big projects and rituals in mind?
>What will be her role in all of this? Will she tell others that she knows magic?
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>>6379717
>Will Eligius and his coven of witches be able to use this chamber? What does she think of those witches?
>If this is her gift to you, how can you repay her? A gift back?
>Is she planning this place to be used for rituals? Wards to keep away the Fel magic used?
>What will be her role in all of this? Will she tell others that she knows magic?
The mage tower question is just dumb Of course we wouldnt want a super obvious visible probably mage tower for our secret magic practice.
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>>6379717
>Will Eligius and his coven of witches be able to use this chamber? What does she think of those witches?
>If this is her gift to you, how can you repay her? A gift back?
>Is she planning this place to be used for rituals? Wards to keep away the Fel magic used?
>What will be her role in all of this? Will she tell others that she knows magic?
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>>6379728
I think Witch Knights would be a nice name for a combat unit thats been trained on some neat trinkets and gear. Might be a nice elite option for the Knights or purely a militant arm of the warlocks and witches to be their bodyguards.
Unless all the magic gear ends up with the mages, assassins, and named characters lol.
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“Will the witches get to use this place?” You asked Nalice and continued. “Eligius could really benefit from it.”
“Yes, that has been something I have thought about.” Nalice replied to you. “A place for all the mages to practice, including the witches.”
“What do you think of them?” You asked. “I haven’t seen much about them, but Eligius seems hopeful.”
“Their magic is old and ancient.” She answered you and gave you a thoughtful look. “But old is not always good, the witches will take time before they are useful to you, but as assistants to Eligius?”
“To help him with rituals and such?” You mused. “Makes sense, or I think it is the other way around…”
Nalice looked at you like she wanted to ask a question.
“I will tell you one day.” You replied and continued. “But rituals, Lady Nalice, are you planning on using this chamber for them? All those wards to keep away Fel magic and everything else we don’t want to show around?”
She gave you a slight smile and walked past you to the middle of the chamber, turning back to look at you.
“Rituals and everything else Prince Alric. I didn’t plan this place to be used with just a certain type of magic, but with all of them. Allowed or not allowed, holy or unholy.” Nalice told you, her regal tone popping up a bit more. “If our enemies are willing to use said magics, we need to be ready to use them to counter them. To learn about them and to make sure you won’t be harmed.”
You couldn’t disagree with that. If there was a place to work with various magics, some considered dangerous, this would be it. Her arguments weren’t that bad, you needed a place like this.
“I can’t but thank you again, you told me that this was a gift. So how can I even repay you Lady Nalice? With a gift of my own?” You asked her.
“You do not need to repay me or give me a gift.” She replied and gave you a slight smile. “You yourself are enough.”
“In that case.” You shrugged. “I think that’s reasonable.”
She walked back to you and took your hand.
“Let me show you what else can be found in here.” She said.
…
Nalice had shown you the entrance that led to the sewers which was similarly hidden and then guided you to where the stairs went up into the actual dungeons. With these multiple entrances you could easily enter here from various directions or flee if needed. Finally she had brought you to the tunnel that led into your homestead.
“I will return to the chamber and start my work on the wards.” Nalice told you. “It might take me some time, but I will have them finished soon enough.”
“Thank you once again.” You said to her.
“Do not thank me Prince Alric.” Nalice said and continued. “Now go, your elf must be waiting for you.”
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>>6380056
She turned around and left you in a dark tunnel as the small light she had conjured followed her. Nalice really was a peculiar woman. You had been softly flirting with her for all the evening and thought that things might lead into something else, but nope. She had been perfectly content with just holding your hand.
You sighed. It was better to keep it this way, your elf was after all probably sleeping after a tired day. It was better if you went to bed as well.
…
>7
>7
It had started to rain and the slight drizzle washed the roofs. The overcast hadn’t relented on its grip on Dawnholme and the people talked about the incoming autumn like it was just past the corner.
None of this had any effect on you and Malevus sparring every morning. Nalice had been right, Malevus had been already sleeping and even if it had been late when you crawled next to her, the next morning you dragged her back to the training yard to practice with wooden longswords and various weapons.
Nalice meanwhile, you hadn’t seen her at all. She probably was still working on the wards down in the chamber, she had after all said it would take her some time to get everything done and finished and by the way she had spoken to you, it didn’t seem like an easy task at all.
Though there was some news as two days passed. The trolls had erected more of their totems, but no other sight of them had been made. It was really as if a border between you and them was being drawn and clearly marked. In addition to that, you received a letter from Dalaran. Prince Kael’thas before returning to Quel’thalas for a short period had replied to your thank you letter. He expressed his gratitude and thanked you for being a good ally and a friend. It was a quite typical courtesy type of a letter, but Kael did write something that did interest you. There might be work for you later this year, the Kirin Tor might ask you for something or more accurately, ask you to do something.
You put the letter aside and wondered what it could be? But that wouldn’t be a worry for the day, in just a couple days you need to slip out of Dawnholme and go meet with Thrall. Before that you would have time for something else, but for what?
Choose one:
>Go help Nalice with the wards, see if you can actually be of some help.
>Have you and Malevus spent as much time as possible together. Play with Faelyn, go for a walks in Dawnholme, do things couples usually do.
>Visit the Stonemason mercenaries in Sofera’s Naze. You haven’t seen them since before the trip to Stormwind City.
>Other, write in.
QM: The roll of 24 was how long will it take for Nalice to finish the wards and now we got another troll roll and the all time classic, the weather. After this vote next thing is Thrall. Nalice likes to respect the rules, nothing more than handholding while Malevus is around.
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>>6380057
>Have you and Malevus spent as much time as possible together. Play with Faelyn, go for a walks in Dawnholme, do things couples usually do.
That sounds nice and relaxing after everything. Although if Nalice and Alric can't make love unless Malevus is away, when is Malevus ever away?
Crit and this and hopefully its done soon, but very tempted to finish it asap. Maybe show her the Fel Turnip, some magic or advice, or if she could even contact Eligius with some kind of ritual. Or spy on trolls lol.
Although I am curious if VanCleef and the Stonemasons coming will change anything with the Stonemason mercs who set up the camp. Do they just do odd jobs around and hunt to sustain themselves?
I guess if I had a write in I wouldnt mind going up to see the Oil rig and the Dark Irons but Thrall is soon.
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Seems a little silly that Thrall wouldn't say why he wants to talk when hes gone to the trouble of saying he would show up.
Although if I had guess its something to do with shaman training as the focus of why Thrall had to delay. Does Thrall have to go really deep into the spirit world and needs something, or someone, to tether him to reality. Alric who he knows, who has Tari, and is rather distinct so as not to be confused with any weird spirit visions. Although the fel in his soul is perhaps not the smartest thing to bring into the spirit world? But theres also dragon magic in there too so maybe it balances out.
Orc politics? Tari? His official warning? Will Grom show up? Or maybe they found another deathknight lol. Or the trolls.
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Stretching your back, you knew the answer.
Malevus.
For the next few days you spent as much as possible time with her. Back home you and her took turns to keep Faelyn entertained and occupied to give Tari some time to rest. Little Faelyn continued to be a bundle of energy and you could just wonder how such a small thing had the endurance, so you rather stubbornly decided to be the immovable object at her irresistible force. Both Tari and Malevus were ready to tag you out, but you endured and after nearly three hours of peek a boo and other classics, you declared yourself a victor as Faelyn finally seemed sleepy.
Tari and Malevus just looked at you when you declared your victory to them. Their faces reflected their thinking really clearly.
“Alric, you are an idiot.” Tari said to you.
“Playing with Faelyn is not a duel.” Malevus criticised you.
You just grinned and felt giddy as hell.
“I won!”
…
Though Faelyn’s nap only lasted for an hour and Tari took over after her, allowing you and Malevus to spend some time together. And that some time meant all the time.
You took her out to ride across the countryside, stopping to talk with the farmers tending their fields or watching over their cattle or sheep. The humble farmers did continue to find Malevus by your side a bit strange sight, but they were simple people and quickly understood everything. If there was something good in life, you should cherish it.
You walked with her through Dawnholme, browsing the goods the local merchants and craftsmen had put out for sale, speaking with the Alteracis and the Stonemasons. The immigrants from Underbelly had started to find jobs and other ways to gain their daily living. The tent city that housed the majority of them, including the Alliance camp that was palisaded, was slowly emptying as people found their new homes and places to stay. It was still crammed from time to time with families having only one room for them, but it was a huge improvement.
Children ran through the streets and if there were any dividing gaps between Alteracis, Stonemasons and those of Underbelly, with the children that gap didn’t exist. It didn’t matter what their background was, playing mates were playing mates.
There were still some curious glances at you and Malevus, people found you holding her hand a bit curious thing, but soon they realised that you were serious about it. If they had any questions about Tari and Faelyn in their minds, why wouldn’t you acknowledge her as your own, those started to get washed away. That was probably for the best, sooner the people accepted the situation the better.
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>>6380601
In the midst of all of this you continued to practice music with Malevus during the evenings along with practicing speaking Thalassian with her as much as possible when the two of you were alone. You tried to find a way to bring her in and with your for every official thing you could imagine. Meeting with your officers or your soldiers, seeing what Master Pelija was working on currently. If she was to be by your side, she would have to learn everything about running a Kingdom, or right now more accurately a Principality.
…
The water hit the hot stones and the steam filled the sauna. The pleasantness of the hot moisture and air caressed your body as you casually leaned back and enjoyed it to your fullest.
Giving a glance at Malevus, you found her leaning forward as the heat struck her body. You did find this funny, she was the one who gushed so much about the sauna and here she was all struggling with the heat. Sweat made her skin gleam and her long red hair stuck on it.
“Not handling the heat?” You asked her.
“Says the one who can conjure fire.” She replied.
“Good point!”
You had theorized that with Nalice having given you her mana to act as the seed and your magic being fire based, your natural affinity with fire had made you more accustomed with heat.
“But it does feel good.” Malevus replied to you and looked at you. “Throw more water.”
You did as told and soon another wave of hot steam and air hit your body. Any muscles that were aching from the sparring immediately felt better and you let out a relaxed sigh.
The two of you enjoyed the moment and you allowed the heat to dissipate a bit as Malevus leaned back and rested her back against the wall. You looked at her and found her really enjoying the heat. The sweat put an emphasis on her curves and…
This is not the moment for such thoughts as you carefully crossed your legs.
“Alric.”
“Yeah?”
“What do you think Thrall wants?” Malevus asked you.
“I don’t know, he wrote that he wouldn’t launch his campaign at the camps. It must be related to that.” You told her.
“What if it is something else?” She asked and looked at you.
“What do you mean?”
“I just have a hunch, you know, asking to see you? It can’t be anything normal.” She looked at you as if waiting for an answer. “Not just about the Interment Camps.”
>It is about the Internment Camps, that will be the main theme, but what does he want? That is the question.
>You have a feeling that you might meet someone else who is with Thrall?
>Thrall might want your help to make sure that Blackmoore or the others won’t mass their troops against him.
>Does Malevus think you should be on guard, be ready to defend yourself?
>Other, write in
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>>6380604
>>It is about the Internment Camps, that will be the main theme, but what does he want? That is the question.
>>You have a feeling that you might meet someone else who is with Thrall?
Hellscream?
>Does Malevus think you should be on guard, be ready to defend yourself?
>Other, write in
"He might want to talk to or about Tari. They were close after all.''
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“I have a feeling that I am going to meet someone other than Thrall.” You said to Malevus.
“Hellscream?” She asked.
“Maybe, or maybe one of Thrall’s clan mates.” You shrugged and went to throw more water on the hot stones.
The water sizzled and the hot steam filled the sauna again, forcing Malevus to bend her back down as you enjoyed the heat it provided. You breathed in the warm air and felt good within you. This elven invention was just tremendous.
“I think Thrall has something more in his mind.” Malevus said to you and grimaced as the heat struck her body. “Something more urgent.”
“Might be, might be not, we will see in a couple of days.” You said to her and continued. “I have a plan for all of us.”
“What plan?” She asked and straightened her back. The sweat glistened again on her body and made you think…
Not the time Alric! Later!
“You will leave the night before to Ambermill, supposedly some Church meeting of some sort.” You told her and continued. “Instead you will wheel north and go for the northernmost hunting cabin. You will wait for me there. I will come there and then go for the meeting place.”
“That does sound like a plan.” She replied. “But I have doubts on Nalice being able to take your role.”
“She will do a fine job, I have seen her disguises.” You replied to her.
“It is still…”
“Nalice, I know.” You interrupted her and continued. “It will be fine.”
Malevus sighed and stepped down the bench and reached for the door. She gave you a look that didn’t need words.
Of course you would wash her back and then the front and then everything and then…
You would make sure she feels loved and taken care of.
…
…
…
“Are you sure this will work?” Malevus asked you.
“It will.” You replied and threw the cloak over her shoulders, making sure she looked ready for travel.
Malevus nodded and double checked everything. Her horse was ready and the saddlebacks had a share of bread and wine in them. You leaned in and gave her a kiss. She was ready, wearing her black clothes and having the elven blade strapped by her side.
“Now go, I will see you tomorrow.” You said to her and escorted her out of your bedroom.
No one else would know about this. Just you, Malevus and Nalice. As much as you wanted to tell Tari, you fought against it. This needed to be sold to everyone including your closest family. Watching as Malevus left, you sighed and took a deep breath. The play to fool everyone would start here.
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>>6380743
Close to midnight you were still awake as your plan moved into its next phase.
There was a knock on your bedroom door and it was opened. In stepped Nalice and she gave you a gentle smile. You had reached out for her and told her your plan and here she was.
“Lady Malevus has left?” Nalice asked you.
“She has.” You said to her and rolled out of your bed. You had been reading a book and waiting for her to arrive.
“Good, then we are alone.” Nalice replied and smiled.
She walked to you and touched your chest. Her eyes found your Fel green eyes and you found her rust coloured ones in return. Gently you smiled at her and she returned it. No more words were needed between you and her as you knew what she wanted and you were ready to give her.
…
…
...
You woke up early and found the naked body of Nalice next to you. Carefully you rolled out of the bed and stood up, searching for your clothes that you had prepared last evening.
“Is it the time?” Nalice asked you as she stirred up.
“It is.” You said to her.
You watched as Nalice rolled out of the bed and walked next to you. She raised her hand up and started to cast. Her naked body changed its shape in front of your eyes and took the form of your. It felt strange to see the copy of you just stand there as the magic weaved her raven black hair to match your own long black hair.
“I am ready.” Alric Nalice said to you.
“You need clothes.” You muttered and went for your closet. “And you need to play the part.”
“I know what I am doing Prince Alric.” Nalice Alric said.
“It feels creepy to be spoken back by myself…” You muttered and handed her, or him the clothes.
This magic, it was just creepy, but it seemed to work really well. Magic to disguise yourself and to replicate the other. This was way beyond your knowledge and you thought it was just a different type of flavour of glamour Nalice was normally using.
“Is there anything specific I should know about?” Alric Nalice asked you.
>She needs to drop her normal regal tone in her speech fully. You are quite normal of a person.
>Maybe if she was to play a lot with Faelyn, the disguised act could be bought better. You like that bundle of energy a lot.
>Nalice could concentrate a lot on paperwork and through that have a reason to stay inside and not interact with the others.
>If Nalice really was going to be you, she would have to go outside and spar with your footmen. That would be something you would do.
>Other, write in.
QM: Nalice will be doing her best Alric impression.
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>>6380744
>Maybe if she was to play a lot with Faelyn, the disguised act could be bought better. You like that bundle of energy a lot.
Well I'd imagine she'd like time with baby Faelyn. One day we'll figure out a way for Nalice's dream. The mental image of her using the regal tone with a baby is pretty funny, perhaps even goofy enough to work.
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>>6380744
>>She needs to drop her normal regal tone in her speech fully. You are quite normal of a person.
>>Maybe if she was to play a lot with Faelyn, the disguised act could be bought better. You like that bundle of energy a lot.
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“You have to drop the way you talk.” You said to Nalice and continued. “Your tone can be… rather formal and regal sounding.”
“Of course Prince Alric.” Nalice Alric replied to you.
“That is exactly what I meant, I am not that formal.” You replied and watched as she got dressed. The glamour magic was quite a thing. “And if you want to sell this disguise act better, go play with Faelyn. She won’t see any difference and I quite like that little bundle of energy a lot.”
“I will keep that in mind.” Alric Nalice said to you.
It took you a moment to get glamoured Nalice dressed as you gave her more tips on how to act and be you. You felt like she was taking your guidance seriously and in return she helped you to get dressed up. You chose to wear the black arming jacket and trousers, not as much as armour, but due to them being warm. Even if it was summer, higher you get in the mountains the stronger the winds will get and the sudden drops in warmth can surprise poorly prepared travellers. Sword by your side, gloves on and chaperon covering your head, you were ready.
“I should be back in a day or two.” You said to her and continued. “It takes half a day to get there and come back so most likely we will stay for the night there. Unless something happens and this takes more than one day…”
“Do not be worried Prince Alric, no one will realise I have taken your place.” Nalice Alric said and smiled.
This was sketchy, the magic was creepy, but if someone was to make this work it would be Nalice. She had after all infiltrated the Stormwind Keep several times so taking your role for a day or two shouldn’t be too hard for her. You just hoped everything would go as planned.
…
>6
Last night you had prepared Epona ready and it didn’t take long to be riding out of Dawnholme just as the sun started to rise and colour the landscape in oranges and yellows. There were some farmers already out working, but a lone rider blazing through the countryside wasn’t that uncommon of a sight. Messengers weren’t after all that rare of a sign nowadays.
As you rode and enjoyed the wind on your face, the weather that seemed to become good decided to not cooperate and the heavy clouds gathered in the sky. The sun struggled to punch through the clouds and as you reached the hillside forests, you felt the first few droplets of water hit your face. You cursed, of course the weather wouldn’t be cooperating with you and you stopped for a moment to throw a dark green cloak, as worn by your most veteran archers, around your shoulders and pulled up the hood.
The drizzle continued as you made your way through the forest, this time you didn’t have the time to wonder at the birds or look out for the deer as you approached the hunting cabin you had asked Malevus to wait for you. When you reached the cabin, you spotted her horse and dismounted next to it and gave Epona some fodder to eat.
1/2
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>>6381254
A knock on the door and it didn’t take long for it to open.
“Malevus.” You greeted her and immediately hugged her.
“Alric.” She said back to you and smiled as you let go of her.
It was so good to see her even if it had been just one night of being away from her. You stepped in and pushed the hood of your head, she had made a small fire in the hearth to stave away the dampness.
“Making some breakfast?” You asked her.
“A bit, I thought you might want some.” She replied. “Just some warm tea and bread.”
“Better than what I have eaten today.”
“Which is?”
“Nothing.” You replied with a laugh. “Didn’t have the time for it, I left so early so let’s just eat and then be off.”
…
You told Malevus of getting Nalice ready to take your place as you ate the bread and drank the tea. She was sceptical of this plan, but had to accept that Nalice might actually pull it off. Malevus after all had seen how Nalice had worked to help you in Stormwind City so she had an idea how good Nalice really was.
Soon you were off, leaving the cabin empty with very few signs that someone had been there. The slight drizzle continued as you and Malevus made your way towards the large rock where you should be meeting with Thrall. The weather wasn’t great, but thankfully the rain stayed as a drizzle and didn’t grow any heavier.
Early afternoon you finally reached the large stone and dismounted Epona. You looked around as if waiting for Thrall to appear from a nearby bush, but nothing happened. You checked the bag where the messages were kept and found the birch bark to be there just like you had left it there. You took it out and with a snap set it on fire, destroying any evidence of it.
“Thrall is not here.” You said to Malevus who had dismounted as well.
“Then we are going to wait?” She asked.
“He will come.” You replied.
You took a seat next to a large pine that kept the drizzle away and wrapped yourself with your cloak. Now you just need to wait.
…
>6
It was several hours later when you heard a twig snap somewhere in the forest and you stood up. Malevus did the same.
“Who goes there?” You raised your voice and your hand rested on the hilt of your sword.
You saw nor heard anything for a moment until you saw an orc wearing furs step out of the bush, he was carrying an axe and his skin did show many scars. He wasn’t Thrall, but he was a warrior.
“You are not Thrall.” You said to him.
“Thrall can’t come.” The orc said with broken Common and looked at you and then at Malevus. Seeing her the orc gripped his axe.
“She is with me.” You sternly replied.
Has Thrall sent someone else to come see you, or to guide you to meet with him somewhere else? The orc relaxed a bit, but clearly didn’t like the presence of Malevus.
“You come with me human.” The orc ordered.
You didn’t like the way the orc talked to you so you stood your ground, you wouldn’t follow him just like that.
2/2
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>>6381255
>Remind the orc to whom he is talking about. You aren’t just some random human.
>Why isn’t Thrall here? Why couldn’t he come?
>You aren’t going to follow the orc without him telling you what is going on.
>Other, write in
QM: The rolls were weather and who if anyone comes to meet you.
>>
>>
>>
>>6381256
Mmmm don't have too much I can really think to add on this one. I'd have thought Malevus would hear him before Alric, sensitive elf ears and all that.
Lol option 1 sounds so bratty "Do you know who you're talking to!?" to an orc warrior that barely speaks common let alone understands human society as a Frostwolf who was banished even from his own society, and migrated into one of the most isolated regions in the eastern kingdoms.
>Why isn’t Thrall here? Why couldn’t he come?
Options 2 and 3 are basically asking the same thing, but I suppose 2 is shorter and less antagonizing. I miss Astu, shame there wasn't a less bothersome way to keep him around. Faking an execution would have been fun, but its not like he can pretend to be half ogre-half human or something. I do wonder if he would have stuck around or just bolted at the first opportunity.
>Who are you? What is your name?
>Other, write in
We are Guests of your Chief
Short and simple, even tribal honor societies understand honored guests.
>>
File: Grom_Hellscream_Lord_Of_The_Clans.jpg (43.1 KB)
“Why isn’t Thrall here? Why couldn’t he come?” You asked the orc who didn’t seem like he wanted to be talkative.
“Thrall has meeting.” The orc replied. “Can’t come, you go to Thrall.”
“A meeting?” You replied aloud. With whom was he meeting that he couldn’t come to see you?
“Meeting yes.” The orc said to you and seemed impatient.
This was going nowhere.
“At least tell me what your name is? How can I have a discussion if I don’t know whom I am talking to?” You replied and now you started to be impatient.
“Trogdor.” The orc said and seemed to sigh.
“Prince Alric, and this is Lady Malevus.” You introduced yourself.
“Now come Prince, Thrall is waiting.” Trogdor said to you and left you there standing as he disappeared into the bush.
“I have a bad feeling about this.” Malevus whispered.
“I don’t like this either, something is going on…” You muttered and went for Epona. “I am still going to follow him.”
…
The forest grew sparser higher you got. The tall trees made way for smaller birches that struggled to grow this high. You had been following the orc for maybe two hours and the afternoon started to turn into an evening when you were forced to dismount your horses. The landscape turned way too rocky and you couldn’t risk hurting them, so you followed on foot with Epona following right behind you.
A falcon circled high above you as you followed Trogdor. He hadn’t said anything to you this whole time, clearly he was just someone who had been sent to fetch you and that’s it. A stiff wind hit you and you wrapped the cloak better around you to protect you from it, at least it had stopped raining.
Finally after what you thought was an eternity of no breaks, Trogdor stopped by some small struggling trees and looked at you. Between two large rocks was a path and the orc motioned you to go there. You glanced at him and wrapped the reins around the trees and gave fodder for Epona to eat.
“Watch our horses, if anything happens to them, you are responsible for it. Got it.” You said to him and didn’t even wait for an answer.
Stepping on the path, you followed it with Malevus following you. One wrong step and you would fall off down on the rocks below. If there was a meeting, it made sense that it would be in a place like this where no sane person would even go in the first place. The path widened after several turns and your hand found the hilt of your sword as you saw a familiar looking orc leaning against a stone wall.
He looked at you and several other orcs wearing his colours appeared from behind stones and rocks.
>Hellscream, what are you doing here?
>You are here to meet with Thrall, not with him.
>This is not an ambush, but if it is, you will take all of them with you.
>At this point you are wondering if meeting with Thrall was just a ploy to get you here. So who's behind this?
>Other, write in
>>
>>6381468
Gasp, its Hellscream.
>Hellscream, what are you doing here?
>This is not an ambush, but if it is, you will take all of them with you.
I wonder how hard it would be to try a slapdash mage armor for an actual ambush situation? Fel is more intuitive so maybe that would help and it would probably be decently sturdy, Alric is very familiar with the feeling of armor.
Trogdor lol.
I wonder if the warlock with a good reputation is a vigilante type. Warlock batman fighting crime in the underbelly, alternating between more of a hardboiled detective and beating criminals up. More Sherlock holmesy where he rarely pulls out the fisticuffs. A dirty jobs pest control guy but the pests were mage experiments that got dumped in the sewers, and other weird shit that happens.
Is he not combat oriented much at all and its some kind of valued profession. We know Kel'Thuzad was the greatest healer among the archmages so thats not unprecedented.
>>
>>6381468
>You are here to meet with Thrall, not with him.
>At this point you are wondering if meeting with Thrall was just a ploy to get you here. So who's behind this?
Be diplomatic but brusque. There's still no way in hell we could take on Hellscream, even with Malevus's backup.
>>
>>
>>
>>6375816
Going back to the points raised here. If Thrall is in his shaman training to overcome the camp orc lethargy maybe we can still help him out. But if Hellscream is here maybe the point about needing more arms will come up as well. Or the allies point.
Obviously they can't hit the Alliance for arms or they'd give away the game. Thrall wouldn't want him attacking us. Which pretty much leaves the trolls, the ogres, and the Syndicate. Unless he thinks we would arrange some kind of secret trade. I could maybe think of a few ways.
Or maybe he really did just want to see us again lol
>>
>>
“Hellscream, what are you doing here?” You asked him and raised your voice a bit.
You knew that Malevus was ready to draw her sword as well while you very carefully took a wider stance. Four more orcs appeared, so it was five of them including Hellscream.
“I could ask you the same Prince.” Hellscream replied with his deep guttural voice and straightened his back.
“I was supposed to meet with Thrall, but one of his clanmates guided me here instead.” You replied to him.
Hellscream grunted, you couldn’t say if that was yes or no.
“I was told to come here.” Hellscream said and the orcs who were with him took several steps closer, but he stopped them.
“This is not an ambush then. But if you have any ideas, I will take all of you with me.” You said to them sternly.
Hellscream hefted his axe on his shoulder and laughed.
“Bah, no chance, but I like your spirit human.” He replied and laughed.
“Alric, don’t go asking for trouble again.” Malevus protested. “We are not here to fight.”
“The elf is right, stand down the both of you.” A voice called out.
Past the Warsong orcs another orc had appeared. This was an old orc with a steady calm voice, his hair and beard grey with age and his eyes were covered with a cloth wrap. A white wolf followed the orc and took its position next to him.
“I am Drek’Thar, the shaman of the Frostwolf Clan.” The old orc said to you.
“It was you who sent us the message.” Grom replied. “Urgent supposedly.”
“Yes, I called all of you here.” Drek’Thar said and turned around. “Please follow me.”
You glanced at Grom who spat on the ground and followed the shaman. The rest of his orcs followed after him.
“Alric, what is this?” Malevus whispered as you relaxed, but kept your hand resting on the hilt of your sword.
“I don’t know, but Grom seems to respect the old orc a lot so we better play along.” You whispered back to her and followed after the orcs.
The path continued between the rocks until you saw some light ahead of you. Torches stuck between stones gave light and pushed the approaching evening away. Several more of the orcs were milling around, they were wearing the furs just like the Frostwolves you had seen before. They were carrying things around and had moved a couple of logs to sit on around a fire.
Drek’Thar motioned at Grom for him to take a seat and the large orc respected the wishes and sat down, the Warsong orcs that had followed him sat on the ground behind him.
“Alric, son of Aiden, please take a seat.” Drek’Thar said to you and looked at Malevus. “Please, you as well. We want no harm to the two of you, for you have helped us greatly.”
You stood there and looked at Drek’Thar for a moment before taking a seat opposite of him. The old orc seemed pleased as you sat down and Malevus joined next to you.
1/2
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File: Drek'Thar.jpg (111.6 KB)
>>6381842
“You must have questions.” Drek’Thar asked you as one of the Frostwolf orcs added more wood into the fire.
“I have questions too old shaman, why are we here?” Grom asked him. “You interrupted our hunt.”
“Then I need to apologise Grom, son of Golmash.” Drek’Thar said to him.
There was a level of respect between the old shaman and Hellscream, you wondered if they knew each other from the days before the First War. It didn’t matter though, you did have questions to ask from him.
“Where is Thrall, I was supposed to meet him and not you or Hellscream.” You asked Drek’Thar.
“Thrall will join us shortly.” He replied.
Well that didn’t tell you much.
>Clearly Drek’Thar has arranged this. You don’t appreciate using your trust with Thrall like this, that is why you are here in the first place.
>Does Drek’Thar understand that this has put you in great danger. Meeting Thrall is one thing, but all of you? If the word got out…
>Drek’Thar must be the shaman Thrall mentioned, he is Thrall’s mentor and teacher.
>You would like to thank them for talking in Common, after all you don’t understand Orcish at all.
>Other, write in
QM: Not just Grom
>>
>>6381843
>Clearly Drek’Thar has arranged this. You don’t appreciate using your trust with Thrall like this, that is why you are here in the first place.
>Drek’Thar must be the shaman Thrall mentioned, he is Thrall’s mentor and teacher.
>You would like to thank them for talking in Common, after all you don’t understand Orcish at all.
>>
>>6381843
>Clearly Drek’Thar has arranged this.
Just so. It's like a priest or lord inviting nobles without knowing the other was coming to squash a beef or with something else in mind lol. Not so different. He can apologize and be humble and do it well. Or if he has some offering already in mind, but I don't think Alric actually minds.
>Drek’Thar must be the shaman Thrall mentioned, he is Thrall’s mentor and teacher.
He has that aura of wisdom as it were, as opposed to brilliance.
>You would like to thank them for talking in Common, after all you don’t understand Orcish at all
Though Alric and Malevus could do some exchanges too.
>Other, write in
Groms Hunt?
Maybe Alric can intuit it's purpose, and perhaps it's target. He knows they took some of the gnolls equipment, and of course their intentions. They only have so many neighbors. Could Alric convince them to target someone? Could he fish for info about where the suspected Syndicate outpost is in the Hinterlands?
If he's hunting he's not trading, but I doubt that could be cleanly worked out.
>>
I guess if we were more aligned with Thrall and Grom we technically -could- trade to get him weapons. To be clear I am not proposing that, just thinking how I would do it.
We get goods from them, buy weapons which are dropped off at X old lumber and storage warehouse remote location, and an Orc leaves with a small portion. Repeat. Tari to cook the books since shes so good at numbers and wants to help Thrall.
We buy Blacksteel weapons to replace current arms and armor. What happens to the old arms and armor originally bought from the neighbors? Gets put in storage or signed off and given to the soldiers family? Militia? etc. Goes into remote X storage, signed off as having been resold or melted down for scraps w.e.
The Syndicate had the weapons forging operation in the area going before we stopped it so if anyone spotted the orcs later using such weapons it could easily be framed as Syndicate trading with orcs. We get new high quality dark iron equipment, Blacksteel gets profit to help avoid becoming slaves, Thrall gets his weapons and feels indebted to us again. Something like that.
>>
>>6381843
>>Clearly Drek’Thar has arranged this. You don’t appreciate using your trust with Thrall like this, that is why you are here in the first place.
>>Drek’Thar must be the shaman Thrall mentioned, he is Thrall’s mentor and teacher.
>>You would like to thank them for talking in Common, after all you don’t understand Orcish at all.
>>
>>
It was clearly Drek’Thar who had arranged this meeting in the first place and you felt it appropriate that he should know that you didn’t exactly like about it.
“You used the trust I have placed on Thrall to have me here. I don’t appreciate that at all.” You said to him and continued. “You might be his mentor and the teacher, but trust doesn’t transfer like that.”
“For that I apologise, I have my reasons for acting like this.” Drek’Thar explained to you.
“At least you are speaking in Common, I would have walked out if it was all Orcish.” You replied to him.
Hellscream laughed and said something to the old shaman, who replied back to him, causing Hellscream to laugh a bit more.
“I am really done with these… what’s the word to use for them?” You spoke in Elvish to Malevus.
“We call them green beasts.” Malevus replied.
“I am done with them!” You said back to her and turned to look at the orcs again before switching back to Common. “See, both of us can do it.”
“Elvish?” Drek’Thar asked.
“Yes, I need to learn the language of my squire and the one I love.” You told him.
“Alric…” Malevus lamented and Drek’Thar gave you and her an approving nod.
The other orcs noticed someone was coming and you looked past Drek’Thar and saw Thrall walking towards you. You stood up and stared at him.
“Thrall.” You greeted him.
“Alric.” He replied and didn’t say anything more as your eyes noticed another orc following behind him.
“No, it can’t be.” Grom said as he stood up as well.
A large orc approached the campfire. A robe covered most of his body, but you saw the black armour underneath it. His hair was black and had two braids, the hammer he carried was larger than the warhammers you have seen Paladins to use. Your eyes opened, this description could only mean one orc in this whole world.
“Doomhammer.” Grom greeted the large orc.
Orgrim Doomhammer pushed the robe aside and passed it to an orc who stood near him. The Warchief of the Horde, the one that had invaded Lordaeron and allied with your father. The one who had been imprisoned and had escaped from the dungeons beneath the Capital City. Doomhammer’s eyes found you and he studied you.
“You are alive!” Grom shouted out.
“All this time.” Orgrim answered. “Drek’Thar sought me out, I found the Frostwolves just a couple weeks ago.”
Hellscream let out a deep laugh that filled the meeting place between the rocks.
“Yes! With Doomhammer on our side, the humans won’t stand a chance!” Hellscream shouted out and raised his axe up.
1/2
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File: Orgrim_Doomhammer.jpg (31.0 KB)
>>6382251
You stared at Hellscream and found your left hand gripping on the hilt of the Cinder Sword again.
“This is why I called this meeting.” Drek’Thar said to everyone. “For everyone to be present here today.”
“For what?” Malevus chose to say.
“To decide our future.” Drek’Thar replied.
Doomhammer was alive and standing in front of you. You stared at the orc and felt the fire within you start rumbling. The scorching sea of fire turned into a maelstrom and spread through your body into your limbs. The orc with whom your father had allied with was just within your reach.
“You remind me of your father.” Orgrim said to you.
“You have no right to talk about him.” You replied and now your right hand found the hilt of the Cinder Sword as you breathed out and you could feel the world narrow around you.
“If you wish to strike me down, then do it.” Orgrim replied to you and put his hammer down.
“Alric!” Thrall shouted out.
>You are a Perenolde, everyone here should understand the meaning of this and how you are feeling right now.
>You have been roped into a meeting with the bloody Doomhammer himself. If the word got out, everything you have done would be torn apart by the Alliance.
>Just weeks ago you were meeting with the Kings and Lords of the Alliance in Stormwind City and now the opposite of that has happened.
>Other, write in
Malevus reply override:
>Yes
>No
QM: Not just Drek'Thar. Malevus will override whatever the vote Alric gets is.
>>
>>6382252
>You have been roped into a meeting with the bloody Doomhammer himself. If the word got out, everything you have done would be torn apart by the Alliance.
>Just weeks ago you were meeting with the Kings and Lords of the Alliance in Stormwind City and now the opposite of that has happened.
>Yes
Alrics running hot right now, literally and figuratively. And his trust with thrall has been taken advantage of and misused.
>>
>>
>>6382252
Wow, the Doomhammer!
He'd make Malevus's blood boil too as the guy responsible for burning Quel'thalas.
>You have been roped into a meeting with the bloody Doomhammer himself. If the word got out, everything you have done would be torn apart by the Alliance.
>Just weeks ago you were meeting with the Kings and Lords of the Alliance in Stormwind City and now the opposite of that has happened.
>Yes
>>
>>6382252
>You have been roped into a meeting with the bloody Doomhammer himself. If the word got out, everything you have done would be torn apart by the Alliance.
>Just weeks ago you were meeting with the Kings and Lords of the Alliance in Stormwind City and now the opposite of that has happened.
>Yes
Alric must certainly want to burn him alive. Fel Malevus could whisper 'What if this was all a setup for another Doomhammer Horde' lol. The fire inside is already responding, and theres a nice big pyre right there that might get pulled towards Alric as he feels and envisions it.
If he wanted to be a real fucking dick about it, on impulse he'd infuse some fel into that bonfire they've built and tell Doomhammer to throw himself into it. As a more suitable fate. Very edgy lol.
Theres no great betrayal without Doomhammer's cunning (Aiden's paranoia and ambition). A broken kingdom and family for all that. No forest troll alliance leading to Quel'Thalas. Perhaps no goblin cartel alliance for that matter. I wonder if Nalice was here would she take revenge for what happened to the red dragons.
There sure are a lot of potential daddy issues in this room between Alric and Thrall, then Hellscream. Blackhand and Doomhammer. Malevus's father is just a non-entity of a political marriage lol, unless he died in the wars or something.
>>
I don't have the time to write the update today, IRL stuff sadly takes the priority, so the vote will continue till tomorrow.
Though with Malevus going to have her say in this, I am not going to ask a specific vote for her. Instead I will ask a small write in about her thoughts. What is she thinking right now?
>Write in
>>
>>6382252
>You have been roped into a meeting with the bloody Doomhammer himself. If the word got out, everything you have done would be torn apart by the Alliance.
>Just weeks ago you were meeting with the Kings and Lords of the Alliance in Stormwind City and now the opposite of that has happened.
>Yes
Would you look at that. I can't think Alric is happy now. This has now become the most risky meeting he has ever done. Any accusation done against him by his detractors would be proven true, and in fact even worse. Imagine if someone starved for vengeance like say Garithos knew of an inkling of this encounter. All Alric work risking to disappear.
>>6382540
Top of my head
>Write in
1 Alric safety, probably asking for a moment to talk with him alone otherwise... he is probably getting closer to be more on the edge of anger than with the talk with Varian and Arthas. Doomhammer presence and comment don't really help. Malevus would be able to center Alric a bit, smoother his anger somewhat and keep some of his usual calm. It can't undo what Doomhammer did and what happened to Alterac but it at least helps him.
2 Doomhammer.
3 Drek’Thar comment on their future (revealing this meeting is more than just Thrall plans for Durnholde)
4 Hellscream.
5 Thrall why ?! Might want to tell about Faelyn later. Though there is too many important things going on at the moment.
>>
>>6382540
Malevus's thoughts:
>What the hell are we doing here? We're surrounded by the monsters of the Second War.
<Alric is going to kill himself while trying to kill someone, no my love!
>Thrice-cursed green beasts, all of them that burnt my home, killed my people. My Mother had so much to say.. Sylvanas what would you do?
<All we're missing are the blasted trolls, Zul'Jin next?
>How will we get out of here if it goes to hell?
>>
>>6382540
Green beasts she says, lol.
>Write in
Malevus's virtues try to follow the Light and Uther's example, Uther did what he could to prevent bloodshed in Stormwind despite the intense personal grievances in play.
Alric is getting ready to attack, while Doomhammer has already put his hammer down. Striking down someone who offers no resistance is wrong.
Some emotional awareness. Whatever fight Alric might have wanted from the Doomhammer of legend isn't there anymore. He should be able to see that once he cools off.
>>
“Just weeks ago I was in Stormwind City meeting with all the Kings and Lords of the Alliance. We were discussing the future of Alterac and for once we made progress.” You told the orcs in front of you with a stern voice as you raised your voice. “And now I am roped into a meeting with the bloody fucking Doomhammer himself!”
“Alric…” Malevus said.
You were furious, for your trust to be used like this.
“If the word got out, everything I have done for Alterac, for my people, would be torn apart by the Alliance.” You told them, your voice returning back down to more quiet yet having all the fury in it.
Hellscream had hefted his large axe up while Doomhammer hadn’t moved an inch.
“Alric is correct.” Drek’Thar said to everyone present. “I will take the responsibility for this meeting…”
You stared at the old shaman through your darkened glasses and got him to stop speaking.
“I will go check the horses.” You said to them matter of factly, before turning around and walking past Malevus.
You could maybe take one or two of them if this had turned into a fight. It would have been a fight to the death and you wouldn’t have had no reasons to hold back at all in using your magic and even the Fel.
But would that have helped anyone?
…
You are Malevus and you have never seen Alric this furious, yet collected.
He walked past you, leaving you alone with the orcs. You turned to look at him as he walked away and then glanced at the orcs.
You couldn’t lie, you felt angry as well. To stand there with the one who had attacked Quel’Thalas, burned down the forests and dragged the monoliths protecting the realm down. So many had died for what? But this wasn’t the moment for this as you recited a prayer in your mind and closed your eyes for a second. The Holy Light radiated within you and brought calm, it is a virtue to be able to keep up a calm mind even in the worst of the situations. Even with your eyes closed, you could sense the orcs standing there, hear their breathing.
“Alric is someone who would move the mountains to be able to help his friends.” You told them and opened your eyes as you moved your hands off your sword. “He trusts his friends fully because he knows they would do the same to him.”
The orcs stood still and listened, seeing you take your hands off your sword, Hellscream lowered his axe as well.
“And you have taken advantage of that trust. Alric trusts Thrall, not because of who he is and what he has done, but because of Taretha.” You told them.
“The human girl?” Grom asked and you could see Thrall having been deflated a bit.
“The very same.” You replied to him.
“Who is this… Taretha?” Orgrim asked you.
1/1
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>>6382915
>Thrall can answer that question and tell Doomhammer everything.
>The point is, Alric has no connection to any of you except Thrall through Taretha. He has no reason to be here.
>Doomhammer has no right to ask questions from you. He caused desolation in Quel’Thalas and your kin won’t forget it soon.
>Tell Thrall about Taretha and Faelyn, he deserves to know to understand how big of a fumble this is.
>Other, write in
QM: Malevus, collected and cool.
>>
>>6382917
>>Thrall can answer that question and tell Doomhammer everything.
>>The point is, Alric has no connection to any of you except Thrall through Taretha. He has no reason to be here.
>Tell Thrall about Taretha and Faelyn, he deserves to know to understand how big of a fumble this is.
>>
>>6382917
>Tell Thrall about Taretha and Faelyn, he deserves to know to understand how big of a fumble this is.
>Thrall can answer that question and tell Doomhammer everything.
What will they do to salvage the good will they have just burnt.
>>
>>
“I will have Thrall answer that question.” You told him and looked at Thrall. “Tell him everything.”
“I will.” Thrall replied.
“Good, and for you to know. Tari has given birth, both her and her daughter Faelyn are fine.” You said to him.
You could see Thrall pause and freeze. He took a deep breath and looked up at the sky. If there was anything, this should make him realise how big of a mistake this can be.
“Quel’Thalas won’t forget your crimes Doomhammer.” You said to him and continued. “We elves live long and keep grudges even longer.”
“You are resolute and speak with courage elf.” Orgrim replied to you.
“For I will be a Paladin, the Holy Light has blessed me and will protect me.” You told him.
“Hmmp. a Paladin you say…” Orgrim said.
“Alric needs me, if you excuse me.” You told them and turned around before walking away.
You could hear Thrall saying something in Orcish and chatter followed.
…
You passed the orc that had escorted you here along the path, he greeted you with a grunt. Following the path soon you found Alric brushing Epona off any dirt she had received.
“I told Trogdor to go kick rocks.” Alric muttered to you.
“Alric…” You muttered back to him.
He sighed.
“I told them how you trust people and I told Thrall about Tari and Faelyn.” You said and walked to him.
Alric paused and then continued to brush Epona as you moved closer to hug him from behind, wrapping your arms around his stomach and resting your head on his shoulder.
“I know you are upset.” You said.
“More than upset, we could leave now if we wanted, let the orcs go to hell.” Alric said to you.
Now it was your time to sigh.
“Alric…”
“I know I know…” He said and wiggled out of your hold.
Alric put the brush away into the saddlebag and looked at you as he took off his glasses. His Fel green eyes were burning, they glowed stronger than before. He closed his eyes.
“Part of me would want to have revenge and take Doomhammer’s head for everything he has done to Alterac, to us.” Alric said to you. “I had to push against that part.”
“I feel the same… Quel’Thalas…”
“I know I know…”
1/2
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>>6383051
You leaned in and kissed your boyfriend.
“Feeling any better?”
“A bit… though I could use another kiss.” Alric said and got you to roll your eyes.
You leaned in for another one and Alric surprised you by taking the initiative. His hands found your back as his lips found yours. He savoured the moment as did you.
“Shall we go back?” You asked.
“As much as I would like to continue this, you are right.” He lamented. “But when we get back to Dawnholme…”
Blush crept up your cheeks as he said that. Though the idea sounded really lovely. Alric took your hand and gave you a smile.
“Let’s go.” He said.
…
You are Alric Perenolde and after having made your girlfriend blush, you felt a lot better.
Walking back through the path between stones and rock as the evening had arrived, the light from the torches welcomed you back to where the orcs had been gathering. You saw them gathered together talking about something in their language. They stopped when they saw you.
Your left hand out of pure instinct found the Cinder Sword as you approached them.
“Prince Alric.” Thrall greeted you with a nod.
Doomhammer turned to face you and then did something you hadn’t expected. He bowed and the bow was a deep one.
“Orgrim!” Grom shouted out.
“The Prince and the elf are right.” Orgrim said and straightened his back. “Thrall told us everything, everything you had done for him.”
You stood there and listened to him speak.
“We have wronged you. Asked you to be here without thinking twice.” Orgrim said and looked at Drek’Thar “We have stained our honour.”
“Orgrim, it is a human you are speaking to!” Grom shouted out again.
“What we did in our blood-haze! There’s no honour in that!” Orgrim shouted back to him. You thanked the Light that they were still talking in Common.
“No honour? Bah, we fought well!” Grom replied to him.
“With what guidance! Hellscream, you know it the best! We were daemonridden, we drank the blood!” Orgrim shouted back to him and took up his hammer as Hellscream raised his own.
The orcs surrounding their leaders did the same as if preparing for combat.
“We forgot what honour is, we forgot what is to be good to your compatriots!” Orgrim shouted out and continued. “It is clear to me that we have lost our way, but it is clear that others have not. What Thrall has told us, there are still those who have gora! Those who are worthy of a kosh'harg!”
“Have you lost your way Doomhammer!” Grom screamed at him and continued in Orchish. He said something that got Thrall to draw his blade.
“You will go through me first Grom!” Thrall shouted to him.
Hellscream looked at Thrall, Orgrim, Drek’Thar and then at you.
“Human, Prince!” Grom said to you as he gripped his axe. “Give me a reason why I should follow these weaklings!”
2/2
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>>6383052
>Because you trust Thrall even after all of this.
>Because Thrall has a way to get rid of the lethargy. It is the shamanic past of their kin.
>For Thrall will rescue his kin from the Camps, that is the duty given to him.
>Doomhammer has put himself behind Thrall, he has acknowledged the mistakes of the past.
>Otherwise he will never get his duel with you all armoured and prepared.
>Other, write in.
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>>6383053
>Because you trust Thrall even after all of this.
>Because Thrall has a way to get rid of the lethargy. It is the shamanic past of their kin.
>For Thrall will rescue his kin from the Camps, that is the duty given to him.
>How else will he make up for past sins?
>>
>>6383053
>>Other, write in.
"For all the power this 'blood' gave you, the human traitors who aided you, the trolls who fought with you, the dark magics the warlocks empowered you with, and the honor you spent to make all that possible, you still lost in the end."
Throw this in with any other folks options.
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>>6383053
>Doomhammer has put himself behind Thrall, he has acknowledged the mistakes of the past.
>Otherwise he will never get his duel with you all armoured and prepared.
>>Other, write in.
>Because, they are the path to the future.
>>
>>6383053
>>6383120
oof, yet I strongly support this. Ill-gotten power got them not far enough. Where are the demons and the warlocks now?
Alric can show his eyes being coloured like their skin - the temptation and price of the expedient.
>Doomhammer has put himself behind Thrall, he has acknowledged the mistakes of the past.
>Because we trust Thrall even after all of this.
Important correction above.
>Thrall can take the lessons of the humans and the strength of the Orcs forward into the future. A clean slate, free of sin (leans into what Malevus said and Alric's 'sins of the fathers' reference)
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>>6383053
The schemer in me wonders what if Grom doesn't follow Thrall lol. Thrall delays until he courts Grom back into his favor? Once the Thrall invasion happens what chance is there to reclaim Alterac until its fully resolved?
How does Grom see things. Why did they lose? In his eyes I'd imagine the loss of the past lies squarely on Guldan and Chogall's betrayal, which to be fair I would blame them too lol.
Also if we are being frank its Doomhammer that allowed Guldan and Chogall to live, to lead their respective Clans, and to turn the Shadow Council into Deathknights lol. They needed the power to contend with mages and priests after all so it is what it is.
The Shamans are all but wiped out? Even in their day they were eclipsed by the power of the Warlock and Deathknights. We know some wait among burrows and the hidden places of the world. More warlocks and death knights need to be hunted down or they could swoop in again. Does he really think Shamans can reignite the fire in their bellies.
The remnants of the Blackrock are out of Doomhammer's control, but at least his legend is massive.
Then how Grom might look at Thrall. Raised by humans, by an entirely different culture, but at least he demonstrates his ability as a leader and warrior. Now Thrall has been forced to show this business with Tari, and her child, which represents the most gentle part of him. Is it clear to Grom that it would have been an issue, that were she in anyone elses clutches they'd have an effective hostage against Thrall.
>>
>>
>>
You stared at Hellscream for a second before you answered.
"For all the power this 'blood' gave you, my father who aided you, the trolls who fought alongside you, the dark magics the warlocks empowered you with, and the honour you spent to make all that possible, you still lost in the end."
Hellscream paused as if he had been frozen in place. Slowly he turned his head to look at you, you could see how his red eyes burned and the jaw which had been tattooed black twitched a bit.
“What did you say?” He asked you.
“You lost.”
He took several steps closer to you, but you didn’t move.
“You lost Hellscream, and what? Will you just continue to struggle while your clan whittles away?” You asked him. “Doomhammer can apparently move away from the past and put himself behind Thrall. Can you?”
That seemed to connect with Hellscream as he didn’t say anything.
“Thrall can take the lessons of the humans and the strength of the orcs forward into the future. A clean slate, free of the sins of our fathers.” You said to him and looked at Doomhammer. “I don’t trust you, nor do I trust Hellscream or the old shaman.”
You let your disdain towards the shaman be shown.
“But I am willing to listen to you, that is why I am here, isn’t that right?” You said and asked Drek’Thar.
“You would be correct.” He replied and continued speaking in Orcish to Hellscream.
You don’t know what Drek’Thar said, but Hellscream backed off and returned where he had been sitting before. The Warsong orcs followed him and sat behind him, though they still kept their axes and blades close to each other. Doomhammer followed him and took his seat around the fire. You looked at Drek’Thar who motioned to you and with a shrug you sat back next to Malevus who gave you a concerned look. Finally it was Thrall who took his seat next to Drek’Thar.
“I called you here to discuss our shared future.” Drek’Thar said to everyone. “It involves all of us and after what Thrall told me about you and what I had observed previously, I had to invite you to come here.”
>What does his shared future have inside it? Where does Alterac come into play?
>Observed? How have the Frostwolves observed us, you thought your patrols generally speaking are rather thorough.
>Thrall already told you that they weren’t going to attack the Internment Camps this year. So what is this about then?
>Why is Doomhammer here? Where has he been all these years?
>Other, write in
QM: Took me way too long to write this, what a nightmare of a day.
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>>6383857
>Observed? How have the Frostwolves observed us, you thought your patrols generally speaking are rather thorough.
Alric noticed the hawks circling.
>Why is Doomhammer here? Where has he been all these years?
>What does his shared future have inside it? Where does Alterac come into play?
>Do they know of our fight with Umo Shadowheart, the death knight?
https://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/2024/5960681/#p59889 38
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>>6383857
>What does his shared future have inside it? Where does Alterac come into play?
>Observed? How have the Frostwolves observed us, you thought your patrols generally speaking are rather thorough
Sorry you had such a shitty time qm.
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>>6383857
>What does his shared future have inside it? Where does Alterac come into play?
I was going to mention it before but do they regard Alterac as part of the Doomhammer's Horde? By alliance or word of honor or blood pact etc. What if Doomhammer had a daughter who was promised to a Perenolde seaing their alliance lol, but then it all fell apart. Best chance Medivh would ever have for an orc princess contender in the Alricbowl.
'What are we supposed to do once we have the camp orcs.' which is exactly what we told Thrall to figure out before so ideally that should have already been answered among themselves. Here we are. Either they get the camp orcs and pick somewhere defensible they can fight, migrate, negotiate with the alliance, or mystery box.
I guess if I had an adventurous idea for where there would be a bunch of old orcish ships lying in wait it would be the ones used to take Guldan, Chogall, and the pursuant force to the Tomb of Sargeras. If a bunch of those ships were just left to anchor and then protected by the various unfriendly forces occupying the island it could be quite a few. Orc ships built tonka tough.
>Observed? How have the Frostwolves observed us, you thought your patrols generally speaking are rather thorough.
Could they teach a human this magic? I bet one of the Witches would synergize well with their ancient magic, maybe the younger one that was trying to seduce Eligius and she'd be more of a character with him. Could be very handy for Thrall to ever communicate with us if they could talk through animal scouts, or dreams or w.e. No more risky letters and meetings like this that if anyone ever found out would destroy us forever. Just food for thought.
>Thrall already told you that they weren’t going to attack the Internment Camps this year. So what is this about then?
>Why is Doomhammer here? Where has he been all these years?
>>
>>
“Observing? But how exactly, I thought my patrols were rather thorough?” You said and then it clicked in your head. “The falcons?”
“And other birds, the spirits of the wild sometimes tell us things we wouldn’t otherwise be able to observe.” Drek’Thar told you and continued. “I have been following you since you built that mine in the mountains.”
Hold on. For how long? You felt rather bewildered right now and then you reached in your mind as this reminded you of something. Two years ago when you rode up the hills through the forest to the mine, you had a feeling that you had been watched. Was it that or was that just your imagination?
“So all this time you have had a vague idea what was going on in Dawnholme?” You asked him and the old orc grinned a little.
“Not exactly, the spirits aren’t always descriptive, but I can always fill the holes with what we know otherwise.” Drek’Thar told you and continued to explain. “This has kept us safe through all these years, avoiding conflict, the ogres, beasts or our demonridden kin.”
“Blackrocks… my clan has fallen.” Orgrim said.
“Is that why you are here Doomhammer?” Grom asked him.
“Partially. After escaping the dungeon, I hid in the forests and mountains. I found my clan or what remained of it still worshipping the daemons. I was disgusted.” Orgrim told him and again you felt really happy that they were talking in Common. “I stayed hiding, it was better for all of us.”
“You could have taken your clan back into your control!” Grom raised his voice.
“And lead them again into a war? No Grom, that would have doomed all of us.” Orgrim replied.
By the way he spoke and the tone of his voice told you a lot. He might be an orc, but even they seemed to talk like you did and your read was that Orgrim was remorseful. He was strong enough with his will to stave the lethargy away and to keep his free will without any bloodhaze like he called it taking control. He could see his mistakes.
“Then what does this shared future include? Where does Alterac stand in all of this? You have been watching us and now the Doomhammer is here?” You asked Drek’Thar.
The old shaman looked at you, it felt strange how it felt like he was staring at you while actually being blind and having a cloth wrap over his eyes.
“How can Alterac not be part of this?” He said.
“If you are implying that I will join your efforts, you are awfully wrong.” You said back to him and crossed your arms.
“When the snow melts in the mountains, where does the water go? Or do the streams disappear in the thin air?” He asked you.
“So whatever happens, Alric will be involved?” Malevus was the one who answered.
Drek’Thar nodded to her.
1/1
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File: Alric, early armour.jpg (114.5 KB)
>>6384028
>Why are they so sure that you are willing to entertain this sort of thinking? Because of Alterac? A deal your father did? Honour, some blood pact?
>It is inevitable that you will end up getting involved in some capacity?
>Let it be clear, you have your own duty towards Blackmoore, the Alliance and humanity as a whole. If you have to fight, you will fight.
>What do they then expect you to do? Any actions to take?
>Other, write in
QM: Drek’Thar has been watching you since Thread 2. I asked a 1d10 back then if Alric would notice something feeling a bit off.
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>>6384029
>>Why are they so sure that you are willing to entertain this sort of thinking? Because of Alterac? A deal your father did? Honour, some blood pact?
They are all smart enough to know why alric would be very reluctant to make any deals with orcs. So they better have a good reason.
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>>6384058
Garona's still a bitch, whatever the retcons say.
She can get right out.
>>6384029
>Let it be clear, you have your own duty towards Blackmoore, the Alliance and humanity as a whole. If you have to fight, you will fight.
>But perhaps there is a middle road without the fight, where no one has to lose.
Alric is joining the Alliance in a year. This has implications to their planning.
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>>6384029
>It is inevitable that you will end up getting involved in some capacity?
>Let it be clear, your duty is to serve the people under you, the people of Alterac. That has always been the case. Your being there is already risky enough, the other kingdoms are itching to take everything you've built for themselves, and any good enough justification will do.
I mean we do have our duty towards Alterac and humanity but the Alliance hasn't been really friendly with us and Blackmoore is only an ally of convenience, we don't owe them that much.
Also "people of Alterac" includes the Stonemasons living there and other immigrants.
>>
>>
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Rolled 12 (1d20)
Alrighty, I can work with these votes tomorrow. I could use a roll for the orcs and how prepared they are actually for their campaign. It is 1d20 for more granularity and I will roll as well, think that as a DC to beat.
>>6384144
Whoa mama!
Jokes aside, I have no plans on introducing Garona or anything further related with my namesake.
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>>6384200
I kind of remember previous rolls for orc preparedness where the Warsong rolled well but the Frostwolves/Thrall weren't ready yet but that was a few threads ago I think. I wanna say around Durnholde.
I'd be surprised if she actually showed up. Aegwynn maybe?
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>20
“Yes.” The old shaman replied.
“Why are you so sure that I am willing to entertain this sort of thinking? That this is inevitable and somehow something I am just going to go with?” You asked him and continued immediately. “Is it because of Alterac? Because a deal my father made with the Doomhammer? Because of honour?”
“Because of what you said to Thrall, of lethargy.” Drek’Thar replied.
You felt a couple drops of water hit your shoulders, it started to drizzle again as the day surely passed away and the sun dipped beyond the horizon. Not even the clouds were coloured orange and red anymore, just the campfire and the torches providing light.
“Of the lethargy? What about it?” You had to ask him.
“I told Drek’Thar what you had told me when we spoke.” Thrall said to you, he finally spoke. “It is the key to all of this.”
“Thrall, please explain everything to him.” Drek’Thar said to him.
“Will it take long?” Grom asked him and Orgrim just gave him a stare to shut up.
Thrall sighed and started explaining everything. After his escape he had found the Hellscream and in his case it was his willpower that kept the lethargy away and the remnants of his clan together. When Thrall reached the Frostwolves and spoke with Drek’Thar, it became clear that it was the clan’s decision to not be involved in the invasion and getting exiled for it, and Drek’Thar being one of the last if not the last shaman helping to stave away any of signs of lethargy. Thrall discussed this in depth with him, but until he met you and learned about what you knew and theorised about the lethargy and your condition with the Fel, Thrall fully hadn’t put things together.
“We will push the lethargy off our kin, by reintroducing the ways of our pasts, of our shamanic past.” Thrall told you and continued. “Drek’Thar is too old and blind to do it, but I can when I learn. And then I will get in one of the Internment Camps, show them the old ways before the bloodlust took our race and rouse them up. At the same time when we are ready in the camp, Grom and Orgrim will lead the Warsongs and Frostwolves to attack from outside, while we break out.”
“That is your plan?” Grom asked.
“I still don’t see why I should be involved in this?” You had to ask. The plan did sound quite solid, but still…
“There will be guards, servants.” Thrall said to you. “They have nothing to do with this, they aren’t responsible for this.”
1/2
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>>6384641
Now you see.
“So you want me to make sure they stay alive? Act as a middleman in prisoner swaps?” You asked him and continued. “That still doesn’t explain why I should do this. Unless you are banking fully on my good nature and want to help everyone around me.”
“You are the only human whom we can… trust.” Thrall said. “You have your men, you have pull and power in Hillsbrad and Durnholde. I cannot allow those guards to just die, we will take those who surrender or we subdue as prisoners.”
“So you really want me to act as the middleman. What if I say no? What if it isn’t for me to do this? I told you, the moment the others are thinking that I am cooperating with you, that’s it.” You replied. There were going to be those mercenaries you hired from Stormwind City amongst those who will be kept taken prisoners, or more worse end up dead.
Thrall looked at Drek’Thar as if waiting for him to reply.
“Your condition, I believe we can help you.” Drek’Thar said to you.
>And in return for them helping you, you are going to help them by being the middleman in the negotiations?
>You have tried to get rid of the Fel within you by purging it, but it doesn't work. You have to replace it, otherwise you are going to be just as lethargic as the orcs are. Or dead.
>There’s already a plan in motion for you to get rid of the Fel.
>What would they even try to do? To accomplish?
>Other, write in
QM: Roll was for what Thrall and Drek’Thar had managed to figure out. Both in terms of how to get the orcs in the camps to recover and what they could maybe do to you.
Also Resident Evil 9 is a really beautiful looking game.
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>>6384643
>>6384643
>You have tried to get rid of the Fel within you by purging it, but it doesn't work. You have to replace it, otherwise you are going to be just as lethargic as the orcs are. Or dead.
>What would they even try to do? To accomplish?
They will need territory to call their own, in order to house all of these orcs they plan on freeing. Where will they go? All options I can see will antagonize the alliance kings, and medivh hasn't popped up yet to tell people about kalimdor.
I feel that alrics would want to help anyway, saving lives is a good thing.
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>>6384643
>>You have tried to get rid of the Fel within you by purging it, but it doesn't work. You have to replace it, otherwise you are going to be just as lethargic as the orcs are. Or dead.
>There’s already a plan in motion for you to get rid of the Fel.
>What would they even try to do? To accomplish?
>>
>>6384643
>You have tried to get rid of the Fel
Drek'thar explain it. Is Alric connected to his ancestors, to the spirit of the Alterac like some kind of Arthurian kingship magic, or are they shoving a Fire Spirit in there which could be handy. Orcish rune tattoos lol. Frankly we already have a plan I'm invested in. Any of this involved in resolving the Fel Incident just sort of feel tacked on top of the journey so far.
I don't think it would be as personally and emotionally satisfying as solving it with Nalice when shes in fact sharing her life with Alric as part of the journey in magic they started some time ago. The Fel incident is part of that. Her realization of being a teacher and lover grasping for and holding onto a precious life. The addition of 'Oh and then the orcs helped too, I guess I was okay putting my life in their hands after they abuse my trust.' is whatever. I get its an opportunity to build trust with Thrall or Drek'thar but eh.
If they just want to do some cool shaman stuff like giving us the phone number of a Big Spirit [tm] to call on if we needed something smashed or a nice artifact, either one they make or recovered from the Wars and Alterac. Kill enemies.
>OTHER, WRITE IN
They could find Eligius and Pai to lend them a hand in the big mission. Thats the play I'd like, and it would prove their sincerity to Alric. Thrall could talk with Eligius and Pai which might be neat. The getaway from Strahnbrad was going to be very messy without some help.
>There’s already a plan in motion
Things have stabilized, and FelMalevus is still pretty handy with that BattleTrance, extra mana pool, and being able to break illusions. The only ideas I have for Nalice to have children was her human form being made more 'real' using dragon runes, or Alric's soul getting dragon juiced clearing out the fel brings him spiritually closer to the point where life can spring forth.
>And in return for them helping you
They need someone who can negotiate for the orc camps in the Dalaran and northern Lordaeron Camps overseen by the RD. Prisoner exchange while telling Dalaran that theres no warlock activity our mages can sense implies even if they got the orc prisoners they might just be giving them lethargic orcs. As for RD as well as getting men back we can at least sell it as buying time for reinforcements, evacuation of Durnholders, and for the alliance to figure out whats going on.
>>6384646
Funnily enough if I consider a remote spot to squat in that is defensible and annoying to invade it would be Alterac proper. The Hinterlands aren't too bad either. Lots of mountains, trolls and the Wildhammer dwarves. Beyond that maybe old abandoned dwarf cities like Grim Batol. Migrating with ships to find some islands or something means having to ask for the ships in Southshore. Although theres a funny Dalaran option. Portals. Although that would probably trigger a few people lol. And it would mean brining out Medivh's Book or something.
>>
“I don’t think you can.” You said to them.
As the drizzle continued, you noticed several of the orcs setting up another campfire underneath a protective cliff and having raised a butchered deer to be grilled on it. You presumed that being something to be served to you after all this talking is done, but right now that wasn’t yet something you should think about.
Taking off your glasses that were rather goofy to wear in the dark, especially as Thrall had already seen your eyes and told Drek’Thar about them, you stared at the old shaman.
“I have tried to purge the Fel within me, but it doesn’t work. I am in a position where it needs to be replaced, not just removed. When I was purging it, I didn’t recover, but I stayed weak and I had no real endurance.” You told them and continued. “How I see it, you have all the strength you have always had. I am not in a similar situation.”
The orcs stared at you and it was Orgrim who spoke first.
“Green eyes.” He said.
“Fel green.” You said to him. “There was an accident.”
Orgrim grunted.
“I have a plan already in motion, I am not going to allow the Fel within me to stay there forever.” You told them and continued after giving a look at Malevus. “And before that happens, I have people around me making sure that nothing bad comes to me.”
“It is a shame we cannot help you.” Drek’Thar said to you.
“I appreciate the offer, but please humour me. What would you have even tried to do?” You asked.
Drek’Thar nodded. He explained that the spirits of this world are very potent. There are many magics one can achieve with their help and through combination of right ingredients, herbs and other trinkets, it would be plausible to at minimum stave or starve the Fel away or just outright purge and cleanse the body.
“But how? Fel is everything destructive and chaotic?” Malevus asked. Her interest had been piqued.
The old shaman smiled and spoke gently.
“The spirits are more potent than one might believe.” He replied and turned to speak to you again. “Your concerns are more than valid and our offer to help you will still stand.”
“Thank you, I appreciate it. But to get back to what we were speaking earlier. I do have some questions for you.” You said. “Let’s say you free the orcs from the Internment Camps, where would they go? How would they be fed?”
“Mountains.” Grom replied. “We will manage, just like always.”
“Draenor, our home world was once rich in game. Our ancestors hunted across the plains and survived, thrived even.” Orgrim continued on what Grom had said.
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>>6384931
"So just hunting and gathering? For what, thousands of orcs in total? Lordaeron is not this Draenor of yours. Sooner than later you would end up encroaching one of the Kingdoms you would now be neighbouring. And then what? Third War?” You asked them. “It might work for Frostwolves and the Warsongs, but the rest?”
“Alric has a point, we are not farmers, never have been that I have learned.” Thrall said. “The books I have read have taught me that the armies march on their stomachs. We need to be prepared, not just for a war of conquest, but survival.”
Both Grom and Orgrim seemed rather sure that everything would be alright. It might be their experiences as great warriors living dangerous lives or a lot of fighting talking, but how Thrall was taught is none of that. He is closer to you than to them, he understands the numbers and knows what is required to make sure his people won’t just survive, but thrive. If there was one thing to praise Blackmoore for, then it would be all the studying he made Thrall do.
>The orcs are a very sturdy folk by all accounts, but would the mountains of the Hinterlands be enough to feed them all?
>Now would be the good time to tell them about the Internment Camps in Stromgarde being closed and the orcs being moved to Durnholde and elsewhere.
>Is this why they have postponed their campaign till next year, after the winter. They need to get their supplies sorted out first.
>You hope they are not going to ask you to lend them food, Light forbid arms or armour.
>Other, write in
QM: The option for the orcs to help you with the Fel still stands, it will stay available and that roll of 20 would make it work.
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>>6384932
Thats all they've got to offer? I don't think we're going to take them up on it but thats just me. We passed on Jaina having an idea for it and we trust her way more than these guys. We have the Nalice plan we don't need half a dozen alternatives.
They said they've stained their honor, and apparently they've been spying on Alric quite well. So I'll give them something actually useful they could do which Alric would appreciate.
>Other, write in
Go help Eligius and Pai. Alric saved Tari, now Thrall has a chance to save Alric's lost sister.
>The orcs are a very sturdy folk by all accounts, but would the mountains of the Hinterlands be enough to feed them all?
Theres trolls and ogres and Syndicate they could raid. If they had anything worth trading I imagine something could be arranged.
>Now would be the good time to tell them about the Internment Camps in Stromgarde being closed and the orcs being moved to Durnholde and elsewhere.
I'm fine with them knowing, though I doubt they'll do anything about it when it would be giving up the element of surprise against Durnholde? Idk I'd be open to a pitch. Would there be an opportunity for us in the aftermath, would it weaken Stromguarde and would we find that a good situation.
>Is this why they have postponed their campaign till next year, after the winter. They need to get their supplies sorted out first.
Considering they don't farm I'm not sure how they'll improve the supply situation lol, besides raiding for more beforehand and raiding during Harvest.
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>>6384932
in regards to the arms and armor point Medivh can you give me some feedback on if this would work well?
Plan I mentioned here >>6381950
Would be very low risk because we'd just be dropping old arms and armor in a more remote warehouse as part of regular storage movements. Tari writes it off between Alric's Prince Expense and whatever else happens on the books to old gear to quietly disappear it. Pai or Eligius could take it out personally, or there should be plenty of openings for a single sneaky orc to make a withdrawal from a designated spot a bit at a time.
If they had goods we could be a middleman for to buy dark iron stuff for ourselves that would be great, but I imagine this would be more about helping Thrall. Maybe in future the good will earned for it will return when we need it.
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>>6384932
>The orcs are a very sturdy folk by all accounts, but would the mountains of the Hinterlands be enough to feed them all?
Learn to herd goats or something turn that useless grass into meat and milk. Farming is good too.
>Now would be the good time to tell them about the Internment Camps in Stromgarde being closed and the orcs being moved to Durnholde and elsewhere.
>Is this why they have postponed their campaign till next year, after the winter. They need to get their supplies sorted out first.
>Other, write in
''Do you know anything about the troll clan in the alterac mountains.''
I dont know where exactly they are other than north of durnholde river?
Why would you want to give them weapons. Talking with them alone is risky enough outright arming them is crazy.
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>>6384950
If for instance we wanted them to kill the trolls blocking the river, opening it up for trade and more landgrabbing, offering to arm them would be fair compensation.
Are you at all open to asking them to go help Eligius and Pai?
Also I think its called the Darrowmere river
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>>6384946
Working the books or writing off old arms is definitely doable, but the part where problems arrive would be the delivery. Where to move them without anyone learning about the operation or who would actually do it? That is the problem to be solved if Alric ever went there.
>>6384950
They do have pigs etc, but working the dirt? Yuck!
You understanding is that the Warsongs are somewhere north of Durnholde in the mountains. So in the Hinterlands, but not in the wooded valleys that make the Hinterlands proper.
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>>6384955
Im not exactly a fan of the perenolde special. Im all for reducing the chance of discovery by NOT getting into any involved deals. Information and maybe some small items and such is fine but anything meaningfully large scale is just too risky in my opinion
>Are you at all open to asking them to go help Eligius and Pai?
Not in particular. An orc outright helping our ''clerk'' the assasin and the bodyguard that was given to us does not look good in any way and they're help is dubiously helpful. Best i would ask for is to keep an eye out for them and make way so to say on they're way back.
Ah ye darrowmere thats the name thanks.
>>6384956
All good civilizations loooove diiiirt. Orcs proving themselves inferior once again.
I know the vague place warsongs are i was talking about the troll location.
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File: Crudely drawn map of Strahnbrad Hills.png (81.3 KB)
>>6384958
Brain fart from my part then. The trolls that are near the Strahnbrad Hills are basically everywhere in the mountains from North-West to North-East and most likely beyond the Darrowmere River to the east as well, but you aren't sure about what is exactly going on around there. Basically expect the trolls to be in the mountains from Strahnbrad Hills to Andorhal and beyond.
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>>6384956
I would have two ideas on 'delivery'. Old arms equipment will get stored somewhere out of the way, be it temporary or permanent, unless they are just trashing it or giving it away.
Some old remote storehouses in areas that were previously used for lumber but are being left alone to regrow. Or I'd imagine theres some old mines that either had metal and were exhausted or were exploratory digs looking for metal but not finding any, I think those kinds of mines or caves often later get used for storage, and sometimes for lots of cheese lol.
Anyway as far as anyone knows they would be dropping old gear off until someone else is moving it elsewhere to a final point, which is when Tari writes them off and they get picked up by orcs. The other would be making caches of old equipment buried in the earth and marking it down for rainy days. 'Oh no the orcs must have found some of our caches alas.'
No one is handing the equipment off to the orcs directly, maybe Pai could skulk around just to give a signal of when its time for a pickup when no one else is around but thats about it as far as logistics go. I'd also prefer if they could actually offer us something tangible or if they'd kill some enemies for it lol.
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>>6384958
>Not in particular.
It doesn't have to be an 'Orc' per say, maybe its a half ogre mercenary lol. Pretending to be half ogre-half human that is. Poor Rexxar got shafted if I remember, but I always thought he was neat. Thrall could even commands beasts lol. Just a matter of the right outfit, especially since Thrall speaks common very well.
Though Eligius and Pai were usually doing their own thing when we last had an arc for them so I figure they could talk with Thrall if it was him who finds them with their funny shaman bird scouting.
Then it would just be some extra muscle and magic if and when things go tits up, and not in the way Pai would like.
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>>638493
I have not been here for a while. Good work so far. Now the question of what we do with the orcs, since we helped Thrall plenty. Sitting on this favors or having them something for us ?
>The orcs are a very sturdy folk by all accounts, but would the mountains of the Hinterlands be enough to feed them all?
>Now would be the good time to tell them about the Internment Camps in Stromgarde being closed and the orcs being moved to Durnholde and elsewhere.
>Is this why they have postponed their campaign till next year, after the winter. They need to get their supplies sorted out first.
Reasonable to say
>Other, write in
'>"Do you know anything about the troll clan in the alterac mountains ?"
>"What do you know of the ogres and kobolds in Alterac ?"
>"What you know of the Gnolls that where north of Durnholde ? I have defeated them prior to my travel to Stormwind."
>"Did you encounter the Syndicate so far ?"
I have a lot of questions to ask, since we are here for talking might has well talk. I think these are all important and well the orcs live up here, so good chances they can answer us. After that idk. Could we use training or a spar with one of them? Orc knowledge ? Secret trade/exchange/gifts sound difficult. Its dangerous to cooperate with the growing ..... partnership ? What we have with Thrall. A shame i like the guy. The Alliance is out on the look for anything with us be the rulers watching our moves from now on, or lords that don't like us by default. Then there is people like Arthas or disgraced Garithos, that want only the worst for us.
>>6384944
>Go help Eligius and Pai.
What if its an attack with a small and elite unit on a place of the Syndicate instead ? Something for distract the orange rogues forces for a while, and that creates a window of opportunity for Eligius. They wouldn't come in to contact, keeping secrecy, but Thrall would help us.
>>6384956
>They do have pigs etc, but working the dirt? Yuck!
Sound like Thrall has a lot of work ahead of him.
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Alternatively they could do for us an attack like this against the ogres or against the trolls. Stealthy, a small but deadly unit.
Or perhaps going to the ruins of Alterac City for retrieve something of the Perenoldes there ?
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>>6385044
Yeah those are some good questions, and we're giving them info as well. I wouldn't mind a spar lol but who would it be against. Maybe we could try to have Alric use Mage Armor.
On the secret trade thing Medivh said Tari can handle the numbers side of cooking the books, and the logistics of it aren't too bad I think? Dudes drop off materiale at an old remote lumber storage. Ideally Pai who already knows about the Orcs could signal the all-clear, an orc comes in and pick up a small portion of whats been ""temporarily stored"", rinse and repeat.
If Nalice was okay on this it would be funny to have a dragon pick up a big bundle of weapons and fly it over there in the night lol. Air-Nalicestrasza. Thats about as bulletproof in terms of any humans spotting the exchange as can be. She picks up this big ball of weapons wrapped in tarp and throws it over mountains with a feather fall spell so it drifts gently down to the other side lol.
>What if its an attack with a small and elite unit on a place of the Syndicate instead
Thats the idea, I'm not asking for a full raid. If Thrall and Drek'Thar can manage a little magic fog and rain to cover a small squad from being discovered I think that would be ideal.
If they couldn't such a small group could easily be considered some kind of Blackrock raiders testing the waters? They were quite active for a bit before.
Although Eligius and Pai already know about Thrall and the orcs if there was an opportunity to only talk with those two and coordinate where exactly to strike. A few well placed lightning bolt on a few sentries guarding Creedy's fort lol.
I'd even say if Thrall can disguise himself as something like a half-ogre merc or a really big guy, or with shaman magic in some way, could he walk around human territory or not? Tricksy wind spirit magic to disguise someone.
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Rolled 9 (1d10)
>>6385349
Is Doomhammer's and Grom's confidence that such an orc force will just raid to sustain itself, long enough to do ???. Plus after the initial action to free the camps they'd still have to besiege Durnholde. Blackmoore was even getting a mage from Dalaran.
Maybe Thrall will try to focus on peons, peon supremacy. Forced labor for the warrior caste orcs beneath their new shaman and mercantile peon masters lol.
I wonder how bad any 'cannibalism' was among the trolls and more savage orc tribes, if we discount evil voodoo and dark magic ritual stuff.
>>6385357
I do like and trust Legace so that would be nice. For some reason I always think its 'Leglace', maybe just wishful thinking.
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Oh right I suppose the other person who knows about something going on with the orcs is Wiklish after we had him write down that message from Astu.
God I wanna get a zeppelin one of these days. Fuck going through this hilly forested terrain on patrols and escorts. No more seasickness for Alric. I could not care less if the other alliance members don't like it.
Between Wiklish, Blacksteel, and the Stonemasons could they come up some neat systems for it. Or Nalice and the mages. Fuck river boats.
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>9
“Are the mountains of the Hinterlands really enough to feed all of you?” You had to ask. “Or do you have to rely on raiding to make up for what is missing?”
It looked like for a second that Orgrim was going to answer, but you interrupted him immediately.
“I am not saying it would be impossible, I would imagine orcs being very good at hunting.” You said and continued. “But I spent a considerable portion of my time looking at papers going through grain shipments, salted fish barrels, buckets of nails and so on. And what Thrall said is correct, armies march on their stomachs and if you are going to have several thousand orcs hiding in the mountains, that is going to require a lot of food and basic supplies.”
You did some quick math in your head and the amount of food was staggering and you didn’t think the orcs were exactly farmers. How would they even store whatever meat they acquire long term if they don’t have salt? Just smoking it, but with what wood, those mountains are barren?
“And that is not taking into account what will be the reaction from your new neighbours? Will they allow you to just hunt their game as well? What of the trolls? What of the local beasts? How long will those game stocks last?” You asked the orcs. “Lordaeron is not your Draenor, these aren’t plentiful or bountiful lands.”
“Alric is right, while we would manage, it wouldn’t be easy at all.” Thrall said.
“Is this why you postponed the campaign?” You asked. “To get the supplies sorted out?”
“No, we did it because Thrall is not yet ready.” Drek’Thar answered.
That made sense, he was what would make the plan work in the first place.
“Understandable.” You shrugged.
It did feel a bit strange to lecture them about logistics especially with the former Warchief of the Horde sitting there and one other clan chieftain to the other side of you, but you were right about this. They weren’t wrong, but this wasn’t a campaign where they could just loot and pillage their way to success.
“We have the weapons we took from the gnolls.” Grom said. “The Warsong is always ready.”
Orgrim spoke something to Grom and the others in Orcish, you didn’t dare to ask what he said as he just got acknowledging grunts from them along with some nods.
“There is something you need to know. The Alliance has decided to close the Internment Camps in Stromgarde, all the orcs held there will be moved to Durnholde and elsewhere.” You told them.
“Then we should strike those transports!” Grom bellowed.
“And lose our chance for a surprise? A single camp holds more of our kin than a transport caravan could have.” Orgrim told him and looked at you. “Thank you for the information.”
“You would have learned it sooner than later.” You said.
1/2
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File: Grom Hellscream Metzen.jpg (150.1 KB)
>>6385816
You had just given them several pieces of free advice, you were already helping them. How far would you go? Their arguments that you would do it for the soldiers, to avoid bloodshed and unnecessary casualties do ring through. You were in a very unique position to attempt to mitigate the damage this could cause. Like Drek’Thar had said, it is inevitable that the snow melts. You couldn’t stop this, Thrall was adamant and on a mission. And with him were the two strongest and most renowned warriors and leaders the orcs had.
“Alric, can we talk?” Malevus asked you.
“Of course, if you excuse me.” You said to the orcs and stood up with her.
Following her some distance away, she turned and spoke to you in Thalassian.
“Are you going to do it?” She asked.
“To help them?”
“Yeah.”
“I don’t know, probably in some way.” You said and sighed. “Frankly I don’t like this. Thrall’s cause might be just, but Orgrim? My father?”
Malevus took your hand and gently squished it.
“You are going to make the right decision.” She said. “Whatever it is, I will support you.”
“I know, my Malevus.” You replied and smiled.
“My Alric…” She said to you and her smile pushed away some of your concerns.
“Right, better let the orcs know that I will be part of this.” You said and returned back to Common.
They had been waiting and talking about something when you returned. You didn’t take a seat, instead you stayed standing. They seemed to anticipate that you had made your decision as Orgrim stood up himself and the rest followed. What would you tell them?
>There will be no cooperation in any way. It is too dangerous for you and most importantly for your people. For not just the Alteracis, but for the Stonemasons and the refugees from Underbelly. You cannot put them in any danger.
>Your main goal is to ensure the peace. You will be in Durnholde most likely with your army and if needed you will fight the orcs. But above all you are going to protect the civilians and if necessary, negotiate with the orcs for the prisoners they take.
>You will play an active role during their campaign and there will be further negotiations and talks with the orcs, but in return you want something from them. Be it information or something they are going to do for you.
>Thrall’s cause is just. It is not right that the orcs are rotting in the Interment Camps. Neither are you or him guilty for the crimes done by your fathers and previous generation. You will help him because it is the right thing to do, a virtuous and a just thing to do.
>Other, write in
QM: The options go from no cooperation at all to you being in the mix and dealing with the prisoners to you technically helping them, but want something in return to finally being more supportive and potentially helping them even further. This is a big vote and I will let this roll till tomorrow. Roll was how hard Alric spills out about the logistics and how well it is taken by the orcs.
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>>6385818
>Your main goal is to ensure the peace. You will be in Durnholde most likely with your army and if needed you will fight the orcs. But above all you are going to protect the civilians and if necessary, negotiate with the orcs for the prisoners they take.
We can't do any more than this without putting our people in danger.
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>>6385818
>>Your main goal is to ensure the peace. You will be in Durnholde most likely with your army and if needed you will fight the orcs. But above all you are going to protect the civilians and if necessary, negotiate with the orcs for the prisoners they take.
You know if we were a prince of loarderon maybe more could be done. But an alteraci doing more would put everything we have done into threat of annihilation. Sympathetic to they're cause but not in a position to do more.
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>>6385827
We wouldnt have to negotiate alone if we told Jaina and Kael, at that point we'd probably have their support and the ability to really work out some give and take in negotiations. But yeah if we had Callia on hand, or probably married Callia, we'd also have considerable influence.
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>>6385832
IC we did tell Jaina about the general plot of Garithos aiming for Lord of the Camps and the faction behind him. That Garithos wanted the position so he could basically kill and mistreat camp orcs as revenge for what happened to his land. She thought that was pretty damn horrible and established her sympathy.
Kael because hes a huge political powerhouse that can pull on Dalaran and Quel'thalas, and hes a loyal friend who wants to work with Alric. He didn't seem too miffed about Dalaran having to run an orc camp with their troops, and he also helped explain to Jaina the Garithos plot and his motivations which he seemed to oppose. If he personally wanted the orcs dead he would have been sympathetic to Garithos. I think as a Mage he understands the Fel influence on their race if he wants to approach it clinically as well.
Calia because shes a Princess of Lordaeron, and I think she has some ties to the Church? But if she ever actually wanted to be active she could. Also if Alric did marry her he does still like and respect her so he won't lie to her, or that she would pick up on his emotional distress over the whole thing.
Ideally Jaina for Kul Tiras, Kael for Dalaran and Quel'thalas, Calia for Lordaeron, If Alterac is also in the Alliances thats 5 Kingdoms that would be able to work out a real negotiation.
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>>6385818
>Your main goal is to ensure the peace. You will be in Durnholde most likely with your army and if needed you will fight the orcs. But above all you are going to protect the civilians and if necessary, negotiate with the orcs for the prisoners they take.
If think Alric might agree to share the approximate transport schedule from Stromgarde to Durnholde. That way will result in even less bloodshed, without the Orcs trying to siege the home of an ally.
Did we send letters to our former Merc leader Maxwell in Strom? If not, then we should reopen that.
In exchange for this intel, we want their intel on what's going on in the mountains above Dawnholme.
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>>6385838
I suppose we could theoretically have a chance of pushing a diplomatic orc solution If we portrayed it as a. ''The camps are a solution that satisfy absolutely no one.'' but that is a ship that has basically sailed.
I do have a few problems with your vote assessment.
None of the people mentioned have the vote. Kael was the closest but he was a representative of dalaran wouldnt antonidas be the one with the real vote and sylvanas was representing Quel-Thalas not Kael. Not to mention Kael used up alot of politcal capital in our favor i doubt that he would have the same push or even the will to push for orcs of all things. or that he would once again be the representative for dalaran next time.
Calia is a bit too uninvolved in politics and would possibly be completely counterballanced by Arthas.
Jaina maybe again has no vote and its a bit meta gamey but doesnt her father HATE orcs.
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>>6385842
We do have until next years Kings Meeting where dissolving the camps could be brought up to try positioning for it, but if that wasn't on the table at least having such a group together would still be useful for when Thrall invades.
I think we could hopefully negotiate the prisoner exchange for camp orcs with Alric and Reginald to contact Terenas and the RD camp orcs, plus whoever we can contact in Dalaran for their camp orcs, but I figure if we want to negotiate an actual resolution to Thrall's invasion we'd need our own gang of Princes and Princesses. (Minus Arthas who would hopefully still be fighting trolls in the elven woods with the Silver Hand.) Or we'll just be sitting and staring at one another from across the Darrowmere for who knows how long, which will delay our conquest of Alterac too I'd imagine.
People of great status like royalty would have authority to make some battlefield decisions, I figure that includes negotiating when it involves war and people. They've gotta have some power to accept surrenders and other terms if it happens. Alric even while outside the Alliance is still a recognized royal who can take, or convince others to give him, command of combined forces as hes done previously.
If we have 4 or 5 Princes of the Alliance who all have some power to represent their kingdoms its far far better than just Alric trying to work it out with a local RD commander or Blackmoore. It'll have weight, and if the King's can trust the decisions of their Princes and Princesses that may key to swaying their vote.
We negotiate a deal, ask the Kings of the Alliance to meet, and they decide whether to take it, counter it, or toss it out. Taking it would mean peace, throwing it out would probably mean fighting the orcs to the death if they have nowhere left to fallback to.
Kael I figure we'd probably have to help him out to restore his political influence. I know he wanted to offer us a deal for troops in the Durnholde Campaign to do something so he probably has something in mind we'd just have to ask him. Or if we really did help him get with Jaina lol.
Yeah asking Calia who knows if she would accept. Do her morals on the camp situation and wanting to get closer to Alric outweigh her dislike of politics? Among other feelings.
Whether she has a vote or not Jaina is one of the only people in Alric's inner circle whose opinion Admiral Proudmoore would actually consider on the topic of orcs. Although to be fair its up in the air whether Admiral Proudmoore might hate orcs more than he trusts Jaina's decisions lol. But its certainly the best shot I can think of for reaching a resolution.
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>>6385818
>>Your main goal is to ensure the peace. You will be in Durnholde most likely with your army and if needed you will fight the orcs. But above all you are going to protect the civilians and if necessary, negotiate with the orcs for the prisoners they take.
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>>6385850
Im getting the vague impression the orcs will strike first and then maybe negotiate with whoever they capture for maybe other orcs they failed to get in the initial attack. And the next years meeting would most likely involve what to do with the resurgent orc threat. Its very speculative on what exactly will happen so its pointless really to make up best case scenarios for us.
Again big problem is for that to work it requires them to be here. I doubt the orcs will stick around long enough to have such a gathering. at best We could get Kael/Jaina from dalaran and of course worst case someone like trollbane showing up to counterbalance that.
I think kael had something he wants from us from a letter he sent or something QM said. So hes favor would depend on what he wants and how impactful it would be for him.
Calia is such a non-factor so much and i think that would be a massive blow on anything she might say. After all why listen to a political opinion of someone who does not do politics at all.
Hey if founding of durotar campaign from wc3 counts then hell no proudmoore will not be stopped by jaina.
I think the most likely way things will go is. Next year orcs hit the camps liberate orcs take human prisoners. We and whoever is the nearest (Kael Jaina Antonidas Trollbane) Shows up to help durnholde and then we maybe cut a deal with the prisoner/orc exchange. Then the alliance meeting happens later and obviously what happens in durnholde is discussed and it will most likely be hostile to orcs. They wont sit by idly as a new horde creates itself. Basically shits fucked as usual. But again its all just speculation.
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>>6385873
The other orcs are camped in Dalaran which they control with their troops, and northern Lordaeron which now the RD controls rather than Blackmoore. So I expect it would be rather difficult to hit either of those locations and get away with a bunch of orcs who might be lethargic while they escape. I'm pretty sure we will need to help them negotiate for such a wide scale prisoner exchange. If they can honestly waltz across all of Lordaeron to get it done more power to them but I really doubt it.
Thrall promised he was going to warn us when he intends to actually attack so it shouldnt be that hard to have any relevant people nearby for a party or something. What a tragedy it was interrupted by these orcs.
Yeah so we do whatever Kael asks, I doubt its anything too bad since he wants to maintain a good relationship. Maybe he wants us to go help with the trolls in their forests or something for Dalaran. Or both. We are in a fairly stable position for a year or so, especially with 200+ extra Stonemason mercs protecting their new home.
If theres a chance that Calia can do something actually interesting I'm willing to give it a shot. No matter what she is Princess of Lordaeron, the most powerful kingdom in the Alliance. If she honestly can't do anything herself then marriage with Alric would still contribute a lot of political influence to whatever we needed or wanted to do. But marriage is also an Alricbowl question.
I remember it lol. I always thought Rexxar was pretty neat, and more half ogre characters could have been interesting. I'll not let the results of that campaign decide what has to happen here, before we have a chance to involve ourselves if at all.
I expect Thrall will tell us as promised, but I'd imagine they might strike at or just before harvest season since the supply issue was brought up. If Thrall has managed to get peons willing to actually farm then they could feed themselves using Durnholde's farms, perhaps indefinitely and it would mean they would have to raid less so less damage to the area which Thrall wants.
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>>6385887
I was not aware there were camps in northern Loarderon. Then again it depends on the size of the camps in general If durnholde has majority of the orcs negotiating about the other camps would be certainly easier.
What a terrible way to have a party. It better be some special occasion though if its random it might be just a tad suspicious.
Who knows what Kael wants. But what QM has said beforehand i doubt it will be anything too burdersome.
Calia if she is married to Alric would of course diminish her influence i say as obviously she would be very biased towards us.
Other than rexxar i dont know any other half ogre characters though. I mean it entirely depends on wether or not the thing that made him hate orcs so much has already happened or not. If it has then yeah Jaina wont be able to do anyting.
I dont think Thrall will stick around in durnholde. Seems rather suicidal to stay there out in the open like that. You seem to have a radically diffrent idea on what will happen than me. I got the impression they will hit the camps liberate orcs and flee to the mountains before alliance can mount a response.
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File: Alterac map2.png (1.0 MB)
>>6385916
Grom has the chance to do something funny if he goes after the caravan of orcs by himself. Somehow he did get captured and Thrall had to save him in wc3 lol
Last thread
' “But the Alliance also recognises the need to defend the Internment Camps in the light of the orc sightings and we cannot allow this cut to jeopardise the security of the Camps.” Terenas said and continued. “As some of the Camps are located outside of Durnholde. One in Dalaran, three in Stromgarde and four in the northern territories of Lordaeron, we have decided to close down the Interment Camps in Stromgarde and move the orcs to the other Camps. In addition, Dalaran has promised to have their men to handle the security of the Camp in their territory and likewise Regional Defenders will handle the Camps outside of Durnholde, but in Lordaeron.” '
Dang I thought it was 3 camps in northern Lordaeron but it was actually 4. It was Strom that had 3.
Well Faelyn was born a bit after we got back from the King's Meeting so her birthday! Or maybe a King's Meeting Afterparty. Or celebrating that Alterac made it back into the Alliance if that goes through, and then the orc nation attacked.
I guess? As long as Terenas is alive I'm sure he'd move mountains for her. I do wonder if Calia could keep Arthas in check which would be a considerable bonus on her part. Though the other solid Lordaeron supporter would be Jandice as a High Noble and Archmage. I liked her romance and training scenes quite a bit, shes a lot of fun.
Well I think Thrall has to besiege Durnholde Keep to free the last of the Durnholde Camp Orcs now that Stromgarde is sending over even more they have to accommodate. If he wants to use those Durnholde farms to feed his orcs. Thats setting aside any personal feelings he might have. Does he have to stick around to negotiate the prisoner exchange? Would the human prisoners die if they are force marched and kept in the Hinterland mountains lol. No prisoners means no exchange.
Its not too bad of a position for Thrall. Theres only 1 crossing on the Darrowmere River and the RD are stationed in Southshore. If I was Reginald I'd hold the bridge rather than risk the orc's taking it and opening up the entire region to raiding, evacuate people with escorts, and try to scout out how many orcs there actually are while waiting for reinforcement. Which of course the Alliance isn't quite as united as it used to be, and they've retired the old guard officers, and the heavy taxes. So it could be a bit of a wait.
For Stromgarde to attack would mean leaving their super sized wall defenses, and bearing the brunt of yet another war with the orcs when all his people really wanted was to just execute them all and done with it.
So I think Thrall could squat in Durnholde for a while if theres actual negotiations ongoing, and if there isn't then I suppose he HAS to attack the other camps across Lordaeron. Either with everything he has or by sending Clans to bring them here.
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>>6385977
Grom could do many great and terrible things. Does remind me of wc3 where he goes ahead and attacks humans on hes own dragging thrall into conflict. So it wouldnt surprise me in the slightest if grom hit the moving orcs on hes own.
4 camps outside of durnholde How vague. Could be spread apart too but not really much to go on. other than its in the north Thrall doesnt necesirily need to hit all the camps at the same time. We know durnholde is the main target for now.
Faelyn party? i guess if it aligns. Thrall is the one who decides when they move not us though. And id rather keep the communication and meeting with thrall as minimal as possible.
There is a diffrence between a fathers love and politics. I just think you are putting far too much faith in the influence of the princes and princesses. The orcs are basically this universes nazis you are NOT going to have an easy time trying to convince the human kings that were at war with them to go easy even if they're children speak in they're favor. Jandice was ok. Im more of a fan of the autistic dragon.
Thrall only has to besiege durnholde if blackmoore puts orcs in it. There are none in it now. Im hoping we can prevent that and give blackmoore good reason why putting orcs in hes stronghold is a bad idea even if they are pliable. Say something like if syndicate wanted to sabotage him just burn some fel near or in the fortress to awaken the bloodlust of the orcs inside the fort. They have already proven themselves capable of infiltrating the place. Could also try to influence him through hes new mistress maybe
There is only one crossing on the darrowmere on our side that we control i sincerely fucking doubt that we literally control the only passing through the river thats just crazy.
Thrall has 2 clans to hes name for this plan compared to fuck knows how many clans at ful strength when the invasion began. Its not even a war and as you say yourself they would rather have orcs dead and you think they will just sit down idly as they take over a neighboring kingdoms land and squats on it?
Anon i think you're crazy no way is thrall just gonna sit on hes ass. Personally he might get slowed down in durnholde if he has to siege it. But sticking around is just begging to get killed and further complicating matters. If nothing else he would move the orcs out of durnholde if he has to stick around for longer. But im thinking days not weeks or worse months. Yet alone something as batshit insane as sitting on durnholde and farming for a year lmao what.
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>>6385818
>Im more of a fan of the autistic dragon.
Well said brother. Pushing for it turned out quite nicely. Shame about the Varian prison interruption, Alric never did get that kiss as well. I do hope to figure out how she can have children tho, that family is her dream but theres a couple ideas.
I can't say I have a good reason why Blackmoore wouldn't put them in the Keep. If he doesn't he'd have to build more camps out of his depleted budget. Giving up orcs that he might want for his gladiator games, control of the orcs is his job in the first place and now someone is trying to tell him how to do even that with his prickly pride. It would have to be a pretty good pitch. He might ask if Alric was willing to take a camp if hes so concerned with their placement? But hey if Annabelle can do it I'll take it.
As far as I know there is only one bridge, and the rest of the river is big and deep enough for frigates and oil transports to pass up and down. I suppose there is that troll dam but thats allllll the way up north.
I mean thats what happens in wc3 lol, they can't come together to kill them. The Alliance splinters as Stromguard, Gilneas, and Quel'Thalas leave with the grievances which did almost happen in Stormwind and then they can't kill Thrall. But thats a bit meta so I'd rather step away from that.
We know there are deep grievances in the Alliance that hinder cooperation, with Sylvanas threatening to outright leave the Alliance in Stormwind and Terenas taking action to hold things together. That the Syndicate are increasing their numbers in Stromgarde from Legace's report so they are up to something, and we know their ultimate goal is destruction of the Alliance Kingdoms if they have the opportunity. Though its hard to say if Falconcrest knows what Grom and Thrall are planning they do have some communication so maybe he suspects and sees movement. The truce will end in a year so once the Kings Meeting ends shit might hit the fan several times.
Thrall won't just have two Clans once he breaks the Durnholde and recently moved Stromgarde camp orcs out of their lethargy.
Thrall and crew are the ones asking Alric to negotiate for prisoners and it almost certainly has to be Thrall or Drek'Thar handling the negotiations on their side. Can Alric can really negotiate with them if everything they have is constantly on the move all across Lordaeron? How are they securing the prisoners they have? It'll take time to get the orcs from northern Lordaeron since the ogres still block the King's Road they'll have to go all the way around, besides managing to convince them and Dalaran to actually let theirs go. So I don't see that as a matter of days it'll be a fair amount of back and forth.
Supply issue was a main point in their conversation just now. Thrall didn't seem keen on just raiding for it or that hunting would be sufficient, so yeah he will come up with something to feed his army. Presumably he can't farm in the mountains very well.
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>>6386074
Alrics dragonspawn. Truly a dream come true.
Just keep the orcs out of the keep its not too much to ask maybe annabelle can go full. ouh noo keep those ugly green smelly savages out of the keep~
One bridge that has been mentoned i really find it hard to believe there would be no other bridge down south to connect loarderon/stromgarde and if there isnt WHY the fuck arent we tolling the bridge we control from all the land traffic if we basically have a monopoly on land travel.
I dont know exactly what you are referencing or how it applies here. In wc3 thrall gets told about kalimdor beats up the camps freeing orcs steals a fleet and flees to kalimdor. Not really comparable considering this would be happening in they're backyard and not a continent away that most people dont even know about.
Yes thrall would be getting a force of propably weak orcs as all they do is sit around in theyre own shit. Not to mention who knows how long it would take them to actually ''cure'' the orcs of they're malaise. Not really much of a fighting force.
Sylvanas was a special case im not betting on alliance breaking apart so easily so soon.
We clearly got different ideas on how things are going to go. I dont even know exactly what they want to negotiate for. All this is just speculation on how things are going to go. I doubt it will be about ALL the camps just durnholde and negotiation with local forces say if durnholde takes in orcs inside as an exchange for them whoever they take outside for the orcs inside the keep. Not once did i think that the entire thing will be resolved so soon. All im going to say is that you are incredibly optimistic on our military/diplomatic position that i simply do not share. and that all we can do is sit and wait and see how QM handles this or where exactly the scale he is going with.
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>>6385818
>>Your main goal is to ensure the peace. You will be in Durnholde most likely with your army and if needed you will fight the orcs. But above all you are going to protect the civilians and if necessary, negotiate with the orcs for the prisoners they take.
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>>6386141
We don't control the bridge Lordaeron does. Its smack dab inbetween Tarren Mill and Southshore on the west side of the river and Durnholde north and south on the east. If we go by the map no one really has to enter our territory at all except maybe Tarren Mill but thats on shared parts of the King's Road. I do not believe we have a monopoly on land travel here.
As for what I was referencing in the wc3 lore the Alliance splinters because Stromgarde wants Alterac for itself considering the damage they sustained in the wars and the heavy taxes to maintain the camps and rebuild Stormwind. When Trollbane doesn't get what he wants he leaves the Alliance, the Elves blame the leadership for the burning of their forests among other failures to leave, and Gilneas takes the opportunity to leave as well. Sylvanas was just voicing the discontent of the elves as the designated elf hothead, and if Sylvanasanon is lucky he'll get another chance at the next Kings Meeting lol or whatever Kael wants for his favor.
I suppose theres still time for the next kings meeting to have some kind of shenanigans, or will Thrall's attack piss off everyone about the handling of everything and cause the splinter anyways unless Alric can save the day again.
Thats the mood of the Kingdoms and the limit of how little they want to cooperate with each other. Their ability to rally together is not looking so hot. Their forces are led by less experienced officers now that they've retired a bunch of the experienced ones which is what Uther warned us about, and even Uther is retiring. Lordaeron's northern RD is stuck garrisoning the northern orc camps. Those are the forces they rely on to respond to threats quickly but they came to this arrangement so they could also reduce the taxes and budget of Durnholde. Plus the ogres still block the most direct route to get down here. Petty squabbling, land disputes, taxes, etc.
The response to Thrall is not set up to go well for the Alliance AT ALL. For all intents and purposes I basically expect them to fumble the ball leaving Alric and Reginald to handle it, plus whoever we can actually call on it.
The only thing Alric can control is our response, and who we have around to support us when shit hits the fan by telling them about it beforehand. Alric certainly can't rely on their armies but hes got a few friends who might be able to weigh in on what their people would accept, and the vote seems to be to at least try for negotiations for prisoners. Camp orcs for prisoners seems like a natural exchange, lives for lives.
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Standing there surrounded by the orcs still felt rather strange. Three of them were a lot bigger than you were and could rip off your arms with their bare hands. Yet you stood there as their equal.
“My duty first and foremost is to my people, to my friends and allies. My main goal is to ensure the peace in Hillsbrad, in Dalaran and in Durnholde.” You spoke to them and continued after a brief pause. “I will be in Durnholde with my army after Blackmoore calls for my aid and I intend to honour my agreements with him. If needed, I will fight you all.”
Thrall looked like he was going to say something so you raised your hand up to silence him.
“But above all I am going to protect the civilians, the farmers, those who have nothing to do with this. And if necessary, negotiate with you for any prisoners you take.” You finished. “That is my stance, that is what I will do.”
Orgrim grunted in agreement.
“Thank you Prince Alric.” Drek’Thar said and gave you a polite nod.
The rain had stopped momentarily, but the clouds continued to cover the sky. The fire crackled and threw shadows across the rocks and cliffs around you.
“We will honour your decision.” Orgrim replied to you while Grom stayed silent with Thrall.
You nodded.
“It is late, will you return back to Dawnholme?” Thrall asked you.
“No, if we can’t see where we are going we are just breaking our legs or hurting our horses. We need to camp out here.” You replied.
“Then stay with us and enjoy the food.” He continued. The other orcs had been grilling the deer and seemed to be finished with the job.
“We don’t exactly have alternatives, so we shall stay with you for the night.” You replied.
“I will go fetch the bedrolls and check on the horses.” Malevus said to you and left you with the orcs.
Well right then, time to eat in this strange company.
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Slices of grilled deer meat were cut off the carcass and served as is. The orcs didn’t care much as they just ate with their fingers, but you skewered the slices with your own utility knife and ate like that. At first Malevus seemed somewhat uncomfortable eating like this, but she got the hang of it quite quickly. As you ate, the rain returned and forced you to take cover under the cliff where it was at least a bit dry.
Filling your stomach with grilled deer, a bit of bread from your rations and watered down wine, you found yourself listening to the orcs chattering amongst each other in Orcish. Based on the way they talked, it felt like it was just common chatter and not much else.
“You spoke of Stormwind City.” Orgrim suddenly said to you in Common. “About a meeting?”
“Yes?”
“The City is still standing?” He asked you.
Of course Orgim wouldn’t know about the recent events if he has been in hiding all these years. Same applied to the rest of the orcs, they must not know about the business and politics in Lordaeron and Azeroth as a whole. How much should you tell them?
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>>6386519
>The City has been rebuilt, the refugees returned after the Second War was over. It is a really beautiful place.
>Stormwind stands, but not without their own issues. Tell him an abridged version of the Stonemason riots, now the Stonemasons are here in Dawnholme. That is a thing you have to keep in account.
>The Alliance has an early meeting where things are discussed. There was quite a lot of drama involved this year.
>Does Orgrim regret what he did to Stormwind City? Or why the curiosity?
>Other, write in.
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>>6386520
>The City has been rebuilt, the refugees returned after the Second War was over. It is a really beautiful place.
>Stormwind stands, but not without their own issues. Tell him an abridged version of the Stonemason riots, now the Stonemasons are here in Dawnholme. That is a thing you have to keep in account.
No need to poke at old wounds.
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>>6386520
>The City has been rebuilt, the refugees returned after the Second War was over. It is a really beautiful place.
It was rebuilt quite nicely and thats a fact. I suppose he might find some comfort in that with his current mindset.
>Stormwind stands, but not without their own issues. Tell him an abridged version of the Stonemason riots, now the Stonemasons are here in Dawnholme. That is a thing you have to keep in account.
Supposing this is enlightened Doomhammer weighed down by his choices. Knowing that Stonemasons, former Stormwinders, might disincline him even more from troubling our town and their lives. He can have the truth of the matter. Does he see it as the destruction he oversaw in the past rippling into things in the future, and perhaps he will consider to be less destructive in the coming days. Perhaps Alric could consider that as well lol.
Oh yeah I thought we were gonna get some info if they had any about the Syndicate in Hinterlands, or about the ogres and blackrock in Alterac. In exchange for the info about the caravan.
>Other, write in.
Ask him why it all fell apart, what would he have done differently.
Alric stands infront of one of the greatest warlords in the world. Even if he hates him for convincing his father to betray the Alliance he might want to glean something from that vast experience. Or as someone he might fight in the future a look into his mind to understand him on a personal level as he is now.
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>>6386520
>>The City has been rebuilt, the refugees returned after the Second War was over. It is a really beautiful place.
>>Stormwind stands, but not without their own issues. Tell him an abridged version of the Stonemason riots, now the Stonemasons are here in Dawnholme. That is a thing you have to keep in account.
>>
“The City has been rebuilt, it is a really gorgeous place.” You told him. “When the refugees led by King Varian returned, they didn't waste any time and got to work immediately.”
Orgrim grunted.
“You can still see the signs of the damage here and there, cracked stone and marks of flames where your Horde tried to torch the City.” You said and put emphasis on the words your Horde. “But even if the work of the Stonemasons Guild has been impressive, the City is not without its issues.”
“What do you mean?” Thrall asked.
“There were riots over unpaid salaries and payments. Stonemasons fought the King, the Queen died when a thrown rock hit her head and now the Stonemason refugees are here in Dawnholme.” You explained.
“You brought them here!” Thrall asked you again.
“The women and the children had nothing to do with this. Their place wasn't to be in the wilderness hunted by King Varian's men.” You said and continued. “It was the right thing to do, and now I have quite a lot of Stonemasons around. Dawnholme will be the mightiest city around.”
Orgrim scratched his chin thoughtfully. It was better not to get deep into the details or how splintered the Alliance really is and how politics are played. Splinters always exist, but a unified Alliance or at least facsimile of one should be presented to him. He was still the former Warchief, he must be thinking about things like this.
“Why did everything fall apart?” You asked him suddenly.
“Fall apart?” Orgrim asked you.
“Second War, why did you lose? Stormwind or Iron Forge couldn't stop you in the First War, so why did you lose the Second?” You asked him rather matter of factly.
“Oh, I want to hear this too.” Grom said and leaned forward as he chewed on a piece of grilled deer.
Orgrim didn't seem to like how suddenly you had asked something like that and he turned the question around.
“Why did we lose?” He asked you.
>It was an existential struggle for us humans, for you just a conquest and slaughter.
>He underestimated the humans, you are smaller, weaker, not as savage as them. Yet you defeated the mighty Horde.
>The Horde didn't have a clear goal. They fought from Hillsbrad to Stromgarde to Quel’thalas to Capital City to their defeat.
>He started with an army that only grew smaller every day with every battle. He was racing against time and the time ran out.
>Because he didn’t have the clarity of mind, this bloodhaze blinded the orcs.
>Other, write in
QM: Will try to get another update out today.
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>>6387186
>The Horde didn't have a clear goal. They fought from Hillsbrad to Stromgarde to Quel’thalas to Capital City to their defeat.
>He started with an army that only grew smaller every day with every battle. He was racing against time and the time ran out.
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>>6387186
>>The Horde didn't have a clear goal. They fought from Hillsbrad to Stromgarde to Quel’thalas to Capital City to their defeat.
>>He started with an army that only grew smaller every day with every battle. He was racing against time and the time ran out.
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>>6387186
>The Horde didn't have a clear goal. They fought from Hillsbrad to Stromgarde to Quel’thalas to Capital City to their defeat
>Your allies were unreliable and/or untrustworthy, the self-serving goblins, the Amani who only had one goal in mind, death knights like the one I met, and not to mention other conflicts between your clans that could have been caused by the bloodhaze.
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>>6387186
>It was an existential struggle for us humans, for you just a conquest and slaughter.
>He underestimated the humans, you are smaller, weaker, not as savage as them. Yet you defeated the mighty Horde.
>The Horde didn't have a clear goal. They fought from Hillsbrad to Stromgarde to Quel’thalas to Capital City to their defeat.
>He started with an army that only grew smaller every day with every battle. He was racing against time and the time ran out.
The Horde brought the damn Red Dragonflight to their knees and yet, and yet.. the Alliance got behind them and cut them off from Draenor.
Khadgar had cast the damn blizzard that cast down the grand portal, then enterred the portal with Daelin, Kurdran, Alleria and Turalyon among others to seal it from the other side.
The Horde had a blindside that was thoroughly exploited by these heroes of the Alliance willing to sacrifice it all for the chance to win.
That moment when Alric finds out about the Horde's distractions like Gul'dan's expeditions to Sargeras' tomb is going to really shake things up.
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>>6387186
>The Horde didn't have a clear goal. They fought from Hillsbrad to Stromgarde to Quel’thalas to Capital City to their defeat.
>He started with an army that only grew smaller every day with every battle. He was racing against time and the time ran out.
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>10
There had been a book you had read from Milan, an elven scribe who had the honour writing down the events and history of the Alliance during the Second War. Milan had followed the known commanders and written down their thoughts and decisions, and after the war he had finished his books. And in the book you had read there had been one constant amongst the commentary.
“You didn’t have a clear goal. You fought everywhere from Hillsbrad to Stromgarde to Quel’thalas to Capital City until you were defeated.” You said to Orgrim and continued. “And the army you started with only grew smaller every day with every battle you fought. Attrition ate you away as you were racing against time and in the end the time ran out.”
Orgrim looked at you for a moment. You felt like repeating yourself in your mind, but being in his presence with the rest of the orcs felt just so so strange.
“He is right.” Drek’Thar said to Orgrim.
Orgrim grunted and looked at the old shaman. He spoke something in Orcish to him that got a reaction from Thrall and Grom before looking at you.
“I have had the time to think about all of this.” He said to you. “Silence is a good companion for that.”
“Was I right?” You asked him to get confirmation, but before you could get an answer, you were rudely interrupted.
Trogdor, the orc who had guided you here and who had been watching the horses came running. He shouted something in Orcish that got everyone else to stand up immediately. Orgrim asked something from him and got a confirmation.
“What is going on?” You asked and stood up.
“Grom, what were you hunting?” Orgrim asked him in Common.
“Ogres, their blades can be reforged and used again.” Grom replied.
“Well they have followed you.” Orgrim replied to him.
“Ogres? Here? They have crossed the mountains?” You had to ask.
Orgrim grunted and hefted up his large hammer.
“We will fight! Follow me!” He shouted and started to march out.
“Alric!” Malevus shouted out to you. “Are we going?”
“Of course, Epona is out there.” You immediately replied to her. “I can’t leave her out there alone!”
Ogres, who knows what next are going to face you, but you aren’t going to allow the orcs to do all the lifting especially as your beloved horse is waiting for you out there.
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File: Ogre_Combatant.jpg (241.1 KB)
>>6387350
>4
The rain had grown stronger as it washed the rocky landscape. You felt your cloak turn soaking wet as you stood beside your horses and watched as the orcs gathered together. There were Grom and his four Warsong orcs, Orgrim was joined by Thrall and by your count thirteen Frostwolves. The old shaman Drek’Thar had stayed behind as what use was a blind orc in a battle?
“The ogres are approaching from the north, we will face them there.” Orgrim said to you. “Will you join us Prince Alric Perenolde?”
Malevus glanced at you. Was this your battle to fight especially as it was rather dark?
>Join the orcs, if only to make sure no ogres escape.
>There’s honour in felling such large foes, less ogres remain the better.
>Of course you will join them, fighting ogres seems like a good challenge to you.
>No, you won’t join them. You don’t need to get involved in ogre and orc business.
>Other, write in.
QM: Milan is the canon WC2 human campaign narrator. So will you fight some ogres?
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>>6387351
>Other, write in.
Mage Armor sorcery
Since Alric once again has no armor I would like to try this before we engage. Hes seen Nalice do it and he knows the feeling and visuals of armor quite well, but it is on the spot sorcery that isn't playing with his magic sword. What would the DC be Medivh?
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>>6387351
>Join the orcs, if only to make sure no ogres escape.
>Milan is the canon WC2 human campaign narrator
Is he? He just made a record of the Second War that is actually a strategy guide for the game's missions
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>>6387364
Because both fire and using the Cinder Sword were something you had experience with at that point. There's a difference in using existing knowledge and trying to conjure something new together.
>>6387365
I think he is implied to be the canon narrator like Utok Scratcher is the orc narrator. Or at least that is my understanding.
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>>6387368
Its a basic spell and hes not totally unlearned in arcane, and hes got the gnoll necklace. Or I'd even take using Fel which is powerful and intuitive in making that leap from vision to execution as an option. I'm fine with it being difficult but 30 seems a bit much lol, I'm only trying to offer write in solutions that will make magic a better part of his arsenal. But w.e I'll set it aside.
Alric knows how to use arcane writing, make his little dragon runes of force hes already used in an area and pump his magic into it. Write some out on his arm under his sleeve and use that an emergency shield to block with mana. What would the DC be for that? Otherwise he'd probably end up tanking an ogre hit raw.
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>>6387377
It is not a basic spell and well beyond what Alric would realistically know right now. The whole thing with him is that he went for the fire magic deep end near immediately without having the foundation the common Dalaran mages have. So for him to cast something like that when he doesn't even know the basic telekinesis and other arcane utility spells is quite a bit beyond his skills.
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>>6387444
That mage armor is roughly the arcane deep end equivalent of Napalm fire magic is news to me. I'll keep it in mind.
But since it's been brought up Nalice did give us a workaround for it. Fire protection magic.
He knows how to make a little barrier when he did it on the magic landmine. He knows how to pump it with magic. Can it function as a barrier shield against any force including a physical blow, or to protect against napalm fire so we might use it against the ogres in the rain through the Cinder sword.
If nothing else I think it was the Superheated Cindersword that was the one for really cutting through flesh? Or was that the one for piercing armor? Ogres are quite bulky after all.
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Joining the orcs, the miniscule chance of not wanting to fight the ogres didn't materialise. Now could I get some rolls for tomorrow when I write the update. This will be about positioning and seeing if you could get a jump on them.
>3d10, Best of three
>DC 20, Crit 24
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>>6387351
>Of course you will join them, fighting ogres seems like a good challenge to you.
Time to kill.
>>6387355
To be fair we have only come here to talk and then go away a day later. A quick in and out. This is a problem but we aren't alone, and we have multiple high skilled fighters on our side. Malevus has also grown in skill, we could fight side by side with her.
In hindsight both us and Malevus should have took the merc armor. Or in Alric case his old mismatched armor. Would have been concealed at first glance, and also more protected than wilderness clothing.
>>6387734
>Superheated
I remember us using it on an Ogre raider and doing a gruesome wound sometime ago. And then killing it. We also used it on that Fel-pumped Gnoll Chieftain. And he was well-armored. Worked well in both cases so we should be able to count upon it again.
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>>6387907
ECH
>>6387905
Going into the fight with some good allies is nice, but the fight could always be worse once we get in. Like if they have an Ogre Magi lol. Though an ogre champion with armor would also be quite rough. Or what if they recovered the ballista the bandits had, and then a big ogre might be strong enough to carry it around haha.
Ah yeah the merc armor would have been nice. I forget if it was put away or on a stand. Well if it goes REALLY bad maybe it'll be time to start Fel blasting, or pull out the Fel Cinder Sword.
>>6387908
Oof
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“I will join you, ogres are a good challenge and at minimum I can help you to prevent them from escaping.” You replied to Orgrim.
The Warchief nodded and grunted in agreement before turning at the rest of the orcs. He bellowed some orders and received chest thumps and more grunts as replies. Hellscream said something to his Warsong orcs and they immediately ran off into the darkness. As they left, Orgrim raised his large warhammer and said something in Orcish before marching towards where the ogres supposedly were located. Remaining orcs followed him immediately. Thrall stayed with you and Malevus.
“Historic.” He said.
“Hmmm?” You said.
“For the first time since the Second War, the Warchief is leading the orcs again.” Thrall said. “The orcs are enthusiastic, I haven’t seen anything like this before.”
That was true, this was a historic moment.
“Well let’s go then, better not miss this historic moment.” You said to him.
Thrall nodded and followed you. It was better to stick close to the orcs, they seemed to know the terrain better than you and clearly Orgrim had a plan of some sort. It didn’t help that it was rather dark and it kept raining, but at the same time it would help you. You had a feeling that the ogres wouldn’t know what would hit them.
…
>27, Crit success!
The rocky terrain had grown more uneven and between crags and rocks it was easy to move without being seen. Malevus was right behind you and you kept your distance with the orcs very short to not get lost.
Light could be seen in the distance, it flickered and threw shadows around. The ogres had torches with them and the orcs immediately laid down and hid themselves between the rocks. It would be an ambush. Blades and axes were prepared and it was very impressive how the large orcs moved so quietly as they waited for the opportunity to pounce the ogres.
By your count there were fifteen orcs here and five attempting to flank the ogres. When you saw the first ogre walking down the slight slope, you counted in total seven of them and then you saw that they weren’t alone.
Kobolds, nearly two dozen of them with their covered candles, pickaxes and blades. Of course they had the kobolds with them, after all they seemed to be allied. You looked at Malevus right next to you and saw her grip the hilt of her sword, it had been kobolds who had cut her hands and caused the scar on her cheek.
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>>6388214
The ogres and kobolds got closer, they had no idea that the orcs and you were there. The torches and candles gave enough light for you to see all of them. Suddenly without a warning Orgrim stood up and dashed forward. Seeing the large orc be that nimble was impressive and the rest of the orcs followed him. You had jumped up on your knees when Orgrim swung the Doomhammer for the first time, easily connecting with a skull of the closest kobold, crushing and pulping it completely. Immediately he struck a second one when the other orcs struck.
Chaos was immediate as the silent charge found its mark and kobolds were cut down and the ogres barely had time to start fighting back.
“Lok-tar Ogar!” Orgrim shouted and somewhere behind the ogres a loud shrieking warcry could be heard.
Grom Hellscream with his Warsong orcs following him charged the ogres and kobolds from behind and before the first ogre could react, Grom had already struck his axe into the back of the closest ogre. The large creature dropped as if its spine had been severed in one clean swing.
When you and Malevus finally got up, you weren’t sure if you were actually needed. The orcs were clearly in command of this fight, the kobolds couldn’t do much to resist them and with the ogres surrounded from both sides their overwhelming size and strength couldn’t be used to their advantage. Already two ogres were down with half of the kobolds, the fight wouldn’t last that long.
>Stay out of this with Malevus, the orcs clearly have this and you would just be in their way.
>Join the fight, you can probably support Thrall and Orgrim a bit.
>Getting into the mix would be hard, but setting an ogre on fire is a much easier task. Use your magic.
>Other, write in.
QM: Yep, the orcs have this. Total surprise achieved.
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>>6387591
Took me a while to recall but Thrall already knows we can use magic from when we fought together against the Deathknight, theres no need to hold back at all.
Plus more exp to reach Magic 3
>>6388216
>Getting into the mix would be hard, but setting an ogre on fire is a much easier task. Use your magic.
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>>6388447
FLASH NEWS: YOUNG&CUTE ALTERACIS COUPLE, SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCES THE POPULATIONS OF OGRES AND KOBOLDS IN THE ALTERAC MOUNTAINS AFTER PARTICIPATING IN AN AUTHENTIC ORCISH NIGHT-BARBECUE! ARE THE GNOLLS AND TROLLS POPULATIONS NEXT ON THE CHOPPING BLOCK ?! WHAT WILL THE COUPLE EAT IN THEIR NEXT OUTING ?! STAY TUNED AND FIND OUT WHAT'S NEXT!
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>28, Crit Success!
>26, Crit Success!
“Malevus!” You shouted out and dashed ahead.
You drew the Cinder Sword, the blade hungering for air as the dull grey started to shed embers as the rain fizzled out on the metal. You snapped your fingers and the blade ignited, flames licked upwards as you lowered the blade down as if wielding it like a spear.
You ran ahead and before the kobold could react, you pushed the flaming Cinder Sword through the rat creature's side as if the leather vest and the ribs weren’t even there. It shrieked as Malevus joined by your side and her swing decapitated the kobold, sending its head flying.
A pickaxe came at you forcing you to dodge it while drawing the blade off the corpse. You took a defensive stance and caught the pickaxe, giving your girlfriend an opening to strike as her blade carved through the kobold, splitting its head in two. And as she continued her push forward, she deflected a kobold blade away, giving you an opportunity to slash open the throat of said kobold.
Blood stained your trousers and arming jacket as high pressure splatters flew out in an arc. Your eyes caught your next opponent as you felt the warm blood on your face. You grinned and the world around you started to close in. They wouldn’t stand a chance, not a single bit.
The ogre didn’t even realise you were over there as the Cinder Sword cut into its leg, severing it below its knee. Malevus at the same time drove her blade into and through its side hilt deep. The ogre cried and didn’t die immediately as the severed leg fell underneath it. It fell on its good knee as the stump hit the ground, the torch the ogre had been weaving around fell on the ground and you saw the chance to finish it. Your foot found its good knee as you stepped on it, using the ogre as a stepping stone you brought the Cinder Sword up. The tip entered the ogre at its groin, punching through the skin and flesh as you brought the blade up with both of your arms. The blade cut the ogre open, spilling its guts and innards, sending them flying on your torso as it exited its chest, the tip causing a shallow cut on the chin of the ogre as an insult. The ogre took one and then second breath as you could see its heart take its final beats before the hulking creature fell down.
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>>6388604
You didn’t pause as your eyes found your next opponent. A large ogre that was swinging a large two-handed cleaver. It swung it so wildly that one kobold was accidently hit and struck down by it. But the ogre was clumsy and how it swung the blade made it foolish. You saw the blade come from the left and you ducked underneath it, otherwise it would have cut you in two. To the ogre’s credit the swing continued smoothly up and then down that you simple side stepped as the blade shattered on the rocks on the ground.
Riposte was quick and the ogre’s throat was cut open. It dropped the shattered blade and tried to stop the bleeding with its hands. Another swing and the hands fell off, revealing the deep gash that was its throat. The ogre tried to grasp the situation without its two hands, but saw no success as the light faded off its eyes and the life faded away as the hulking creature fell to its side.
You stood there flaming sword in your hand and looked around. The fighting had died down around you, the remaining ogres and kobolds were dead before you had severed the last ogre’s hands. The orcs were hacking apart those who were still twitching, but those who counted were looking at you. Blinking a couple of times, you swiped the gore off your face with your left hand. Gutting the first ogre had been a mistake, this was supposed to be a secret mission and now you were head to toes covered in blood and ogre guts.
“Light be damned!” You shouted loudly.
“Alric! Is everything alright?” Malevus shouted back, she was in a similar situation.
“I am alright, but I have to wash my clothes!” You lamented aloud.
Orgrim who looked similarly bloody in the light of your sword and the torches and candles laying around, he started to laugh. The laughter of the orc Warchief echoed in the darkness as the orcs around him joined in the laughter. You looked around and saw the orcs surrounding you and Malevus, Hellscream pushed past several of them and walked to you.
“Bah, one day I will fight you and it will be a glorious day!” He shouted out and clapped on your shoulder. “Two ogres!”
“Lok’tar!” Orgrim shouted.
“Lok’tar!” The orcs including Grom shouted out.
“Lok’tar!” Thrall replied with his own shout.
>You don’t care about their victory, you are all bloody and you need to wash your clothes before you return back to Dawnholme. Bloody hell.
>The orcs are secondary, Malevus is she alright?
>It was just two ogres and some kobolds, not exactly a mighty triumph or a great duel.
>Tell Hellscream to wait, he will get his day one day.
>Other, write in.
QM: Might have made an impression on the orcs.
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>>6388606
>split the ogre from groin to chin
Brutal, and icky. At least its raining.
>The orcs are secondary, Malevus is she alright?
I'd imagine if theres an internal debate shes having she could probably heal and stitch up any wounds the orcs might have if adherence to a healer's creed guides her. Or that being covered in ogre blood and guts would make her doing any of that extremely unsanitary just leading to infections lol.
I think Doomhammer was supposed to have had personal bodyguard ogres who were quite loyal back during the War. Despite personal feelings on his end but he also needed fighters.
I wonder if Blacksteel could use kobolds and ogres as workers? All the survivng gnolls went to Blackmoore, killed by Grom, or escaped. Could be a nice way to expand what they can do with their little Darkiron and mercs outpost being the main protection for the oil.
Which reminds me I wanted to look up where Troggs would spawn, and lo and behold Irondeep Mine in Alterac Valley. So in theory we could also get to kill some troggs in future too. The RPG description puts them at 300 pounds, if they stood properly upright, 6ft tall.
Though I suppose there could be potential to go even deeper into the mine and expand on whats there, which would probably be Dwarven ruins or some such.
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>9
“I'm alright.” You said and sighed.
“You sure?” Malevus asked.
“This is not my blood, just ogre guts and everything else…”
Cinder Sword extinguished itself under your command and you sheathed the blade. The scene of the battle suddenly grew darker and the orcs scrambled to pick up the torches. Though right now that was a secondary concern as your eyes found Malevus.
“Are you alright?” You asked her in turn.
“I am fine, don’t worry about me.” She said.
“I mean there were kobolds and I saw how you…”
“Of course seeing them made my blood boil, but I knew you were by my side.” She said.
Hearing her say that and seeing how well she had fought made you smile. By the Light you loved this woman so much that you couldn’t resist yourself and hugged her, getting some of the blood on you now on her.
“A-Alric…” She protested as you lot go of her.
“The most important thing is that you are fine.” You said and pushed your bloody clothes aside in your mind. You would have to think about washing them somewhere, but it wasn’t urgent at all right now.
The orcs were going through the corpses. The kobolds were roughly checked for anything useful, their pickaxes and blades were gathered. The ogres were a bit more difficult hurdle to go through purely due to their size and their corpses being slippery with the blood, but the orcs were strong and with some effort they were similarly checked and whatever useful that could be recovered was collected. The rain grew stronger and helped to wash some of the blood away, but mostly just made everything darker and so the orcs actually collected the candles from the kobolds and used the still intact lanterns to give a bit more light.
“Prince Alric.” Thrall said as he approached you.
“Thrall.” You replied. “What is it?”
“We found something.” He said. “You want to see it.”
You weren’t sure what it was, but he seemed rather serious about it.
Orgrim was holding a piece of leather. You didn’t want to know from which animal or creature the leather was from as he handed it to you and Thrall moved a torch closer to provide light for you to see what it was about.
“Well fuck me.” You muttered.
The piece of leather was a map, a very crude map, but still a map of the region. You recognised the four fingers of Hillsbrad, there was a mention of Dawnholme over one of them. The silver mine was drawn north of Dawnholme too. Gallow’s Corner was drawn on the map as well with a rune next to it.
“Why would they have this map?” You asked yourself.
“I hoped you would know.” Thrall asked you.
“Well it could mean many things. Maybe just a map to go around, or maybe they were a raiding party supposed to move here or… wasn’t Grom trying to hunt ogres?” You mused again and looked at the map, it was a really crudely made map.
“Then it is good we managed to stop them.” Thrall said.
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>>6389758
You really didn’t expect to have cooperated with the orcs like this, but if this meant that a raiding party aimed at your lands was stopped, then you would take it.
>The ogres must have been planning another raid on your lands, but they bumped into Grom first. That is your leading theory.
>Crushridge ogres being allied with the kobolds is not a new development. They didn’t prove to be dangerous this time, but more mass and fighters is always helpful.
>You are going to take this map with you. Your officers need to see it and make preparations.
>If the ogres are on the move, this is a very dangerous situation for all of you.
>Other, write in
QM: Took me a small eternity to get the update out in the first place.
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>>6389759
Yeah I had a feeling it would be some orders or a map.
>The ogres must have been planning another raid on your lands, but they bumped into Grom first. That is your leading theory.
Doomhammer is right here to ask him what the ogre rune means. Even if its probably just a rallying point. Though maybe it could be the personal rune of a particular ogre leader or magi which is valuable info. Maybe it represents a season and day to be there to start raiding. Or maybe its a build order of something we can raid to destroy before its complete lol. Deny them a shop or defenses.
>You are going to take this map with you. Your officers need to see it and make preparations.
Eligius and Cyrus, officially at least, are out doing cartography. They only report to Alric so any messages won't necessarily go through military. Cyrus killed some kobolds picking this up and sent it back.
Only two things really drawn on the map besides the rallying point, being the Silver Mine and Dawnholme. So I suppose the officers would be better off planning how to best defend both.
Our patrols, the Merc camp patrols, the Stonemason army in Dawnholme, and our army. Stonedon and our allies. Our secret vassal green knights with Lady Imswit could be very handy since cavalry would be needed to quickly respond, good exp for them.
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“It really must be that they were planning another raid, they have launched one before.” You told them and continued. “But Grom got them to follow him first, at least that is my leading theory.”
“They have attacked you before?” Orgrim asked.
“We have fought them yes, this side of the mountains and then in Alterac near Gallow’s Corner.” You said to him and pointed out the location on the map. “Here.”
“It says they control it.” Orgrim told you.
“They do, they pushed the Syndicate troops away. There’s palisades and some ruins guarding the crossroad. To the west we go to Alterac proper and to the east it is to Strahnbrad following the King’s Road.” You explained and continued. “I would like to keep this map, my own officers need to be informed and we need to make preparations if the ogres are on a warpath.”
Orgrim grunted as you folded the leather map away.
“What comes next?” You asked him.
“We will return to the camp.” He replied.
“And I will go find a stream to get most of the blood off me.” You said to him. “I can’t look like this when I return.”
Orgrim chuckled.
“Go, we will speak later.” He said and turned away.
The orcs started to pick up their things and whatever loot they had with them before returning down the hill. The glimpses of their eyes did tell you something, the orcs felt alive. They felt like before everything. Gone were any doubt or disagreements, Hellscream was talking again with Orgrim and Thrall didn’t seem that pushed away as some aide or secondary. You had seen that before, or more like felt it. Every time the world narrows down as you duel and everything turns silent around you. When during the campaign against the gnolls you let the slaughter take you. It had made you feel alive just like this fighting had made the orcs feel very much alive.
“Right then.” You said and clapped your hands, pushing the thoughts away. “Shall we find some small struggling stream to clean ourselves?”
“In this darkness?” Malevus asked.
“There's a couple candles lying around that the orcs didn’t pick up.” You said to her.
“It is raining…” She said.
“Then I will cast a fire and provide us some light.” You said to her. “Now come, or do I have to carry you?”
“Fine, alright fine.” She could just say as she raised her hands up in a defeat.
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The rain had stopped and the cloud coverage was slowly breaking apart. There had been a small mountain stream which you had crossed when you arrived here and finding it wasn’t that difficult. You found a spot where the water gathered on some bedrock and you stopped there as the moon appeared. The couple candles were propped up between small stones as you started to undress and wash the blood off your arming jacket and trousers.
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>>6389887
You and Malevus didn’t talk that much as the more pressing concern was rubbing the blood off before it dries up too much. The stream washed the blood downstream and nearby trees found themselves acting as clothes lines as you went through your clothes one by one.
To your annoyance the blood and guts had found themselves on your shirt and down in your boots so they had to be washed as well. This really started to annoy you more and more as you washed down your clothes and rinsed your socks.
“Alric…” You heard Malevus say and your eyes looked out for her.
In the moonlight she stood, her bare back as if an invitation for you to approach. Malevus had shed her remaining clothes as she looked over her shoulder at you. You smiled as she stood there in the moonlight and you couldn’t resist a moment longer. Shedding your own clothes, you approached her from behind, wrapping your arms around her and pressing your body against her back. You took in the scent of the raspberries of her hair as you gently swayed with her as the moonlight illuminated the summer night scene.
“Did you have something in mind?” You whispered to her.
“Did you?” She asked.
For once you resisted yourself and carefully guided Malevus down to sit on your lap. She seemed a bit surprised that you hadn’t gone any further, but you just hugged her and enjoyed this feeling.
“It is a mad mad world.” In the end you said to her and looked up at the moon and then at her.
“What do you mean?” She asked you.
>Just all of this, everything. There’s no normalcy around you.
>Orgrim Doomhammer, the one who caused everything to go upside down suddenly has made his appearance.
>Thrall and his plan to rescue his people from the Internment Camps. It is a just cause, but pitting orcs against humans? There will be a conflict or even an outright war.
>Is it too much to ask for several months of nothing happening? Clearly it is.
>Other, write in
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“Just all of this, everything. There’s no normalcy around me. Just a couple weeks back we were in Stormwind and you know what happened.” You said to her. “Treating with the Kings, deposing a ruler, now knee deep in ogre guts while fighting side by side with Orgrim bloody Doomhammer himself.”
Your arms held Malevus a bit more tightly as your head found her shoulders and the nape of her neck. You breathed in the scent of her hair and closed your eyes.
“Is it too much to ask for several months of nothing happening?” You asked her.
“Clearly it is.” She answered.
Gently you held her and swayed in place.
“Imagine… a couple months of just the two of us.” You whispered to her and you could sense her blushing just radiating out of her.
“Alric…”
“What? It would be fun.” You whispered and sighed. “But that is not to be.”
Carefully you let go of her and helped her to stand up as you did so as well. Standing next to her, you stared at the moon that caressed your bodies with its light.
“Maybe one day this all will be over.” You said.
“I’ll be waiting for it by your side.” She said to you
“Oh I know, Light I love you so much.”
“I love you too.” Malevus replied and kissed you.
Taking her hands, slowly you pulled her close to you. Gently guiding her, you danced with her in the moonlight that caressed your bodies. She smiled, and so did you.
…
The two of you had enjoyed the moment of closeness as the late summer night made sure you weren’t feeling cold. Taking your clothes and waiting for some time for the ones you had washed to dry up, you had returned back to the place where you had met the orcs. Most of them were already asleep and the couple standing at guard gave you polite nods as you walked past them. Your bedrolls were exactly where you had left them and rolling within them made you feel rather cozy.
Sleep would take over in just a few moments, you were that dead tired.
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>9
>5
The next morning came after a couple hours of good rest. Your breakfast was quick, just some of the rations you had packed with you. At least the weather had continued to stay good and the rain clouds had disappeared, the sun was shining and the clear skies greeted you.
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>>6390548
But during the night Grom Hellscream and his Warsong orcs had left, they were going to travel back to their Clan and bring the news of Orgrim and whatever decisions had been to them.
You looked around and again felt your presence amongst the orcs a strange one.
“Prince Alric.” Orgrim greeted you. His armour seemed to have been cleaned during the night.
“Orgrim.” You politely greeted him back. “You wished to talk with me before I leave.”
“Yes.” He said to you. “Can we walk?”
“Of course.” You replied and nodded to Malevus who nodded back to you. “Please lead the way.”
Orgrim gave a curious look at her as she followed you. He lead you some distance away from the other orcs before he turned to face you.
“Last night… you fought well.” Orgrim said.
“That can’t be the only thing what you wanted to tell me.”
“No, but you fought well and what you said yesterday were words someone who hasn’t dishonoured themselves would say.” Orgrim said to you and continued. “You must have questions, so go ahead and ask them.”
The Warchief of the Horde straightened his back and lowered the Doomhammer down on the ground as his eyes found yours. The red glow of his seemingly matched with the Fel green of yours and you could read his eyes well enough, he was an open book.
Questions to Orgrim:
>Write in
QM: Think of something smart to ask, but don’t go too overboard. The rolls were how the orcs are feeling today and if Grom would be leaving.
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>>6390549
I'll give it some thought.
When Nalice does the mindscape thing to show off her dragon form can either of them actually go deeper and look at past memories? I could probably think of some uses, apart from like flashback potential to see and overhear things spoken before Alterac fell and Nalice's memories. To let her see that magic landmine carved into the floor of that ruin could offer some clues.
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>>6390549
>Write in
>What did he mean saying Alric reminded him of his father
>Is there anything he knows that we should know of?
That should cover a fair bit. Immediate info about the Blackrock in Alterac, where they are, who leads them, their strength, etc. info about the crushridge ogres. Syndicate info he got from Grom, or that Strahnbrad is reinforcing.
>Does he have any old contacts who might still be alive?
Which could still have some useful people like alteraci agents he knew about. Theoretically there could have been other individual noble traitors, for building an intelligence network in other kingdoms that kind of blackmail could be pretty handy.
I could probably go on with something about old war caches they can't reach, or ships, or maybe islands and sources of oil they found but never got to make use of in the Wars.
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“What did you mean with reminding you of my father?” You immediately asked and crossed your arms.
“You carry yourself like him.” Orgrim replied.
“Nonsense, I don’t buy that at all.” You replied.
Orgrim stared at you for several seconds.
“When we met, he kept his back straight the whole time. He didn’t cower, nor did he ask for mercy.” Orgrim told you. “He carried himself well.”
You had to blink a couple of times as he told you that.
“You don’t believe me?” Orgrim asked you.
>No, no you don’t. You don’t believe him.
>If he didn’t cower or had his back straight, then why would he even ally with Orgrim?
>Then what was he like, he must have spoken with him more than just once.
>Other, write in
QM: Shorter one today as you went to Aiden immediately.
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>>6391015
>>If he didn’t cower or had his back straight, then why would he even ally with Orgrim?
That is the question isnt it. Its not like it was hopeless the alliance had dwarves elves and all the northern human nations.
>>Then what was he like, he must have spoken with him more than just once.
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>>6391015
Well it is the personally important question for Alric, although I'd prefer to have gotten answers to other questions first just to get a lock on that sweet sweet military intelligence. Does it flow better to do the emotional and introspective of how Alric compares to his traitor father, then go into military secrets and strategy stuff? I'll have to remember the Nalice mindscape thing for when we get back.
Another funny question, how will Thrall and Drek'Thar get the entire Frostwolf Clan from Alterac over to join with Grom?
Through our southern Alterac and Strahnbrad hills, through the Strahnbrad city exit to the north, or over some hidden passages through the hills? Although my guess would be using Shaman magic to conjure up a fog or a storm so they can try to pass without being spotted. But speaking from Alric's point of view I'm sure he'd be curious how they will do it without it being a huge mess of orcs going through his land demanding a response.
>No, no you don’t. You don’t believe him.
I mean just because someone puts up a front of not cowering doesn't mean they aren't afraid inside. Maybe he had masterful control over his emotions and body language, as a King should. The ability to leash fear in the moment.
Or maybe Alric really isn't immune to propaganda, everything said over years and his own lingering thoughts.
>If he didn’t cower or had his back straight, then why would he even ally with Orgrim?
Pure naked ambition lol. Alterac did steal Medivh's Book which is like a source of near unlimited potential to do crazy shit.
Hating his 'allies' personally, and their ancestors for chipping away at Alterac's land. That Durnholde deed is what a couple hundred years old and the implication of Tarren Mill inbetween. Wanting to see them humbled at any price.
>Then what was he like, he must have spoken with him more than just once.
Blood pact marriage lol? What other plans did they have.
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“If he didn’t cower or he had his back straight, then why would he even ally with you in the first place?” You asked him and continued. “The Alliance at that point was strong, the dwarven were fully committed, the elven were fully committed. Kingdoms as they stood were ready for a war of an existential scale!”
You looked at Orgrim who stared back at you.
“I do not buy it one bit, not at all what you said to me.” You replied to him.
“He made his decision for his people.” Orgrim said back to you.
“Nonsense!” You said and swept his words out of the air with your hand. “Alterac could have defended itself, I have read the fucking history books, not once since the day when the trolls were stopped thousands of years ago, have an invader gotten into Alterac proper! The mountain passes would have held!”
“Then why?” Orgrim asked you.
“Because he was scared, straight back or not. I know he was a shrewd politician so playing a role like that wouldn’t have been a difficult one.” You replied and continued. “So he chose to be scared and betray everyone else so that he could be the one standing after everyone else was already down.”
“Alric…” Malevus said to you.
“Pure ambition, our neighbours have been chipping at our lands for decades and centuries. Finally in his eyes there was an opportunity to show them.” You said to Orgrim.
The Warchief looked at you and shook his head.
“If you think I am full of it, then tell me, what was he like?” You asked him.
“We spoke during dinner, he explained himself and spoke about what he wanted.” Orgrim told you. “He wanted to protect his people.”
“Bullshit!”
“You don’t need to trust my words, but that is the truth.” Orgrim said and continued. “I swear by my honour.”
“Fuck your honour!”
You couldn’t believe this, not at all. He did it for his people? For Alteracis? Yet what was the end result, just suffering, your continued exile, Alterac in the hands of the Crushridge ogres. Orgrim shuffled a bit as your reply had struck somewhere within him.
“How could that be the truth, when just two years later he conspired with the Horde again and threw what he had remaining with them?” You asked Orgrim, now your voice just barely above a whisper. “How could he act against the Alliance for the second time if it was for his people?”
Orgrim looked at you again and took a deep breath.
“I can’t answer that, you know it.” He said. “I can only tell you what I know, what I spoke with him.”
“Then you have a completely different and wrong picture about him than what the rest of us have.” You told him.
“Prince Alric…” Orgrim started to say.
“I am his son! I am a Perenolde! I know my father and some fucking green beast like you have no idea, how he saw things!” You shouted to him.
He straightened his back and picked up his warhammer as Malevus placed her hand on your shoulder.
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>>6391284
You had lost your cool, this wasn’t an easy subject to you. To you and to everyone else Aiden was a traitor. No way he could have acted just for the good of his people, the Alteracis. Orgrim was wrong about this, he just was.
“Alric…” Malevus said and got you back into reality from within your mind.
>You are sorry, you lost your cool. This is not an easy subject to you at all.
>Then what did he agree with Orgrim? What would have happened if the Horde would have won?
>Did Orgrim ever see Aiden in the Capital City dungeons? You know both of them were held there.
>Nothing of this matters. What has been done has been done.
>Other, write in.
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>>6391285
>You are sorry, you lost your cool. This is not an easy subject to you at all.
>Then what did he agree with Orgrim? What would have happened if the Horde would have won?
>Did Orgrim ever see Aiden in the Capital City dungeons? You know both of them were held there.
Alric can apologize after losing his cool. Hes not Arthas after all. Restore honor.
Manifesting a Fel Burger King Crown out of pure green flame as he calls Orgrim Doomhammer a green beast was perhaps a tad dramatic but I approve. With a tinkerbell sized FelMalevus over his shoulder egging him on.
>>
>>6391285
>>You are sorry, you lost your cool. This is not an easy subject to you at all.
>>Then what did he agree with Orgrim? What would have happened if the Horde would have won?
>>Did Orgrim ever see Aiden in the Capital City dungeons? You know both of them were held there.
>>
>>6391285
>>You are sorry, you lost your cool. This is not an easy subject to you at all.
>>Then what did he agree with Orgrim? What would have happened if the Horde would have won?
>>Did Orgrim ever see Aiden in the Capital City dungeons? You know both of them were held there.
>>
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>5
You looked down and then away as you sighed. You kept losing your cool in situations where that shouldn’t happen. Closing your eyes you took a deep breath before looking at Orgrim again.
“I am sorry, I shouldn’t have said that.” You said to him and continued. “Deeply undiplomatic, but I hope you understand that this is not an easy subject to me at all.”
Orgrim looked at you and after a moment grunted and nodded. He seemed to take your apology and accept it.
“What did he agree with you?” You asked. “What would have happened if the Horde had won?”
“Security, Alterac would have been left alone, the mountain passes acting as the borders.” Orgrim told you. “Your father wanted security above all and a guarantee that his people would be left alone.”
“But to take action against the Alliance first?” You asked.
“To ensure his choice of future would win.” Orgrim replied.
“It still doesn’t make any sense to me.” You said and continued. “Would he have been left alone?”
“I would have honoured our agreement.” He said.
“What about the others?”
“Them, I cannot know.” Orgrim said to you and confirmed your suspicions.
Maybe the victory would have been a short one, but it probably wouldn’t have been a lasting one. What would have happened when Orgrim is replaced and someone else takes the control of the Horde? Why would they allow Alterac to exist then?
“Did you ever see my father in the dungeons? I know the both of you were there.” You asked him.
“No, I did not.” Orgrim answered.
It was worth a try, you know awfully little of his time in the dungeons after all.
“Alright, enough of him. What is past is past.” You said and sighed. Better not to delve there too much.
>What exactly does he know about the Blackrock remnants? You have fought against them once after they had kidnapped some peasants.
>The Crushridge Ogres are inhabiting the Alterac City and Alterac proper. He must know something about them from the time of them being part of the Horde.
>Trolls are in the mountains surrounding Strahnbrad Hills. Is there a chance he knows about them?
>Syndicate is a big part of Alterac’s situation right now. Your brother Aliden is leading them, does he have any idea about them?
>What is even the plan to get the Frostwolves to move from here to where Warsongs are located? They can’t exactly march through your lands.
>Other, write in
QM: The roll was did Orgrim see Aiden. There won’t be updates in the next two days. I am going to be away from my PC or my laptop so updates are no-go. I might be able to do some small non-update replies with my phone though so I will be monitoring the thread.
>>
>>6392038
Take care of yourself Medivh.
You already know I want all this info. Especially with Grom already gone before I could ask him about the hinterland Syndicate.
Too bad about the Aiden roll. The only thing I could try to draw from it is why Aiden wouldn't have been in the dungeons and if that is suspicious, who might have visited either of them.
>All of it
>Other, write in
Ask Ogrim who visited while he was in the dungeons.
>>
>>6392038
>What exactly does he know about the Blackrock remnants? You have fought against them once after they had kidnapped some peasants.
>The Crushridge Ogres are inhabiting the Alterac City and Alterac proper. He must know something about them from the time of them being part of the Horde.
>Trolls are in the mountains surrounding Strahnbrad Hills. Is there a chance he knows about them?
Stay safe MedivhQM while you enjoy your time innawoods
>>
>>6392038
>>What exactly does he know about the Blackrock remnants? You have fought against them once after they had kidnapped some peasants.
>>The Crushridge Ogres are inhabiting the Alterac City and Alterac proper. He must know something about them from the time of them being part of the Horde.
>>Trolls are in the mountains surrounding Strahnbrad Hills. Is there a chance he knows about them?
Happy easter Medivh.
>>
>>6392038
>>The Crushridge Ogres are inhabiting the Alterac City and Alterac proper. He must know something about them from the time of them being part of the Horde.
>>Trolls are in the mountains surrounding Strahnbrad Hills. Is there a chance he knows about them?
>>Syndicate is a big part of Alterac’s situation right now. Your brother Aliden is leading them, does he have any idea about them?
>>
>>
Managed to take my laptop with me so let's see if I can actually write anything. Though not today, but tomorrow and for that I could use a roll. Just how much information Orgrim knows, he has been a hermit for near decade after all. 1d20 for granularity.
>1d20
>Best of three
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Orgrim chose to walk away from you as he motioned for you to follow. The landscape was still the same rocky terrain so common here up in the mountains.
“You spoke of your Clan, the Blackrocks.” You asked him. “What do you exactly know about them?”
“A sad shadow of their past. Once they were the mightiest of Clans.” Orgrim said and had some oomph in his voice. “But now? Weaklings, cowards. They are hiding somewhere north of Alterac, high up in the mountains.”
That was new information to you, but you really couldn't act on it.
“They have fighters and warriors, but they seem to be competing with each other as much as with their neighbours.” He said.
“There hasn't been a raid on this side of Alterac for some time.” You replied.
Orgrim grunted and continued to walk and talk with you.
“After we have freed our kin, I will drag them down and shake them free of their demonic masters.” Orgrim said to you. “That I swear.”
You had an odd read, it felt like Doomhammer was embarrassed of the Blackrocks of the present day. How far the mighty could have fallen.
…
>11
You continued talking with him, but the Warchief did not know much that would be helpful to you right now.
The trolls he had always found untrustworthy with just a singular reason to join the Horde, their hatred towards the elf and men. Great and resourceful warriors, but too slippery to his liking. Meanwhile you learned that the orcs had subjugated the ogres back in their homeworld with Crushridge Ogres being one of the many clans that had followed them through the Dark Portal. But after the loss at the Capital City, they had deserted and went into hiding.
Based on your talks with him, Orgrim didn't really know much about the present day. All those years being a hermit and in hiding made it make sense, it would be very hard for him to learn about these things. It would fall on Thrall to educate him. And speaking of Thrall.
“Tell me about Thrall.” Orgrim asked and stopped.
“You can ask him what you want to know.” You said back to him.
“Yes I can, but a human sees him differently.” Orgrim replied. “Before the escape, what pushes him?”
He wants to learn what motivates Thrall? Was it to better control him or just out of curiosity? You weren't sure and Malevus gave you a curious glance.
>Orgrim can ask Thrall, it is not your business to talk about him.
>He was a great gladiator. The treatment he received and the Internment Camps he saw pushes him.
>The way Taretha was treated by Blackmoore has made him swear vengeance.
>Thrall knows not all humans are at fault. There are those who are considered good.
>Other, write in.
>>
>>6393125
Would it really matter what Orgrim personally knows? The Frostwolves live in Alterac and should have a good idea of the Ogre's movements wouldnt they. I don't mind asking Thrall and Drek'thar but I'd think they'd have told Orgrim what the current situation was.
>>
>>6393125
>He was a great gladiator. The treatment he received and the Internment Camps he saw pushes him.
>The way Taretha was treated by Blackmoore has made him swear vengeance.
Blackmoore is the lowest of scum, petty minor Lord that uses his connections and his money to further his own lavish Life of women who can't say no and alcoholism. If us moving against him wouldn't consign the entire alliance against us and the people we are sworn to protect, we probably would have acted against him already.
The conditions of the orcs are probably worse than can imagine, due to blackmoores cruelty and the possible danger that the orcs could pose if they shake off their lethargy
>>
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>>6393125
>He was a great gladiator. The treatment he received and the Internment Camps he saw pushes him.
Alric fought him prior to his escape as a show fight and Thrall really pushed him. Orgrim's seen Alric fight now, so he can get that measure.
>The way Taretha was treated by Blackmoore has made him swear vengeance.
>Thrall knows not all humans are at fault. There are those who are considered good.
Thrall had his human ally, maybe the Orcs consider this weakness, within Durnholde. As Orgrim knows, humans are not a monolith to be fought at every turn. But they are limited by the hierarchies and structures they make for themselves. Alric is no exception as Prince of Alterac yet forbidden from Alterac City.
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“He was a gladiator, a great one. I had an opportunity to spar with him with wooden weapons.” You told Orgrim as you continued walking with him. “But he was kept captive, in a damp cell when not training or fighting. His name is rather descriptive.”
Orgrim stayed silent and listened.
“How he was kept there was beyond humiliating, no one should face such treatment for something they haven't done. The only reason why he was held like that was because of who he is.” You said.
“You speak with conviction.” Orgrim replied.
“I have to be consistent, as the children must not be guilty of the crimes done by their fathers.” You said back to him and Orgrim seemed to get what you meant. “I know for the fact that Thrall saw the Internment Camps from inside, he was caught, but not identified while escaping. He knows how his kin is treated, that's a powerful motivation to have. He doesn't want anyone of his kind to experience this again.”
“You seem to agree?” Orgrim asked.
“There are those who wish to execute the ones held in the Camps, but there are those who want to study and understand the lethargy. Those who are more inquisitive than the rest.” You avoided answering the question directly. “You know it well that we humans are not a monolith.”
Orgrim grunted and you continued.
“And maybe above all, the one person who treated him well was abused by his master.” You said.
“This Taretha?” Orgrim asked, he put things together fast.
“Aye, she is secure and under my care right now. But Lord Blackmoore, he is a detestable man and if there’s a motivation then it would be revenge.” You finished.
Orgrim seemed thoughtful. Your walk had brought you back to the orc camp. The Frostwolves were packing their belongings as you arrived.
“Thank you for the talk.” Orgrim said to you. “You are a… good human.”
“Thank you for the kind words.” You chose to be diplomatic.
The old shaman Drek’Thar and Thrall walked to you and greeted you with nods.
“We'll be leaving.” Thrall said to you. “But I will escort you back to the rock.”
“What will you do next?” You asked the shaman.
“We shall endure through the winter, gather supplies and get prepared.” Drek’Thar replied. “When the spring comes, we shall be ready.”
Orgrim said something to him in Orcish and then spoke to you.
“And I have a lot to learn, it seems I have missed out a lot.” Orgrim said and continued. “I wish to see you again and not in a field of battle.”
“I would prefer that as well, because I would take your head if we clashed.” You said and now your diplomatic approach was dropped.
Orgrim laughed, he seemed to have enjoyed your jest.
“Then we should avoid it.” He said.
1/2
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>>6394179
You had left the orcs and returned to your horses. It was easy to throw your belongings in the saddlebags. As you were ready to leave, Thrall joined you and he seemed somewhat embarrassed and awkward as he didn't say anything to you.
So in return you didn't say anything back to him either.
A couple hours passed as you walked your horses through the rocky terrain until Thrall had enough.
“Prince Alric, can we stop with the silence?” He asked.
You acted as if not having heard him. What had transpired was bugging him. Your trust on him had been used plain and simple and he didn't like it either. But the way he was embarrassed was familiar to you, he was after all several years younger even if Thrall as an orc was bigger and stronger than you. More than in one way he was barely an adult.
“Prince Alric…” He said again and Malevus started to find this amusing. Should you keep up with this?
>Yes, at least till the rock and maybe past it. Thrall needs to rebuild the trust again.
>Tell Thrall if he wants to speak, he can speak. You aren't sure if you want to reply though.
>Fine, you will talk with him. You needed a break after all.
>Other, write in
QM: Writing in small bits through the day is not great. Makes coherent text difficult.
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>>
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>>6394180
>Yes, at least till the rock and maybe past it. Thrall needs to rebuild the trust again.
Its kinda fucked up to think about, but Thrall is one of our only friends who's really around our own age. Everybody else we hang around with is usually noticeably older than us, even if not by much.
>>
>>
>>
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I would actually want a roll for Thrall. It is a combat roll, but not for any combat reasons.
>3d10, Best of three
>DC 20, Crit 27
>>6394301
That’s correct! Basically everyone of Alric’s age that he knows is older than him except Jaina as she is closest as she was born in the same year. Thrall is two years younger.
>>
>>
>>
Rolled 10, 5, 9 = 24 (3d10)
>>6394575
The mental combat imagining how to beat your enemy, Thrall sure is anime today.
What was Arthas and Casia's ages? I suppose Greymane's daughter is alive but I don't know her age either. VanCleef's daughter since we saved her father from an ignoble fate lol.
>>
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I'm curious what Thrall has to say.
Otherwise any ideas on cashing in Thrall's favor? There's only a year or so before his campaign. The longer we wait the less time he will even have to accomplish what we ask.
Since we got it by saving Tari from Blackmoorea control it seems fair to ask him to help save Alric's little sister with a small but elite group of his. He knows Pai so they could make contact.
Otherwise what? Trying to send a witch to learn shamanism would be cool, and it could empower all the witches by them sharing it.
If there are papers or important regalia and artifacts in Alterac somewhere they could find some.
>>
Apologies, no update today. I have it half-finished, but no energy to get it out. Long day at work staring some screens tend to do that.
Now I will ask you about the favour Thrall has given to you. You could use it now and ask him for something, or bank it till later for a better opportunity to use it instead. What do you think?
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>>6395012
Ask him to try to spare Blackmoore, when he comes for the internment camps.
Militarily, Blackmoore was shown to be disinterested on the campaign and not a martial leader anymore. Any pursuit of Thrall probably would be reduced because of Blackmoore's interference.
Having Blackmoore in charge of Durnholde helps Alric in some ways as an amicable trading partner.
>>
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>>6395012
Well I'd be happy with any of my options lol. Sending Thrall to help bring back his sister would be personally meaningful and about as even as can be when its for saving Tari from Blackmoore more or less. Time for Eligius and Pai to talk with Thrall and see some shaman magic in action.
We consider the Durnholde Deed to be extremely valuable, if Thrall could bring back other important documents from Alterac's Capital it could be worth a lot. Or if Thrall could find the Crown of Alterac or some other big piece of regalia would it help unite the Alteraci; the Strahnbrad folk, the Capital refuge folk, former Syndicate prisoners, and the Loyalist Camp of the Syndicate.
Theres also military and diplomatic options though idk if Thrall would agree to them regarding the Blackrock, Ogres, and Trolls. Do I see ourselves in a position to capitalize later when Thrall has started his liberation of the orcs? Aren't his forces either going to be extremely busy mobilizing to get to the other camps, need to be in position to keep the RD from moving in to retake the lethargic orcs, or who knows what. How is Thrall going to have time to do what we ask later?
The only thing we KNOW about this whole plan is that Thrall will sneak into the Durnholde camps to convince orcs to break out while outside forces attempt to break in. That they will have to break as many orcs out of the lethargy which could take an unknowable amount of time. A fairly reasonable assumption that Durnholde will have to be sieged to prevent them from interfering. Also that supplies will be an issue either solved by raiding or whatever Thrall can come up with (somehow convincing the orcs to touch dirt ew). At some point Thrall will try to offer his hostages in negotiation for X which is likely to ask for other camp orcs as his main goal. Or supplies as a necessity.
In spite of telling Doomhammer earlier that Thrall swore revenge I don't get the sense he wants to kill Blackmoore. There are some complex emotions for his abusive alcoholic father figure. Would Tari even be hired at Durnholde if Blackmoore wasn't a lusty old pervert. Without selfish ambition and misplaced pride would he have brought Thrall back with him.
>>
>24, Success!
You sighed loudly enough for him to hear and stopped.
“Fine, we can talk. Besides, I need a break.” You said to him and spotted a flat rock to sit on.
Walking on this uneven ground was more exhausting and your feet felt really tired. Taking a seat, you pulled off your boots and then your socks, allowing your toes some fresh air.
Thrall found a rock near you and sat down, taking off his boots as well.
“I'm going to let the two of you talk this out.” Malevus said to you and led the horses away towards a small copse of trees.
“So.” You started.
Thrall would have to be the one working here. If he wanted to talk, he would have to start as you took your waterskin and drank the cool water from a mountain stream.
“I apologise.” He said to you.
“And?”
“I am sorry.” He continued.
You chose not to react and instead just rolled on your back, lifting your feet up towards the sky and wiggling your toes to freshen them up.
"You must realise the people I met right? Famous Second War Orcish Horde leaders, when I am securing Alterac's place in the Alliance.” You said to him while looking at your toes. “A place I will have officially in one year’s time.”
Thrall stayed silent.
“You do realise the position this stunt has put me in. A bloody Perenolde conspiring with the orcs yet again.” You said to him and propped yourself back up. “They will have my head if anyone learns about this.”
He was going to say something, but you raised your hand to silence him as you were setting the facts straight.
“I know I am repeating myself, but I want to make it absolutely clear what I think about this.” You said to Thrall and continued. “But of us two, there would be no us two without Tari. It would have been just that one sparring session and one big shrug if you ever went and escaped without her. Why should I care about you outside of whatever threat a loose orc could cause to my people?”
“You wouldn't.” Thrall correctly answered.
1/2
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>>6395459
“Correct. I know you got used by the old shaman and Orgrim to get me to meet them. We both saw how surprised Hellscream was to see him too.” You told him. “So I do not see you at fault, but I will express my disappointment through you to them.”
“I will speak with them, set the matters straight.” Thrall said.
“Good, now what was it that you wanted to talk about?” You asked him.
“What you just told me…” He answered a bit sheepishly.
“I took your thunder, didn’t I?” You said and Thrall looked confused. “It is a saying…”
He grunted and shrugged.
“This is all so… stupid.” He said to you. “What you said about fathers and their crimes, Doomhammer…”
“Might not be your father, but his past will weigh everything down.” You replied.
“The orcs need him, the Clans need him.” He said.
“Because you are just a gladiator, grown amongst humans. Why would anyone follow you?” You replied. “How far are you in your studies?”
“The spirits listen to me, they won't follow me, but soon they will.” Thrall said and understood your question.
>You don't really understand any of this spirit stuff. What exactly is shamanism?
>If you created a fire, would the spirits react?
>Becoming the first new shaman in nearly two decades would raise him to be more than just a gladiator.
>Did Thrall have a chance to speak with Pai? You know she reached the Frostwolves.
>Other, write in
QM: The roll was for Thrall’s studies to become a shaman. Will being up the favour in the next update.
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>>6395461
>You don't really understand any of this spirit stuff. What exactly is shamanism?
>If you created a fire, would the spirits react?
>Becoming the first new shaman in nearly two decades would raise him to be more than just a gladiator.
>Did Thrall have a chance to speak with Pai? You know she reached the Frostwolves.
>Other, write in
The spirits can sense the Fel, like finding that Deathknight. Would they be able to find places where a lot of syndicate warlocks gather?
Thrall making progress. If only such rolls appeared for Alric's studies. Hes already got that nalice dragonfire inside, but a blessing would be nice.
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>>6395548
>Windfury proc and buttblasting everything
Lol. Windfury proc, plus Fel Boost, with some Dragon Fire (or whatever the Napalm Fire will be called). Buttblasted and buttvaporized. We'll have to pull out the Terminator 2 Judgement Day gif.
I'd imagine it must to some extent. Aerie Peak shamanism keeping the spirits strong. Any troll clans that aren't super evil blood magic should also help?
>>
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>>6395461
>>You don't really understand any of this spirit stuff. What exactly is shamanism?
>>If you created a fire, would the spirits react?
>>Becoming the first new shaman in nearly two decades would raise him to be more than just a gladiator.
>>
>>
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>>
No update today, just way too swamped with IRL stuff. Nothing bad or anything, don't worry about that, just so much things to do that I haven’t had the time to sit down and write the updates. QM is super busy!
Though I do feel bad missing updates like this. I will conjure the update out tomorrow!
>>
There was something about Thrall that had changed since the last time you met him. It wasn't the way he carried himself, or how he looked. It was how he felt to you. It was as if he had this invisible glow around him. But you couldn't sense it as magic even if you attempted to feel out for it.
So you spoke with him, asked him some questions about the spirits. You had talked with him a bit the last time, looked into some of your books for mentions about shamanism, but that's it. You knew very little about it beyond what Eligius had told you about those witches he was training. Supposedly the humans of old had a stronger connection to nature and to these spirits, but it has been lost. Maybe due to the irresistible march of the Holy Light.
Thrall spoke about shamanism and the spirits. He explained to you how the spirits are everywhere, but choose to reveal themselves to only those who they seem worthy. Drek’Thar had apparently compared it to as if the world was breathing. Something constant that you didn't think about. It didn't make much sense to you, a single talking session with someone who was still training wouldn't teach you that much, but it did make one thing very clear. The orcs of the old had a very close relationship with the spirits and nature, even if they lived generally short and violent lives.
You asked him if you were to create fire, would the spirits react to it? What Thrall answered seemed to make sense, is the fire you create real? A copy of something natural? If yes, then the spirits could react. Now you couldn't do much about that information, but it did make you think that a trained shaman could maybe counter your magic. At minimum you shouldn't underestimate a shaman if you ever were to meet one in battle.
As you spoke with him, you didn't realise how much time had passed. A short break had turned into a long discussion and you wondered how Malevus was faring.
“I think we should continue.” You said to Thrall, your previous annoyance with him having vanished.
Thrall agreed and with quickly pulling your boots on, you walked to the copse where your horses were waiting. There you found Malevus asleep leaning against a tree.
“We talked that long huh.” You muttered to yourself. Better not to burn more daylight.
…
After waking up Malevus and getting the groggy, yet super cute while groggy, elf up, you continued to the rock. In better terrain being able to saddle up made the trip a lot faster and it didn't take that long for you to reach the original meeting spot.
“What will you do next?” Thrall asked you.
“I am not so sure. There’s always so much going on that one day is not like the next.” You said to him.
1/2
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>>6396412
In reality you knew exactly well what was going on, but telling him everything would be pointless. But this did get you to think and so you spoke.
“And you?”
“Train, practice. Hunt for my Clan.” He said.
>Do not raise up the favour Thrall has given to you. Bank the favour for later.
>Ask him to help Eligius and Pai. Use your favour.
>Ask him to spare Blackmoore and/or Langston. You need them alive. Use your favour.
>There must be something important in Alterac City that could prove useful to you. Ask Thrall to go find and fetch it. Use your favour.
>Other, write in
QM: Punting the roll for the next update, had to get this out now.
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>>6396413
>>Ask him to help Eligius and Pai. Use your favour.
I think this is the most fun option where we get to see them interact instead of mostly Alric. I know I'm looking forward to their adventures. All of them in action. Thrall restoration shaman healer to complete the group? lol.
As mentioned theres not really a relationship between Thrall and Alric without Tari, whom Alric saved out of his friendship with her. 'Why should I care about you' as Alric said.
Saving his long lost little sister would make for the foundation of a real personal relationship and appreciation. If thats something Thrall would want for himself, tell him about it favor or not.
The rest of the dialogue options from last vote in the second update I imagine.
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>>6396413
>Ask him to spare Blackmoore and/or Langston. You need them alive. Use your favour.
I'll still lean into my suggestion earlier. There's a lot we can do together with Thrall, but I think this will be the biggest 'loss' for him to concede that will hurt Alric's longterm plans.
>>
One part of you wanted to ask Thrall to help Eligius and Pai, while the other would prefer to keep Blackmoore alive. But it was too early to ask such things, the favour would find more uses later and so you would bank it for the rainier days.
“Did you speak with Pai?” You asked him.
“Yes, briefly.” Thrall said. “She was…”
Thrall tried to find the correct words, but failed.
“She swore a lot.” He said in the end. “We found her getting chased by wolves.”
“I know what you mean.” You chuckled. “She has her own reasons for doing the things she does, but I can assure you her motivations confirm her loyalty to me.”
Eligius had left a message that Pai had returned and the message you had taken from Astu had been delivered as promised.
“I will take your word for it.” Thrall replied.
“Then I think this was it. Lingering any longer here won't do any one of us any good.” You said to him. “Both of us are required back home.”
“Then for now farewell Prince Alric.” He said to you.
“And to you Thrall, go and be the first new shaman the orcs have seen in a long time. That should be an immense boon to you and your status.” You told him. “They will respect you then.”
Thrall grunted and nodded.
“Tell Tari…” He started.
“I will tell her that you wish her and the child all good in the world and that one day the two of you could meet again.” You said to him.
Thrall looked at you again before nodding once more. You watched as the orc walked and disappeared into the bushes.
“Did the two of you sort the issues out?” Malevus asked.
“I think we did, but I am still pissed at the others.” You said to her and leaned in to kiss her.
“W-what's that for?” She mumbled as blush appeared on her cheeks.
“You are so beautiful, have I told you that?”
“Y-you have… shall we go then?”
“I have an idea.” You said to her and took her hands. “We still have food so we could go to that cabin and…”
You leaned closer to whisper what was on your mind. Immediately her ears straightened up in surprise and then started to droop.
“A-Alric! You can't suggest something like that!” She protested, but her reaction betrayed her completely. “What about Dawnholme? What about…”
“Nalice will be fine, trust me.” You replied and laughed. “So how is it? A day of just me and you?”
Your girlfriend looked at you for a second as her face reached the colour of her hair before nodding.
“How could I say no…” She whispered.
Dawnholme could wait for a day. A day spent with the one you love so much would be worth it.
1/2
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>>6396920
>5
You are Eligius, spymaster to Prince Alric, warlock in disguise, scribe in public and a lot has happened in the past couple weeks.
It was raining in Andorhal. You were soaked, everyone around you was soaked, the whole town was soaked. The person you had been following discreetly was soaked as well and you watched him enter a small tavern at the outskirts of the town.
Deciding to follow him, you entered the place shortly after him and pulled your hood back.
“What can I do for you?” The tavern keeper asked.
“I could use something stiff in this weather.” You replied.
Looking around you saw the place to be half-full of the usual suspects. Labourers, thugs, peasants and some who look like men who mean trouble. And in the corner table sat the man you had been following around drinking his beer.
A shot of rum was passed to you and you paid for it. You were just supposed to follow the man, but he was now all alone. Should you make a move?
>Stick to the plan. You are just supposed to follow the man around.
>Go and join him on the table. One fellow Syndicate member to another.
>Make a scene, you need to buy more time for the others. The man can’t return to his cart yet.
>Other, write in
QM: POV Switch! Andorhal? Things will be revealed in the coming updates of why you are in Andorhal.
>>
>>6396922
Nice, back with Eligius and Pai gang. I suppose they found someone hired to bring supplies to Creedy's keep from Andorhal, or they're checking something to confirm.
Seems unlikely he would take his cart back out into the rain so thats nice. I suppose he could always want to check his cart condition tho.
>Make a scene, you need to buy more time for the others. The man can’t return to his cart yet.
>Other, write in
A Tavern should have a few plants around for a small amount of fel, or prick his finger under his robe to try using the Bloodstone. Use a very minor Corruption spell to see if it can rot the wood of his chair, It breaks under him and he gets into it with the tavern keeper. His beer turns and he demands another. Or make his clothes stink with rot seemingly from the grease of his travels and he needs a real bath and laundering. Warlock magic intrigue options baby.
Using Corruption to rot a big wooden door would also be a good move for later. Or to make a wagon cart break down. I wonder if it could make metal rust?
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>>6396966
Oh to clarify I meant break the cart guy's chair and so on. I don't imagine Eligius needs to make a display of himself unless for whatever reason he can't target that dude's chair and stuff lol.
I'm hoping he can gather a small amount of Fel or void power and cast such a spell covertly since Warlocks are supposed to be good for intrigue.
>>
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>>6396978
If I recall they wanted to find how supplies were getting to Creedy's Keep and that led them to leave Strahnbrad. So I figure this is where that trail has led, and they want something with his cart. Supplies, mail, or trying to sneak someone on board which would need much more time to cover them up.
One of the options is that for whatever reason the others could need more time, and that would mean diverting or engaging with this guy in some way to better ensure that. With magic we wouldn't even need to approach him and get his attention on us.
Eligius is supposed to have a deep understanding of magic theory, so why not have him demonstrate that using Corruption on something that isn't just a kobold or goon.
A plan to hope he doesn't go out to check his cart falls apart if he goes to check his cart doesn't it? I'd be fine letting him take some initiative with a clever little spell.
>>
>>
The rum burned nicely in your throat as you took a deep breath. Better just to stick in the agreed plan.
“A beer please, the rum was for the weather and it was most definitely needed.” You said and received your mug just in a moment.
Finding a free seat was easy and as you took off your wet robe, you constantly kept a low watch on the man.
A couple weeks ago while working at The Prancing Peacock you had gotten a lead. There was a Syndicate trader who regularly made the Andorhal to Strahnbrad and back trip who mostly dealt with foodstuffs and luxury items. The trader had been very careful with his work, he would arrive, deliver his goods, stay for the night and leave. You and Pai had watched him do the rounds once and Bill Rover had shadowed him beyond the city walls seeing if there were secret drop-off points near Strahnbrad. None were found.
Except Pai had taken her turn and against your preferences, she had managed to bed the trader. While drunk as hell the trader had accidentally slipped that he deals with some top level stuff from the highest of Lords and when prodded further revealed he was getting the messages from Andorhal. Now you wouldn't stop hearing about how seduction actually works and is a working tactic, but that was the reason why you were now in here. If this man was delivering messages between Syndicate leadership and the Lords mentioned meant Creedy who was in charge of this region, this trader could be the key to actually finding him.
You slowly drank the beer as you kept to yourself. The plan was simple, while you were following the trader, the others would search the cart for the missives. You would only start buying time if the trader was going to return too early.
“‘Ey what does a scribe do ‘ere?” One of the drunken thugs suddenly asked you and got your attention. “The fancy tavern for pooftas is on the other side of the town.”
“Weather, it is raining outside.” You gave him a nonchalant answer.
Oh great, you have attracted the attention of a local professional drunkard who moonlights as a thug. You did look like a scribe and you had just tidied your beard and hair, compared to the rest of the customers, you did look quite fine.
“Then ya don’t mind we join ya?” The thug said and motioned to two of his pals.
Oh tremendous, now they are planning to sit with you. It didn't look like the rest of the tavern cared that much, it was probably common for them to haze and bully unsuspecting visitors. The trader you were following hadn't noticed or just didn't care about this thankfully.
>Just play ball and let the thugs join you. Better not to cause a scene.
>Apologise to them and dodge out of the tavern back into the rain. Let them have their win.
>Make a scene, you don't want no drunken thugs messing with you and the trader needs to be kept here as long as possible.
>Other, write in
QM: Eligius is a man with a plan, maybe.
>>
>>6397186
Righto more or less what I expected.
Well I have a lot of ideas on how to influence the environment. If Corruption can make wood rot, beer and food spoil, leather and cloth breakdown. Maybe with the Bloodstone even make stone crumble? Put the fireplace providing the light in this tavern out.
>Other, write in
Use Corruption or Void to put out the fireplace light, rot the wood away or as if a chill wind blew it out and left it cold. Knowing its going to happen get away from the thugs in the sudden darkness. Pull up his hood, take a different table.
If he can keep his eyes closed before he does it would he see well enough if the dark to know the Trader isn't leaving.
If it works it could be very handy later for putting out torches while sneaking in Creedy's keep or against patrols.
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You really couldn't say no to these thugs without blowing your cover or making a scene. Any idea of using magic would have to be thrown out of the window immediately. So better just to be the boring milquetoast scribe you are.
“S-sure.” You replied as the trio took the chairs surrounding the table.
“Watcha ya do for work? Read papers?” The drunkest one asked.
“And write letters, most people don't know how to write or read.” You replied.
“How much do ya make then?”
“Maybe five coppers a day? Why are you asking that?” You replied.
Which was the truth. Most scribes didn't make much coin as either their work wasn't exactly productive or they were using expensive supplies their employers were deducting from their salaries. The thugs immediately seemed less interested in you, you weren't exactly swimming in coin even if you looked rather fine and clean.
You just needed to continue to bore them to death.
…
Being a boring milquetoast scribe had its benefits. It didn't take long for the trio to leave you alone after you had explained to them the very exciting differences in various types of papers and inks used. Maybe they thought that they could have shaken some coin out of you or a couple drinks, but that would have required them to keep listening to you explaining how lettering or the mail system with different wax stamps actually works.
They were stupid goons, of course they weren't interested in that.
The door to the tavern was quickly opened and a man with soaked clothes stepped in.
“One of the warehouses on the other side of the town is on fire.” He informed everyone.
“Which one?” The trader you had been following immediately asked.
“Near the stables.”
“Oh fucking hell!” The trader shouted and jumped up. “My horse cart!”
You watched as the trader ran out and you could just think that the fire must have been started by Pai and the others. They must have recovered something and what better way to hide your tracks than liberal application of arson. That was at least what Lady Nalice had taught you.
Well sounds like you had done your job then if they had finished theirs. Time to finish your beer and leave this shoddy drinking hole.
…
The dark night was faintly illuminated by the still burning warehouse. The rain had left this dark soot covered pile of half-burned timber frames behind. The locals were throwing water at the flames as you prodded one of the bystanders.
1/2
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>>6397510
Apparently the fire had started from inside, people suspect a lantern or a candle had fallen over and lit the hay stored within. There thankfully wasn't a danger of the fire spreading, the rain was helpful like that, but everything inside the warehouse had burned down before the roof had collapsed. You could see the trader complaining how his cart was gone, apparently he had left some important belongings there too.
You had an idea where those belongings now were and walking to the inn you were using, your suspicion was proven right.
“Using a fire to cover your tracks was smart.” You said.
Pai and Otto Wanz sat on the floor while going through the papers. Bill Rover meanwhile was staring out of the window and Sir Cyrus kept watch, his hands resting on his longsword.
“We have what we were looking for.” Pai said and handed you one of the papers. “There was a hidden compartment under the seat.”
You took the paper and started to read. It was just a list of various goods and a copious amount of wines and different alcohol products. Nothing suspicious there unless…
“We never saw him deliver alcohol to Strahnbrad.” You said to Pai. “We even asked the proprietor of The Prancing Peacock.”
“Exactly! We have our man!” Pai said and seemed excited.”Look look, there’s more to it. He is responsible for the alcohol deliveries, spices and other things.”
Pai handed you more papers to look at.
“If we follow him, we will find Creedy.” She finished.
>There’s one problem. Pai burned down his horse cart, how can he make the deliveries now?
>Are the papers just shipping orders and lists? Where are supposed messages to the big Lords?
>Was there anything else there than just the papers?
>Have they checked the papers for secret messages or anything like that?
>Other, write in.
QM: Using magic is not always the solution, being boring works just as well.
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>>6397511
>Have they checked the papers for secret messages or anything like that?
Hold it up to the candle light, sun light, moon light..
>Was there anything else there than just the papers?
Where's the booze or silver, because he's not in Strahnbrad right now. What was left in the cart when they torched it?
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>>6397511
>>There’s one problem. Pai burned down his horse cart, how can he make the deliveries now?
>Was there anything else there than just the papers?
>Have they checked the papers for secret messages or anything like that?
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>>6397511
No cart means no deliveries, stock could be rebought but presumably he also lost the hidden messages.
If he bails would they think he's betraying them lol. Hunt his ass down. Or use his family as leverage if he has any.
So I suppose he will have to go back to his syndicate contact, and the contact will have to get those hidden messages from his higher ups again. A nice trail to follow.
If the papers taken do include hidden messages can they spot and decipher them, will it be useful info worth pursuing.
>There’s one problem. Pai burned down his horse cart, how can he make the deliveries now?
>Was there anything else there than just the papers?
>Have they checked the papers for secret messages or anything like that?
That's fine. Just to sate my curiosity what was Eligius's plan if the trader did get up to check his cart?
>>
“Well there’s one problem, he doesn't have a cart anymore.” You said to Pai.
The room you had gotten was pretty spacious. Not as small and cramped like the one in Strahnbrad so everyone had plenty of space to stretch their legs. Of course you and Pai had this room for the two of you, just to sell the story of being a married couple.
“That is his problem, not ours.” Pai replied to you.
“The trader, he might become desperate.” Sir Cyrus pointed out with his thick Stormwind accent.
“Exactly! He must make the delivery and so he will be in a hurry. That’s when he will make mistakes and we will follow him.” Pai continued to what the knight had said.
That wasn't a bad idea to be honest.
“Did he have anything else? Was the cart loaded?”
“Just some bottles of spirits, no wonder it burned so well.” Pai said.
“So he needs to find a new horse cart, acquire more alcohol and everything else listed on these papers. He probably needs to do that in just a day or two to keep up the schedule too.” You mused aloud. “Have you checked the papers thoroughly?”
“With a candle.” Wanz said. The warlock wasn't stupid, he knew how these sorts of things usually worked. “Nothing, no usual tricks.”
“What about magic?” You asked him.
“I am a… warlock.” He replied and got both Sir Cyrus and Rover to glare at him.
Your old Master had been smart to teach you the basics of arcane magic and more about the theory involved. It had helped you in teaching the Prince and now you could hopefully see if there was anything special in these papers. Wanz meanwhile was just a warlock.
“Alright give me the papers and some space then.” You told them and everyone moved away from the floor in front of you.
“What are you going to do?” Pai asked as you sorted the papers and knelt on the floor.
“A trick.” You replied and took out the wooden twig you had been using as a quill.
Slowly you drew the same ward used in the cellar of Lady Nalice to block magic from leaking out. The faint blue glow on the wooden planks looked rather fancy, but was for the most part just a precaution. You were going to push arcane into these papers and see if anything happens.
>3d10, Best of three
>DC 20, Crit 25
QM: Getting back into the two updates a day rhythm.
>>6397578
His best mage from Dalaran trying to find a warlock impression. Non-zero chance there was a warlock in that inn.
>>
Rolled 9, 3, 4 = 16 (3d10)
>>6397603
Would using the Bloodstone be an option if hes trying to push arcane into these papers? More magic or more potent magic, whatever actually happens.
Idk if he'd need to decide how much blood to give, or if other peoples blood would work just fine as well. Putting it into the hilt of a blade or with a wand could be pretty handy.
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>16, Failure!
Others watched as you went through the papers one by one. You read them again, placed them on the ward and very carefully interacted with them with magic. The papers when you touched them started to crumble and smolder from the corners, but nothing else happened.
“Nothing, there’s nothing.” You sighed. “If someone had written on these with arcane, it would have shown up.”
You felt a bit disappointed as you wiped the ward away and neatly put the papers into a pile.
“We can still follow him.” Pai said.
“You are right. Tomorrow we will continue shadowing him, we also need to make sure our food rations are stocked up. When we leave Andorhal, I don't think we will return here.” You told them and continued. “But now, it is already late and we should all rest.”
There were agreeing nods. The trader would have to get a new cart and acquire the goods he needs to deliver. If he has to go fetch some documents, maybe you could spot whoever is his Syndicate contact in here. But even with this setback you had a lead, a pretty strong lead. Everyone knew that things were in motion that couldn't be stopped now.
…
“Eligius, come to bed.” Pai lamented. “How long are you going to look at those papers, there’s nothing there.”
“In a moment.” You replied.
There must be something in these papers so you have been going through them one by one. Any phrases, odd markings, noticeable cipher, comparing one to the other. But there was nothing, nothing you could notice.
“You have already gone through the papers three times.” Pai said back to you.
“Fine, fine…” Now it was your turn to lament and you left the papers alone.
Pai had continued to insist that your cover story was that of a married couple. As much as that continued to annoy you, it did have the marginal benefit of the room and the bed provided being a bit more spacious and softer. The joys of marital life. Kicking off your boots, you climbed into the bed and extinguished the last candle.
You could hear Pai breathing as you closed your eyes. Ever since Strahnbrad she had seemed strung up, in a constant anticipation of something was going to happen. The others were similarly anxious, except maybe Sir Cyrus as you couldn't get a good read on the man. But now you had a lead, something strong to follow. You heard Pai shift in the bed and you opened your eyes and glanced at her. She was on her side and looking at you.
“What is it?” You asked and closed your eyes again. She had been kind enough to stop teasing you in Strahnbrad so this wasn't that.
“Nothing.” She said and you could hear her roll on her back again. It took a while till she spoke again. “Eligius?”
“Yes?” You muttered.
“Are you scared?” Pai asked, the tone of her voice was genuinely curious. “About what happens next that is.”
1/1
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>>6397813
>Yes, yes you are. But it keeps you careful and alive.
>Is Pai, the woman known to kill and seduce men without a second thought, scared?
>The mission you have gives guidance as if it was a rope hold on.
>Is there anything you could do to help her loosen up and not be so strung up?
>Other, write in
QM: No further information could be found.
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>>6397814
>QM: No further information could be found.
Only Felric and Malevus are allowed to crit.
>Yes, yes you are. But it keeps you careful and alive.
>The mission you have gives guidance as if it was a rope hold on.
Non-stop fun on Alric's rollercoaster.
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“Of course I am, but being scared is a good thing.” You said to her. “It keeps you careful and prevents stupid risks.”
There was silence as Pai didn’t reply to you.
“What we are doing is a rope to hold on, it gives us guidance, a goal to reach towards.” You said and continued. “If you are scared, just hold on to that rope.”
“I expected something like that from you.” Pai finally replied after a pause. “Good night.”
“Good night.” You said back to her.
You weren't sure if Pai wanted to hear something else, or maybe something deeper or maybe you challenging her a bit? This was clearly bothering her though, but maybe closer you got to your goal would clear her head.
Frankly you were more than scared, you were terrified. But you had to push through, for the Prince and for yourself. How would you see yourself if you wouldn't try to do your utmost?
…
The trader did not waste time. As you started following him early in the morning with the Robe of Obfuscation making the job practically foolproof, Wanz and Rover got the job of acquiring the food rations and Pai was joined by Sir Cyrus as they went to look for tools and other equipment required. The trader meanwhile had bought a new horse cart and was in progress of negotiating with a bunch of merchants for whatever he needed.
And the trader was a professional. You kept checking the lists taken from him and he seemed to match them near perfectly. Of course when it came to the spirits, he started to have difficulties as the previous batch had been destroyed in the fire and the merchants didn't exactly have what he wanted. So the trader started to go through the inns and taverns while searching for certain items. That was when you were joined by Pai or more accurately you joined her.
When you had left Strahnbrad, she had switched back to her darker clothes. Trousers, black shirt, leather vest to make her look like a Syndicate member. Apparently the blue kirtle you had gotten for her was too fancy to be worn while travelling, she didn't want to get it dirty.
“He has gotten most of what was written down on the list.” You said and managed to startle her.
“Don't creep up on me like that.” Pai replied as she watched the trader load up the cart. “He might be ready to leave even before the night sets in.”
“Maybe, I still haven't seen anything like messages delivered to him.” You replied and stopped for a second as locals passed Pai. They didn't notice you.
“Maybe there are no new messages?” Pai suggested.
1/2
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>>6397895
“Maybe, maybe. But we can't wait for any messages to be delivered if he were to leave early.” You said to her and continued. “I will keep following him, tell the others to be ready to move.”
“Eligius.” Pai said.
“What is it?”
“Don't get spotted.” She replied and seemed to mean it.
…
Continuing to follow the trader, you watched him go through the remainder of the list. Spices, salt. Pickled vegetables and a barrel of smoked ham. The horse cart was getting more and more full until not much else could fit there. With no reason to take a risk and go snooping any closer, you were content just to watch and follow him.
Tarp was thrown over the goods and firmly tied to the cart. For a second you thought that the trader would be staying as he drove the cart back to the stables and headed in. You kept watch as he most likely paid for the fodder and soon he returned back to the cart, jumping aboard and leaving the stables behind before turning towards north and driving the cart through Andorhal.
Wait, north? But Strahnbrad is towards the south along the King's Road, not north? Where was he going, to Hearthglen? To make matters worse, Pai and the others were waiting close to the south gate. The trader clearly was in a hurry as he made the cart go faster.
You had to make a choice, keep up with the cart and see where the trader is going. Or go tell Pai and the others what was going on and risk either giving the trader a headstart or completely lose him if he was to turn off the road before you could catch him.
>Follow the trader. Others know to follow you sooner than later, they are not stupid.
>Run to Pai and the others. They need to know that the trader is leaving right now.
QM: Choose one. Technically you could do both, but I will make you choose. Also very inconvenient short maintenance timing here.
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>>6397940
>Run to Pai and the others. They need to know that the trader is leaving right now.
Corruption on a cart wheel could buy him time to get the gang? At the least he can get Pai and leave some sign to the others to follow.
Maintenance kept fucking me over so I couldnt post earlier. Had some thoughts on the earlier vote and the relationship between Pai and Eligius, but oh well.
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>>6397971
Rats. I was hoping that bring 5 Int brain of his and warlock/spymaster training might sneak that 4th roll in lol. Alas. Maybe some inspiration will strike with some good dreams for a cipher.
Maybe the Warlock store might have some regents and equipment for magic that could still be useful in arcane mage arts? I did really want to visit it and maybe use that block of Dreamdust to buy him something nice. I wonder if theres much trinkets to be bought for the others? Enchanted daggers, trinkets, necklace and earrings for Pai.
>Yes, yes you are. But it keeps you careful and alive.
Life alone in the wilderness and caves for years has hardly prepared him for this. Then Nalice's staring his ass down at the drop of a hat for being a 'wild' warlock. Eligius still has so much left to learn.
>Is there anything you could do to help her loosen up and not be so strung up?
I think it would be nice. They've gotten a lot closer over the mission and that confrontation with Alric's sister. She puts meaning in the blue dress, and if Eligius sees that or has grown to see that. At the very least they've clearly gotten close enough to understand the other is quite bothered. Could he 'justify' it to himself in roundabout ways like stress worsening their condition lol. Maybe theres opportunity for it later if they get stuck out in the cold and rain.
Ask her how she imagines things will be when they get back. What Eligius thinks. What would be arrangement that works for them, as Spymaster and his Top Assassin, what works for Eligius and Pai? Just keep doing this, walking Dawnholme in her blue dress, Eligius the Scribe sponsoring a syndicate prisoner as part of her parole. Or avoiding most public appearances but taking a room in the secret underground chambers. Telling her about the Witches and if she'd want to live with them. Talking until rest could take them.
Mostly taking opportunity to go into the growth they've had to cover for one another. A couple twisted trees holding the other up.
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>>6397940
>Run to Pai and the others. They need to know that the trader is leaving right now.
Anywhere from Andorhal is pretty far, though Hearthglen opens up interesting dynamics with Eitrigg and the Fordrings..
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Rolled 6, 10, 9 = 25 (3d10)
Informing the others and then trying to catch up with the trader. Eligius the team player. Higher the better, try to beat the result of my own roll.
>3d10, Best of three
>DC X, Higher is better
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Rolled 5, 2, 8 = 15 (3d10)
>>6398339
Dang that is one fast motherfucking cart
Like I was hoping he would be in such a rush a corrupted wheel that gives in to rot might be something to swing for. In such a rush he thinks whoever he got this new cart from swindled him.
I wonder if a Fear on the horse would work to stop it for a bit, or refuse to go along with directions.
I know we said magic isn't always the solution but oof 25.
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>15, Failure!
This is not a mission for just you, this is a mission for your team which made the decision a simple one to make.
So you ran through the town. The muddy streets making a mess of your shoes, trousers and the Robe of Obfuscation. The others were waiting near the south gate, keeping an eye on everyone crossing the bridge there.
“He is going north!” You said and took several deep breaths. Running is not for you.
“North?” Pai asked.
“To Hearthglen? But why?” Wanz asked you next.
“I do not know. Just that he seemed to be in a hurry.” You told them.
“Did he spot us?” Sir Cyrus mused.
“No idea, but we need to go.” Was your reply.
“Then what are we waiting for here, let's go.” Pai ordered and pulled up her backpack.
“Yeah yeah, just go. I will catch my breath for a second.” You replied.
The others quickly left as you groaned. Had the trader spotted you? Did he know the papers had been taken or did he just suspect the nature of the fire? No idea, but this was something you hadn't suspected.
And running definitely was not for you.
…
“The rain has made the road muddy. We can follow the tracks.” Pai said to you when you caught up with the rest past the north gate.
Bill Rover was already looking at the different tracks and motioned you to follow him. There were plenty of tracks on the road, but it wasn't that difficult for him to follow the right ones. Especially as they were a bit deeper and fresh horse droppings gave him extra clues to follow.
“He got a headstart.” You mused. “Can we catch him?”
“Aye.” Rover replied.
“Do we need to catch him? If we can you know, just follow him?” Wanz asked.
That was a good question. The trader was going fast, but even the two horses in front of the cart needed rest. A steady pace might not be enough to catch him, but he wouldn't be that far from you. If you just needed to follow him, that was most definitely doable. But maybe you should just intercept him?
>Just follow the tracks. Rover is a skilled tracker and it would be difficult to lose the trader and his horse cart.
>Catch up with the trader when he slows down or stops for the night. You want to get close enough to actually see him.
>Intercept the trader and stop him. You have a feeling that he knows something is going on.
>Other, write in.
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>>6398396
>Catch up with the trader when he slows down or stops for the night. You want to get close enough to actually see him.
The trader is terribly late, hes got an appointment to make. I wonder if this will be us seeing this trader get ambushed if not meeting whatever contact or hidey hole.
Could Creedy be sending a communication towards his own lords, towards the Warlocks hes teamed up with, or towards Alric's brother who must have agreed to the hostage arrangement in the first place?
Eligius knows the Syndicate is divided. He knows that Alric's sister is in Strahnbrad with a large influx of men, and was rather strongly trying to get him and Pai out...Presumably for her own agenda. If there were a shadowy struggle to usurp power what does he think would happen? How would someone go about cutting off Creedy from his support until hes forced to make an appearance?
Intercept and replace messengers perhaps. Control information. Cut Creedy off from his Keep supplies. Could he ration it, would he dismiss guards from the Keep, or expose himself in some manner.
Every time Eligius talks about his warlock studies its always how hes read the theories. If he wanted to do a stealthy cast, or use performance enhancing Fel in little microdoses to keep up lol.
I think if anyone got injured it was pretty much down to Rover's knowledge of medicine and bandaging, or maybe Pai's knowledge of poisons as an assassin. Or Eligius trying to apply the theory of Fel to kickstart healing in the body if its do or die.
>>
“When he slows down or stops for the night, then we will catch him. I want to get close enough to actually see him.” You told the others. “His horses can't continue like this forever, he must stop!”
…
In fact, he did not stop.
As the evening and night arrived, the trader had very minimal stops to just allow the horses to drink water and eat some fodder. He had continued north towards Hearthglen as the rain had started again, muddying the already muddy tracks even further. At this point it was pretty apparent that he either knew or suspected being chased or followed. All of you had realised that as your pace moved between light jog and brisk walking.
But you had Bill Rover with you, the old gamekeeper ran ahead of you, stopping to see for the tracks before without a word disappeared again.
“Where the Fel did that old man go?” You asked aloud as you breathed heavily.
It was past midnight, your pauses had been very inconsistent and even shorter. You could feel your legs burning and each step felt heavier than the one before it.
Suddenly Rover appeared near silently from a bush next to you. The scruffy old man blended in with the shrubbery and saw all four of you standing there. Only Sir Cyrus in his plate mail wasn't tired, that man was unflappable.
“He went off the road. Is moving west, following a peasant's trail.” Rover told you and disappeared back into the bush.
“I mean… what choice do we have? This is our rope to hold on.” Pai who looked exhausted and thoroughly wet from the rain said as she followed your tracker.
She was right, this was the rope that would guide you.
…
The early rays of sunlight were a welcoming sight. The trader hadn't stopped, but you had gotten closer. The cart wasn't as fast on these poorer trails and while the rain helped to obfuscate the tracks, it made the journey slower for him.
You pressed on through the day, stopping just to eat your rations momentarily. It was as if you were driven by a daemon to push forward as you marched onward. Without sleep the five of you went through the day until finally saw your quarry.
“There he is…” You said to yourself.
At that moment as the night started to set again, your legs finally gave up and you fell on your knees on the soft mud.
“Eligius… wouldn't have expected that from you.” Pai said and was similarly exhausted, but still standing.
1/2
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>>6398544
The trader had stopped at an inn for the night. The horse cart was outside and the horses were probably inside the neighbouring stables. He must have thought that you wouldn't catch him or that he had managed to fully lose you. Since leaving the main road and following the trails through the countryside, there had been no further attempt to obfuscate his trail. The rain and the night should have fooled a normal tracker, but not Bill Rover.
“Horses.” Sir Cyrus said. Finally the knight was slightly winded as he picked you up and helped you to stand up.
“Hearthglen caparisons.” Wanz knew to say.
Outside the inn there were two horses tied up with caparisons in the colours of Hearthglen.
“Knights? Mounted soldiers?” You mused.
“Does it matter? We can just wait him out.” Pai asked.
Or maybe those soldiers could prove useful. They must not enjoy the presence of a Syndicate trader amongst their midst. Lady Nalice had taught you, soldiers unaffiliated with you can prove to be useful tools if directed at a common foe. Maybe it would be smart to move in to apprehend the trader and stop this merry chase?
“Let's wait this out, we can follow him tomorrow.” Pai continued.
>The trader doesn't expect you. Go and apprehend the man. The soldiers from Hearthglen might prove a useful boon to you.
>Wait for the morning and continue following him after a night of rest. He will lead you to where Creedy and Alicia are, you are sure of it.
>Ransack the horse cart during the night. The trader won’t recover from it financially, but might cause him to react in a way that helps you a lot.
>Other, write in
QM: 4chan is working incredibly sluggishly. I have no idea if posts even go through until a few minutes later.
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>>6398546
Side Character Stats show Eligius having the Blessed Vial of Water, so someone could refresh themselves lol.
>caparisons
Fancy horse outfits for knights and mounted soldiers with money more or less? Maybe nobles? Could someone wear the colours of Heartglen, but then put an Alterac noble coat of arms on top of it if they were a smug syndicate noble lol.
>Other, write in
Offer Pai the Blessed Vial of Water and the Robe of Obfuscation. She goes in to see and listen, comes back with info on the Trader and the horsemen. Then we make the call.
Cyril also has that trait where he can tell if someone is sus, but even without the armor idk the robe fits lol.
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Robe of Obfuscation came off and you threw it to Pai who caught it.
“Put it on.” You said and started checking your pockets. It took you a couple rounds of patting your pockets before you found what you were looking for. “And drink this.”
Pai seemed sceptical as she took the Blessed Vial of Water.
“What is this? A potion?” She asked.
“It is from the Prince, it should help with exhaustion. Just refill it with water again.” You told her.
“Alright, what am I supposed to do then? Go sabotage his cart or what?” Pai asked as she drank the vial and replaced her cloak with the Robe.
“Get inside the inn and confirm that the trader is there. Also see who the Hearthglen soldiers are, I don't want to make the call half-blind.” You told her and made sure the Robe of Obfuscation was on her as it should be.
“Right right, doesn't sound that hard and I have wanted to use this Robe.” Pai replied.
“Just don't get caught, now go.” You said to her.
Pai nodded and you watched as she started to walk towards the inn. You meanwhile would take a position by some nearby trees. A moment of rest is exactly what you need.
>3d10, Best of three
>DC 10, 17, Crit 22
QM: This roll is for Pai. Good thinking to do this.
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>17, Success!
You don't remember falling asleep, but it must not have taken long after you sat down next to a tree. Next thing you know was Pai kicking your side to wake you up.
“How long did I sleep?” You managed to mutter as you jumped up.
“Don't know, but we are not going to approach that inn.” She said dead serious.
“Tell me everything.” You replied.
Wanz had to be woken up as well, with everyone present and awake, Pai kept everything short. She has crept closer and gotten in through an open backdoor. No one there had noticed anything or her presence which was good, the trader was eating dinner and left to sleep in his room when Pai returned. But the reason why she is so against approaching the inn was simple: one of the two riders was a knight and the other a Paladin.
“Did you recognise him?” Wanz asked her.
“No, of course not. They all look the same, but he was definitely a Paladin. Had the pauldrons, the warhammer.” Pai replied. “We are not going there, the Paladin would sniff the two of you out immediately.”
“Are they going to stay for the night?” You asked.
“Seems like it, they weren't in a hurry to leave and it is night.” Pai shrugged.
“Right right, that went well then. Thank you Pai.” You said as others looked at you. You were the team leader, it was your choice.
>You are milquetoast enough that you could approach the Paladin and ask for his help at apprehending the Syndicate trader.
>Pai is right, this is way too dangerous. Better not to take any risks and just follow the trader come next morning.
>Burning his trade cart should send a message. You are here and you have found him.
>Other, write in
QM: DCs were successful sneaking in and spotting the Paladin.
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>>6399094
>Pai is right, this is way too dangerous. Better not to take any risks and just follow the trader come next morning.
Well he seems to feel safe and secure in having lost us, so presumably he will now lead us to his destination. If it ends up being some syndicate safehouse I guess we could have a fight.
If someone had a good argument for grabbing him now I'd be open, but obviously we can't involve Eligius or Wanz. So it would rely on Pai, Cyrus (idk why I called him Cyril last time lol), and ol Bill. Which isn't great since a Paladin might want to take him into Heartglen custody so someone might have to convince him otherwise, but maybe we could still get the necessary questions.
And then burning his cart down when theres a Paladin who would probably feel obligated to investigate sounds pretty bad to me.
>spotting the Paladin
Well I'm glad that worked out. Although I am curious how a fight with a knight and Paladin would have gone. Cyrus faces off against the Paladin with Rover to keep him occupied. Pai, Eligius and Wanz against the knight and they blast him down. Then everyone dogpiles the Paladin. Could have made a good test for the bloodstone to see if it could beat a Paladin's defenses. Tfw losing out on fight exp.
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>>6399130
Thats true. I think even before Nalice did something to Raleigh he still never sniffed out Eligius. His milquetoastness could be more than enough alongside the others to pass. Then let Wanz stay in the woods. It could be an easy check. If it was a famous/powerful Paladin presumably something in there would have tipped her off.
There is the consideration that if we grab the trader later ourselves we'd probably just have to kill him after questions and get rid of the body. If we involve the Paladin we probably hand him off alive and let Heartglen have a lead on syndicate activities (unless he dies in prison). But considering what happened in Southshore its not the first time Eligius would have to help clean up, and no loose ends.
I wonder if Rover put on the Trader's cloak would he had the best chance at taking his place on the cart and everyone else hides inside?
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>>6399094
Tirion? Mograine? Or another crusader from the Scarlets?
>You are milquetoast enough that you could approach the Paladin and ask for his help at apprehending the Syndicate trader.
I cannot resist the option. Enter with Cyrus as a backup that if caught has the reason we are (correctly) investigating criminal smuggling activities beyond the borders of Alterac Princedom. Eligius and Cyrus ask for his cooperation.
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File: Alric armor wip2.png (90.4 KB)
I dont know if I'll continue it but have this wip. I know it had four gems but I couldnt decide where I'd put the fourth. Also yes I know hes not wearing sabatons, maybe he got interrupted, or maybe hes wearing socks over sabatons in winter lol.
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Pai is right, following the trader next morning is easier and much safer option than trying to seek the help from the Paladin. Shame, it would have been fun writing Eligius interacting withTirion Fordring who sees straight through him. That would have been !!FUN!!
Either way, could I get some rolls for a much easier chase.
>3d10, Best of three
>DC 14, Crit 20
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>>6399371
Certainly would have been interesting. Fight, spill the beans on the operation, or maybe turn the trader into a hostage
Would a Paladin let them leave with a hostage or risk his intervention causing a death
So I guess a write in to just send Pai, Cyrus, and Bill would have been fine. Or would Tirion see through Cyrus's disguise lol. What would he even think. Maybe he could play it off as a curse or human experimentation by a rogue mage.
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“It makes no sense for us to attempt to do anything other than catch a night of sleep.” You told them. “We are all dead tired.”
Others seemed to agree with you, even if Rover and Cyrus didn't show it that much, they required rest too.
“Tomorrow is a new day and the trader must leave early. If he thinks that he lost us, he will be careless and we can just safely trail him.” You said. “So just find a tree to lean on and get comfortable.”
“I shall take the first watch.” Sir Cyrus said.
There, that's decided. Going to the inn while there’s a Paladin around was just too sketchy of a thing. Better to play it safe and by the numbers.
…
>16, Success!
It has been three days since.
The trader left early and you kept following him. This time the pace wasn't as cruel and you kept up with him by just walking. The trader had turned back towards south and used these smaller trails and roads beyond the King's Road, if you were to guess you had already passed Andorhal.
Evening arrived and Rover who had scouted ahead returned with a pair of hares he had shot. Grilling them on a campfire gave the five of you the first hot meal in nearly five days. You felt secure making a fire like this, the trader had stopped for the night and you were keeping a healthy distance to him.
“Kill the fire.” Rover ordered with a whisper.
Wanz and Pai quickly rescued the hares, while Sir Cyrus poured water and stomped on the flames.
“What is it?” You asked Rover.
“Horsemen.” He replied and kept his ear on the ground. “The trader got company.”
“Guide me closer, I want to see them.” You said without thinking.
Rover nodded and disappeared into the bush. You would just have to follow him.
…
You weren't made for sneaking around in dark woods, but the Robe of Obfuscation made it rather easy. Rover crept closer until you saw what he meant. Several horsemen with torches had joined with the trader. They were inspecting the cart and talking about something, but you couldn't hear them.
>Robe of Obfuscation is made for situations like this. Get closer to hear what they are saying.
>Have the others alerted, this might be the point where Creedy's men take the supplies. Better to follow them quietly.
>It is night, no one can see you. Now it is the time to scare the horses with Fear.
>Looks like there’s only five of them, you could easily deal with the horsemen and the trader right now. Take them out, but keep ole of them as a guide.
>Other, write in
QM: >>6399214 Crude drafts best drafts. Actually to right direction a bit.
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>>6399533
I'll just get some thoughts down.
Presumably not an alliance patrol out at night all the way out here past Andorhal, by Eligius's guess.
Talking about him being late given the detour he led us on, if he was followed, or the new cart. They'd need light if they were going to check his identity and the supplies anyways, then to put them on the horses.
I'd imagine 5 horses can carry a fair bit distributed evenly. Alcohol, spices, and other things. I bet the spices would make a nice cushion for the alcohol lol.
If I was feeling extra suspicious do they take everything and then go to a single Keep, or would they all split up taking a bit of supplies to different Keeps? Would any of them even know if their Keep was the one with Creedy in it? Another layer of funny syndicate shenanigans. So if we tried to just follow them we might end up splitting the entire party. 5 in our party, 5 horsemen, but not all of our gang are trackers.
I would imagine its routine. The horses would probably know their way back either way if we killed the riders then we could have them lead us as well.
>It is night, no one can see you. Now it is the time to scare the horses with Fear.
Horses throwing dudes, dudes stuck trying to clam their horse, trying to dismount without getting trampled. Great opener.
>Looks like there’s only five of them, you could easily deal with the horsemen and the trader right now. Take them out, but keep ole of them as a guide.
I think I'm leaning towards killing them with a guide left alive, taking the horses since we'd probably need them to help with a getaway after we kill Creedy and sneak the little princess out. Probably have Rover take care of them in the woods.
Plus it would be cool to see Eligius start blastin. I'm open to hear what other people think tho.
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>>6399533
>Have the others alerted, this might be the point where Creedy's men take the supplies. Better to follow them quietly.
We can conclude this is a handover, so lets be prepared for the transfer, otherwise it's going be like Andorhal all over again.
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>>6399558
Np
>>6399533
>It is night, no one can see you. Now it is the time to scare the horses with Fear.
>Looks like there’s only five of them, you could easily deal with the horsemen and the trader right now. Take them out, but keep ole of them as a guide.
Keep alive all that we can keep alive. Its best to interrogate them, since the Syndicate is too secretive to openly start talking of where Creedy here even in the middle of a forest with a trusted trader. Creedy could be in any of the keeps, and the horsemen could each split.
If some of them die too bad. The horses will help us with movement later on when we need to leave with the little kid, even if it make us more noticeable.
At least we got a meal.
>>6399557
I agree with you but I prefer to keep them alive if possible. Anything we can learn from anyone left alive would be ideal. Though the horsemen might just know patrol routines, engagement orders and carry the trade goods from this trader to x number of keeps. We can easily assume the trader is telling them what happened recently, so they might start be on edge (with how the Syndicate works and their current internal conditions they probably are always on edge, but hearing "my stuff was burned!" ought to rise some eyebrows).
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Having Rover fetch the others, casting Fear at the horses and having others to take out the men. Prisoners are preferable so those will be taken.
Magic: 3/3
Fel: 0/3
>3d10, Best of three
>DC 15, Crit 21
Use Bloodstone to empower your magic?
>Yes
>No
Eligius differs from Alric in a way that he doesn't have an immediate access to Fel. When the Fear or any other Fel magic is cast, he converts his own mana into Fel and then casts it. But if a fight lasts longer and Eligius gets an opportunity to siphon naturally forming Fel or draining life out of people, technically he can keep casting near indefinitely or until the sources of Fel disappear. If Alric is a full battery, Eligius is rechargeable one that needs to vent the Fel away after casting his spells. He won't risk prolonged exposure to it.
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File: 47d (1).jpg (313.2 KB)
>>6399892
Calm down Eligius! Jeez! After some disappointing rolls, Eligius does something like this. Everyone is properly terrified, not just the horses.
Now I will start writing the update, but won't finish it tonight. You will still have time to vote if the Bloodstone is used.
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>>6399927
If you want overkill with powerful longer lasting effects then yes. If you want to accomplish just your goal, then it is not needed.
I can say people will look at Eligius differently now and the use of Bloodstone will affect that as well.
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>>6399933
>>6399892
I'll change my vote to >No
Eligius did get that crit fair and square. Can save the bloodstone for later when its needed.
I am curious if these goons would basically have a complete breakdown and be unable to answer questions. Or fuck up the horses too. It WOULD be nice to actually have a better idea of how it works tho. Eligius said he studied the damn thing.
Cyrus seems to think well of Warlocks tho he keeps it to himself, not surprising as one of Nalice's dragonspawns. Wanz of course will probably appreciate it as a fellow Warlock. Pai wants to know interesting things about people, and I suppose a Powerful Warlock is more interesting than just a Warlock.
So really I'd imagine its more about Ol Bill and whether he gains a healthy appreciation or begrudging respect? Or with Bloodstone and Eligius basically mindbreaks a bunch of dudes and animals infront of him lol.
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>27, Crit Success!
“Fetch the others.” You whispered to Rover. “Tell them to come here and on my signal attack. We will take prisoners and those horses alive.”
Rover muttered something back to you and disappeared in just a few seconds. The plan was simple, you were going to cast Fear on the horses and get them to throw their riders off. When that happens, the rest of your team attacks and deals with the men. The goal was to take prisoners, you could interrogate them and learn where exactly Creedy happens to be.
In silence you waited and listened. The trader was talking with the horsemen and it was clear that they were from Syndicate to you.
“My cart was burned.”
“I was followed.”
“They couldn't keep up with me.”
The trader answered any questions. It was now very clear to you that he had realised something was away and acted like he did on purpose. Going north had been just a way to get rid of you and he thought he had succeeded.
“It is always someone, you know our organisation.”
But the horsemen didn't think it was someone from outside. Instead this was just Syndicate's inner feuding and nothing more.
Hearing rustling behind you and you watched as Pai sneaked closer with her shortsword in her hand. Wanz you couldn't see, but you could sense the Fel gathering as he wasn't as clean and sophisticated warlock like you are. Bill Rover was somewhere there and Sir Cyrus was doing his utmost best at staying back to avoid making noise.
You stood up. Within your pocket a small red gem whispered to you, but you declined its invitation. You had the power of your own as you started to feel invigorated. Your eyes attained a low green tint as power surged through your body. The intoxicating feel of Fel, so dangerous and perverse in its temptations and might. But you were a warlock, a trained practitioner of the dark arms.
"May the void hear my plea and Darkness hear my call!"
"Banish away the courage and will!"
"Cut away their strength and resolve!”
You raised your hands up and chanted. It wouldn't be a single kobold this time as you concentrated on the horses and not on the men. The Robe of Obfuscation fluttered as if struck by a gust of wind.
“Crush their vigour!”
“Demolish their spirits!”
“Take away all that they hold dear and bring warmth to them!”
Magic was rarely subtle and your chanting was the opposite of stealthy. The horsemen were alarmed that something was going on, but suddenly without a warning a strange calamity struck them and their horses. Their steeds buckled and neighed. Horsemen barely being able to hold on to them.
1/3
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>>6400495
An arrow flew, skewering one of them and the second was hit by a bolt made of pure shadows. Pai charged and Sir Cyrus threw the stealth away as he followed in his plate mail. Watching as the horsemen struggled, they were nowhere close to ready to be unceremoniously janked off their horses by Sir Cyrus or Pai. In just a seconds four men were on the ground and the trader joined them as Pai threw him off the cart.
You felt the fears within you as you kept casting, muttering the chant time after time. The one struck by the Shadow Bolt was dead and the one with the arrow on him was rapidly dying. Their agony and trashing was ample fuel to you for just a tad longer.
“Mr. Scribe, that was a splendid showing.” Sir Cyrus said to you as he pointed his sword at the men on the ground.
With a deep breath and a sigh, you released your grip on their hearts as the men looked like they had seen ghosts. They were terrified and a pair of them had wetted themselves. It felt as if hot air left your body and your eyes returned back to normal. You couldn't avoid having everyone's eyes on you though. One pair judging, while others giving admiration or approval.
“Y-y-you!” The trader muttered when he saw that it was Pai keeping him on the ground.
“What is it dear? Interested in having another go at it?” She asked, her tone a seductive one.
You took another deep breath and closed your eyes. Oh you weren't that good at this, but you had to be confident and that would carry you far.
“No one else needs to die.” You said to them as Sir Cyrus disarmed them one by one. Though right now none of them were capable of doing anything. “We have one question that requires an answer and if we get it, you will live.”
“And if not, I will start with you first.” Pai said, her shortsword firmly aimed at the trader's scrotum.
“I don’t know!” The man pleaded. “They know! I am just a trader!”
Fear was very contagious and you could see it ripple through the survivors. While you had been taught that direct torture is a bad way of getting information, interrogation just after someone had gone through a shock can be a terrifyingly effective.
“Where is Lord Creedy?” You asked them. “Where is the keep he is staying in?”
“I will tell you! We are just lackeys! Not even allowed to go inside, just stay within the walls!” One of the terrified men shouted out.
There we go. One step closer to actually completing your mission. You felt actually rather proud of yourself, if the Prince would have seen this, he would have congratulated you or something, and then given you a mountain of paperwork.
Huh, you wondered for a second, how was he fairing right now? Probably pretty well.
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File: Taretha_Foxton.jpg (68.1 KB)
>>6400497
…
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…
>16, Failure!
You are Prince Alric Perenolde, the second heir of Alterac, renowned swordsman, boyfriend to the most beautiful woman in the world with whom you had just spent a day together, just the two of you with no one there to disturb you, engaging in repeated sessions of…
“Alric Perenolde. Please explain yourself right now.” Taretha Foxton demanded. Her tone was strict and she stood there with her hands on her hips.
“Well ummm…” You mumbled.
Though your timing had been awful when it came to returning home, to your bedroom.
Malevus had ridden home during the day, returning from her “Church meeting”. You followed later in the night and used the underground escape tunnel through the dungeons to slip in. So far so good, but when you reached your bedroom, Tari was already waiting for you.
“How long has that woman… disguised herself as you?” Tari asked.
Nalice looked like she was actually enjoying herself as she sat there one leg over the other still wearing your clothes. Next to her Malevus was twiddling with her thumbs looking all embarrassed.
“I am sorry Alric… I blew her cover…” She muttered.
Malevus had walked in to disguised Nalice playing with the little Faelyn and accidentally greeted her as Nalice and not as you. Tari had immediately seen through the disguise and now you are standing here like a naughty school kid getting reprimanded by the head teacher.
“Ummm well…”
“No ummms and wells, now tell me the truth.” Tari demanded.
>Blurt out the truth, Thrall, Orgrim, Grom the whole big deal!
>You and Malevus had an escapade. Time for just the two of you to you know, express your love to each other.
>Abort! Abort! Deflect deflect! Throw the dragon lady enjoying this way too much under the horse carriage.
>Other, write in.
QM: And we are back to Alric. One of the earlier rolls was if the trader realised that he was being watched and followed, and this one was for Malevus. She was in a too blissful mood to be careful.
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>>6400499
>You and Malevus had an escapade. Time for just the two of you to you know, express your love to each other.
..but in the mountains. Nalice was to keep up the masquerade while Alric was away.
Not untrue, but not the whole truth.
So why is Taretha asking "how long?" and not "why?"...
What has Nalice done while Alric was away?
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>>6400499
>Blurt out the truth, Thrall, Orgrim, Grom the whole big deal!
Well it would probably be funny. Or nice to get their thoughts. Two of the smartest ladies in town in one room, plus Malevus. I was thinking of it this way. Tari is the person who understands Thrall's feelings, personality, and history the best. If anyone knows how to convince him of something its her.
Plus she already knows Thrall was planning to liberate the orcs when we all met after his escape anyways lol. So I guess Grom and Doomhammer is the real reveal. Which I would say....Hasn't changed anything that Alric is going to do when shit hits the fan? Negotiate sure, but that was something I told Malevus when she got upset about the cutthroat politics and then confirmed with them.
With the prescense of Grom and Doomhammer how is Alric going to act any differently in response to the liberation of the orcs? If at all. If Tari and Nalice have any thoughts it would help predict how things will go, what prep we should make.
>Other, write in.
"How long...You couldn't tell?" I guess Nalice did a better job at acting than expected.
Lol. From the glorious victory of Eligius and Pai gang to Alric getting scolded. Nalice in shirt and trousers does sound nice tho.
Malevus instantly spilling the beans. Did she even last a day?
Will we be here for a little while or get back to Eligius and Pai soon?
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>>6400590
>So why is Taretha asking "how long?" and not "why?"... What has Nalice done while Alric was away?
Nalice finds Faelyn so gosh darn cute, they are practically besties now. They played so much together, all the classics, peek a boo, where's your nose, etc included. Helped with changing her diapers too.
You can see why Tari might be a bit more than upset as Nalice had her part in the Incident and now this mysterious Lady has been playing with her baby. She is a mother, that is all.
>>6400612
>Malevus instantly spilling the beans. Did she even last a day?
No, it was near instant. Malevus was in a too good of a mood to think about the plan. Just an immediate mistake.
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Blurting everything out and thoroughly confusing Tari and impressing Nalice. The update will come tomorrow, I am way too knackered from work to think straight or write coherently.
Though for the update tomorrow, I could use a vote. The final batch of Underbelly refugees are arriving, you have received a rider in the morning telling you that. How will you react?
>Ride out and meet them well before they reach Dawnholme.
>Prepare everything and meet them at the outskirts of Dawnholme.
>Let their spokesmen come to you instead, you are a Prince after all.
>Other, write in
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>>6401027
>Prepare everything and meet them at the outskirts of Dawnholme
The last Underbelly caravan. What a fun group they are. There's a lot of prep to properly meet everyone with the right people.
The Specialists and how I imagine handling them is delegated. Savhan to meet the shady black market people we wanted for Eligius. The Witches to know about the new witch, and the eccentric esoteric people. Nalice to know about the new Warlock with a good reputation, and she's probably be interested in the former Kel Thuzad student or Madame Martin can handle him. Our mute arcane and funny fire mage to meet the Master Alchemist. Wiklish to mee the Goblins.
The one that I think requires Alric is the Troll priestess, although that was just my guess lol. Since that would best be done in private to work thinks out. Plus the trolls in strahnbrad issue.
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"I met with Thrall.” You blurted out and only after that realised that maybe you should activate the black noise device.
Tari blinked once.
“You what?” She asked, not having expected you to just say his name like that.
“Yeah and also Hellscream, the Frostwolves shaman Drek’Thar and Orgrim Doomhammer and ogres attacked and I should probably have my clothes washed again, the mountain stream was a tad cold, but I met them and yeah!”
You vomited the whole story at Tari in one go, she blinked again and then twice.
“So ummm… well how was he?” Tari asked.
“Thrall is doing fine.” You replied and smiled.
“Prince Alric, did you just tell us that you met Orgrim Doomhammer?” Nalice asked, she seemed very surprised. “Lady Malevus, is that correct?”
“He was there.” Your girlfriend nodded.
“You keep surprising me Prince Alric.” Nalice replied.
“It was more like they surprised us… either way, I had to slip out and less people knew the better. I can't exactly go waving around a big ‘I am meeting with a bunch of orcs’ sign around, can I?” You said and shrugged.
“No, no you can't.” Tari replied and exhaled. “Just tell me the next time, it was just… a surprise it wasn't you playing with Faelyn.”
“If it eases your mind, Lady Faelyn was a superb playing partner.” Nalice replied and stood up. “I shall make my leave. The last few days were a pleasant distraction.”
Nalice smiled politely before walking out. Your clothes fit her pretty well, what was with you liking women wearing trousers? The door to your bedroom closed and Tari walked to you and gave you a hug.
“Oh, for what is this for?”
“For getting scolded.” Tari replied and let go of you before going to give Malevus a hug too. “You too.”
"You didn't need…” Malevus lamented.
“It was just a shock, you know…”
“I get it, I get it. Next time I will tell you and if plausible, I will take you with me to see him.” You said to Tari.
You could see her eyes brighten up immediately.
“Thank you Alric, I will leave you two to rest then. We can talk more tomorrow.” Tari said.
“See you tomorrow! Good night Tari.”
“Good night Alric.”
Tari left you and Malevus alone and you walked to the open window to close it. It was pretty late, Dawnholme was asleep and you could only see a couple lights in the distance.
“Help me with my arming jacket will you?” You asked Malevus. “It needs to be washed tomorrow with the trousers.”
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>>6401632
“S-sure!”
The moment you kicked trousers off and Malevus helped to pull the jacket off, you picked her up. She squealed in surprise and started to laugh as you carried her into the bed and started your barrage of kisses.
“Alric! I am still sore from yesterday. We spent the whole day at it and you are not satisfied?” She said while laughing.
“What? Can't even give you a couple kisses?” You feigned innocence before rolling to your back and laying there next to her. “But you are right, yesterday was a magical day. But this… this I like just as much. At home, by your side.”
Malevus shifted and hugged you.
“And I like this too…” She whispered.
“Doesn't hurt that either way I can…” With a sudden motion you grabbed her ears and started massaging them. “Do this in either case! Haha!”
You and Malevus laughed as the playful wrestling continued and slowly turned back into kisses and adventurous touches. You loved that woman, but wondered if one could get sick of too much sweetness? Probably not, not with her by your side.
…
Having spoken with Tari, apparently no one had noticed anything having changed. Nalice disguised and masquerading as you had fooled everyone, including her until Malevus blew her cover. She had followed most of your normal daily schedule, did the paperwork, reviewed some patrol orders and played a lot with Faelyn. Tari hadn't thought that being strange at all, but did think her not trying to avoid diaper changing duty when Tari had asked for help suspicious. Tari had thought you had something planned and required some goodwill points, but nope it was all just disguised Nalice.
“Please next time if you ever plan anything like this again, warn me first.” Tari said to you and made you swear to it.
Later in the evening as you continued to practice magic with Nalice, you went through what had happened with the orcs. She seemed more interested and thoughtful than normally when you explained and went through it all.
“Doomhammer might feel remorseful over the past, but I would be very careful with him.” Nalice said to you. “Prince Alric, he is a ruthless leader and accomplished commander. No other way he could have risen to the position of the Warchief.”
“I will have to keep that in mind, but I don't exactly plan on meeting him again any time soon.” You said and practiced creating and extinguishing a fire above your hand at the same time.
“The orcs will complicate many things for you, but the ensuing chaos can bring openings and possibilities. Especially in Durnholde.” Nalice said to you.
2/4
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>>6401634
“Especially there… I told them I have to be there and that I will take the protection of the peasants seriously.” You replied.
“Prince Alric, what will you do if whoever replacing Lord Uther rallies the Silver Hand and comes to the aid of Durnholde Keep and the Internment Camps? Now with the Stromgarde Camps being closed, a squadron of knights could very easily cover a lot of land.” Nalice said rather matter of factly. “Or what if they have a flying machine, or dwarven gryphon riders as mercenaries?”
That was a pretty damn good point. How would the Alliance react to all of this? And with more orcs in a smaller place, it would be technically easier to defend the Camps.
“That's a good point…” You replied and extinguished the fire before standing up. “It won't be just ‘an escaped gladiator and half-lethargic Warsongs’, but Doomhammer himself. That will catch people's attention.”
Pacing across the room, you rubbed your chin and thought. There were no easy answers to this, but thankfully you had time to think through the winter.
…
The next morning as you were going through the latest set of patrol reports, a rider arrived. He had seen a large group of men and women travelling towards your lands. They should have reached Gavin's Naze by now and if their pace is constant, they should be here before the evening comes.
“Have a patrol sent to escort them here and tell everyone to prepare to receive them. They must be tired and hungry.” You gave the orders to your officers.
It did take them the whole day and as the sun started to set, the last group of refugees from Underbelly had arrived.
You watched as the men and women walked onward from horseback. Those who had arrived previously had come to greet their friends or even relatives, while some of the newcomers got more than one curious glance. Especially the troll held in thick chains got more than a few looks.
“Prince Alric!” Raethan saluted and greeted you.
“Captain Raethan, I didn't expect to see you here.” You replied to the corrupt guard Captain.
“Well you see the Kirin Tor aren't exactly happy about this and so I decided to call it quits.” He replied to you.
3/4
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>>6401636
There was a some sort of a kerfuffle going on amongst the refugees and Raethan quickly ordered several of the guards that had followed him to intervene.
“Apologies, it was a long journey and everyone's a bit nervous.” Raethan replied and straightened his back. “Prince Alric, I have served you well as your recruiter and an agent in the Underbelly. Your coin has been good and I wish for our working relationship to continue. If I may ask, I would like to swear my fealty to you and to continue to serve you to the best of my abilities.”
“You have served me well and I do pay you well.” You replied to him.
So he wanted a job, or more accurately he wanted to continue working for you. Of course he expected to be paid and this time he had some of his fellow guards with him, footmen by the look of it. More men is always more men, but do you need this corrupt Captain of the guard anymore?
Gained:
-120 Peasants
-Whole lot of specialists which we will go through in the coming updates.
Total Resources:
0 Wealth, +15 per season
4 Supplies, +3 per season
635 Peasants
Captain Raethan:
>Hire him and his men, 10 Regular Footmen, 2 Wealth, Upkeep 1 Supply Per Season
>Don't hire him, but suggest that Durnholde might be hiring
>How many people did he bring with him? Because the crowd looks bigger than what you had expected.
>Should you be worried about Kirin Tor if Raethan decided to leave as a precaution?
>Did the journey go without any issues?
>What of the specialists you wanted him to bring over here? Did all of them arrive?
>Other, write in
QM: I am looking at my own spreadsheet and I swear you were paying Raethan every season, but there’s nothing there. So either I remembered wrong or I have made a mistake and you have saved several Wealth. Either way, he can be hired now. Total Resources are updated with the peasants that have arrived.
>>
>>6401638
Well it always nice to have another Officer. Captain Raethan handled did some good work down there on our behalf, and for years besides. His relationship with the Underbelly folk is a plus I'd imagine. Connections he made in Dalaran could be very useful in future.
It would help to sell him if he hat stats, or atleast his character trait bonuses like the other npcs. Do he and his footmen come with any special gear from their dalaran careers.
>>
>>6401638
Somehow 40 people plus the specialists became 120.. Is Raethan conducting his own purge of the Underbelly?
>How many people did he bring with him? Because the crowd looks bigger than what you had expected.
>Should you be worried about Kirin Tor if Raethan decided to leave as a precaution?
120 peasants will need a lot of housing and feeding, which means accelerating all wealth/supply gathering buildings.. even more than before. Windmills everywhere, farms everywhere.
I'd love to hire the elf, but can we afford next season? Raincheck this if possible
>What of the specialists you wanted him to bring over here? Did all of them arrive?
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>>6401638
>Hire him and his men, 10 Regular Footmen, 2 Wealth, Upkeep 1 Supply Per Season
He wants to serve us, so I am kinda good with him. I remember we had a good deal with him, and besides the Kirin Tor being a bit of a problem, I didn't see any issue with him. Yeah, he accepted money, but his position down there wasn't really great, and by accepting what we asked, he was doing a lot of good for the people of the Underbelly and for us. The Underbelly people were given a good chance with Alric.
I admit I am a bit afraid of just how much construction we need to do, but surely we can find a way. I trust that we are capable. Especially when the oil is online. We are making some money, but supplies are low..... we need to have the ancient forest of the dead gnolls checked for resources. Any resources under the earth or something particular in the forest.
>How many people did he bring with him? Because the crowd looks bigger than what you had expected.
>Did the journey go without any issues?
>What of the specialists you wanted him to bring over here? Did all of them arrive?
Questions....
>>
Man and the rest of the Stonemasons also need to arrive, with Van Cleef too. If nothing else we are growing in numbers, Dawnholme will become something else.
Changing topic you know i kinda expect Arthas to do nothing for some months after Stormwind events. But Garithos and similar folk must be moving. The Syndicate will react, after what our gnoll extermination campaign did and us taking a Perenolde kid away. I suspect Umo Shadowheart was helped by something or someone. The troll tribe in our hills are taking the alchol but also doing movement. Ogres and kobolds are moving a bit.
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>>6401744
>Somehow 40 people plus the specialists became 120.
>>6370367
>Already agreed migrants from Underbelly:
>-80 Peasants
>-2 Sorcerers, 1 Witch, 4 Students
The vote earlier in the thread was for people in addition to the 80 Peasants who would come in any case. Do note that the Total Resources now includes the Stonemasons who haven't yet arrived. That is for just to keep my spreadsheet in order.
>>6401650
His stats are above average. He is a named character, Captain and an elf, so he is not a total sack of useless stones.
>>
>>6401638
>Hire him and his men, 10 Regular Footmen, 2 Wealth, Upkeep 1 Supply Per Season
>How many people did he bring with him? Because the crowd looks bigger than what you had expected.
>Did the journey go without any issues?
>What of the specialists you wanted him to bring over here? Did all of them arrive?
>>
Hiring him, you will go into negative Wealth, but with the season update so close along with the harvest, I will allow it.
Now could I get some rolls for tomorrow. Work is roundhouse kicking me in the ass so update tomorrow.
>1d10
>Best of three, taking the second roll.
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>>6402460
I think I recall him saying his bosses would basically let this happen one last time. So I suppose a bunch of people decided they wanted in short notice. OR several groups bribed him to let them join lol, especially on account of the Kirin Tor crackdown and he decided that was good enough to leave. Then some family of his men wanted in when he decided to leave. More citizens, more taxes, and we just hired an officer who knows the Unberbelly folk well.
In any case his connections to Dalaran and the Underbelly are still useful. Info, contacts, knowledge of Underbelly passages from his years in service. Experience with understanding Dalaran and Kirin Tor behavior, as well as underworld behavior as in criminal culture. Its a fairly tight knit little community that seems to only take someone out if they cause real problems, for the most part.
If I were to place him I'd imagine he'd end up working with Eligius and Pai on various dirty jobs that need doing, if he wants more money.
If the Kirin Tor are that bothered and it throws a wrench in a necessary investigation its kind of funny they let it happen. They'd rather let the investigation be compromised rather than stop a bunch of Underbelly folk from being able to leave causing a scene.
I wasn't expecting the troll to be in chains in public. I was thinking covered head to toe and a nice big cloak.
>>
Been thoroughly swamped with work so no time to write anything. It has been nothing drastic, just very tiring and time consuming.
I will try to get something out tomorrow when I don't feel like my brain has been fried and stirred.
>>6402460
That was the plan, but it seems like I forgot to implement it. So basically you got a whole lot of Peasants and potential mages to hire for dirt cheap.
By my calculations Dawnholme broke 4k pop with this intake.
>>
>>6402953
What are the next avenues for peasants now that we've more or less exhausted the Underbelly for a while?
The Capital Alteraci won't move for a while.
Were the Stonemasons properly accounted for, I think I remember a number of them didn't consider themselves proper citizens in the past if that impacted our peasant numbers. Though with the arrival of Van Cleef and their men its a big step to making this their forever home.
Then theres the Dark Irons and the Goblins. We just got some goblin peasants from the Underbelly who count as actual peasants, but we pretty much need a full city to have any kind of goblin diaspora to tap into. Or ask about the Cartels.
Do we bring up to Blacksteel that he might want to bring more of his Clan over. Stromguarde viewed it as a rather serious security concern so who knows how long that land route is open.
When Thrall moves to liberate Durnholde we could certainly try to shelter and absorb a lot of Durnholders.
Or once the Darrowmere League manages to grab our neighbors there could be a free flow of peasants inbetween towns.
Maybe visit Jaina while shes taking a break at home. Ask if she knows any Kul Tiras ships with a rebel attitude that would fit Alric's crew.
>>
“I will gladly accept you into my service.” You said and smiled. “Captain Raethan, you will find yourself accepted amongst us quickly.”
“Thank you Prince Alric.” The elf replied and bowed.
“Now do note, you might be a Captain by rank of your previous employer, but here you will start as the most junior of my officers.” You told him and continued. “Captain Cromwell is my most senior officer, find him and he will gladly give you all the instructions required.”
“Of course, but what of my men?” Raethan asked.
“For a moment they will assist Stein, my Chief of Guard, in making sure everyone who arrived from Underbelly is safe and accounted for. Find him and speak with him, he knows the laws and rules, if the newcomers follow them then we will have no problems.” You told Raethan and dismounted Epona to stand level with him. “You are not in Underbelly. You are in Alterac, remember that.”
“Understood.” He replied in Elvish as you had said the last thing in his language. "I did both know you spoke Thalassian?”
“Been learning it, you will learn why pretty soon.” You replied and laughed before switching back to Common. “Let's talk and walk shall we.”
…
>7
>7
You learned that nearly three hundred souls had arrived in the final group. That was way more than you had explained, but the reason for it was simple.
A lot of them are children and unmarried women. Orphans and other rather unfortunate folk. Not exactly people that hold be put to work or recruited into the military, but they will play a part of their own, you are sure of that. Though based on what Raethan told you, basically the whole establishment of the bar in Underbelly had arrived here. The prostitutes and courtesans could cause the fabric of civilised behaviour to tear apart. Sure paid women weren't exactly a new thing in Dawnholme, but so many of them arriving in one go?
Stein might require more hands to uphold the peace and law, especially as by your count Dawnholme just surpassed the population of four thousand people. This made it the largest settlement in the whole Hillsbrad, rivalling even some of the towns up north in Lordaeron proper.
Talking with Raethan as you showed where everything was in Dawnholme, you learned that the trip to here went without any major issues. It was an effort to get all three hundred of them through the sewers and you could smell that, but after that things went swimmingly.
“Did all the… specialists arrive with you?” You asked Raethan.
“They did, everyone you wanted.” He replied.
“That is splendid, we do need their expertise here.” You replied back to him. “Shall we go meet with them?”
“We can… but there is one issue.” Raethan said to you.
1/2
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>>6403504
“Which is?” You asked.
“Amongst those who arrived is a man with a bounty on his head.” Raethan said to you. “Underbelly has protected him and he insisted on joining us, I couldn't say no to him.”
A bounty? Some sort of a criminal then.
>What are his crimes? Should we be worried about him?
>How big of a bounty? Raethan is making it sound more than just a few coins.
>Why didn't they want him to come with them in the first place?
>Other, write in.
Choose two:
>Witch with a shady past
>Occultist known for being a student of Kel’Thuzad
>A known Warlock with good reputation
>Fence known for dealing in illegal goods
>Master Alchemist with a past in poisons
>Escaped troll hiding from Kirin Tor authorities
QM: Apologies, this took me way too long to get out. I know you want to go through all the specialists so we will do them two at the time.
>>
>>6403505
>What are his crimes? Should we be worried about him?
>Why didn't they want him to come with them in the first place?
>Occultist known for being a student of Kel’Thuzad
>Master Alchemist with a past in poisons
>>
>>6403505
>What are his crimes? Should we be worried about him?
>Why didn't they want him to come with them in the first place?
>Other, write in.
''What do you mean you couldn't say no to him.''
>A known Warlock with good reputation
>Escaped troll hiding from Kirin Tor authorities
I want to get these two out of the way before others. Seem the most likely to attract unwanted attention.
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>>6403505
Vote to meet the bounty man first and form impressions second. If Underbelly protects him, meaning Raethan protects him then that's a vote of confidence.
>Occultist known for being a student of Kel’Thuzad
Bring our medicine woman.
>Escaped troll hiding from Kirin Tor authorities
https://youtu.be/h_LyuPH17-Q?t=7
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>>6403505
Well theres quite a few options for a man with a bounty on his head, though he didn't mention dead or alive lol. The Alchemist for having poisoned someone, or atleast someone poisoned using their craft. The student of Kel'Thuzad for being involved with a rogue archmage, or in connection with occultism. The Warlock with a good reputation for being an outgoing Warlock. The Fence.
If Raethan felt like he couldn't refuse him I'd presume because the rest of the Underbelly likes him -that- much.
I'd suppose The Warlock with a good reputation. The Underbelly protected him as some kind of vigilante, with great power comes...? Mediator to help keep the peace? Magic detective to solve Underbelly crimes lol. Hes already protected by his good reputation among the Underbelly, who are the only people that would recognize him anyways and know better than to out someone.
On the other hand we have the Occultist student of Kel'Thuzad. Why would the Underbelly like him? Well Kel'Thuzad was primarily the Archmage with the greater understanding of the human body, making him a great healer. One even Nalice considered taking us to. So a student in those arts would make someone pretty popular if put towards the good of their underground community. An occultist might have eccentric spiritual beliefs of some kind that make them much more willing to help without compensation.
I could see a bounty put on any number of them. Either by the Kirin Tor, civilian Dalaran authority, or maybe its personally put out by someone with money and influence.
Or the core of the matter, a connection to an important named character Kel'Thuzad which represents a chance to get in contact and be exposed to their motivations. So I have little doubt this student is the one with the bounty.
>Occultist known for being a student of Kel’Thuzad
I figure Madam Martin will be the right fit for him. Shes familiar with the Witches, magic academia, and has her own research in a few areas of researching bodies I'd imagine aren't too far off.
>Escaped troll hiding from Kirin Tor authorities
Also best to take care of the troll fairly quickly.
>>
“What did he do to get that bounty?” You asked him.
“He killed a man. He says that it was in self-defence, but I looked into it. He was drunk and he had a history with the victim.” Raethan explained.
“So it was a murder?”
“Or at minimum a killing. He fled to Underbelly and he kept himself low to avoid getting caught. I had to come down to look out for him a couple of times with some guards from above, but the people hid him.” Raethan spoke.
“Why would a murderer be that well protected?” You asked next.
“He was born in Underbelly, the people there are very protective of their own.” Raethan answered.
“So he is not like a mage or something?”
“No Prince Alric, just a carpenter.” You got your answer.
Great, just a carpenter with a bounty on his head. Dalaran would love to get him back and that could win a some goodwill from them to you, but if what Raethan said is true, that could get the ire of Underbelly refugees.
“Why didn't he leave earlier?” You asked. “Why couldn't you say no to him now?”
“Because of those raids by Kirin Tor. He got spooked and I can only imagine them taking control of Underbelly with us out.” Raethan told you. “So it was either now or in chains to face the executioner or whatever else would have come of him.”
Right. Well the decision would fall to you now.
…
“Prince Alric.” Jon Boyd greeted you and his mute friend Luke Williams gave you a deep nod.
“Boyd, Williams. Is Madam Martin around?” You asked them.
“She should be somewhere around here.” Boyd replied. “Shall I get her?”
“Yes please.”
Awkward silence well upon you as you were left standing there with a man who can't speak. Thankfully Raethan was there and so you went over quickly what this was about. Williams knew nothing about the student of Kel’Thuzad.
When Boyd arrived shortly with Madam Martin in tow, you explained everything to these two. Or it was Raethan who did most of the speaking.
“I know Bertrand Reynolds. A brilliant man, but a feedback incident got most of his spellcasting.” Martin told you and kept smoking her pipe. “Everything's jittery apparently, can't keep anything together, not even himself.”
“What do you mean?”
Madam Martin did her best imitation of a man shaking like leaves in the wind.
“I see… what about him being a student of Kel’Thuzad?”
“If anyone could help him it would be him and believe me, he did receive help.” Madam Martin told you.
1/2
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>>6404019
“Archmage Kel’Thuzad was highly respected, I can't believe he got involved in whatever he did get involved.” Boyd mused.
“Bertrand's condition was awful, now it is only bad.” Martin told you. “As much as Kel’Thuzad could help him, he can't make miracles happen.”
“But he did help Bertrand enough to take him as his student?”
“Brilliant mind, if only shaky hands and everything else.” Martin said.
“Where does the… occultism come in?” You asked and looked at Raethan.
“Prince Alric, Dalaran draws a line where magic ends. Full. Stop. You cross that and you end up in Underbelly, excommunicated or executed.” Martin told you and continued. “Where magic ends only got Bertrand this far, beyond that there are multitudes of avenues to go for.”
“And he chose occultism.” You replied.
“I know nothing of that, other than he associated with some strange folk down there.” Raethan told you.
“I can't tell you more. It has been years since I last spoke with him. Kel’Thuzad was always secretive and Bertrand helped him greatly. Whatever he learned has stayed a secret.” Martin said.
“Is he dangerous?”
Martin had to think, but shook her head in the end.
“No, he can't cast spells effectively and a shaky hand can't hold a dagger.” She said and puffed out some smoke.
Bertrand Reynolds, an occultist and former student of Kel’Thuzad. Brilliant man, just with some very serious feedback damage. How Martin explained the man to you did make it sound rather serious, you have had your share of feedback caused numbness and shaky hands, but nothing like he apparently had. He could wait, he didn't seem to be the one capable of causing issues.
…
But the one capable of causing issues sat on the ground with chains around his ankles and wrists.
“They are only for the show.” Raethan whispered to you. “He could break out at any moment.”
“Thank you.” You replied and looked at the troll sitting on the dirt.
He was tall, lean and muscular. Easily taller than Thrall and reminded you a bit of Hellscream. He wasn't an orc though, but a forest troll. A very naked forest troll, you were glad that none of the lady folk were around.
“Why is he naked?” You asked Raethan.
“I actually do not know.” Was his answer.
“Ya neva seen a troll before?” The troll asked and tried to stand up, but the pair of guards with their swords out got him to reconsider.
2/2
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>>6404021
Murderer:
>Have him apprehended and send him to Dalaran. The goodwill of catching a criminal is worth it and the bounty is just a bonus.
>Apprehend him and ask Dalaran to send what they know about him and the killing. Make the decision afterwards.
>Let him go. The crime happened in Dalaran and not here, the Underbelly folk will like it.
>The man is exiled from Dawnholme and Alterac. You can't take a risk of a wanted murderer walking around.
>Other, write in
>The prison camp with all the Syndicate prisoners is his new home. The troll could easily escape, but you think he is smarter than that.
>Get the troll into the dungeon. You can continue the talk there in private. Would ease the minds of the locals a lot.
>You are going to release him. The troll has not done any crimes to Alteracis that you know of and it is not right to keep him just chained and in custody. You imagine he would appreciate it.
>For Light’s sake get the troll a loincloth or something.
>Other, write in
>>
>>
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>>6404022
>Apprehend him and ask Dalaran to send what they know about him and the killing. Make the decision afterwards.
To the mines for rehabilitation! Ex-bandit Lieutenant Radan got the same, and he came good.
>For Light’s sake get the troll a loincloth or something.
>Ask his name
>Ask Raethan his crimes or is it the Elf vs Troll history, or Horde vs Alliance history that kept him locked up.
>Offer troll a posting of ambassador, if there's no crime.
>>
>>6404022
I have some write in ideas but I'd want some input.
Dunno. Theres whatever is politically convenient for our goals at the time. Theres trying to piece together what happened to get as close to the truth as possible and fulfill a duty to his own peasants. Theres trying to set things up with the characters we have available where we can reliably delegate in matters of justice concerning the Underbelly folk.
It might be fun to ask the Warlock with a Good Reputation to look into the crime, can he determine what really happened and would he want whatever information Dalaran has to offer on their side. As an Underbelly man? of good reputation the other Underbelly folk would respect his decision, and if he wants to prove himself to Alric perhaps it would be a good test.
Would Malevus as a Paladin in training want to oversee matters of Justice. To determine if this man is a threat to himself and others or not, even if its just going by her gut feeling of whats right.
If and when the new Priest arrives do we ask him to speak with this man and see if a confession is made.
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>>6404022
>>Apprehend him and ask Dalaran to send what they know about him and the killing. Make the decision afterwards.
>For Light’s sake get the troll a loincloth or something.
>Get the troll into the dungeon. You can continue the talk there in private. Would ease the minds of the locals a lot.
>>
>>6404022
I wonder if we could ask and see what the nature of his captivity was like. Slave? Compelled servitude? Some kind of honor debt? Experimental guinea pig, and troll regeneration might make that very useful?
If Alric laid out 'This was his tribe, this is where he fought in the second war, this is where he was taken prisoner and experimented on for x years in Dalaran.' That might gain some sympathy particularly among the Underbelly who have lived with mage craziness and failed experiments their whole lives. Time served lol, see if theres some humans living with the aftermath of mage experiments that would take him in?
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>>6404022
>Apprehend him and ask Dalaran to send what they know about him and the killing. Make the decision afterwards.
>For Light’s sake get the troll a loincloth or something.
>Get the troll into the dungeon. You can continue the talk there in private. Would ease the minds of the locals a lot
>>
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“For Light’s sake, get the troll a loincloth or something!” You shouted out and expressed your annoyance. “And escort him to the lower jail, that is a fitting place for a troll.”
“Right, you heard the orders!” Raethan said and walked to the troll. “Get up, the Prince commands you.”
The guards went into action and made the troll stand up. The chains restrained his hands and you could see defiance in his eyes, but thankfully to you there were no attempts for him to break free.
Watching as the naked troll was moved away, you gave further orders. The murderer would be apprehended and moved into the jail camp outside of Dawnholme. This was as a precaution as a letter of inquiry would be sent to Dalaran asking for additional information. You want to make the decision about his fate with the full knowledge at hand and that requires you to hear both sides.
You were a wise Prince after all.
…
>22, Crit Success!
“This is a nice jail.” Raethan said to you as he followed down the stairs into the lowered level.
“Stonemason work.” You replied and entered the central chamber. “Which cell?”
The guards pointed out the same cell that had kept Astu in it.
“Open the door.” You replied. “And then leave us. Captain, you have the keys?”
“Yes.” Raethan said.
The guards opened the jail cell and you allowed Raethan to step in first. The lantern shone light and revealed the troll sitting on the floor, now with a burlap sack around his waist. You motioned to Raethan who went and removed the shackles, making the troll rub its wrists.
You sighed as you took a seat on a simple wooden chair. First time interrogating a troll and you chose to sit down.
“If you wish to leave, I will have the door unlocked and the rest… I hope you don't rip the arms off the guards. I think you are very capable of doing that.” You told the troll and took a better look at it as it sat there.
He definitely was taller than the orcs you had met. Similar green skin, but the rest of him was rather lanky. Clearly not enough food and his long black hair lazily hangs off his head. The tusks though, longer than what the orcs have and way more imposing and threatening.
“What is your name?” You asked and as Raethan prepared to say something, you silenced him. “I want him to answer.”
“Ranvis. You?” The troll replied.
“Prince Alric Perenolde.” You said back to him. “It is my pleasure to meet you.”
“What you want?” Ranvis asked.
1/2
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>>6405077
“I am not sure yet, but when Captain Raethan here told me that they had an escaped troll in Underbelly, I had to get you here.” You told him and continued. “A lot depends on what you answer and say.”
“You want me?” Ranvis asked, his Common heavily accented.
“Let's start with a simple question. Did you fight in the Second War?”
“Fought with Zul'jin, at sea, at Quel’Thalas, at Capital City.” Ranvis answered.
“Was that where you were caught?”
“Nah, in a raid.” He said and shook his head.
“What raid, with your tribe? Who are they?” You knew enough of the trolls to ask these questions.
“Shadowglen, we raided human lands.” He answered.
“For what?”
“Weapons, cows… err cattle.”
“And Dalaran just captured you?”
“They fought us, their magics stronger than ours.” Ranvis replied. “Many died, I knocked out.”
“And the next thing you know you were held still by magical shackles.” You mused and continued. “Were you a normal prisoner? Or?”
“They cut my flesh!” Ranvis shouted out. “Used their spells!”
“Alright that's enough!” Raethan shouted out and drew his sword as the troll jumped up and stood. “Prince Alric, can I have a word?”
You gave him a curious look and nodded, following him out of the cell and closing the door.
“They experimented on him, tried different ways to stop his regeneration, that is at least our theory and what we put together from the little he told us. When we found him, he was all bloody and wounded. It took nearly three weeks before his body started to heal.” Raethan told you. “When we questioned him, he flew into an instant rage.”
“Hmmm… thank you.” You replied.
“So we better wait for a moment.” Raethan said and asked. “What will you do with him?”
“Do you have any ideas?”
“He is a pretty solid fighter and would make a good sparring partner. He is a hunter or a trapper, maybe a scout?” Raethan shrugged.
Both were solid suggestions, but you had to think about Dawnholme and Alterac. Trolls don't exactly have a good reputation amongst humans or anyone else, but it is not completely unheard of for them to sell their skills for coin. So you could maybe get a use out of Ranvis someway, that is why you had him brought here after all. And what of Malevus, what will she think about this?
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File: Ranvis.jpg (199.3 KB)
>>6405078
Choose one:
>His role will be that of an envoy and translator. You might need his services with the trolls in the mountains, but before that he will wait in the cell.
>Your soldiers need a training partner that is not another human. Ranvis is not an orc, but he is green and tall. With the orcs on the move, this is a good excuse to have him around.
>Scout and a Tracker. Rover Brothers have been carrying that task hard and they deserve a helping hand. Won't be a popular decision, but a mercenary troll is not unheard off.
>Let him go, give Ranvis his full freedom to do whatever he wants. Being imprisoned and experimented on is just plain wrong and while you are not from Dalaran, you are a human and you need to apologise.
QM: Roll was how well his regeneration worked, he practically has no scars. And choose one, technically Ranvis could be tasked to do everything, but I want you to choose just one. Think of them as different paths.
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>>6405079
>Let him go, give Ranvis his full freedom to do whatever he wants. Being imprisoned and experimented on is just plain wrong and while you are not from Dalaran, you are a human and you need to apologise.
Stay away from da voodoo, mon.
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>>6405079
>His role will be that of an envoy and translator. You might need his services with the trolls in the mountains, but before that he will wait in the cell.
>“They experimented on him, tried different ways to stop his regeneration
Hooboy. This is a lot to unpack, and is going to require a lot of trust that this is not Alterac.
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>>6405079
Ranvis of the Shadowglen tribe, a forest troll. A warrior hunter? Scout?
So he had a decent chance of having scars and maybe even damaged regeneration. I suppose he could have been more upset if he hadn't rolled so well. Bringing up Dalaran and them fighting with magic was fine he didn't get upset at that, but specifically his captivity is best left alone.
The choices boil down to how much freedom and interaction with people will he be allowed, or is he being put right back into a jail cell.
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>>6405079
I don't imagine sitting in a cell and only talking with the guards is going to do him any better, of all the options its closest to captivity. It will foster the least amount of trust and healing before he goes into a sensitive situation like an envoy.
It might be the patience he needs to talk with these territorial mountain trolls is going to be greater than talking to us. If they poke at our envoy translator where he is sensitive negotiations fall apart. If those trolls call him a broken coward or slave, that he should go back to his human masters lol. The trolls are forever divided by race and tribe, it might be there are some strong feelings there that will also need him to recover some inner strength and trust in us to navigate. I don't think hes going to get any of that in a cell.
Hanging out with the Rovers would probably be good for Ravnis. Time in the outdoors, hunting, chatting with the Rovers and their boys. Sharing hunting and scouting appreciation. Shared labors. The Rovers impressions of Alric and Dawnholme. A solid choice.
I also think theres a good play for the maximum freedom and trust option.
>Let him go, give Ranvis his full freedom to do whatever he wants. Being imprisoned and experimented on is just plain wrong and while you are not from Dalaran, you are a human and you need to apologise.
So most of his tribesmen warriors got wiped out in their raid which was caught by Dalaran. Any survivors were either taken into Dalaran like him, which would require our help through Raethan contacts to find them and smuggle them out like him, or its just the remaining women and children of his minor tribe who could have migrated anywhere even by sea if they had access to ships like he was on during the war.
Ravnis helps us out, we help him out. We've already encountered two troll tribes just in our immediate region, so we might encounter his tribe eventually and he'd be in a good position to negotiate for more info from other tribes. If he went out himself what are the odds they are hostile to him or he gets caught again.
In the mean time he could still help the Rovers, enjoy and so on.
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>>6405079
>Let him go, give Ranvis his full freedom to do whatever he wants. Being imprisoned and experimented on is just plain wrong and while you are not from Dalaran, you are a human and you need to apologise.
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>>6405138
Great point about fostering trust. Torture is not OK.
I will change my vote on:
>>6405122
>Let him go, give Ranvis his full freedom to do whatever he wants. Being imprisoned and experimented on is just plain wrong and while you are not from Dalaran, you are a human and you need to apologise.
>offer him a job for envoy/translator
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>>6405079
>>Let him go, give Ranvis his full freedom to do whatever he wants. Being imprisoned and experimented on is just plain wrong and while you are not from Dalaran, you are a human and you need to apologise.
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I didn't think letting him just go would win so decisively, but here we are. Could I get another roll for Ranvis, it is really high for a reason. Failure won't hurt you, at least not much.
>3d10, Best of three
>DC 25, Crit 30
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>23, Failure!
“Alright, I have made my decision. Please open the door.” You said to Raethan.
The elf Captain did as you ordered and left the door to the cell open, expecting you to step in.
“Get out.” You ordered Ranvis next, nothing happened immediately so you repeated yourself. “Get out of the cell.”
The troll took a moment to do what you wanted, but eventually he stepped out, the door made for large humans feeling a tad too small for him. Ranvis stared at you for a moment as you didn’t say anything to him immediately.
“I spoke with Raethan, he told me what they did to you in Dalaran.” You said to the troll.
Immediately you could see him getting enraged as his eyes betrayed his feelings.
“Prisoners of war should be treated as such and not as test subjects to be experimented upon.” You said to Ranvis very matter of factly and was forced to look up to see his eyes.
Ranvis couldn't control himself and his arms found your jacket. Near effortlessly he lifted you off the floor to be able to look directly into your eyes.
“Raethan!” You shouted to him to stop as he was poised to strike down the troll. “How you were treated is just plain wrong, it doesn’t matter that it was Dalaran who did it, we are all humans and I should apologise to you.”
Ranvis kept holding you up in the air from your jacket and frankly it made you feel really vulnerable being lifted like a small child.
“You are free to go and free to do what you want. Your place won’t be here in this cell or otherwise being locked behind bars. I can have my men escort you out of my lands if you wish so, or you can stay here.” You continued. “And if you think what everyone else thinks, sure they might find your presence scary or treat you like a troll, but I am sure Raethan and the rest of the people from Underbelly will explain to everyone else who you are.”
The troll looked at you and dropped you as he took several steps back. Straightening your jacket, you took off your dark glasses to have a better look at Ranvis.
“I have a reputation of being eccentric and doing things my way. I am already employing some goblins and dark irons, so what does a troll look like beside it?” You asked him. “And I do have some ideas where I could find a use for you, that is if you wish to stay.”
Ranvis stayed silent and looked at Raethan who had put down his sword.
“You would apologise?” He asked with his very heavily accented Common.
“It is the right thing to do and my words do carry weight.” You replied and gave him a slight nod that was fitting for a Prince. “I and the nation of Alterac, apologise to you.”
Ranvis spoke something in his own language that you didn’t understand.
“I won’t be held in a cell.” Ranvis finally said. “Sleep under the stars.”
“Raethan, prepare a place for him with the rest of the people of Underbelly. No chains or anything, he is a free troll.” You ordered him.
“Of course Prince Alric.” Raethan replied and didn’t question your orders.
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>>6406326
Allowing a troll to walk freely in Dawnholme, that will cause concern, but people will understand sooner than later why it is so. You have a feeling though that Ranvis didn’t exactly expect this from you, definitely by his reaction of lifting you up from the floor. Getting experimented on must not have been an easy experience to him, so understandably his reaction was what it was.
…
“Allowing him to just be free?” Raethan asked you after escorting the troll to where the tent camp still was.
“Was he free in Underbelly?” You asked.
“Yes, technically yes, but we kept him mostly out of sight and not in the middle of a large town.” Raethan said and noticed your glare. “But this is your town and your rules, I won’t raise this again.”
“Good, good. In a few days we will have him up and working.” You said to him and continued. “Though what next? There were more than just those two who arrived, right?”
“Of course, whom shall we meet next?” Raethan asked.
Choose two:
>Witch with a shady past
>A known Warlock with good reputation
>Fence known for dealing in illegal goods
>Master Alchemist with a past in poisons
QM: And with later today, I actually meant the day after. Apologies for that, had to basically rewrite the first half again, way too messy tired writing that was. The roll was high enough to avoid him lashing out, Alric just got to experience how does it feel like getting picked up like a small child.
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>>6406329
What would you have even done if Ravnis had crit with a 30 lol
These two reminds me I'm looking forward to whatever special stuff of Nalice's will be arriving from Stormwind. Is it all just enchanting tools, warlock gear and spymaster things, or her own personal collection of artifacts. Also whatever she can make the fel turnip into.
>A known Warlock with good reputation
>Fence known for dealing in illegal goods
Presumably the Warlock will see the fel green eyes, maybe the black nails which continue to avoid notice as Aric eccentrics, and sense his mana if hes skillful. Alric's magic is a fairly ez reveal if we want some trust with this guy, he at least has good reputation.
As for whether the Witch and the Alchemist can make the same conclusions I wouldn't be surprised but who knows. Wouldn't hurt to be prepared.
I sure hope the tax money is coming in this season.
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>10
The Fence known for dealing in illegal goods wasn’t that difficult to find, the man was your typical skulking lowlife wearing dark clothes and robes. Somehow these sorts of criminals are bad at hiding the fact that they are criminals.
“Alright Harry, no funny business here.” Raethan said to him. “We are no longer in Underbelly, this is Dawnholme and Alterac. Different laws and a different ruler.”
“Okay okay, I won’t start any funny business.” Harry replied to him and elbowed the Captain. “Though I have some stuff I need to unload, might you be interested?”
“What did I tell you, we are no longer in Underbelly.” Raethan kicked his shin and turned to you. “Prince Alric, what is the sentence for a thief in Alterac?”
“Last time someone stole from me, I had him hanged.” You told him. “Bandits captured elsewhere, that’s hard labour for them. Work makes them straight.”
Harry the Fence swallowed hard as he realised who you were.
“There will be no problems my Prince.” He said and quickly bowed deeply. “No problems at all.”
“Good, if I hear you are doing some funny business, I will personally drag you to the gallows.” Raethan told him. “Now scamper off, our time is precious.”
Harry scampered off and disappeared into the crowd.
“What sort of a guy did I invite here?” You asked Raethan.
“He is useful even if he is a criminal.” He replied. “Knows how to procure items, gets what is needed. Just happens to be a fence.”
“Rather bad fence if he looks like a criminal.” You mused.
“Maybe, but he knows what he is doing.” Raethan shrugged. “Do you have any plans for him?”
In fact you did have some plans for him.
>To the hard labour! You are not going to allow criminals even if they are useful fences mucking around in Dawnholme.
>If he is good at procuring items and things, he could actually be a pretty useful aide to Beric of Strahnbrad. You always need more traders and Beric could actually like this guy.
>Procurement of items sounds like a job for spies. Have Harry be introduced to Sahvan and your spies, Eligius can get him to work when he returns.
>Other, write in
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>>6406741
>>Procurement of items sounds like a job for spies. Have Harry be introduced to Sahvan and your spies, Eligius can get him to work when he returns.
Putting this guy on legitimate trade is just asking for corruption and side dealing. Although i dont like how....obvious apperently he is.
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>>6406744
So you might say Harry is rather dirty.
Which is a better fit, does trade or spycraft need another hand with connections and skills in smuggling and whatever else 'procurement' entails. Would Beric and Harry make a funny little skit duo.
Considering how many new agents we just got with Nalice and her 'men' joining us I suppose spycraft is rather surging at the moment.
I suppose other people that are also dirty criminals would appreciate being able to so recognize one of their own, those backalley types usually want to know who they are doing business with. Do legitimate business men underestimate him or overestimate? If hes that obvious I suppose people will be paying attention to him and not someone else hes paired with.
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>>6406749
As fun as it may sound id rather keep our legitimate business dealings apart from our espionage covert dealings as muc as possible. Seems like a bad idea to mix the two.
If he is good at procuring shit like that that means he has localish contacts rights? something that nalices new spies most likely wont have. considering they were operating in stormwind.
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>>6406755
Perhaps. With Beric having gotten himself on Southshore's council I bet there are more than a few with shady dealings or skeletons in the closet as is usual for anyone in power...Especially considering how the Syndicate has been operating there in several ways.
I wouldn't mind if Beric had someone of his own dedicated to digging up blackmail of their own smuggling and corruption, he could use that to bend them and strengthen his position. Hes probably our strongest man for influencing Southshore at the moment too lol. Plus with how they've been annoying him with troubles I think he'd enjoy it.
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>>6406761
Except the guy as shown is obviously shady. not to mention if berics opposition suddenly starts getting blackmailed/intimidated/killed and beric gets a pass wont help our reputation and might have blowblack. Or that the guy could do it in the first place. Hes a fence not a spy.
Im not against giving beric some help but i would rather it be done by someone more trustworthy or just a good businessman without anything shady.
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>>6406762
>Except the guy as shown is obviously shady.
Espionage related characters are a bit hard to come by, it is what it is. Use him as bait to lure out any remaining Syndicate in Southshore? I wouldn't be surprised if Falconcrest makes use of it now that Creedy is cut off.
> if berics opposition suddenly starts getting blackmailed/intimidated/killed and beric gets a pass wont help our reputation
On the other hand If Beric and Harry discovers some of the other council members are working with the Syndicate which allowed for dreamdust dealers in, general smuggling I suspect leads to Falconcrest, and recruits assassins to enter the RD then hes a hero we get a bit of glowup.
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>>6406764
Hes a fence not a spy. if you suspect that southshore is compromised then send in someone competent and skilled in such things not what is essentially a rookie. Yet alone trust him to not screw us over if syndicate maybe decides to bribe him. I dont know why you want him to go to beric so bad sonny.
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>>6406766
Hes a fence so he should have connections with thieves and smugglers that could be very useful. I want him to use that, try and identify other people in his line of work that are in Southshore. Once they're identified thats it, its for the other spies operating in Southshore to do the rest of the work seeing who is talking to who. If he is legitimately a fence who can't even talk to other people wherever hes put without getting into trouble I would be surprised.
If Beric manages to make use of his talents as well I think they might be a funny duo, it might be nice for him to have someone to play off of. I'd imagine Beric can handle him.
As for my suspicions Reginald gave Alric his letter for King Terenas since he couldn't even trust their own messengers in the area, plus all the exposed Syndicate activity that we know of. I think its a fair conclusion theres still work to be done. If we'd had any other opportunities to send someone like that I'd certainly like to.
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>>6406771
Despite being obviously shady hes not dead or in jail after years of Dalaran's Underbelly, Raethen seems to think he knows his stuff.
Hes a known fence and I want him to do things a fence can do, no more no less. Can he not identify people he needs to work with? His appearance alone if not his manner gives him away as a shady person to help convince them hes interested and in their line of work. That is entirely all he has to do. Identify people and get basic introductions with anyone in his line of work. If he cant do -that- he cant possibly even be a fencer for our spies can he?
Its the supporting spies in Southshore who handle all the legwork of handing off messages and info, trailing people, finding connections between people with power and people doing the dirty work. We aren't gonna get a full deck of named super spy named characters who do it all, but I figure we can make the most out of what this guy has and leave it at that.
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>>6406741
>If he is good at procuring items and things, he could actually be a pretty useful aide to Beric of Strahnbrad. You always need more traders and Beric could actually like this guy.
If he's good at the job, he can help with distribution networks which is a good legitimisation of the job. And if he fucks up, then it's punishment time.
It's not clear he has committed crimes against humanity, like, say, the murderer.
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“I have.” You said and left it at that.
Harry would be working with Sahvan and the rest of your spies. You would have to talk with Sahvan or just wait till Eligius returns, and he will return, about him and get him to work. A fence is someone that could be useful in spy work, if only to acquire things beyond official budget.
“Next shall we go and meet with the warlock?” You asked Raethan.
As the evening started to set and the people of Underbelly were finding the tents and shelters set up for them, it did make you realise that the Stonemasons need to build a bunch of new houses, but you guessed that they would be more than happy to do so.
Walking with Raethan, he explained what sort of a person you were going to meet. Delano Morisett was a scholar who looked into studies he shouldn’t have which when revealed made him lose his position in Dalaran. As they couldn’t find enough to charge him and be done with him, Morisett decided to flee into Underbelly where he acted as a normal disgraced arcanist. That is who he is officially, though Raethan through his connections managed to learn why he was there. He questioned why Kirin Tor hadn’t just whacked him, but it is better to keep people like him around just in case they might be needed.
Maybe.
“So he is not a warlock, at least not openly?” You asked.
“No, just a disgraced mage, a normal arcanist.” Raethan replied. “But he hasn’t caused any problems and if he has done anything… warlocky, then he has done it in secret. There are many old sewers and dungeons underneath Dalaran after all.”
Sounds quite similar to Eligius then.
“Now where is he?” Raethan mused.
Apparently he wasn’t with the rest of the refugees and after asking directions from some of them, he had decided that a tent was beneath him and went to look for lodging in the town itself. A proper roof on top of his head.
>1d10
>Best of three, taking the second roll
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Rolled 6 (1d10)
>>6407135
So the Warlock with a Good Reputation...Possibly is not even a Warlock. Or hes secretly dabbled in some kind of magic that isn't officially appropriate, except for when the Kirin Tor needs a dirty job done.
What gives him a good reputation among the Underbelly?
Well theres all sorts of magics that people might not want to let the public know they know about. Necromancy. Shapeshifting and dragon magic. Time Magic, or atleast anything beyond Slow if that counts. Some kind of funky luck magic to cheat at dice lol, or know if others are cheating, and perhaps clairvoyant magic that could let you predict results among other things.
Mind reading, theres plenty of people with secrets and matters of national security lol. Probably don't want too many people who can do that. Other mental magics that could command people to do things, make them forget entirely, but if used for good could help with a lot of mental damage or remember forgotten things.
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File: Raleigh the True.jpg (69.6 KB)
>7
>6
Delano Morisett had managed to find himself a nice little accommodation, a clean room on the second floor of a house in the middle of the town. Now Morisett was a well dressed gentleman, his robes were clean and he looked all part of a mage of Dalaran.
“Ahh Prince Perenolde.” He greeted you as he stood in his room. “What a great timing, nice to see you too Captain Raethan.
Yes, great timing.
“Prince Alric.” Raleigh the True greeted you. The Paladin was standing outside the door to Morisett’s room as he bowed to you.
“Raleigh.” You greeted him back with a polite nod. “What is going on here?”
“A warlock amongst ourselves, I know one when I see one.” Raleigh replied.
You kept your stiff upper lip and didn’t react to the accusation. This could be bad, very bad if Raleigh has actually spotted Morisett to be a warlock. Raethan tensed up behind you as Raleigh just stood there in his armour and with his warhammer in his hands.
“This has been just a misunderstanding.” Morisett argued back. “A warlock? I am nonesuch thing, just a mage, disgraced mage, but still a mage.”
Raleigh glared and silenced him before looking at you.
Thankfully you arrived here before things could go even more wrong. When did Raleigh intercept Morisett? It didn’t matter, this needed to be prevented from getting more worse.
>Delano Morisett is not a warlock, just a mage from Dalaran. Disgraced, but still a mage.
>You value Raleigh’s advice and work, but he should understand his position. It is not one to accuse others.
>Yes, Morisett is someone who knows about warlocks. The Syndicate uses them and you require someone who knows what he is talking about to properly counter them.
>Nalice had told you long time back to not worry about Raleigh, you aren’t sure what that was about, but maybe you shouldn’t worry about this at all.
>Other, write in
QM: Apologies, this took me a while.
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>>6407729
I guess whatever Nalice did to protect Eligius and her from Raleigh's attention doesn't include this guy lol.
>Yes, Morisett is someone who knows about warlocks. The Syndicate uses them and you require someone who knows what he is talking about to properly counter them.
Just saying 'Oh he knows about so and so and we need him' isn't going to keep it from affecting things with the Silverhand and Church when Raliegh writes home about this to Uther.
>Other, write in
How about we go back into the privacy of his room so we can ask him some questions, Alric as local lord is entitled to get to the bottom of things. Is Delano a low noble, the son of a knight, or a citizen etc...It wouldn't do to accuse nobles in public and he seems fairly well to do.
We go through some subtle leading questions on if mages are required to do some studying of the dark arts, to be aware of its dangers. If he can demonstrate his magic, his specialty. If he can offer anyone as testimony to his good name and honor, and we know he has a good reputation amongst the Underbelly folk so we can hear what hes been up to. Plus we have Captain Raethan right here.
If we can talk Raleigh down from outright accusation to monitoring his behavior, or even to accept he isn't a warlock ideally.
We send Delano in and tell Raleigh this could look bad for Dalaran if we aren't careful. Politics of needing to work well with Dalaran our neighbor that we saw things through properly.
If we don't let Raleigh do something he will write back to Uther, the Silver Hand, the Church etc. that we have a warlock here and we didn't hand it over when informed. Which will feed into the attitude of the head of the Silver Hand and Church at the next kings meeting.
On the other hand we have a disgraced mage of the Underbelly and we don't even get to know what he can do first. He came straight from Dalaran, he would be implying that Dalaran is keeping Warlocks in their pocket, it would ruffle some feathers or be a matter of honor and politics that Raleigh drags himself into.
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>>6407729
>>Yes, Morisett is someone who knows about warlocks. The Syndicate uses them and you require someone who knows what he is talking about to properly counter them.
Nothing to worry about nothing to worry about at all.
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“Yes.” You said and smiled to Raleigh, better to put your lying skills to use.” Yes, Delano Morisett is someone who knows about warlocks. The Syndicate uses them and we will require someone who knows what they are talking about to properly counter them.”
Your response was quick and without a tone that could betray you.
“Prince Alric.” Raleigh started, but you interrupted him.
“Master Raleigh, I have spoken with Lady Malevus and Lord Uther, they both agree that the dark arts and the warlocks Syndicate are using are a grave threat to all of us, that the Holy Light is a very potent guardian against any threat that is foreign to us.” You said to him very matter of factly. “But we both know that if you are being shot with arrows, just holding your shield up won’t be enough, am I right?”
“Prince Alric…” Raleigh started again.
“Raleigh, am I right?” You asked him.
“You are right.” He relented and sighed.
“We have to deal with the archer and not be under their relentless arrow fire.” You continued. “And due to that Master Morisett is here, isn’t that right?”
“Of course Prince Perenolde.” Morisett replied and bowed to you. He knew his role to play in this.
“If you wish to seek a secondary opinion, Lord Uther is very much willing to back me.” You told Raleigh and continued. “Alternatively Bolvar Fordragon of Stormwind is ready to argue my case.”
Raleigh looked at you for a second before taking a deep breath.
“There is no need, I see your arguments.” He said to you and Morisett. “The Holy Light does guide and guard us all, we just need to accept its warming presence.”
He bowed to you again and walked away, leaving you with Morisett and Raethan.
“Oh thank goodness.” Morisett sighed and seemed rather relieved, making your and Raethan’s presumption that he is actually a warlock a correct one.
“Master Morisett.” You said and continued. “Captain Raethan mentioned you in his letters to me and I made my decision to bring you here due to that.”
Delano Morisett straightened his clothes and back as he waited for you to continued.
“You are a warlock aren’t you?” You said to him.
“N-no, just a mage with some extracurricular knowledge.” He quickly replied.
He was so bad at lying, you immediately wondered how he kept his knowledge of the arts of warlocks a secret.
>Ask Raethan to leave and reveal to Morisett that you are a mage by creating a flame above your hand.
>Tell Morisett that he is really bad at lying, no wonder Raleigh could see through him. There is no point at lying to you.
>You are most happy that a mage of his knowledge and intelligence is here in Dawnholme. It is best for all of us that he could lend his knowledge to your service.
>Other, write in.
The flame:
>Fire
>Fel fire
QM: If you choose the first option, please vote on the second vote. Revealing that you can create a green flame could prove more than useful.
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>>6407794
I think an almost interrogation would have been fun tho. Would Raleigh press him to confess to save his soul, or just quietly glare him down ready to smack him with the hammer...Well if its honestly settled and Raleigh isn't going to write either of them, solid. At least until Uther comes here in person and sees this guy. Being a bad liar and so obvious even Raleigh instantly spots his ass.
Is there honestly a good solution to that? Pair him with a handler to cover for him. Have Nalice beat him into shape. Or keep him entirely out of public view. Send him to live with the Dark Irons to keep a watch out for syndicate warlocks who might want to ruin the oil.
If we have one of those well in hand I'd say we could reveal the green flame then ship him off to be useful where he won't get himself killed.
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Update mostly written so I could use a vote what to do next. You are going to meet with the Witch and the Master Alchemist, but will you do it today or tomorrow? There will be some variation to the following events.
>Better to meet them today. Sure the night has fallen, but mostly everyone is still up.
>Wait till the next morning. Better to sleep through the night and be refreshed tomorrow.
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>7
“Master Morisett, you are really bad at lying and it makes no wonder why Raleigh of Silver Hand could see through you.” You said to him and immediately continued. “So don’t even try to hide anything from me, I might not be a Paladin, but I do have a pretty good sense for bullshit.”
Delano Morisett looked at you for a second before choosing to speak.
“Look, I don’t know what you are talking about.” He quickly replied.
“Nonsense, a well-dressed man like you somehow ending up in Underbelly is immediately suspicious.” You said to him. You couldn’t sense anything wrong about him, no outright taint of Fel that you could feel. “The mages from Underbelly that I employ all have their faults, I can’t imagine you being the exception.”
Then you felt it, a sliver of Fel gathering and you smiled.
“What I told you Master Morisett was the truth, it is better to deal with the archer than be the one carrying the shield and attempting to block each and every arrow shot at you. Hence the reason why are here. I was in contact with Captain Raethan and he suggested to me to include you in the final group of Underbelly refugees. He explained to me your past and your skills and I agreed that a person like you should have its place here in Dawnholme.” You spoke to him and continued. “In short, I need your skills Master Morisett and don’t try to fool me.”
“How sure are you that I am a warlock?” Morisett asked you and glanced at Raethan.
“Hundred percent.” You replied.
“Then you understand why I keep saying that I am not one.” Morisett replied and you could feel the sliver of Fel disappearing as Morisett relaxed.
“Then we are on the same page.” You said and offered your hand to him. “Prince Alric Perenolde.”
“Delano Morisett.” He replied as he shook your hand and bowed to you. “What do you expect of me?”
“No magic or weapons in Dawnholme, that’s the same rule for everyone.” You said to him. “Unless you are in my service, that is the exception.”
“I see, then I need to think about this offer of yours Prince Alric.” Morisett replied.
“Please do that and in the meanwhile, don’t get into trouble.” You said to him.
…
“Morisett is harmless, just a bad liar.” Raethan said to you outside the house he was staying.
“I will take your word for that.” You said back to him.
There were just two of the people you specifically had asked to Dawnholme for you to visit. The Witch with the shady past and then the Master Alchemist. This alchemist was apparently known as Cinesra, a skilled alchemist and known for his trade, but a skilled chemist is very easy to get involved in business that might not be kind to him and after delivering poisons to people who used them to not so good things, Cinesra decided to bail and go to the Underbelly.
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File: Alchemist_Cinesra.jpg (65.6 KB)
>>6409026
Now a Master Alchemist like him working in Dawnholme could prove to be really useful to you. Immediately several uses for his skills came to your mind, from medical concoctions to maybe helping to produce large quantities of good quality blackpowder.
“We are being followed.” You whispered to Raethan. “Man, grey hood and cloak, tattered clothes.”
You had felt like something was awry and so you had taken an extra long route back towards the tent camp. It was a route no one local would use and the newest refugees weren’t that up and running so if someone kept appearing, they must have something else in mind.
Raethan nodded and whispered back.
“What is your plan?”
>Must be a spy or someone else. They are not a threat to you so you can leave them be.
>Lead them into an alley and surprise them with your better knowledge of Dawnholme.
>Wait till they are closer to you before choosing to chase them down. They might not expect that.
>Have them follow you to Lady Nalice. She knows how to deal with spies and everything related to them.
>Other, write in.
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Though it would be really funny if a spy gave some money to a homeless man to follow Alric and see where he went. Maybe the real spy is watching this guy watch Alric lol, waiting to see how Alric reacts and where he is led. I should avoid getting too into shadowrunning but it is neat.
In any case if hes a dalaran spy he could be a mage dressed like a homeless man to better hide among the Underbelly. Could also be a Syndicate spy and a Warlock. So confronting him in the streets could mean magic and counter magic infront of Raethan. Leading Raethan to Nalice's house where right after the spy disappears means cluing him in somewhat.
>>6409027
>Other, write in.
Alric heads for Nalice to spend time with her, send Raethan 'away' around the corner so he can backtrack to follow our little spy, or see if someone else is watching our watcher. If our spy breaks off Raethan can follow him to his little base if theres anyone else hes working with. At worst we get our man, at best we get his hideout and whoever he works with.
Will Nalice disappear him? They would probably send another eventually. Mess with his head to feed him disinfo going forward? Could be handy. Trade him back to Dalaran if he didn't know anything worthwhile rather than kill their agent?
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“Head back to a tent you would claim.” You whispered to Raethan and turned to him to shake his hand and speak with a clear” loud voice. “Thank you for your work Captain, the people here will all bolster Alterac.”
“Of course Prince Alric.” He replied and shook your hand.
“We shall talk more tomorrow.” You said and turned to leave.
“Good night Prince Alric.” Raethan continued.
You continued to walk away while whistling. Your hands in pockets, you took several turns to see if the man was still following you. He was and he was bad at hiding himself, so you decided to turn the table on him and go towards the one person who knows how to deal with spies like him.
Lady Nalice.
Her home was in the outskirts of the city, the houses and roads built by Stonemasons creeping closer and closer to it. The man kept following you as you did some turns and moved towards her home. The final bit was a piece of open ground before her home and you casually walked through it, hoping the spy would still keep a track of you.
One knock on the door and then another, that was exactly as you had planned. The door opened and Nalice in her usual scholar robes stood there.
“Prince Alric, a late night visit?” Nalice asked you.
“Man who follows me, grey hood, cloak.” You replied in your very crude Draconic.
Nalice immediately got serious and stared into your eyes.
“Stay inside Prince Alric, I will deal with him.” She replied back to you in her language.
“Don’t hurt him.” You whispered.
“Of course not.” She said and smiled.
Nalice led you inside and with a flourish of her wrist, you got to witness her cast her magic on her. In a few seconds she took your shape as her form changed into yours. Your clone stared at you as he gave you a gentle smile and with a wave of his hand, the robes Nalice had been wearing disappeared, leaving your naked clone there.
“Thankfully I had kept your clothes.” Alric Nalice said as you watched him walk to a cupboard from which he took the clothes he had used to disguise himself as you while you were gone.
“Not often do I get to watch myself get dressed.” You said and shrugged as you took a seat. “It is like a mirror.”
“You happen to be a handsome young man Prince Alric.” Nalice Alric replied as he threw the jacket he had loaned on his shoulders.
“Right here’s the sword, you need it.” You said and passed the sword belt to her. Otherwise the disguise wouldn’t be finished.
Alric Nalice finished his disguise and in front of you stood one really convincing looking clone of yours. Not going to lie, you look very dapper, or well Nalice in a disguise as you looked very dapper.
“It won’t take long.” Nalice Alric said and smiled before heading out.
Now just to wait.
1/3
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>>6409161
>5
It took maybe an hour and you had spent that time reading one of the books Nalice had on her bookshelf when the door was opened. At the door stood Alric Nalice and in his hands was one big rat.
“Polymorph? Really?” You had to ask him.
“You told me to not hurt him.” Nalice Alric replied.
The rat was struggling and tried to escape as you walked to your clone and carefully took the rat from him. Raising it to your eye level, you stared at it and smiled.
“Now what shall we do with you? Polymorph won’t be permanent, but now as a rat you are at our mercy, whoever you happen to be.” You said it. “You understand what I say though?”
The rat somehow nodded its head several times.
“Good.” You said and smiled even wider as you held the rat up in the air. “So we can communicate.”
Walking back to the soft seat you had been enjoying, you kept the rat up in the air and on your eye level.
“Let’s make it simple. I ask questions and you will nod or shake your head. If you decide to play games, I will ask this good mage here to keep prolonging this polymorph as long as possible.” You said to the rat. “Understand?”
The rat didn’t react so you decided to shake it up and down left and right several times, after all these motions the rat nodded somehow.
“You are from Dalaran?”
The rat nodded.
“To gather information here in Dawnholme?”
The rat nodded.
“On me?”
A nod.
“You arrived with the refugees?”
A nod.
“The current ones?”
The rat shook its head. So he came with the previous batch of them.
“Oh that is lovely, very lovely. You would like to be a human again?”
A furious amount of nods followed.
“Now if you behave, I will have you sent back into Dalaran. If you try anything, I will fry that fur off your skin and make sure you stay as a rat as long as possible.”
The rat was nearly frantic in its nods.
“Do we have anything we can place our lovely quest in?” You asked.
“I have no cage.” Alric Nalice replied. “But I have a bucket with a lid.”
“That works.” You shrugged.
Carefully you placed the rat, or the polymorphed spy from Dalaran into the bucket and Nalice Alric put the lid on. To make sure the rat wouldn’t escape, you made sure to put a heavy stone on it before carrying the bucket outside.
“How long will the polymorph last?” You asked.
“A couple more hours.” Alric Nalice replied. He was so close to you in every way, no wonder no one saw through the disguise until Malevus blew it for Tari.
“Then thank you, it probably wasn’t too difficult of a task?” You asked again.
“No Prince Alric.” Nalice Alric replied and smiled.
2/3
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>>6409162
Nalice seemed in no hurry to shed the disguise. She had kept your clothes after all and hadn’t returned them after all. You watched as she walked to her liquor cabinet and took a pair of glasses and a bottle of Alteraci Brandy. Your clone gave you a questioning look to which you nodded, you couldn’t say no to Alteraci Brandy. A pair of glasses were poured full and the Alric Nalice handed you one before taking an opposite seat.
>She really enjoys taking you as her disguise doesn't she?
>Why the brandy? A special occasion?
>With the spy from Dalaran caught, what do you think we should do with him?
>All the mages, conjurers and warlocks from Underbelly are here. What does Nalice think about them?
>Other, write in
Flirt with Nalice
>Yes
>No
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>>6409163
>She really enjoys taking you as her disguise doesn't she?
I suppose its a kind of familiarity no one else is going to achieve lol. Does taking form actually influence thoughts. She could have her own albeit smaller wings, horns, and a tail. As far as anyone might know that would just be an eccentric shapeshifter mage. If she toes the line between a fusion of her draconic features and human ones does it become a more realized form. Capable of life? Is she still nimble?
>Why the brandy? A special occasion?
Catching a dalaran spy that can be sold back to them for a favor or some such is probably occasion enough? Or Dawnholme breaking 4000 people to surpass Southshore. Just good times.
>With the spy from Dalaran caught, what do you think we should do with him?
Killing him would send the wrong message. Selling him back to Dalaran might humiliate the faction opposed to Kael's position on Alric, perhaps restore Kael's influence by giving the spy to him, and be worth something if we actually need anything.
>All the mages, conjurers and warlocks from Underbelly are here. What does Nalice think about them?
I'm sure Nalice is quite happy. If there was a uniform fashion and organization to protect their identities while operating as his magic users maybe that would be a nice way to tie them all together.
>Yes
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>>6409163
>>She really enjoys taking you as her disguise doesn't she?
>>Why the brandy? A special occasion?
>>With the spy from Dalaran caught, what do you think we should do with him?
>All the mages, conjurers and warlocks from Underbelly are here. What does Nalice think about them?
>Other, write in
''A warlock came with the refugees and Raleigh immedietely sussed him out. You did tell me not to worry about him.''
>No
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“Why the Brandy?” You asked. “A special occasion?”
“The arrival of the refugees is going to give you a lot more workers.” Nalice Alric said to you. “It is an opportunity.”
“It can’t be just that.” You commented. “And Lady Nalice, as much as I think I do have a level of charm, I do prefer talking and looking at you and not myself.”
Your mirror image smiled slightly and in front of your eyes the shape shifted. Your long black hair didn’t actually need to change much, but in just a few moments in front of you sat a strikingly beautiful woman with her raven hair.
“You do enjoy taking me as your disguise, don’t you?” You asked and sipped the brandy.
“Prince Alric, being you has some benefits.” Nalice said to you.
“Like getting to play with Faelyn?” You immediately asked.
That caught her off-guard as she didn’t answer your question.
“Lady Faelyn is a well behaving little lady.” She replied finally.
You hadn’t expected her to get attached to that small bundle of energy so easily and so much, but it did make you think about certain things why it is like that, things not relevant right now.
“Though this brandy, can’t be just the opportunities with the refugees?” You asked Nalice.
“Not just them. The mages that have arrived are all flawed in various ways, they are lacking. But there’s many of them and even if one is lacking in one thing, the others can lend their hand.” Nalice explained, her disdain towards those amateurs rather apparent and continued. “Prince Alric, after the mages who are with the Stonemasons arrive, it is in my opinion the right time to go public.”
“Public? You mean telling them that I use magic?” You asked a bit baffled.
“No, but with the Coven of Dawn and our dungeon underground. Getting all the mages to be part of the Coven should be our next step to ensure our control of magic keeps growing.” Nalice told you.
“Not a bad idea, but I am not sure how interested they are to join the Coven without me actually hiring them in the first place.” You replied.
“They will be interested, working for you or just being part of something you have set up is a strong motivator.” Nalice said.
“We will see it then, but what do you want to do with the spy we caught?” You asked.
“Keep him and send him back to Dalaran on a later date. Whoever had sent him will get humiliated while those who see you as an ally will look good.” She said. “The man is not a mage, just a commoner.”
“I probably should inform Kael’thas then, tell him that we have caught one of their spies.” You said and shrugged as you finished the brandy. “Thank you for the brandy, haven’t actually had one for some time.”
“I knew you would like it Prince Alric.” Nalice said and stood up, you followed her and walked to the door.
“It was a pleasure Lady Nalice and uhh… keep the clothes, I have enough spares so that you don’t have to borrow an outfit whenever you need to take my image.” You said to her.
“Thank you.” She replied and smiled. “I will keep good care of them.”
1/2
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>>6409823
When you stepped out of her home, you picked up the bucket with the lid still on. The spy turned into a rat was still inside and you could sense that it was trying to struggle and get out of the bucket. So you decided to prevent it with the most annoying way possible, by shaking the bucket a lot and with vigour. The rat bounced around and quieted down for the rest of the walk to the jail. Very simply you left the bucket in one of the more secure jail cells and informed the jailer of who the occupant would be.
Now just to go to bed, tomorrow will be a new day.
…
Your home was silent as you made your way up the stairs and into your study. Tari had left some papers for you to read on your desk while you were away. They would have to wait till tomorrow as you wanted to just sleep.
Entering your bedroom as quietly as you could, you found Malevus asleep. First you took off your boots and you placed your sword belt against the wall. The leather jacket found a chair to be thrown against and one by one you succeeded in undressing without waking up your girlfriend. Slowly climbing into the bed, you burrowed underneath the blanket, throwing your arm around her and placing your head against her neck.
Malevus stirred and reciprocated your closeness as she pulled you closer to her.
“What took you so long…” She half-whispered and mumbled.
“A lot of people to meet and a spy to catch…” You whispered back and kissed her neck.
“A spy… Alric… not now…” Malevus mumbled as you kept kissing her and your hands were adventurous on her body. “I want to sleeeeep…”
“We can continue tomorrow.” You whispered to her.
Malevus mumbled something as the two of you cuddled and found the coziest position.
“The troll… Normand wants to talk with you…” Malevus mumbled to you.
“Tomorrow… not now.” You whispered and got a mumble back.
The raspberries of her hair made you relaxed, yeah everything could wait till tomorrow. Now you just want to sleep and hug your girlfriend. Tomorrow could wait.
…
“Alric, what the hell! Why is there a troll in Dawnholme!” Normand nearly shouted at you as you were eating breakfast. “A troll Alric! Do you understand how people will see this?”
Yes, a troll… probably better if you were to try to explain this to him.
>Ranvis, his name is Ranvis. He is not just a troll.
>He escaped from the dungeons underneath Dalaran, he was experimented upon and you can’t stand things like that.
>Because he is useful. He can train your men, act as a translator. He’ll be useful.
>Remind Normand that you are the Prince and at charge here. As much as you see him as your father, this is one decision where you will be pulling the strings.
>Other, write in
QM: A troll in Alterac, in Dawnholme? That’s surely going to cause some headaches.
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>>6409824
>Other, write in
"There goes that eccentric Prince again?"
>Ranvis, his name is Ranvis. He is not just a troll.
>He escaped from the dungeons underneath Dalaran, he was experimented upon and you can’t stand things like that.
Convey what happened, and eventually the story is going to spread anyways.
Normand generally prefers traditional morality over benefit, its why he wanted that corrupt merchant dead even though alive he would have allowed us an operation against the Syndicate. Which is pretty funny considering Normand knows Alric is being targeted by their assassins, but it is what it is.
If there was a law calling for Ravnis's death Normand would have walked in here with it after researching last night. So I'll take it there isn't.
More importantly theres the morality of pursuing peace or submission, at least an earnest exchange with the troll tribe on our border before it devolves into war. As we've seen trolls are quite strong, war in the hills would probably kill or cripple a good number of our good men. This effort is for them, and that effort requires trust with our translator.
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"There goes that eccentric Prince again?" You asked as you put down the spoon. The porridge could wait.
“Alric…” Normand started to say.
“And his name is Ranvis, the troll’s name is Ranvis. Speaks Common with an accent.” You said to Normand as Malevus made her way down the stairs. She had chosen grey trousers to go with her grey plain shirt today. Not the fanciest outfit, but one that fit a Paladin in training. She walked to you and trailed her hand and fingers across your shoulders. “Good morning my love.”
“You better talk with Normand.” She said. “About the troll, I am not happy about it either.”
Flanked from two sides is it then.
“Ranvis, the name is Ranvis.” You said to her. “Right, I get it. I do.”
“Son, I don’t think you do. It is a bloody troll!” Normand replied.
“He was tortured by Kirin Tor!” You said back to him and raised your voice. “Tortured and experimented so that they could learn about the regeneration trolls have.”
That seemed to stop your father and you continued with what Raethan had told you about Ranvis and how he had reacted when the issue had been brought up. You went through the story and made sure to make both Normand and Malevus understand what had happened to him.
“It doesn’t matter if it is a troll, but no one should be tortured like that.” You said to both of them and continued. “And I know, Alterac and the trolls share thousands of years of animosity. It was here after all where they were finally stopped by our ancestors. And Quel’thalas, you don’t have exactly a good relationship with them either.”
“No, no we don’t” Malevus said back to you.
“Then you get how conflicted I am, but how he has been treated is just not right.” You argued back.
“Alric…” Normand started.
“My decision is final, but think about this from this direction. The trolls are strong, they are bigger than us and if we end up fighting, many of our men will die.” You said to Normand. “Ranvis can help us to train our men if the worst happens, at least they know how to fight against the trolls then. And if we can avoid that, wouldn’t the right option be to find the common ground through negotiations? If we can talk to them…”
“If and if!” Normand replied.
“Listen to what I am saying, for the love of Light. If I can avoid shedding Alteraci blood, I will take that chance. If I can help to right one wrong then I will take it.” You argued back to him.
“Fine! Fine!” Normand replied and raised his voice. “And what next, you are going to ally with the orcs!”
>Deflect hard, deflect very hard. Orcs and Alterac are not what will happen.
>If you need to make a deal with them to save the people of Durnholde, then yes you are going to make that deal.
>In fact yes, tell Normand the truth of what has happened and whom you have met. He deserves to know.
>Other, write in
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>>6409959
Ooo second update nice. Hmmmm
I suppose if it comes down to it, can Alric make a deal with Thrall to save Dawnholme? An open one, a secret one. It could be done, although he'd have to reconcile that hes doing what Aiden did. What Doomhammer said of it.
I'd have to digest on it a while.
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>>6409959
>Other, write in
Give him a hard look, that our priority is the Syndicate and ousting the -humans- within our historic borders.
>We caught a Dalaran spy last night who is now being kept in the jail
We got problems, not just with other races.
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“If I have to make a deal to save and protect the people of Durnholde, then yes I will make a deal with them.” You told Normand and immediately continued. “Those people have no part in any of this and shouldn’t be the ones suffering because of the actions of others.”
Normand did not immediately say anything which allowed you to continue in peace.
“The goal we are after and which we started with over two years ago is still the same. To reclaim Alterac and to push our foes away from our homeland. Nothing has changed, the Syndicate is still the most dangerous and most important of our opponents, that is what we have to prioritise. And we can’t have any real distractions that don’t outright help us against the Syndicate or help our overall position.” You spoke and didn’t stop there. “Like the gnolls, sure we took heavy casualties that realistically make our ability to campaign this year very difficult, but what we did achieve was ultimately a very positive result to us. Our position is stronger than before the campaign. So is a campaign against the trolls similarly positive? Or the orcs? What do we gain if we bleed and bleed against them?”
“Normand please, I don’t do this because I want to do it, but because it is the path to avoid those distractions, those campaigns that really slow us down.” You said and sighed.
Your father let out a deep breath and sat down.
“You are right… I’m sorry.” He replied.
“Don’t be, I value your advice and you are right, a troll in Dawnholme in Alterac, associated with us doesn’t exactly look good.” You said. “I don’t exactly need that my enemies more leverage, but I think I have an idea.”
“Which is?” Normand asked. “It is a troll, we can’t really hide it.”
“No, we cannot. But that is why we are going to show Ranvis to the world, flanked by someone unexpected.” You said and grinned before looking at Malevus. “My beautiful girlfriend over here could talk with him.”
Malevus mid eating her porridge and having just listened to you speaking had her eyes open up fully and her ears perked up. She froze, spoon still stuck in her mouth as she just crossed her hands as a big fat X.
“Nnnph.” She managed to mumble with the porridge still not swallowed.
“Swallow first.” You replied.
“No! No Alric, no!” She finally replied having swallowed. “Absolutely not!”
“Why not? It will be fun.” you said.
“Fun? He is a troll, I am an elf!” Malevus said back to you.
“I don’t think that is going to work.” Normand backed her.
“Don’t worry about it, I have full trust on my beautiful girlfriend over here. Total trust that she can pull this off.” You said and waved his concerns away.
“And don’t go complimenting me!” Malevus replied and fought against a slight blush.
“Alright alright, let’s shelve that idea for now.” You said and shrugged. “But you are really beautiful.”
“Alric!” Malevus shouted at you as you started to just laugh.
She is so weak to compliments, it is great!
1/2
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>>6410737
You had to check some of the papers left on your desk before you went outside. Dawnholme was bustling with action as Malevus, who had survived your compliments joined you, she would go to check on the Underbelly refugees and how healthy they are. Apparently many of them had minor ailments and issues, but nothing overtly serious. Nothing a bit of rest and care wouldn’t take care of.
“Prince Alric!” Sir Gravis greeted you.
“Sir Gravis, you look like you have some news?” You asked.
“I have, the knights from Durnholde have arrived.” He said to you. “Captain Cromwell is sorting things out right now.”
“Very good, how many of them did arrive? Ten?” You asked him.
“Only five, Blackmoore raised the salaries to stop them from leaving and some took it.” Gravis said to you. “The five who decided to leave just had enough, coin wasn’t the deciding factor for them.”
“Are they good?”
“I know them, they are solid.” Gravis said. “Shall I fetch them for you?”
“No need, I can see them later.” You said back to him.
“Understood, I will let them know.” Gravis said and saluted you before leaving you alone with Malevus.
“Shall we go see the refugees then? There’s one person I want to meet with before I have seen all of them.” You asked Malevus and took her hand.
“Sure, let’s go then. Who is it?” Malevus said and asked. “Not the troll I hope.”
“A witch.” You replied mysteriously.
Gained:
>5 Regular Knights, Upkeep 3 Supplies Per Season
>1d10
>Best of three, taking the second roll
QM: The knights from Durnholde have arrived. You don’t have to pay for them, but the upkeep is still there, also the Stables are now full. One of the previous rolls was about how healthy the refugees would be and this was the result. This roll is for the witch.
>>
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>10
It didn’t take much for you to find said witch, you just needed to ask once for directions the man knew whom you were talking about immediately. And you weren’t surprised at all why.
Sitting on a cart was a woman watching as the refugees laboured, setting up their things or helping the locals with getting the camp properly up and running after a night of good sleep. The woman had a similar comically large hat as Madam Martin likes to wear, blond hair and blue eyes with a sharp nose that could poke someone’s eye out and then… by the Light!
She had huge tracts of land!
Her breasts were big! And her purple and black dress fought hard to keep them from escaping the dress. A blue gemmed amulet sat right in the middle of them too! Alric, look down look down abort… and her thighs! Oh Felfire she was something!
You had to clear your throat as you got closer to her and got her attention as your eyes finally found her eyes. It required a considerable amount of concentration to avoid getting your gaze slip down. Not that she would notice it, you were wearing your dark glasses and could steal a glimpse if you wanted, but for Malevus as she was standing right next to you.
“I am Prince Alric Perenolde.” You greeted her matter of factly and looked at Malevus who had chosen the tactic of looking straight past her instead. “And this is Lady Malevus.”
“Ahh, you are the Prince…” She spoke and jumped down from the cart, walking a couple steps towards you with her bosom reacting to every move and gave you the most well rehearsed curtsy you have seen in a long time. “I am Tissandra.”
“Pleasure to meet you Lady Tissandra.” You replied. Her voice, it was like listening to honey, so sweet and innocent.
“No, the pleasure is mine.” She replied and giggled. “Lady Malevus.”
“L-Lady Tissandra.” Malevus succeeded in saying back to her.
“I came to speak with you as Captain Raethan mentioned you to me.” You said.
“Oh did he? He is such a lovely person.” Tissandra replied. “What did he say?”
“Just bare surface details about you. I would like to know more about the folk who have arrived here.”
“Ahh, I don’t know what to tell you my Prince.” She replied, so much honey in her voice that it made Pai seem a lightweight compared to her.
“What about the fact that you are supposedly a witch?”
“Witch… I do not like to be called that.” She replied, her tone changing into one of annoyance. “I am a mage.”
1/4
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>>6411410
“Mage, alright. Then why were you in Underbelly. I can’t imagine a woman of your beauty to end up there voluntarily.” You asked her next.
You could see her enjoy you mentioning her beauty, but the way you put the rest of the question did sour her again. Maybe you should press her a bit more.
“I can’t imagine a mage like you enjoying being in a place that is a sewer. I have visited there, it smells and the smell sticks to your clothes.” You continued. “So why were you there? Think about the answer as a way to get into my employment, so please be truthful.”
You could see Tissandra thinking as she shifted the weight from one leg to another.
“Think from this point of view, I am employing Jon Boyd, Luke Williams and Madam Martin already. I have no qualms about employing mages from Underbelly, but I need to know if I am hiring someone with a complicated past.” You said to her.
“Fine.” She replied and her honeyed tone dropped again. “Please, I would like some privacy.”
“The tent is fine.” You said and took out the black noise device. She recognised it and nodded. You followed her into a tent she now apparently called hers and kept the device in your hand, now you would have some privacy.
“I am originally from Stratholme.” Tissandra said. “Not taught by Dalaran mages, but by various charlatans. I travelled around, learned more and got into some trouble.”
How she said that made you take a shot in the dark.
“Something about your beauty? It must be.” You said very matter of factly as Malevus who had joined you just coughed. You could see Tissandra being slightly annoyed.
“Yes, something about my beauty, what can a lady do with her looks if they are this fine.” She said and gently lifted her breasts a bit. “Yes, there was some trouble and they handed me to Dalaran. They didn’t know what to do with me and ahh… after I tried my tricks… and got caught again… they just sent me down there.”
You start to understand this lady a lot now.
“Why wait to leave?” You asked.
“They told me not to leave or there would be consequences, but after they raided the place I had to leave. Me staying there beyond the strong arms of the good Captain…” She replied and grimaced. You got the idea. “Now I am here, was that enough my Prince?”
Her voice returned back to the honeyed and sweet one as she shifted her weight again.
“It is enough for today. Welcome to Dawnholme Tissandra of Stratholme, remember no casting of magic without my permission nor carrying weapons, of course if you were in my service those both can be arranged.” You told her and continued. “But for now, get yourself comfortable and find yourself a good place to be.”
“Oh my Prince, that is my plan.” She replied with a slight smile that told you everything.
“Then I shall make my leave. Shall we go Malevus?” You asked her and found her struggling a lot to not stare at her.
“O-of course!” She quickly mumbled.
2/4
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>>6411412
>10
“That woman! Her…” Malevus started and mimicked the size of her breasts.
“Oh I know, she is like Pai, but not as bad.” You said to her and continued. “Similar charmer who uses her body to get what she wants, but unlike Pai I don’t think she uses it to kill people.”
“But she is a mage?” Malevus asked.
“Mage or a witch, at least she had the hat.” You replied and got your girlfriend to laugh.
She found your hand and took it, you couldn’t avoid joining in laughing with her as you walked around the camp and got several curious looks from the Underbelly refugees.
“Alric… how did you avoid looking at her… you know.” Malevus finally asked.
“Her huge tracts of lands?” You asked innocently.
“Alric…” Malevus pleaded.
“Simple, they are no match to your…” You leaned closer to be able to whisper to her. “... long ears and how you blush when I…”
Remainer of what you said made her ears immediately droop and her face reached the colour of her hair.
“Alric!” She just shouted out and punched your shoulder.
You could just laugh as she had difficulties at getting herself back together. You love that woman so much.
But there was still work to do here, along with the people you have visited now, there were also a couple more mages that came with the group. People less skilled or noticeable, but still users of magic that are viable for you to hire and use. Checking them out wouldn’t hurt you at all.
…
>9
It had been a couple days since and the weather had turned bright and sunny. The farmers walked through the fields checking their crops and they started to agree. Autumn was here and with it the hard work the peasants had been waiting for the whole year.
It was time for harvest.
Dawnholme one morning practically emptied itself. Alteracis led the way with the Stonemasons, Underbelliers and those from elsewhere following behind them. The whole city would participate in this effort to get the crops out of the fields before the weather or the birds would ruin them. Men cut the crops down with their sickles and the womenfolk helped to gather them, the people not so familiar with farm work carting them into granaries or piling hay for winter.
3/4
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File: 04_peasant.jpg (65.7 KB)
>>6411413
You rode through the countryside with your knights, including the ones from Durnholde, trailing behind you. Greeting the peasants, you exchanged pleasantries and learned that they hoped for the harvest to be a good one this year. People working Darrow Hill and Gavin’s Naze were similarly at work and you stopped at one of the larger farmsteads in Gavin’s Naze to stay for night.
“There’s so many people working in the fields.” Malevus said to you as you helped her dismount her horse after the long day.
“That is the gold of the peasants, wheat, barley, rye and so on.” You said and grinned. “And gold in my treasury after I get my fair share.”
“How much do you think you will get?” Malevus asked.
That’s a good question, how much will it be in the end?
The autumn harvest has come and your farms produce 6d6 Wealth from the taxes and profits of the grains and crops:
>6d6+3
>Best of three
QM: You have four Farms so 6d6 and the Farming Estate in The Headland/Dawnholme adds +3 on top of the result.
The rolls were if Alric could keep his eyes away from Tissandra’s bosom, what is the quality of the remaining sorceresses and if the harvest was already here. All the magic users that have arrived from Underbelly have been added to the Sheet and Mechanisms Pastebin. Notice how the Stonemason mages are generally more expensive than those from Underbelly, that is price for quality. Though the Stonemasons aren’t here yet.
And how huge tracts of land? Sorcerer from Dragon's Crown huge tracts of land.
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Rolled 6, 3, 5, 1, 2, 3 + 3 = 23 (6d6 + 3)
>>6411415
>Sorceress from Dragon's Crown
Dang, shes quite the Charmer. Could be quite a team if she and Pai worked together.
A stunning display of willpower from Alric. Also very nice we got a 10 on the quality of the other sorceresses. Hope to see the Master Alchemist soon. Dunno if we'd be able to afford the final alchemist tho we need it for the gun building, which is also gonna be expensive.
We have arcane slow and fire magic, we have Madame Martin for her aid in healing although I was sad we didn't get to see her offensive magic. The Evoker and Conjurer for more fire magic against trolls would be logical. Frost mage would be nice too. The Blood Wizard with an eyecatching 5 supply cost. Or the new sorceresses. Sadly we probably don't have the supply for much, and we don't have a bunch of spoils.
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>23
“Should be a nice amount.” You said to her as you watched the peasants carry out tables to outside.
One major part of the harvest was of course people gathering together to eat. Neighbours, hired farmhands, everyone who participated in the harvest was welcomed and as they saw their Prince having arrived, extra care was added. When you finally sat down at the head of the table, in front of you were so many varieties of foods and dishes that you had difficulties to choose from which to start.
Pies, stews, stuffed pigeons, the list went on. For the peasants it was a major honour to have you here and the owner of the farmstead was ready to give his house for you to use for the night, but you had your tent with you and so you decided.
As the ale flowed and you slowly started to feel like a stuffed pig, the simple joys of the peasant life made themselves apparent. These people weren’t rich in coin, but they lived rich lives. They were content with their lot. For Malevus seeing a feast like this was fun, at minimum because everyone was staring at her and her long ears. The children who had never if very rarely seen an elf from the close circled around her and bothered her with all the questions.
She laughed and enjoyed this. It was simple things like this that you wanted to spend your time with and not with being knee deep in mud and blood.
Gained:
>23 Wealth
Total Resources:
21 Wealth, +15 per season
4 Supplies, -1 per season
635 Peasants
…
As the harvest continued for its third day, you returned from your trip around your lands. Three days of feasting and talking with the peasants had taken a toll with you, even if getting to spend all this time together with Malevus evening it out quite a lot. When you returned back home and stepped in, you saw a familiar figure at the table and in front of him was a chest.
“Beric, how are you?” You greeted him.
“Same old shit, I am really starting to get enough of those bloody merchants.” He replied as Tari was going through some papers he had apparently brought.
“Nothing has changed then, what is in the chest?” You asked and joined him.
“The profits from the trade caravans.” Beric said and slapped the wooden chest. “Tarren Mill, Durnholde and whatnot.”
“Right, show me the results then.”
>3d3
>Best of three
QM: The increase in your holdings and the closer relations have resulted in more trade being available. And the extra roll didn't result in increased harvest, still 23 Wealth is pretty good.
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Gained:
>7 Wealth
>15 Peasants
Total Resources:
43 Wealth, +15 per season
4 Supplies, -1 per season
650 Peasants
You may exchange Wealth to Supplies with 1:1 rate and Supplies to Wealth with 1:1 rate. 15 Peasants arrived with most of them from the Alteraci diaspora across Lordaeron. I have added the Wealth you make per season to the total sum as well.
Right just before the Autumn Meeting happens our finances are in order. What I need to do is to update the amount of losses you took during the Durnholde campaign and we are all set for the season updates. At this point I will ask, have I forgotten anything important? I think not, but better to ask. You can start thinking about how to spend that Wealth you have acquired. There will be one or two updates before the actual meeting.
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>>6411858
Town Hall taxes?
I dont recall if Beric actually managed to finish whatever deals he was making in Stormwind, and if they would impact our finances here. If he can put the stonemason smugglers on that little estate to his use or not.
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>>6411898
Other than those, I thought I remembered the Darkshire spider silk and spider venom options being in the pastebin but I dont see them
I'd imagine we'd want the spider silk on the knights and RFG for extra extra armor on the units we can't replace. Dark Iron armor for the new knights is another 3 wealth, I believe we already got some for Gravis's knights. One unit of spider venom for the elite archers. I'll guesstimate that comes to about 12 wealth.
Did Beric ever give us an estimate of how much profit he could get if we actually got a trade cog or carrack?
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Taking the small chest, you lifted it off the table and weighted it in your hands. It was heavy, but not overtly as you placed it back down in front of you and opened it.
“That’s a good amount.” You said to Beric.
The small chest was full of coins, most of them being silver with plenty of gold in the mix. You recognised various old rulers stamped on them and from where they were. Lordaeron, Stromgarde, Stormwind and so on. Coins do end up mixed sooner than later after all.
“More people means more trade.” Beric lazily explained. “More trade means more coinage in circulation which means more economic growth…”
“And with growing exports, we are gaining more coin than losing. Our current account is looking very good right now.” Tari continued.
“Precisely!” Beric shouted out and slapped the table. “She is smart Prince Alric, I told you that.”
“She is that is for sure.” You replied. “So our budget is going to look pretty good then.”
“Yes, I think when we get the figures from the harvest, we have enough coin… if we had wanted to do oil rig all by ourselves, we could have maybe done it.” Tari mused and continued. “The coin Lady Prestor gave us was a bit more than we have now.”
That is right, that is a very good comparison here. The amount of coin you have right now would be enough for some large scale projects that would serve you well in the future, or with the Stonemasons arriving and there being plenty of unemployed men standing around, you could expand your military considerably and be more prepared for what is to come next year.
A lot of options for you that is for sure.
“How long are you going to stay here?” You asked Beric.
“Week, maybe two.” He replied.
“Good, good. We will have the meeting in a couple of days so stay around for that.” You said and clapped your hands. “And have Tari bother you with all the numbers, see if you notice anything being wrong or something.”
…
The largest and biggest building in Dawnholme had been the barracks for a really long time, but not anymore. Finally after all this time the town hall had been finished by the Stonemasons and as you walked through the central street of Dawnholme, the layout the Stonemasons had planned out made immediately sense. The street under which the main sewer goes leads straight to the town hall with its double door being exactly in the center of the street.
“Master Pelija.” You greeted the Master Mason.
“Prince Alric. We are finally finished.” Pelija said and gave you and Normand who had joined you a bow.
“Any issues? I didn’t want to bother you before, you know how it is, no one wants interruptions.” You said and asked.
“We are the Stonemason’s Guild, stone and masonry is what we work with the most. But with good strong lumber we can do a pretty good job.” Pelija said and smiled. “Shall we go in?”
“Please lead the way.”
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>>6412401
The town hall had been built right by the street. Large stone slabs made its foundation and the steps up to the large double door were flawless in quality. Walls were a mix of timber framing and bricks, with decorative paneling lining the windows, you had seen something similar in Stormwind City. It was four stories tall and had a cellar, large hall for meetings, offices, dining room and everything else a town hall would require. Some of the clerks that had been hired were already moving in papers and preparing the things for eventual use. And of course it had the clocktower that seemed to adorn every single town hall you had ever seen.
“Very good work, absolutely splendid.” You said to Pelija.
“Thank you Prince Alric.” He bowed again.
“What do you think?” You asked Normand who had still been annoyed about Ranvis.
“You get to finally unload all the paperwork to the clerks instead of giving it all to poor Taretha.” He replied and got you to laugh.
“And we can start collecting taxes.” You said to him. “But first we need to choose the Mayor, have the clerks get everything in order and that will probably take several weeks.”
Now was not the time to talk about those things though with Pelija standing there.
“Apologies, please let us continue.” You said to him and smiled.
…
Pelija and you did a whole tour through the town hall and then through Dawnholme. They had done great work at setting everything up with most of the houses that were still unfinished a couple weeks back being nearly ready. When VanCleef and the rest of the Stonemasons arrive, they most likely have places to stay immediately. You went through the number of arrivals from Underbelly and Pelija promised to make necessary changes and give the orders to start building new housing for them as well. They would be ready before the winter is here, no one needs to stay outside in some tents and brave the cold.
“Captain Cromwell.” You greeted him.
“Prince Alric.” He replied back.
Captain Austyn Cromwell stood outside the barracks watching the troops go through drills in the training yard. He was a soldier's soldier, a jaw that could apply for the membership of Stonemasons as it could cut stone, professional through and through. One of his many responsibilities were to train the men and by the look of it they were going through drills with…
“Nets?” You asked.
“Anti-orc measure.” Cromwell replied. “Taught by those who guarded the Internment Camps.”
“I see, good good. Though I am not sure how well they work if we face the Horde in a straight up fight.” You said to him.
“Prince Alric, do you believe that we will end up in a conflict with them?” He asked.
“No, but it is a chance that it will happen.” You replied.
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File: 07_knight.jpg (221.2 KB)
>>6412402
The troops training with the nets managed to catch one of the men swinging a broom like a mad man with a net. He got entangled and the footmen quickly jumped on the opportunity and brought the man down.
“Well done.” You said.
“Thank you.” Cromwell replied as the men prepared to switch positions.
>Tell Cromwell that there will be no conflict with the orcs. You are very sure about that, he just need to trust you.
>The troll Ranvis could be a good training opponent. Cromwell needs to go and ask him personally though.
>You need an actual orc to train the soldiers, you can acquire one to do the task for them.
>It will be the special weapons and warmachines that will win us the fight. Goblin rockets, Dark Iron made firearms.
>Other, write in
QM: Mechanisms and Stats and Socials Pastebins updated with the troop numbers etc, I need to do the Social updates next.
>>6411899
Good call! Totally forgot the Duskwood Spider Silk, the Duskwood Offerings have been added to the Mechanisms Pastebin. I probably forgot to save the edit back then. And no, Beric did not give estimations, but I would say that Trade Cogs are needed to move the oil from Strahnbrad Hills to Southshore to be truly effective at the trade and the Trade Carrack would lead into high single digits profit per season per ship.
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>>6412406
Some level of orc conflict or skirmishing seems pretty inevitable to me. If Thrall doesn't find a solution for supplies they will have to raid. Or just the problems of discipline in an orc army where some Warsongs, or redeemed camp orcs, might go out on their own. Eventually we'd have to fight the Blackrocks as well. I personally think it would be fun to get Astu back for a bit with his more or less honor debt to Alric.
>The troll Ranvis could be a good training opponent. Cromwell needs to go and ask him personally though.
Well I suppose its the only way our officers are going to improve outside of war. Plus theres a good chance of a conflict with the trolls. Ranvis is a forest troll and these are mountain trolls. A soldier might need to know a few phrases to demand surrender, or to know what the enemy is shouting. The Rovers would probably be good handlers besides.
>You need an actual orc to train the soldiers, you can acquire one to do the task for them.
I'm pretty sure hes our best bet to continue improving Alric's Martial in training since we can't invite any other powerhouses. Great prep for a rematch against Grom to have an orc to train with.
>It will be the special weapons and warmachines that will win us the fight. Goblin rockets, Dark Iron made firearms.
Yeah....As soon as we can afford them lol.
I suppose the gun wielding Stonemason mercs and we could get some dark iron rifles on them. But thats gonna be money.
20 wealth for the Foundry plus we need a Master Smith, but maybe Blacksteel or a Dark Iron would be willing. The next two levels of alchemist buildings we need will be 12 and 15, but we have the Master Alchemist.
Ah Medivh we didn't actually get to meet the Alchemist tho? We got interrupted by the spy.
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>>6412460
>Ah Medivh we didn't actually get to meet the Alchemist tho? We got interrupted by the spy.
Oh you met him right, he was just so unremarkable that he wasn't worth giving more than couple lines and a picture. Definitely not a case of QM actually forgetting that he exists for an update or two, no sir!
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>>6412406
Things to do:
-more Dark Iron Plate
-restore the Elven half-plate for Lady Malevus
-alchemist that now has legitimate work - a potential commission for gunpowder
-Develop Shoredon with a port
-trade or light military ships for the river
Nice that we have the knights.
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>>6412488
Lol, we'll leave it at that then. The only other major interaction I can think of would be talking to Raleigh about Radan becoming a Paladin before time goes too much further forward. We did tell Malevus we would handle it.
I'd suppose we won't be negotiating, or making war, with the trolls until spring. So we could probably hold off on weapons and armors until then? Or maybe start training a unit of rockets now
>>6412736
3 for more plate
If Melon gives us his masterpiece rate thats gonna be 10~ wealth, maybe we can get discounts lol.
12 for the alchemist hut
I figure if we get a ship they'll figure things out
10 for the river trade cog, 15 for an arrow cog, but thats not as bad as the -5 and -7 supply cost per season they bring.
Shits expensive
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>>6412738
Great point about the supply bottleneck, this means much for farming development and windmills, windmills everywhere.
Restoring the half-plate shouldn't require the service of a master blacksmith or the cost of the mastercrafted and enchanted armourset, but that is a point if we want our paladin queen to go out in style to the battlefield with us.
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>>6412745
I think it would make a very meaningful gift to Quel'thalas, which we might need to help win over Malevus's mother or to bury this whole troll and elf PR stunt Alric has in mind lol
Heres what I was thinking just going off the 43 wealth we have now, before taxes come in
Two windmills and a noble manor for 18 wealth, thats 6 Supply income and with that -1 we come out to 5 Supply income
10 wealth for the trade cog, and that'll bring supply income back down to 0. Hopefully however more efficient this makes the trade will more than cover it before long.
15 wealth left
8 for a manor 4 for herb hut in Sofera's Naze, thats +3 Supply income
3 wealth left.
Sell 1 supply for 1 wealth if the market rate is still good and we can start training a unit of rocket troops. Or sell 2 for 2 and buy a leathworker for Strahnbrad hills that brings in +1W and +1S. It wouldn't hurt to keep some in our pocket for an expense like Wiklish needing more funds for that next econ upgrade.
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>>6412406
THE TOWN HALL IS DONE ! No more towers of papers. The end of an age yes !
>The troll Ranvis could be a good training opponent. Cromwell needs to go and ask him personally though.
>Write-in
>Have the lessons and experience of the Gnoll Campaign be written down in new tactics for our army to learn from and be prepared even in future generations. I also want my soldiers to not forget about them.
>Write-in
>Captain Cromwell what you think of a symbol on the battlefield for the soldiers to see ? A grand banner, or a metal insignia of an Alteraci falcon brought around with a staff.
Let Cromwell keep going with its initiatives too. But this one should help a lot. Its also right here for us to use.
For aquire an orc.... maybe we could use a favor with Blackmoore if we don't want to pay. Or is the price affordable ? Astu would still do good for both our soldiers and us. Even if he needs to be at the camps. It might be another orc though. Alric could also spar with two we have yet to spar with, but that will need them free of their tasks for a little while. Talking about a certain knight having fun away and a certain dwarf champion. But there is going to be a knight we know from Durnholde here soon, and he really wants to gain honor and a place at Alric service. So we can spar with him maybe lol.
Warmachines, equipment etc... we need more money for that. All of it is incredibly useful really. But it costs. Perhaps making sure what was learned in our anti-gnoll campaign sticks in our army ? Could be of help. I also have another idea though admittely, this one might help us only a little.
>>6412738
The urge to demand larger and larger amounts of wealth from Blackmoore and Katrana is rising....
Ah also about war, we need Chieftain Ragis and his men bloodied next campaign.
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I think we should finally invest into some walls. The wording on it is a little vague. But basic defense against raids and possible benefit to security/intelligence/spyshit by being able to control and monitor who enters and leaves dawnholme to be worth the investment. Not to mention the idea that when we will actually need walls to defend ourselves in the long term. We have been largely just operating near dawnholme and that has given it some defense. But what about when we will start campaigning outside of dawnholme especeally when we join the alliance. Who will defend dawnholme then from a raid wouldnt want our precious little new town hall to be burned down. Remember they dont have to take over just do damage.
So i would suggest like 12 gold for basic walls and 10 more for fixing our supply issue. But thats just the basic idea before we get the full idea of our funds. Also we cant really go into ships until we fix our supply issue like damn that upkeep is crazy. -5 supply per season just on the most basic ship. I dont know what Medivh is thinking about these prices or we will be able to create way more supply in the future somehow. Talking about supply if i remember right when blackmoore was planning hes campaign the price of supply went up due to it. I think we should in general keep supply until such future changes.
Medivh will we need large supplies to do our own campaigns in the future or is that just covered by basic unit upkeep?
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>>6412881
No need for Supplies for campaigns unless I say so or you are planning on a trip to Northrend as you have a funny feeling in your head or something. The Wealth to Supplies exchange should return back to normal at some point during the autumn.
Supplies being the bottleneck is a planned feature. Alric has land and territories, but being self-sufficient requires more than that. It is a problem to be solved, or you just make so much Wealth that you buy all the Supplies you might ever need.
>1d10
>Best of three, taking the second roll
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The soldiers went for another go with someone else getting to play the part of being the angry orc with a broom. The first attempt to net him didn’t work, but the second did and the men ganged up on the poor bloke very quickly.
“Ask Ranvis to be the training opponent.” You said to Cromwell.
“The troll?” He asked.
“Yes, I am allowing him to stay here and he hasn’t caused any trouble.” You told him.
“Yet.” He said back to you.
“I don’t think he will. He has stayed with the refugees and has one of Captain Raethan’s men closeby.” You said to Cromwell and continued. “This training won’t be enough. We both know it.”
“You may be right Prince Alric.” Cromwell said to you. “The men are sceptical, allowing a troll to stay here?”
“I will be proven right, besides when have I let them down?” You asked and glanced at him. “I will have the season meeting in a few days, this time at the town hall. Everyone will be invited.”
“I have everything ready on my side, casualty lists, who is standing and so on.” He said.
“Good, very good. And while you train the men, don’t forget about the lessons learned against the gnolls. I don’t want my men to forget them.” You told him.
“Of course, will do Prince Alric.” He replied and nodded.
“If you excuse me, I have other important things to do.” You said.
…
You spend the rest of the day playing with Faelyn to give Tari some freetime. Having ordered one of the clerks to send the invites to those not in Dawnholme, you had quickly returned back home and had a splendid day with the little Lady.
Though you didn’t care for changing her loincloths, Tari got to do that.
“Are you still at it?” You asked Malevus as you lounged in your bed and watched her go through her own clothes and yours too.
“Everything needs to be tidy.” Your girlfriend said as she reorganised where her trousers go in the wardrobe.
“But you have done that at least twice already, just put them somewhere and come to bed.” You said and sighed. “I can massage your shoulders.”
“Just a minute.” She replied.
Malevus kept handling and moving her clothes and you could just shake your head as you made yourself comfortable and closed your eyes. If she wasn’t going to come into the bed soon, you would snap and extinguish the candles. Let her sort the clothes in the half-darkness.
“Alric, what is this?” She called you and you opened your eyes.
“Oh that, it's my old half-cloak. What about it?” You asked.
She was looking at this old light brown cloak that was just big enough to protect your shoulders.
“Why haven’t you used it?” She asked.
“It is too small, but I haven’t dared to give it away either.”
“Why?”
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>>6413148
“Maura made it for me, it has sentimental value.” You replied and watched as Malevus threw it over her shoulders. “It fits you. You can keep it.”
“I can’t…”
“You can, it is too small for me.”
“Fine…” She said and put it back into where she took it.
“Now. Bed, bed now!” You playfully ordered her.
“Fine… but you offered to massage my shoulders.” Malevus replied and gave you a faint smile.
Making room for her, she sat down in front of you and you started to massage her shoulders, then you noticed something about her.
“Have you painted your fingernails?” You asked.
“You finally noticed!” Malevus happily proclaimed. “Yes I did, black just like yours.”
“That is awfully sweet of you my love.” You said as you found a spot to rub that made her give our a content sigh. “But my nails are black not because I paint them.”
“Yeah, but I wanted us to share something small.” She said and shrugged.
“And I love you for that.” You said and kissed the nape of her neck.
Malevus giggled as your hands ventured down her back, maybe it was time to be a bit adventurous today.
…
>10
>3
Several days had passed since then and the day for the Autumn Season Meeting was here. The messages should have had enough time to reach everyone you wanted and they should be here today.
“How do I look?” You asked Malevus and Tari.
“Fine.” Malevus said.
“Acceptable.” Tari continued.
“That’s good.” You replied and made sure to check your chaperon was straight on your head. You had put on your black mage clothes for the day and Malevus had similarly dressed up, or in her case put on her armour. “Shall we go then?”
The walk through Dawnholme felt a bit different this time. The people greeted you as soldiers watched that nothing funny was going to happen. There was a feeling that today would be an important day with all the officers having arrived here and with your allies having arrived as well. Dark Irons of Garrick Blacksteel had set up their tents at the outskirts of the city, goblin labourers and technicians of Krix Wiklish were here as well. Even apparently Lady Imswit had arrived, you had sent her an invite just in case.
“Everyone is waiting for you Prince Alric.” Normand said to you as he stood at the stairs to the town hall.
“Well let’s go in then.” You replied.
The meeting hall had one large table arranged in the middle of it. Your officers, allies and guests were already sitting around it. Cromwell, Beckston, Radan, Gravis were to the left. Normand and Tari took their seats next to Beric who sat to the right and Malevus walked to join them. Rover Brothers, Pelija, Raethan were here as well next to Monica, Chief Ragis of Stonedon and Lady Edith Imswit who gave you a polite smile and a nod. Blacksteel and Wiklish took the two furthest seats before the three mages of Boyd, Williams and Martin.
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>>6413149
Normand hadn’t lied when he had said that everyone was already waiting for you and as you stepped in, they all stood up to greet you. Quickly you noticed that Lady Edith had given birth and looked as elegant as before, both Blacksteel and Wiklish gave you grins as they seemed more than content. Taking your seat at the head of the table, the others sat down as well.
“Thank you everyone for being here with such a short notice.” You said to them and continued. “Especially those who have come from some distance away.”
“Prince Alric, I had a feeling that I shouldn’t miss this meeting.” Lady Edith said to you.
“And neither should I.” A voice called out.
The air crackled with electricity in front of you and with a sharp crack a man wearing black clothes, long cloak with a hood stood in the middle of it. His face was concealed with an orange mask and goggles that hid his eyes. He threw a small half-burned and cracked scepter down on the table before pulling out another identical one.
Your officers immediately stood up and drew their swords as the man who had appeared raised his arms up.
“The truce is in play!” He shouted out.
>Lord Falconcrest, you are not that happy at all to see him here.
>The truce might be in play, but that doesn’t mean he can just teleport into this meeting.
>What is it? Make it quick and teleport away.
>Other, write in
Choose one:
>Let him speak
>Order him to be caught
>There is an opening, kill him
QM: Dynamic Entry! Choose if you allow him to speak or try something else with him. Roll was if everyone would arrive and if there were any surprises.
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>>6413150
>Other, write in
Why should I believe you honor the truce when you use magic to trespass
>Let him speak
He will surely have other magic bits like last time to warp around attacks, and then he could take a hostage from this gathering easily, until he can give his piece and teleport out. Don't make it any worse than it already is.
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>>6413150
>Lord Falconcrest, you are not that happy at all to see him here.
something to this effect to reclaim initiative:
"Last time we met, you set fire to Durnholde. Then again we met you attempted to kill your warlock kept prisoner. It was not long ago that one of your men invaded this humble town of Dawnholm to assassinate me.
"Speak then of the truce and what you will do to abide it."
>Let him speak
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I will let this vote go till tomorrow, Eurovision watch party (hell yeah) will take my time today.
In the meanwhile if you lot have the time, what do you think, why is Falconcrest here? I can say on timeline at this moment we are post the secretive meeting of Falconcrest and Beve.
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>>6413550
Well just the appearance will have an effect. Teleporting in sends a message that he, or his assassins, can go anywhere they like. They have skilled mages and the money to spend it on a performance like this. Doing it in public, during his town hall gathering of his most important people in what should be the most secure location in town.
Ofc FC also didn't send a lieutenant or assassin to handle it. Maybe because he doesn't have any that he trusts enough to do so, or because thats just how limited these tools are. Can he bring others or is it truly limited to only himself.
For Falconcrest this appearance is after he failed to kill the captured warlock that was then sent to Dalaran. It seems to be a shared duty between factions to make sure any captured agents are silenced. Perhaps that is a loss of face to his men and the factions, so a stunt like this will help recover some with his audacity.
As for whatever he intends to actually say? Dunno. Deliver a letter. Clarify that Alric isn't his faction's target. Imply that he knows about the assassination mission targeting Creedy. Try to make sure Alric doesn't step into Alterac proper, and the consequences of doing so, or the benefits of staying out. Offer a proposition in public that Alric would never take so its only real use if making others hesitant to get involved with him.
Make some kind of grand proclamation about the downfall of the Alliance so a lof of Syndicate toughs think hes cool.
Misdirection that Falconcrest is focused over here when his real focus is on Stromgarde where he is gathering men as reported by Leglace.
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Your right hand came up and within you the fire started to burn, the warmth spread into your hand and you could feel the tingling feeling deep within you. If needed you would burn him alive if he tried anything, but for now you would allow him to talk.
“Why should I believe you honour the truce, if you use your trinkets to trespass like this?” You said to him and your officers stopped. The non-combatants in the room had quickly left their chairs and moved away to give others some space. “Especially knowing what you have done before, Lord Falconcrest.”
“Because I am not here to cause a scene, but to act as a messenger.” Falconcrest said and shifted a little as the number of drawn swords around him must have made him a bit nervous.
“A messenger? Alright, what do you have for us to know?” You asked him.
“Prince Aliden is delighted to hear that the truce was accepted. The Syndicate won’t attack or operate against the Alliance for the duration of one year.” Falconcrest said very clearly. “And in return we expect that the Alliance won’t attack or operate against the Syndicate.”
Does Falconcrest know that the edict has been lifted? Is this just a guess from his part that the truce was accepted, how else would he know about it unless… he must have spoken with Beve! That must be it, is he part of Beve’s plan knowingly or is he just a tool she is using?
“The truce goes both ways and I intend to honour it.” You said back to him.
“As much as that would be a preferable situation, we both know you are lying.” Falconcrest replied.
“I am not lying to you.” You said. Well shit, he might know about Eligius and Pai.
“The good Prince here is lying as he intends to break the truce just weeks into it. I am very well aware of what your people are doing.” Falconcrest said to you. “And if they succeed, the truce is broken.”
Fuck, how does he know about Eligius and Pai? Falconcrest was supposed to have the responsibility in the east and you had learned from Kris Legace that Syndicate was moving people to Stromgarde. How did he know about the events in Alterac and about Creedy? He must have spies there or… Beve must have told something to him if he knew about the truce. Beve must have met with Eligius or at least learned about their mission somehow.
“Not denying it?” Falconcrest said.
>Keep denying it, don’t give Falconcrest anything. This is a matter of intel and subterfuge.
>If Falconcrest thinks that you aren’t going to save your little sister Alicia, he is awfully wrong about you.
>Does Falconcrest have any issues with your plan? Lord Creedy is his opponent, he would like to see him fall. Who is the one that benefits from it the most?
>So Beve must have met them, that is good news to you, because Eligius and Pai will succeed in their mission.
>Other, write in
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Oh my god this bastard....the Syndicate must have a ton of spies/informants still here with a safehouse if he managed to get inside here. Eitherway Beve must have agreed on this. Neither of the two of them want us taking Alicia.
Anyway i don't know what to do. Its not like we can give a counterorder to our suicide team. On one hand he is basically saying we will be considered the one breaking the truce if we do manage to get Alicia. Also the whole attempt its basically kind of revealed for subterfuge like this, even if we deny doubt will remain and start to spread. Doesn't help us. Maybe we shouldnt have tried to go for our little sister idk; at this point if he is acting like this him and Beve might help Creedy from the shadows. I would prefer us to not be considered a truce breaker. Its free ammo for our enemies.
Though i am kinda tempted to just burn the guy alive, even if he is acting like a messanger. I have an hard time consider him one.
I think we will do the meeting tommorow. No way we are doing it today Medivh lol. We are finding whatever Syndicate safehouse exist in Dawnholme for jump inside our own building with this level of precision.
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>>6414622
>Other, write in
Falconcrest. Your internal affairs are your own, don't try to pin them on me because it's convenient.
The warlock you failed to kill told me much. The deep divisions between the Syndicate factions are something that could only be settled in the shadows...Or perhaps if a truce with the Alliance was in place.
Whether you intend to use that truce or break it and blame me as a direct appeal to those that want revenge, I don't think the other factions would appreciate it at all. If the Truce broke, along with their plans, they would blame you as wanting the support of the hardliners at any cost. Just look at you now making a show of it.
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>>6414641
I wouldn't say Beve agreed on this, Beve has her own means of communicating with Alric by letters. Or what she would think of her husband Falconcrest putting himself in the middle of Alric's Townhall relying on a truce that has some technicalities lol.
Most importantly Beve always gives secret little hints from Alric's childhood to indicate its a message from her. If hes acting as a messenger where is it? Perhaps hes just a messenger for himself.
What he needs if anything to teleport in with his magic tools is up in the air, he left a fried one on the table we could take a look at. Maybe there is a magic circle on the underside of a chair, table, carpet, tiles etc. Maybe he has to have already visited. Or maybe he just needs a solid image of a place or person. Where was he when he popped in, who was he near.
Anyway back to his display. Hes not calling out any names, so hes either being considerate (lol), or he doesn't know who is involved beyond they obviously work for Alric.
He made a public display that something was going on somewhere which would break the truce.
So the only real play is to make use of this stage and his presence to turn it around on him. Who benefits from the Truce breaking and our side being the one to supposedly do so? Him and the hardliners. Which side is so fractured that knifing each other in the dark while they know the Alliance won't interfere is a great way to clean house? Theirs. Who would be in the most danger when the Syndicate is cleaning house during the truce? A rival faction leader, such as Falconcrest.
He made this a stage and a display to try and keep Alric from interfering. So use the stage against him.
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>>6414622
>>6414697
Supporting that we're aware of divisional conflict with a certain other lord, and whatever our sister is up to.
We're also aware of how the Syndicate has the Alteraci diaspora in Capital City under their thumb, and now he is bluffing here to manipulate the Alteraci Princedom too.
If anything happens from FC to Creedy, then that is Syndicate business that you will have to account for, just as it is Syndicate business to account for the assassination of Magistrate Maleb. Not the Princedom's.
>Falconcrest said very clearly. “And in return we expect that the Alliance won’t attack or operate against the Syndicate.”
"Falconcrest, when did you make a truce with the Alliance?"
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>8
“Lord Falconcrest, the internal affairs of the Syndicate are your own business, don't try to pin them on me because it's convenient for you.” You answered very matter of factly. “The warlock you failed to kill, told me that much… of the deep divisions between the Syndicate factions. Divisions which are something that could only be settled in the shadows...Or perhaps if a truce with the Alliance was in place, giving you one year to freely act without worrying about us outsiders.”
“The good Prince…” Falconcrest started to say, but you moved your arm to point more towards him and he quieted down.
“Whether you intend to use that truce or break it and blame me as a direct appeal to those that want revenge, I don't think the other factions would appreciate it at all. If the truce broke, along with their plans, they would blame you as who would benefit from breaking the truce the most? The one who goes and breaks it.” You said to him and continued. “But would your faction appreciate you doing some hard moves and breaking the truce? Oh most definitely, showing the other leaders that Lord Falconcrest is worth following instead of my brother or Lord Creedy.”
“And how does this look, Lord Falconcrest interrupting Prince Alric Perenolde in the middle of his important meeting. Making a display that something might happen somewhere that could break the truce. When the word spreads within the Syndicate, you are going to look pretty good.” You immediately continued with a more serious tone. “Especially with all the failures you have faced recently.”
Falconcrest was going to say something, but caught himself and regained his composure.
“You are really going to lie?” He said and continued. “Somehow I can respect that, but mark my words, they are not going to succeed. They won’t succeed.”
He raised his trinket scepter up and looked around.
“The Syndicate has no interest in breaking the truce, so when he does it, point your fingers at him.” Falconcrest said to them. “And to you Prince Alric… we shall meet another time.”
With a crack of lightning and a puff of purple smoke, Falconcrest disappeared and threw the papers on the table up in the air.
“Cromwell, alert the men. No one leaves Dawnholme, we will comb through the whole town. He can’t have teleported far!” You ordered.
“Understood, you heard him!” Cromwell replied.
Your officers immediately marched out of the room as you felt the warmth within you slowly recede. What a drag this was.
1/2
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>>6415163
“I am sorry for this interruption.” You apologised. “I will have to postpone the meeting with one day while the soldiers search and look out for him.”
“Prince Alric, who was the man?” Garrick Blacksteel asked.
“Lord Falconcrest, a leader in the Syndicate and a very powerful man.” You replied, not surprising that Dark Irons aren’t up to date with Syndicate business.
“What did he talk about breaking the truce? What truce?” Lady Edith asked you next as she took her seat.
“The Syndicated had asked for a truce by sending a letter to King Terenas. The Alliance agreed to it for one year.” You told her, that was something that you could say.
“But breaking it? What did he mean by that?” Lady Edith continued. She noticed that you didn’t answer her question.
>Continue lying. You are not going to break the truce. You are not in a position where it would make any sense, with all the rumours of orcs on the move.
>Syndicate is not the only people with spies. You have your own cloak and dagger business going on.
>They are holding a person who is very important. You are going to save them, but don’t reveal who it is.
>Princess Alicia Perenolde is being held by Lord Creedy. You are going to rescue her and that is what Falconcrest is meaning with the breaking of the truce.
>Other, write in.
QM: I have updated the Socials and Stats pastebin with some stuff. Nothing major.
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>>6415164
>Syndicate is not the only people with spies. You have your own cloak and dagger business going on.
>Princess Alicia Perenolde is being held by Lord Creedy. You are going to rescue her and that is what Falconcrest is meaning with the breaking of the truce.
Fuck falcondick, but I don't mind explaining shit to OUR people.
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>>6415172
Support
I'd say thats pretty reasonable. I think most people wanted to avoid making public statements about our intrigues and possible agents, but talking to a trusted vassal is another matter. Also Garrick Blacksteel as he does kind of have a special circumstance who needs to know intrigue is a real danger to the oil and anyone working it, plus trust, plus culturally I'm pretty sure Dark Irons as Dwarves take matters of kin and royal hostages damn seriously.
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Also if people hope to get more of his Clan here we will need more trust with him. A lot more since it would probably be a rebellion movement in trying to escape his Clan becoming slaves. I don't think those Clan Elders are ever going to be satisfied if the Katrana-bucks to start this entire operation wasn't enough lol.
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>>6415234
|You stood up and walked past the tables to where Terenas was sitting. He handed you the letter.
“I don't recognise the handwriting, it's been too long since I have read anything he has written.” You said to him immediately as you started to read.
The letter was short and immediately to the point. Aliden was willing to uphold his part of the truce if the Alliance kept theirs, but of course there was the catch.
“...the Syndicate is well aware of the Edict forbidding Prince Alric Perenolde from entering Alterac. The Syndicate expects the Alliance to uphold the Edict and to prevent the claimant from acting against the Syndicate in any shape or form.” You read aloud and looked at Terenas.|
From last Thread
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In fact we will be breaking the Truce lol
I am hopeful my writein will provide some support to point the finger at Falconcrest and Syndicate when Creedy dies or when the little sister is rescued. "They were just killing each other and trying to pin it on me." Its not too hard to believe I'd say.
If we want to get REALLY technical with it, the Alliance broke the truce by removing the Edict in secret, but its removal isn't public until next year and both sides do want time to get things in order.
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>>6415251
Well thats just messy considering the edict was lifted. Thats part of the syndicate expectation you should have just posted exerpt of what was agreed upon specifically not the initial demand.
We also got the somewhat excuse that the agents were sent before the treaty was signed and they were out of our reach afterwards.
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Rolled 5, 9, 9 = 23 (3d10)
>>6415779
So Falconcrest used some kind of short range tele item. Since Alric suspects hes been talking with Beve, he might be able to send his men towards Strahnbrad to catch him. He'd have to go there if he personally wants to stop Eligius and Pai.
Is there a Crit DC?
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Sitting down, you took off your glasses and looked at her.
“I am not the only one with spies and cloak and dagger business.” You said to Lady Edith and sighed. “I have to have my own people to both protect my family and myself. We both know the distance they are willing to go for after all.”
Lady Edith gave you a curious look.
“Hence they are worried that my people are going to muck up their plans.” You said to her and looked at everyone still present. “And my plan is to rescue my little sister.”
“Sister?” Monica asked. “You have a sister?”
“Little sister, Alicia Perenolde.” You said. “My father had a fling with a servant and she was born before Alterac fell. Since then she has been a political hostage under the thumb of Lord Creedy.”
You could see the gears turning inside Monica’s head after you told her that so you decided to explain it all.
“I learned about her existence earlier this year, before I left for Stormwind City. My people that I sent to rescue her were already in Alterac, well before any truce was agreed to.” You said. “I can’t let her stay there.”
“So you are going to rescue her?” Lady Edith asked you. “A girl you don’t know anything about?”
“I trust my source.” You replied, talking about Pai. “Taking her away from Lord Creedy should shake the balance within the Syndicate, taking her away from them would remove her as a playing piece in their game of chess. Taking her away from them would allow her to live a normal life, beyond being a hostage.”
“It is the right thing to do.” Malevus said.
“It is the right thing to do.” You said. “Lord Falconcrest here must have learned about my efforts and wanted to warn me. I have a feeling that rescuing her will ruin their plans, which to be honest is something I would like to see, but her safety is above everything else.”
“Your team, will they succeed?” Garrick Blacksteel asked.
“So that is where Eligius has gone….” Tari said aloud.
“Sorry, this has stayed amongst a very small circle.” You replied.
“Very small.” Normand said. “And truth to be told, I am not so sure about this mission of Eligius and others.”
“They will succeed, Eligius is more capable than people think he is.” You said to them. “But that is the case, that is the context why Lord Falconcrest was here and why he is accusing me of breaking the truce. Whatever it is about Alicia, or their plans, he doesn’t want us in the middle of them.”
“This Lord Falconcrest… is he planning on killing Lord Creedy?” Blacksteel asked you.
“If you were him, would you kill your biggest rival?” You asked, gambling on your slight Dark Iron knowledge.
“Yes and I would make others know that it was me.” He said after a pause.
“I think so too.” You said to the Dark Iron dwarf and then after a sigh slapped the desk. “Right, understandably everything I have told you is confidential at least till Alicia is here. Everything stays a secret.”
“You don’t have to tell me that.” Tari replied.
“Others?” You asked.
1/2
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>>6415915
“I don’t see a reason to talk.” Lady Edith said. “If those Syndicates get what they deserve, Durnholde will get their own revenge.”
“Then we are all on the same page.” You said and smiled.
…
>23, Success!
“That is not him.” You said and looked at a corpse in a bed. “Wrong height.”
The soldiers had found a dead man in one of the houses. Apparently he had rented the room for a night or two and he was with someone else.
“We found this.” Cromwell said and handed you a letter. “Stopped reading the moment I noticed it was for you.”
“What is this…” You mumbled and opened it. “Oh for fuck sake.”
It was from Falconcrest, he apologised for the corpse. It was apparently just some traveller coming into Dawnholme with whom he had decided to tag along. He wrote that he had to make that entrance as a public show of strength for Syndicate and for himself. Walking into Dawnholme would send a signal to everyone else.
Continuing in the letter, Falconcrest wrote how rescuing Alicia would be a foolish endeavour and would cause more problems to you than you could think of. Your team wouldn’t succeed and how everything would fall apart. But things were already in motion and the events of today were just a way to save face so to speak. Falconcrest knew that what was going to happen is going to happen. And then he wrote.
“The horses in the stables always liked the carrots you fed to them.”
The letter crumbled as you closed your fist.
“Prince Alric?” Cromwell asked.
“Nothing, nothing at all.” You replied while pinching the bridge of your nose.
…
“Did you find anything?” Normand asked.
“A corpse, some unlucky man Falconcrest tagged along with.” You replied as you returned back home. Malevus and Tari were there as well, rest of the guests had gone back to the places they would be staying in.
“And?” Normand continued.
>It was Beve, this was a message sent by Beve through Falconcrest.
>This all was just a warning of things to come. Syndicate won’t take it lightly of what we are trying to accomplish.
>You are stepping into plans Beve has going on. There is a danger that you are going to mess them up, you think that’s the message.
>Syndicate knows what Eligius and Pai are up to and you don’t like it at all.
>Other, write in
QM: The roll was if the letter was to be found.
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>>6415918
>You are stepping into plans Beve has going on. There is a danger that you are going to mess them up, you think that’s the message.
>Syndicate knows what Eligius and Pai are up to and you don’t like it at all.
If Creedy is going to use Team Alric's abduction/rescue of Alicia as a pretext for breaking the truce on the Syndicate side, then it might disrupt the balance of voices for or against actions in the Syndicate. It might lead to invasions or counter-infiltrations, which we are not yet prepared for.
Town walls are going to be needed soon.
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>>6415918
>You are stepping into plans Beve has going on. There is a danger that you are going to mess them up, you think that’s the message.
>Syndicate knows what Eligius and Pai are up to and you don’t like it at all.
Not to diminish them especially with so many duties but with access to teleportation magic that can go from Durnholde to Strahbrad, Beve's illusion magic, and the letter exchange they have set up I feel like they probably could have arranged an actual face to face sit down in private beforehand lol. Barring unknown limitations to their tele magic.
Would it really hurt them to just explain their plan ahead of time, Pai was in our jail for SEASONS. 'I'm going to slowly insert my loyal agents into all of Creedy's key operations during a Truce and buildup of Strahnbrad, then have Falconcrest kill his rival Creedy, putting A Lady Behind A Cloth in the perfect position to take over Strahnbrad while picking up the pieces and purging the rest.' Or something like that. Which then makes it easier for Alric to one day takeover Gallows Corner and then Strahnbrad.
If they can't make it work when Eligius and Pai succeed I guess their plan blows up. Oh well.
Though how hard would it be for FC to take the credit honestly? If Pai is under the Robe to keep her identity hidden in the attack, and Eligius blasts the Keep up as a powerful warlock it would look like a Syndicate hit. Claim responsibility, say he has too much ""honour"" to keep a child hostage and so he handed her off to Alric as a slight against Aliden whom he is feuding with. Maybe Alric could suggest that in a letter to Beve, but we certainly weren't going to have that kind of talk in public.
On the other hand to attempt a cleanup to let their plan work. Maybe Nalice could track down Eligius by sensing for the Bloodstone, or for Cyrus. Eye of Kilrog it up and other fancy magics. Maybe get that ride on dragonback adventure sooner than expected if Alric joined in lol.
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>>6415918
>>You are stepping into plans Beve has going on. There is a danger that you are going to mess them up, you think that’s the message.
>Syndicate knows what Eligius and Pai are up to and you don’t like it at all.
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“There was a letter.” You said to Normand. “From Beve.”
“Beve? What did she say?” He immediately asked.
“Syndicate knows what Eligius and Pai are up to.”
“I told you that it was a stupid plan.” Normand replied and you silenced him by raising your hand.
“I remember that, but they will succeed. “ You said. “Though I don’t like that they know about the mission.”
Maura came out of the kitchen with a tray of herbal tea prepared for you and you thanked your mother as you picked up a cup.
“If Beve knows about Eligius and Pai, that means she must have either met them or her underlings have met them. If Falconcrest knows what is going on, then Beve must have talked to him. But one thing I find curious is why didn't they stop them then?” You mused aloud. “I don’t think they are necessarily against rescuing Alicia or assassinating Creedy, but I fear that we are stepping into plans Beve has going on and there is a danger that we are going to mess them all up.”
“You think so?” Tari asked.
“I think that’s the message.” You replied and shook your head. “Doesn’t matter, whatever happens I have full trust on Eligius and Pai on succeeding in their mission of rescuing Alicia.”
“And Creedy?” Normand asked.
“If he is dead, then that is just a bonus to me.” You sighed and sipped the tea. “This is good tea.”
“Thank you dear.” Maura who had been listening replied. “But Alric, if Beve knows about all of this, why hasn’t she contacted you directly? I remember her liking you a lot when you were younger.”
“It is too dangerous for her to do so. She is Aliden’s sister and their spymaster after all.” You replied and sighed again. “So that is why we have to go through this cloak and dagger bullshit.”
“Language.” Maura reminded you.
“Sorry mother…” You could only sigh again which Malevus found funny. “Either way, right now we can’t do much, only wait for what is to come.”
“So how is Eligius supposed to succeed in the mission?” Tari asked.
“He is that good.” You said and tapped the side of your nose.
“Right right, more of that cloak and dagger stuff.” Tari said and now it was her turn to sigh.
“Yeah…”
Right now you could just wait, they would succeed. You were sure of that.
…
For the rest of the day you stayed at home. As much as you felt being outside and doing things, sometimes it was better to be the Prince and act like one, and have things delegated. Cromwell and others would handle the situation and see if Falconcrest could be caught.
But he wasn’t, there was no sight of him or anyone close to his description. The remnants of the broken trinket he had used had been looked at by Boyd and Williams and they couldn’t say much about it beyond that it seemed like a short range teleportation one. You visited Nalice earlier in the evening and she hadn’t noticed anything as she had been busy with her own studies.
It is what it is.
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>>6416292
This did give you some time to go through some papers and later in the day an idea did come to your mind. You have all these guests here now, maybe it would be worth visiting one. You had the time for maybe one before it would be too late in the evening.
Choose one:
>Chief Ragis of Stonedon
>Garrick Blacksteel and Krix Wiklish
>Lady Edith Imswit
>Monica Sengutz
>Skip till the actual meeting tomorrow
QM: You have time for only one.
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>>6416293
I can think of things I'd want with each of them so thats pretty rough.
>Lady Edith Imswit
I want progress on the diplomacy front. The Darrowmere Leauge. Lady Edith is probably the best candidate for a diplomat Alric could delegate to, shes sharp and shes a respected noblewoman bound to us.
Get Durnholde into the League. The rest shouldn't be too hard to get after that is done. I'd want her to go around to Hillsbrad and Southshore. As long as shes not in Durnholde when Thrall attacks, as long as she lives she can rally the Durnholde survivors later.
Buy a home in Southshore. Show her daughter what the duties of a noblewoman in charge of her house are. Let people officially recognize her new son and heir. Maybe let Gravis escort Edith around for company lol.
What it would take to get them in. They've seen all kinds of raids in the area. Orcs and Ogres on the move. Been the target of Syndicate operations and once the Truce is over what will happen. With changes to the Orc Camps budget Dalaran troops will be busy managing their own camp as a secu.
There will be more Orcs in the Durnholde Camp. Thats a LOT of food they will need, more tools and construction. A good opportunity.
Would we have to share our Wiklish gear technology, more Supplies in the Darrowmere League means more money and more soldiers. A similar deal with the Barovs would also mean a lot more supply for us since we are constantly being bottlenecked by it, plus all the benefits of a real Barov deal.
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Rolled 2 (1d2)
>>6416293
1:
>Garrick Blacksteel and Krix Wiklish
"hey so we just got this master alchemist and you know those muskets?"
2:
>Lady Edith Imswit
Alric sacrificed a territory claim to help her, so it's important
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>>6416903
What if we could see about getting Ragis and his son married to one of these sorceresses. Free mage unit as they become part of our kingdom military through our vassal officer? If we don't start coming up with some creative solutions we are never getting to hire all these mages. Once they see those Huge Tracts of Land I don't think they would refuse, unless shes holding out to try for Alric lol. Theres plenty others we haven't even met.
Alric starts ordering his officers to court mage women from the Underdark in latest bid to accumulate more military power, and mage bloodlines wouldn't be bad either.
They have lived nearby each other for a while unless the trolls migrated. Ask if he knew anything about them, or together with the information we got from Sylvanas we figure out the tribe.
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>>6416903
>>6416752
I kinda want to know his stance on the near trolls now that they are far more active than before. After the gifts they reacted more to us.
Beyond that if he thinks anything could be built or made for Stonedon at this time. Or Shoredon. Even a simple suggestion. Or if he thinks his people can live with Underbelly and Stonemasons folks.
Also we might bring him and his men with us next conflict, give them some experience for war.
In short i want to talk with one of our vassals. Thats about it, check on him.
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>>6417030
Fair enough. I figured the seasonal meeting itself counted as checking in on everyone if they have anything to say. If they want something built during the building phase. Though frankly besides normal buildings I don't have any good ideas for them. Nor do I have anything I would ask Ragis to do, hes not a diplomat or trader, just a solid warrior chieftain.
Since they've lived next to these trolls for however long, they would be the ones to feel it if the trolls wanted to actively raid and war. I'd imagine they would appreciate a peaceful solution. Before recent times they were all about keeping hidden and not being drawn into any conflicts. Getting his green troops into a fight with trolls sounds pretty rough.
As for bringing his men to war, we could have but it runs into the same problem. Risk of attacks when we take away the units being used for patrols, and if we are willing to accept that risk. Gravis? thought that our counterattack on the Ogres gave us enough room that we could have brought more, I think he made a good point, but that was his opinion against other officers.
Theres not really any getting around it. Having patrols or not, scout towers, or maybe have people raise Militia to replace those real units we take to war for a season. Getting more Leauge allies and supplies to help patrol our land to free up units elsewhere. More cavalry.
We haven't asked Wiklish to look into some kind of defensive inventions yet which might cover those areas. I don't think we would want to use goblin Landmines after that whole magic landmine incident lol, but maybe theres some others. Telescopes for the towers. An oil powered scout zeppelin. Funny little goblin machines. Flares. Flares set off by tripwire. Or the anti-magic gnoll wards our mages are working on.
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>9
>1
Your first vassal had chosen the barracks to be the place he would stay in. The bare stone and log walls being a lot more familiar than the nicer Stonemason build housing. While the soldiers escorting him stayed in the cellar where plenty of other beds were located, Chief Ragis of Stonedon was found upstairs where number of offices and bedrooms for officers could be found.
“My Prince.” The tall man greeted you.
“Chief Ragis, I hope it is not too late?” You greeted back and allowed him to straighten his back.
“It is not.” Ragis replied and waited for you to take a seat first.
Ragis was a tall bald man and his beard he had this time braided. The tunic and the trousers he wore had colourful embroidery on them that marked him as one of the few hillmen of Strahnbrad Hills. He looked fine, even if a bit out of place here in Dawnholme.
“How have things been in Stonedon?” You asked. “Has the town grown?”
“It has, new people have moved in, farms have been built and fields tended. Everything has… been changing.” Ragis replied.
“Any problems with the Dark Irons or the goblins?” You next asked.
“No, they have stayed at their worksite.” He replied. “But the locals, my people, they are whispering about them. Strange outsiders, dark skins and all. Goblins.”
“That is unfortunate, but also not surprising at all.” You said to him. “Is there anything we can do about it?”
Ragis seemed to think for a moment before shaking his head.
“I do not believe so. My people were isolationist till you brought us out into the wider world last year. Now they question if that was a mistake.” Ragis replied and continued. “While whispering under the light of their new lanterns.”
You had to sigh as it sounded just so familiar.
“Afraid of the new and changing, unless it directly benefits them…” You said.
“Aye, the time will tell what is to come.” Ragis said. “My Prince, they will defend their homes, but further away is now the question.”
“What do you mean?”
“The men grumbled when we patrolled as south as Tarren Mill, or as north as the oil rig. They are unenthusiastic about leaving their homes.” Ragis told you.
“If I were to call you and your men to join my army, would they come?” You asked.
“Not all.” He answered and seemed embarrassed at his failure.
“Don't be, the men always think of their homes and sooner than later they will realise the errors in their ways.” You replied.
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>>6417544
You continued to talk with Ragis. He told you that the number of men he could raise has grown and while the men are mostly green, they have been receiving armour and equipment handed down by your soldiers or Tarren Mill. You suggested that your men could drill with them and patrol more together to build up experience and trust, but things would have to be taken carefully. You also promised to talk with Garrick Blacksteel and maybe find a solution from their side as well to this lack of trust.
>Have the trolls been sighted? What does he think about the alcohol gifts?
>East over Darrowmere River seems clear? No strange tracks or anything else spotted over there?
>Ask Ragis to stay in Dawnholme a bit longer. It would benefit him to see Dawnholme more closely. Maybe he could learn something?
>The sudden appearance of Lord Falconcrest was rather unfortunate. What does he think of all that?
>Other, write in
QM: Terribly sorry for this wait. We are going to go through these few updates and then do a new thread with the meeting. The rolls were overall situation in Stonedon and if anything has happened.
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>>6417545
>Have the trolls been sighted? What does he think about the alcohol gifts?
It may be they, or a warlike faction within the tribe, framed 'gifts of friendship' as 'tribute' lol. Which could then frame the totems as demands for tribute among other things. It probably takes a lot of booze to get a tall regenerating troll drunk, they really want more.
>East over Darrowmere River seems clear? No strange tracks or anything else spotted over there?
>Ask Ragis to stay in Dawnholme a bit longer. It would benefit him to see Dawnholme more closely. Maybe he could learn something?
How else will he find a hot Underbelly sorceress wife for his son lol. Lots of nice Stonemason works around town. The Courtesans. Officers war stories of glory. The best places where Alteraci, Stonemason, and Underbelly folk interact. There are dark iron firelances on the market? If he brought one of those home to show the boys I bet they would be pretty excited about Dark Iron goods.
>The sudden appearance of Lord Falconcrest was rather unfortunate. What does he think of all that?
They were almost slaves to work a secret Syndicate plantation out east. On the one hand theres the truce, on the other an enemy got deep in and out with magic. The only way to counter magic is with magic, which sadly they don't have a cool druid grandpa or witches or a shaman spirit talker etc. in Stonedon. So maybe he actually will look into that sorceress wife?
>Other, write in
Smokem Hookah. Another fine Dark Iron good.
Also it sounds like just patrolling to Tarren Mill and back isn't going to make those men happy about a visit. They make cider there, they could probably get some cheap at the source. Or a rotation of patrols and escorts where one group is coming down to Dawnholme
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>>6417545
We desperately need to make more with what we got so..
-Strahnbrad Hills
Forest, Oil
-Hunting Lodge
-Farms
>What is the view of more development, a windmill like here in Dawnholm?
>Are the roads safe with those patrols?
>More livestock and getting a farming estate?
>Does Chief Ragis want to remain a village chief or become a mayor of a town?
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>>6417545
>Have the trolls been sighted? What does he think about the alcohol gifts?
>East over Darrowmere River seems clear? No strange tracks or anything else spotted over there?
>Ask Ragis to stay in Dawnholme a bit longer. It would benefit him to see Dawnholme more closely. Maybe he could learn something?
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Asking for one final set of rolls for tomorrow when I write the update, I have been just so stupidly busy with IRL stuff and work.
The rolls will be east of Darrowmere River and for an event in Shoredon.
>1d10
>Best of three, taking the second roll
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>>6418131
Are we ever going to get any fighting out of our allies and vassals? How long has Stonedon been a vassal now or Tarren Mill an ally? They have not fought with us enough to even leave Green veterancy, nor secure enough to leave their patrols. Our troops are the only ones bleeding here. Tarren Mill won't even properly patrol across our territory because we have no proper deal with the Barovs. We rolled for their pissy mood and the Stonedon soldiers are even less reliable.
I'll get those scout towers built for our regions, especially if that reduces our patrol manpower needs, but we can't build for theirs. So do we just have to send our own troops to patrol their land so we can actually benefit from their troops in war? Are we forced to undermine their patrols so we can call up their troops?
Could either of us make patrols out of militia or city guard?
Both Tarren Mill and Stonedon each have about 40 soldiers. 80 Veteran City Guard would cost us 8 Wealth and no supply income loss. When we go to war we send the boys out till we get back, and get to actually bring ally units to war that won't impact our peasant count to replenish.
If theres some other solutions give me a sign.
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“I know the patrols haven't spotted any trolls or their tracks on our side of the border, but I do need to ask you if your people have noticed anything?”
“Nothing my Prince.” He replied. “Things have been quiet.”
“Calm before the storm or has the alcohol worked?” You mused.
“Trolls… they might prefer this. Did they raid the hills in the past, yes they did. Taking people and ransacking their homes. But with more men, armoured men doing patrols, a smart leader would avoid a confrontation.” He said to you.
“Do you think if they see the alcohol as a gift or as a tribute?”
Ragis thought about what to say for a moment before he answered.
“If I had a neighbour who I am wary of and they start leaving me spirits, it wouldn't be a gift or a tribute. It would be a message, I see you and know that you are there.” He answered.
“Not a bad comparison. They know where we are and maybe as long as we don't cross the border, they don't cross it either?” You shrugged.
"You have the troll, I saw it.” Ragis said.
You decided to tell him about Ranvis and why he was here. Ragis clearly was disturbed by the idea of experiments on his regeneration, but he also wasn't happy Ranvis was here, even with the ideas you presented about.
“My Prince, do not bring him to Stonedon. My people, they wouldn't like it. Too many have lost someone to the trolls.” Ragis said.
“I will keep that in mind.” You replied back to him.
…
>6
>6
Ragis is someone with whom it is easy to talk to and talk with. He might be from a hilltribe and not exactly highly educated, but he carries that certain practical wisdom many others might be lacking. And due to that you didn't notice how late it already was.
“It is late, shall we walk and talk?” You asked him.
“Of course.” He said.
It was already dark outside. As the autumn arrived, days started to grow shorter. The bustling town of Dawnholme had grown quiet.
“Seen nothing over the river?” You asked.
“Nothing, no gnolls, no Syndicate.” Ragis replied.
“That is good. Clearing those woods seems to have worked. How about Shoredon?”
“Fishermen have found it.” Ragis said next. “I don't remember when they travelled this far upstream to fish.”
“Must be before the Second War?” You mused. Fishermen were a good sign, it meant Darrowmere River was considered safe till that point.
“Aye.”
You had arrived back to your home and you turned to look at your vassal one more time.
“Thank you for this talk, I should have visited you earlier when I had the time.” You said and offered him your hand to shake.
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>>6418967
“My Prince is busy, it is understandable.” Ragis replied and shook your hand.
“True, but it is still bad manners to not visit one's own vassal.” You said. “But till tomorrow, we shall have the meeting early in the morning.”
“Of course.” Ragis said and bowed.
Watching as the tall man made his way back towards the barracks, you took a deep breath. You should have visited him, but it had just slipped off your mind. He was your first vassal and hence he should be treasured. Either way, you now have something else in your mind, your girlfriend requires some hugs!
The Royal Foot Guard outside the front door greeted you as you stepped in and closed the door. The downstairs were quiet and no candles were lit, a problem you fixed by snapping your fingers and one of the candles suddenly brought light into the room, throwing shadows across the walls as the flame flickered.
There was a shadow that wasn't yours in the room. Someone stood up as the chair leg dragged on the floor. Whoever it was stopped and you didn't move either outside of your hand finding the hilt of your sword.
“Do you remember when I turned the flowers red, white and blue? How I turned them purple and burned them away?” A woman's voice spoke.
You forgot to breathe. It can't be. Was she truly here?
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File: Medivh.jpg (22.6 KB)
>>6418970
And that is a good spot to end this thread. 960~ replies and Page 9.
We have met quite interesting folk, haven't we? A lot ended up happening and even with me losing some of my steam at the end of the thread, we got where I wanted the thread to end. What a cliffhanger we ended up in!
And apologies for the patchy update schedule. I have been just stupidly busy with everything else. I will try to have the next thread up soon, but it might take a couple days for me to write it. The wait shouldn't be too long though.
This thread is archived. Thank you for playing and reading. And as always if you have any questions or comments about the Quest or the characters or for the QM, please go ahead and say or ask them. I will try to answer them as best as I can in this thread or in the next one.
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MedivhQM
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Prince Alric Stats: https://pastebin.com/rysxdRsv
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Side Character Stats: https://pastebin.com/aRfyksUG
>>6418548
Calling your vassals is a decision you have to make when the time is right. And no, Militias or City Guards can't patrol.
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>>6418973
Well I'm glad shes finally shown up, and in the manner I predicted.
Isn't now the time to hit up Hillsbrad and see if they would join the League? Tell their leader the Edict is gone, our town has surpassed Southshore, Orcs and Ogres on the move. Security, trade and technology, political unity against the Garithoses of the Kingdoms. What is it going to take. If not Alric send someone else like Lady Imswit.
Or a deal with the Barovs. Security for Tarren Mill. Control of Darrowmere tolls once the troll dam is gone, just being open will allow for ships to flow from Caer Darrow to the sea. Or use of the Wiklish gear for their tons of land, is it complex enough they can't reproduce it on their own. They want to make money, unless they have dirty jobs they need done instead.
When can we expect a report from Annabelle on Durnholde. Its entry into the League is useful for a very short window to help convince the other neighbors.
Are you going to put the Master Alchemist in the list of mages to hire?
Was the Eligius Fear Crit enough to get him to lvl 4 Fel? Or were there any other stat ups from his and Pai's experiences in the field.
Also still disappointed we never got to visit the Warlock shop in Strahnbrad with Eligius, not even window shopping. We gave them drugs they can use as money.
Is anything going to happen with the dwarves going after the gun forgery maker next thread
Do you have any ideas on the Fel Turnip and what Nalice will turn it into
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I have started on writing the new thread. It will come out either tomorrow or on Sunday.
>>6419292
I noticed that too, pure accident really. Ranvis I just decided on it as it rolled nicely on my tongue and Ragis by the way is a play from Regis, the second in command of Great Khans from Fallout New Vegas. The whole Stonedon storyline very heavily took inspiration from the quest in FNV where you decide what becomes of the Khans.
>>6419026
Annabel will report if necessary and the Master Alchemist Cinesra doesn't need to be hired, just the building requiring him needs to be build.
Eligius and Pai have not gotten any updates on their stats, at least not yet.
Dwarfs and the forgeries happens in the background. They are happy that you informed them about the fake guns. Fel turnip will be brought up later.
>>6418997
Alric is shaking the whole region around and Dawnholme is the biggest town. There's whole lot of interest to be had.
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