Legendary Exploits of Three Not Viking Brothers

Gisgo shrugs and says "How much you willing to pay me?" He takes a large bite out of a chicken drum and Leewan sees Detlef roll his eyes at this.

"If it's reach you want, you'll find no better partner than the bow," Gwain chimes in. "Some say the bow is the way of the coward. What say you, Lord Frey?"

"20 gold upfront and a minimum 20 more after completion, with more provided according to pertinence of information."

Gisgo chews for a couple of moments and finally swallows saying "Forty gold eh? I've worked for less. I'll work for you, Lord Griswald, assuming I get to eat food like this every so often. With that twenty gold to start I can even get myself a new sword while I'm here. I presume you'll keep me on a need to know basis with what you'll need from me?"

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Lord Frey looks over at Gwain and says "If I wanted to reach all the way across a field then sure. Though there's no honor in such a fight and on the front lines of a battle no chance to get the space to fire such a weapon."

Alwin leans forward and says to Gwain "If your looking for an easy kill you just throw a net over your opponent and stick him while he's on the ground. Like the legendary gladiator Postumius from the ancient Empire. Killed a hundred men that way."

"A creative fighting style for sure, but how do you think it would fare today against the liches?" Gwain muses with a glance towards Lord Frey.

Niels speaks up for his father and says "You'd struggle to stick them enough with a sword before they get out. The lesser Lich's may die to such a trick but most have infused themselves with such strength they'd simply toss the net off."

"But if they are truly so powerful, how could anyone stand against them? Surely there must be a way to defeat one of the great liches."

"Precisely. Now I must be away to handle other matters. We will have you join us as we leave tomorrow Gisgo."

Leewan makes towards the castle to finish up discussion over Gwain's service to the king. (With a handful of guards as usual).

Lord Frey takes his hand and pokes Gwain in the chest. He stares at Gwain after he does so causing him to become slightly unnerved and says "Only a weapon crafted of living glass that pierces their hearts can end their existence permanently."

He leans back into his seat and nods to Alwin who gets up from his seat and pulls an ornate box from atop the fireplace. He walks over and hands the box to Gwain and upon opening in sees a jagged and crude dagger whose blade is as black as obsidian but still perfectly clear.

"Before delivering a killing blow such blades are white and give off a slight glow. Once I drove that dagger into the hearts of the twin Lichs it turned dark and hasn't given off a light since." Lord Frey says in a serious tone.

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Leewan takes his leave of the mercenary and his family for the castle. On leaving Detlefs estate the sun is no longer visible over the buildings of the capital but some light is still seen in the sky. Eventually, Leewan reaches the castle gates and the pair of guards present stop his and one asks "What is your buisiness at the castle, sir?"

"If his majesty is no longer preoccupied with the evening meal it is my desire to speak with him briefly."

Leewan produces the envelope and letter.

"His majesty expressed interest in a short exchange on the services of my kin. In light of war preparations I would speak to him tonight so that my camp may return to Heretic's End tomorrow morning."

The guard asks Leewan to hold on a moment as one of them goes to ask if the King is available. A few minutes pass and it only gets darker as Leewan waits. Eventually, the guard returns and tells Leewan to follow him into the castle. Leewan passes up many of the same staircases in the castle as before when on his way to the war room except this time he finds himself going further up than before. After entering into a heavily decorated and rugged hallway and going all the way to its end The guard knocks on a large wooden door and it is opened by a pair of Kings Guard. Leewan realizes he has exited onto a balcony overlooking the capital city and the King can be seen standing at its railing speaking to the Guard Captain with the sun just descending over the horizon and plunging the world into darkness.

They both cease their conversation on Leewans arrival and the guard says "Lord Griswald, my liege." The guard then backs out and closes the door behind Leewan.

The King gives a grand gesture and says "Ah, Lord Griswald! What a pleasant surprise this late afternoon. My congratulations on your houses victory in the archery competition."

Gwain gazes in awe at the dagger before him. "So this is what it takes to kill a lich? How did your house come to acquire such an artifact? I can't imagine there are many of these weapons in existence."

Leewan gives the proper acknowledgements and respect in form of bowing. He rises and says:

"In spite of his wounds Gwain had doubled his effort to forge victory for himself."

While Gwain stares at the dagger Lord Frey responds to his question "The only ones who know how to make such weapons are the Adroysian priests. Who knows how many they have stored but this blade was given to my family before the battle by one such priest. Considering I've only ever seen two others and they all were already black like this one there can't be many."

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The King responds to Leewan "I did not know your brother was suffering from injuries. My sympathies and all the more congratulations to him for a hard fought victory. What is it you have come to speak to me about?"

"The domain of Griswald resides at the fringe of the nation. I am devising plans to return tomorrow morning to rally men and meet with the army in timely fashion. Thus I come tonight and ask for discussion on Gwain's participation in the King's Guard."

"A position of high honor in Acren. I had hoped to speak to Gwain tomorrow about the subject but I'm curious what it is you wish to ask. For a Griswald to come all this way to ask for discussion makes me question whether you think differently." He says as he reaches for a glass of wine nearby and takes a drink.

"It must have been an honor to wield one in battle then." Gwain's eyes linger on the blade for a few moments longer. "Has the new king called you to battle for his invasion? I image you have strong feelings on the matter."

Lord Frey takes the box from Gwain once he stops looking at it and closes it with a soft thud as the lid closes. He doesn't respond until he has returned the blade to atop the fireplace "I've never heard of one of these weapons larger than a dagger. Wielding one in battle would be suicide. You can only deliver a killing blow with one after dismembering a lich due to their ferocity and the size of the weapon."

He sits back down and says "My house has always sought to end the blight of our foes upon this land. When the King rides to battle, so do we."

"It's good to hear house Frey has not lost it's vigor. We Griswalds plan to make an early expedition into the blasted lands. Any information you could provide that might help us survive would be greatly appreciated. In return, upon our homecoming, your house would be the first to learn any new discoveries we might have made about the lichdoms on our journey."

Alwin blows smoke in Gwains direction and says "That depends on what you're looking for youngling. Don't eat the yellow snow is an obvious one." Gwain notices Niels smirk at Alwins comment about the snow but Lord Frey doesn't seem amused.

"The decision lies with your Majesty. I come to present a fuller picture of Gwain to avoid any undue shame from surprises. Gwain von Griswald owes a sum of 600 gold to Holzer's seneschal. This contract was a trap sprung on Gwain, the price for a single peasant wench. Gwain caused no small amount of grief in his younger years and I have since then resolved that the house of Griswald would not suffer for his indiscretions. To this end I am committed to disowning Gwain should he be unable to escape this coiling contract or pay its terms without Griswald funds. Of course, such a happening while Gwain is in service to you may mar the reputation of the King's Guard. Thus your Majesty, I have come this night to bring this information to you."

Gwain thinks for a moment about what questions he can ask without having Leewan's consent first. "The size of our expedition will be relatively small, yet we will still need to travel in the blasted lands for quite some time. Is it possible to travel there without being noticed while finding the necessary supplies for survival?"

The King turns to his Guard Captain "I'll default this one to your judgement. This is your domain but I will not have my name sullied by such an individual."

The Captain looks at Leewan and says "If he is liable to bring dishonour to the ranks of the Kings Guard, then we will not have him. However, he still did win the tournament and common reward for such an act is a place among the Kings Guard. It is potential just as damaging to not have him join as it is to do so. Would you be willing to give written consent of such predicament such that the Kings name would not be damaged Lord Griswald?"

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Lord Frey simply says "That would depend on the size of your expedition. A couple of individuals, certainly. A small army, not so much."

"That part is still to be decided as far as I know" answers Gwain. "The expedition could be between 5 and 500 men. So the question stands, to succeed in the blasted lands, does one blaze a path of violence, or blend in unseen?"

"How Gwain settles his debt and rivalry with that Adroysian fugitive is his burden to bear. As a third son Gwain can do no better than garnering the honor of serving at his majesty's side. However, house Griswald does not have the political capital to guarantee this matter with the foreigner not inflict shame on Gwain and the King's guard. Bluntly put, I recommend that if you wish to safely acquire Gwain that the crown waive his debt. At least denying a fugitive the right to sully the name of a tournament champion plays to the hearts of the nobles and common people alike."

The Guard Captain looks at the King who says "I'm sorry Lord Griswald, but I cannot in good heart spend royal funds on another mans debts. It pains to to do so, but your brother will not be allowed to join the Kings Guard. We simply cannot risk the dangers his... immaturity could pose."

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Niels speaks up for his father who contemplates Gwains question "I would advise against the middle number. A small group can move relatively unnoticed and unmolested aside from the occasional bandit and a large force will only attract the attention of other armies or small raiding groups. Anything less or more will attract the attention of all in the wasteland."

"There is no reason to apologize. We share the same mind on the subject. Goodnight and through Themi's guidance, achieve providence."

Leewan leaves and makes towards Friesler's estate.

"Then that leaves just one more question. As you might know, I have a penchant for attracting talented followers. It's not hard to see that Niels is a brilliant fighter, but untested by the trails of real conflict. If he is to be prepared for the war ahead, there would be no better way than to accompany me through the blasted lands. It would be an honor to partner with a noble of house Frey."

Niels makes to speak but Lord Frey raises his hand and says "No such thing will occur. My son will fight in this war but not on some expedition or at the behest of another Lord. He will fight for the honour and glory of House Frey as his grandsires did before him."

"As you wish Lord Frey. I meant no disrespect, I simply have enjoyed the company of your son and would have liked to travel together. If that's the case, I look forward to meeting you again when the king summons all his levies together . But before that time, let us enjoy the peace while we still have it."

For as long as he is invited tonight, Gwain stays with the Freys engaging in pleasant conversation. When the evening grows old, Gwain heads back with his guards to the estate. On the way, he asks Treachery what Gwain's Guard has been able to dig up on Bradford.

[9 on persuasion for Gwain's Guard, with 1 destiny point used]

Gwain spends the remainder of the evening talking to the Frey's and Alwin about topics such as hunting, sports, and general manly things. Gwain eventually bids them all ado and exits the estate to only Treachery who still waits at the gates. Gwain asks him what the others have found and relays the following:

In the short time Bradford has been working for Holzer he has built himself a substantial sphere of influence. Not only does Bradford own numerous brothels in several cities around Acren but he also has wormed his way into shipbuilding and lumber sales. Apparently, this all started around the same time Bradford joined the Acren Merchants Guild and shortly thereafter became Holzers seneschal. Not coincidentally, the amount of donations to the church and taxes to the crown have gone up since Bradfords came to his newfound position.

Gwain returns to find that Leewan has accepted Frieslers offer and relays his newfound information to his brothers. With the day coming to a close the brothers each take their leave and go onto the next day. Upon waking up, Leewan learns that Detlef had to leave the estate early this morning to see to a merchant ship of his that had returned that morning. A letter remains for Leewan wishing him safe returns and good luck in the days to come.

With that, all three brothers, Gisgo, and their retainers take their leave of the glistening capital. As their carriage leaves the guards bid the Griswalds goodbye and safe travels and outside the carriage the clanking of Gisgos horse can be heard alongside the occasional clicking of Guinaveres beak.

After the capitol is well behind them, Gwain turns his gaze from the rolling countryside on the other side of his window to his brothers. "The question still remains: what will be the scale of our expedition into the blasted lands?"

"We rally the men, we set out, we make war."

"But the question is how many men? I know better than to question your judgement, but we need to save as many of our forces as we can for the real war, just on the horizon. Since our mission is just to retrieve the crown, wouldn't a less conspicuous strategy be more shrewd?"

"Perhaps Gwain is right. A small force of good men would be able to move much more rapidly through the Blasted Lands. Perhaps me, Gwain, Gisgo, and a few of Gwain's Guard would be all that were necessary."

"Certainly."

"But given that the call to arms is just two weeks from now, there's no way we will be able to complete the task before the army sets out to march. We will have to wait until the bulk of the king's army pushes forward before we can make off with the mission."

"Perhaps we can move while the main forces of both sides are involved in a battle. Although I would prefer not to miss the honor of the front lines, I believe finding the lost crown will bring glory enough."

"Adequate suggestions. Proceed with your plans."

With their minor discussion of events coming up finished the brothers settle in for the week-long trip back to Heretics End. For much of the trip back, the weather is cloudy and dreary but the Griswald family rides this trip out in relative comfort to the rest of their retainers and personal. Stopping only for food, rest, and when the weather makes the roads untravelable by the carriage.

Eventually, the air starts to become thinner as the elevation increases and the misty peaks of the mountains that house Heretics End come into sight after what feels like forever. A few hours later and the guards at the watchtower overlooking the road to town can be seen raising a colourful Griswald house flag to signal to the main castle your arrival. Once in town, the brothers remove themselves from the carriage as one of Leewans guards assures the man he will receive payment later that day. This leaves the brothers with the chance to do whatever they so choose.

After washing off his travel dust and quenching his thirst, Robillard will ride down to see if Cardinal Schiller is available. Unlike last time, he rides down on Guinevere, and he has eschewed his usual monklike robes for full noble regalia.

Gwain thinks longingly back to his last homecoming when he indulged for days in the many brothels below Heretic's End. In lieu of such activities, Gwain spends his time refreshing his technique with the blade, practicing archery, and taking long walks along the coast while he ponders how his life led him here. More then a few times, he wonders what cruel fate has befallen Emily and how he might liberate her from Bradford's clutches.

Leewan accompanies Robillard on way to Schiller.

Gwain makes his way down to the port and then walks along the beaches to contemplate his life's troubles. The townsfolk he walks past greet him and ask how the capital was and Gwain gives a barely any notice to them and only the occasional response. While Gwain walks along the beach he eventually hears footsteps walking towards him and turns to see Treachery with a cloak to block the wind hanging off his shoulders and hands in pockets to keep them warm.

Treachery stops a full fifteen feet from Gwain and says "So what now, Gwain Von Griswald? Are we to march to war like lambs to the slaughter or are we to set our own course?"

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Robillard and Leewan ride towards the staple where Cardinal Schiller resides with guards in tow. As they approach the gong of the bell goes out and a number of villagers can be seen walking in and out of the site of worship. As they dismount their beasts Cardinal Schiller can be seen walking out from the main door in his full church regalia.

He speaks as he descends from the stairs leading to the door "Lord Griswald, how good to see you've made a safe return. I trust everything went well?"

Gwain casts his gaze towards the sea and waits for a silence in the wind. "I've always let the members of the guard choose their own path and it has been a sincere honor to keep finding myself at the head of that path. I know the days have passed since life was as simple as liberating the people and rescuing princesses. Some of us might find it harder to keep staying the course, but I have faith that we can make Acren a better place if we work together. Something sinister lurks within the church of Themis, our king has blood on his hands, liches are knocking at our country's door, and Bradford lives like royalty."

Gwain turns tenderly towards Treachery, his childhood friend and lifelong companion. "If you embark on this journey with me, you, and everyone else in the guard will be putting their lives on the line. That's a decision that no one can make for you. But know that this isn't just a decision about whether to string your bow in a foreign land. This is about restoring order to a faith that has lost its way. This is about defending the livelihood of all the families we helped on our journey to Fraseto. There has never been a greater opportunity to change the course of history. I hope that you will be there to change it with me. Bards will sing tales of how Gwain's Guard serving under House Griswald brought the lichdom to it's knees and restored the crown of Acren to its rightful honor. But only if you choose to join me."

Treachery shrugs and says "You already know what my answer is. My concern is that we fight a hopeless battle and for the wrong reasons. How are we any better than our foes if we slaughter their citizens like they do ours?"

"Leewan certainly has his... ways, very few of which I agree with. Despite that, we can do everything in our power not to increase the senseless murder caused by our own hands. From what I understand, the liches command unnatural abominations. If it suits us, we can target these over fellow humans."

"As for the battle being fought for the wrong reasons, each man fights with their own purpose. My purpose is to defend our country. And if it is a hopeless battle, then I would rather die with honor on the field of battle than begging for mercy on the chopping block."

"The castle no longer accepts priests. As is tradition, wandering priests will be sustained by the monastery. Should you, or perhaps another group wish otherwise there is explaining to be done, Cardinal Schiller."

Schiller gives Leewan a questioning look and speaks as he continues to walk down the stairs "I have abided by your demands Lord Griswald and none of my priests who only sought to aid in healing those who suffered injuries at the hands of the bandits you let roam the mountains and religious guidance to those who needed it."

He stops in front of Leewan and Robillard by about five feet "I haven't any notion as to why you would be coming to me now before seeing your loving wife and son about such a matter. I may have my disagreements with your decree but we learn best from our mistakes."

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Treachery simply responds "If it's all the same to you, I think I'd rather keep my head than die in a tundra. I have no loyalties to Acren or house Griswald, I only serve what is right."

"A proper lord does not indulge himself in family and feasting when there are dangers that must be kept at bay. It is good of you to inform me that there are bandits to be dealt with. If we let them fester and go as they please they'll soon think that Heretic's end is open for plundering. Like rats, they would flock to the darker floors of my family's home and search for old artifacts. Rest easy Schiller, I will send out hunting squads to scour the lands like a hawk for the next several days before we depart. They shall rend these brigands from the Griswald holdings like talons tearing into fresh prey."