The party has been waiting for what seems to be an hour in the waiting room. The Sovereign of Caelhem should be here soon. Caelira Sterrelyn has not been in power for long. Just under a year ago, she inherited the position of her mother, who passed gracefully of old age. She didn’t get the position easily. Her younger brother laid claim on the title as well. By the will of the people, a vote took place. Caelira defeated her brother Remyra with a staggering 81% vote.
Remyra has been unfavourably looked at for a while. He tried to pass a law in Caelhem’s congress that would raise taxes mostly for the poorer classes. The rich nobility wouldn’t receive higher taxes however.
Caelira has been a morally just person. Whenever she wasn’t on duties as Guardian of Light, the title of first in line, she would help out people in need. Whether preparing food for the elderly, helping kids to read and write, or providing motivational speeches in town halls, she’s always been there for the people.
A cleric calls out to Jowlani, Laura and Zayden.
“All rise! The sovereign awaits your presence.”
The trio head towards the audience chamber door. A gong is softly struck and the doors are opened in front of them. They step into the room. In front of them they see a chair on the same ground level, engulfed in white and yellow drapes. It’s like wind is flowing through them. Though there is no breeze in the room at all.
“Where is the Sovereign? Is there another waiting room before it maybe?”
Jowlani’s hesitation is felt by Laura and Zayden as well.
Three more soft strikes hit the gong in the side of the room. The room around the party starts to turn around in circles. Slow but steady movements. Then going faster and faster and faster. Until everything around them is spinning at such a pace they’re getting dizzy and nauseous.
“Oh no, this is not good for Team Laura. Sovereign, please stop this. I’m starting to go soon. This is a nice place, would hate to ruin the floor like Jowlani always does.”
Suddenly all the spinning comes to a slow halt. After the party has come back to their senses, they can open their eyes enough to see a change. Someone is sitting in the chair in front of them.
“My humble apologies travellers. Normally I make my presence felt in a more.. delicate manner. To ensure all safety measures, my councillors have validated and checked you thoroughly. I’m happy to be informed that you are no threat in this instance. Allow me to introduce myself. I’m Caelira Sterrelyn, Sovereign of Light of Caelhem. Bestowed upon me also the role of prime minister of our beautiful nation Netralia. Please introduce yourself shortly. Names, origin and why you are here.”
“My name is Jowlani Sterwick. I’m from Faucon-Bas, Netralia. My hometown was the first to fall in this war. I want to reclaim my hometown and keep the people of our country safe. We should be able to co-exist better than whatever this war is supposed to be.”
“I’m Zayden Blankermann. I was born in Schenken, Altgrön as son of the current leaders of that country. Contrary to what they belief, I think a more progressive way of thinking is possible. Much better than what’s going on now. I will bring an end to this war, and live my life with Jowlani in peace.”
“My name is Laura Green, from the Isle of Woolley in Nu-Vernok. I came to study plants to help grow new crops and help with our food shortage. Famine has run hard in our country, and I hope to solve that. But for now, my friends here have my priority. We all want to end this pointless war.”
Caelira looks stern to see if the information provided is correct. She quickly is whispered by a cleric that the information is valid and checked.
“Thank you for your introduction. Let me inform you of the answer we have on your request. I’ve already heard the news. The national government is in favour of battling out this war, in a defensive nature. We will not tolerate to be overthrown by any foreign entity. As long as we can stand, we will. If needed, we will call on other allies to join us. For now, I entrust you three with the main task at hand. That is saving our country. The new headquarters and surrounding city will be built in the heart of our nation.
You will go there to support and oversee its’ progress. The heads of state will be informed by me that all first-hand decisions are run by you. You three will choose together on the best ways forward with every decision offered to you. Decide quickly and keep this beautiful country in one piece. We will meet again soon. May the guidance of light be with you, praise be the heaven and stars!”
The party are escorted back out of the shire by clerics. Once outside, a familiar voice greets them.
“Hey everyone, guess who’s back to protect the prodigy of hope for Altgrön?”
It’s Marques! He’s got a message in his hands, waiting to be read.
“I’ve come all this way per the instructions of L’Tesera. And I quote the letter. Zomerhoven is thriving well, as the local economy is in full preparation for the upcoming battle. Defences are bolstered and the city is heavily fortified. People like Adnap, Serena, Luke and Kelly have all aided the townspeople with production. From crops and herbs, to weapons and shields, to new wands and magical powers. As soon as we are finished, we will head to the designated location for the new headquarters. Troops will remain stationed in the city as primary defence. Volunteers from cities around the country will head to the new HQ to help build it.
Marques has been sent by me with a reason. Word on the street is that somebody’s already on the hunt for you. I currently have no idea who or what that may be. Though one thing is for certain. Anyone that can help protect you, is a protector of our nation. Marques will look out for you as you travel to the new headquarters. He will be your envoy and planning strategist. Should you ever find hard times to make a decision by yourself? Then allow Marques to take the lead, but also take the blame. Don’t worry further about it. He’s used to getting punished. Kind regards and I hope to see you soon.”
– L’Tesera
Another intense and difficult day almost comes to an end. It’s time to get some food, some drinks, and then finally some rest. The local tavern has already been paid upfront for any expenses made. Courtesy of the Sovereign of Light. Caelira must have had a good mood.
As the party enter the tavern and want to sit down for some well-deserved dinner, an individual approaches. They sit next to them without warning, wearing a hooded cloak.
“Hey, mister! What do you think you’re doing? We’re trying to eat here. This is Team Laura’s dinner, not your dinner. So unless you have anything to say, please get away from this table.”
Marques is already on guard, but Zayden nods to him. Zayden feels that this person means no harm. Marques keeps a hand on his weapon just in case.
“Oh, I’ve heard the word of possible assassins coming your way. I’m a merchant, so don’t worry. My two companions here are also from my kind. You see, we don’t come from here. But we do know the time of war. Just five years ago, on the continent across this big ocean, we had war. The history books will tell you that there is no continent across this ocean. It’s because we want to erase the bad parts of our history. It was a bloody war, a gruesome war. I expect that same style of war to happen around here. Unlike how it went over in Reltica, I want to see this end without all too much violence.”
“My name is Zayden. Nice to meet you. You could say that I’m on the opposing side of this war, but I’m not. I’m here with a good friend and my partner. We will fight to the very end. We don’t want bloodshed either. Especially not me going opposing my own parents in power. Though if necessary, I will raise my sword against them. My best friend on the right is Laura. On my left, my partner in all kinds of ways, Jowlani. You’ve come to sit here with a reason. Please inform me why you’re sharing the story and what you’re willing to do for us. And of course, it’s cost.”
The individual drops his hood. It looks human. Though something is off. The face starts to morph. Changing from human into something more… doglike… catlike?
“Sorry to disturb you, but I want to show you my true form. Trust is only gained by laying the cards open on the table. My name is Maverick. I’m a kobold from the continent of Reltica. I would like you to meet my associates as well, Chase and Sasha. In this war, intelligence will be a key part. We are researchers and investigators.
Chase is an excellent scout, ready to inform you of the enemy status faster than you can blink. Use his skills wisely and you will always have an advantage over the enemy. Don’t listen and witness your friends fall in battle.
Sasha is an excellent investigator when it comes to learning more about your allies. She is able to tell whether allies can be trusted or not. The slashing power of her axe might just axe one of your so-called allies in pieces.
And myself? I’m a researcher of wars in recent history. I know tactics and strategies by heart. I will be able to help you out with that. Furthermore, I’m a trained physician. I can help train volunteers to the basics of medicine. Less casualties means more fighting power. I know a challenge when I see one. I intend to win this war.
The cost of our… strength? Nothing until this war is over. When this is all said and done, we are looking to set up an academy here. Much like your University of Magic. Additionally, we would like to set up shop here. What better place to start an investigation agency than at the centre of a bustling nation like Netralia?
Let us help you out. Like I said, free of charge. I can understand any hesitation you might have. We will share all our personal documents that you can check out and validate. Run it by the Shire. We’ve worked with them for years, so they can vouch for us. Even the Sovereign. As she would say, this is your first critical decision. Think about it, convene, choose wisely, and we’ll see each other in the morning. Don’t worry, your dinner will still stay warm. I’ve told them to hold it off for a bit. Enjoy your meal, drinks and have a good night’s sleep.”
Maverick, Chase and Sasha walk out of the Tavern. Our party of four look still a bit confused. Though they know now that this first decision is critical. It’s one they have to decide on soon.
“Guys, I’m not so sure about this. Can we really trust somebody that is wearing a hooded cloak? You would think these documents are forged if they are handed over as easy as that. We should definitely let it be checked out by the Shire. One cleric told me that we can always run by him 24/7. Let’s send those documents out. Will you do that Marques?”
Zayden, Laura and Marques agree with this idea. Marques heads out after the party has finished their dinner.
Can the Shire shed light on the given documents by the kobolds?
Why is the war in Reltica not in Valkordia’s history books?
What will be the lead strategy in constructing the new headquarters?
I'm Amethyst, 30, and from the Netherlands. I've always had a passion for adventure in roleplaying games. Being able to immerse myself into these universes allowed me to escape the trauma's of my youth. Now I want to share my gaming passion with all of you!
