Merik Roak

Merik nodded to the lively man and started off towards the town while the others were getting set. Looking forward towards the sound of battle the lizard stopped and looked back at all of them for a moment. Most had seen combat before few had seen him during combat. The prince and the others where always talking about something called morale and how it effects those that they fight with.

Merik drew his full blade. The sword as tall if not taller than most of the others that stood preparing for a fight nearby. The blade gleamed in the sunlight the prince’s symbol cast into the guard of the mighty blade. He held it straight out from him, the tip touching a tree. With a fast mighty swing he cleaved the tree in two showing the men his strength. Holding the sword up to him to inspect the blade Merik smiled. “Merik is ready.”

It wasn’t long after that Ruduf called for the advance, Merik rested the heavy blade on his shoulder and continued slightly ahead of the column just in case they ran into enemy forces that may be attempting to encircle the town. He was able to keep pace just fine even with the heavy armor and sword but he could still hear the others behind him talking. The prince and the others were charging ahead with others charging ahead of them. “Merik will keep moving towards the town, Merik will save the humans. Don’t you want to save humans Ruduf?” the lizard laughed while he kept moving. Laughing was a strange thing for him as it was something he learned from watching others.

Rudolph watched as Merik drew his large blade, and show off by cutting a tree down with a single strike, “Merik is ready.” said the lizardman with a grin etched on his face, but Rudolph simply rolled his eyes.
At least hes on our side. he thought.
He then noticed the Prince lead his party onward. Rudolph signalled the troop to start moving in a hurried pace to keep up.

After nearly 10 minutes had past since they'd left the camp, the Prince and his unit broke from the column and charged down an alternate road. Rudolph noticed that some civilains were caught off guard by a pack of mounted goblins. Bastard creatures! he thought to himself spitting to his side in disgust.
A soldier spoke up about the situation, "Sir! *huff Huff* Should we send a unit to assist the prince? *Huff* Or keep on to the city?", shortly after, he then heard Merik speak, “Merik will keep moving towards the town, Merik will save the humans. Don’t you want to save humans Ruduf?”. Rudolph hesitated before he answered, "Alright, we'll keep going. The Prince and his retinue will be more than capable. Theres plenty of fighting to be had yet anyway." he said focusing on the journey.

After another couple of minutes, the troop were nearing the end of the forest road.
"Halt!" Rudolph ordered, and the troops stopped immediately, slowly regathering themselves. The city was sitting before them, and the walls were obviously abuzz with activity. The loud boom of cannon fire coming from the western side of the city's defences, the power of each shot could be felt underfoot.
There was still some more road to travel yet. "We'll wait for the Prince to catch up before we carry on." he said leaning on his halberd for a moment.

The sound of battle could be heard from where they stood. They could just see that the orcs had already begun to attack the walls. "The party is still on at least." he muttered to himself as he watched his home face the tide of orcs.

Balthazar watched as two scouts went on ahead. They could handle themselves. In the meantime, the warlock had decided that his best option was to ride with the prince in the vanguard-- not because he planned to fight in the thick of it (though that would likely naturally occur as a result of doing so), but because the faster the army could link up with the city's defenders, the better. While he still very much able to fight in a battle like that if he had to, he knew that the fight to come would be won with attrition, and not a great melee.

And so, he walked towards his horse, a black courser that was both swift and valiant. It was not bred for war, but it would not flee at the sound of swords clashing or cannons firing, which was all a rider could ask for. Strapping the weighted cane to one of the saddlebags, the man followed behind Prince Leonidas and his squad at a decent pace-- he would need a hand on the reins for this. They would be seeing combat soon, and he needed focus and stability to cast his spells. He half-considered simply letting the cavalry fight, but Mana was muscle like any other, and the failure to use it meant that it would wither away and weaken eventually; something he could not allow.

It was only a matter of time until they met the enemy, and so they did. Fifteen Goblin Wolfriders harassing a caravan on the road. These were an interesting variant on cavalry; unlike horses, these wolves were often bred to fight alongside their masters. Even if the rider was dead, the mount could continue to wreak havoc. Although a single wolf would not be able to do much on their own, such beasts often hunt in packs, and in conjunction with their masters. Much like goblins, these wolves are much dangerous in greater numbers.

...but even in numbers, a weakling is a weakling still.

The warlock tugged on the reins on his horse to curtail its acceleration, before breaking off to the side. He would let the prince, his retainers, and the other cavalry take the front while he flanked the goblins. He muttered a short incantation, causing the grimoire chained to his side to float upwards to chest-level. Guided by an unseen force, the tome opened up and flipped to one of the spellbook's earlier pages. At this point, Balthazar could recite this spell by memory alone, but if he wanted to cast it quickly, he'd need a reference.

And that was something this grimoire could provide.

He touched the page with his free hand, creating a dark magic circle in the air in front of him. The warlock uttered the spell's incantation, gesticulating with that same hand. When the spell was ready, he loosed it with a grunt. With a flick of his finger, he fired off a ray of inky black energy centered at the heart of one of the Goblins. The dark magic pierced through the creature's chest with impunity, causing the being to collapse nearly instantaneously.

But he was not done yet.

With that same spell, the man focused the ray into a single, piercing point, before flicking his hand in the direction of an adjacent Goblin Wolfrider. This caused the magic circle in the air to change its orientation somewhat, which in turn caused the beam to cut through the wolf's throat. Now dead, the beast stopped moving, which would fling his rider forward, were he not saddled. Instead, the mount tumbled through the air, crushing its master under the weight of its body. That one would not be an issue any longer.

The spell now complete, Balthazar clasped his hands together, causing the tome in front of him to rapidly flip to a new page, this one an entry on curses. He stared at the Wolfrider he presumed to be the leader-- one that was dressed in the armor made of human and animal bones and was riding atop the largest of the wolves. The warlock uttered a dark incantation with malicious intent, and then suddenly, the Goblin leader's movements seemed to be much more sluggish, as if he were moving underwater.

The warlock did not kill this one-- not directly. He simply waited for someone else to follow up on his spell. With the leader's movements slowed, slaying him would not be a particularly difficult task.

Acrius couldn't stop the grin from spreading on his face. The familiar odour of battle hit his nose. "Just like home." He muttered, gripping the reigns and dashing ahead of the prince as he ordered the charge. He met one of the wolf riders in a head on clash. The force Acrius exerted stunned the goblin and pushed him off his mount. Acrius stopped his horse and turned for another charge. The defenseless rider didn't see what hit him as Acrius' longsword sliced through his neck; the decapitated head spiraled in the air, dousing Acrius and nearby combatants in the goblin's filthy blood.

The distraught mount growled at Acrius. The boy felt pity for the poor thing having to serve a master like that. This was war, however. He dismounted, charging at the wolf. It bared its fangs and lunged at him. Acrius deftly dodged the wolf whilst counter-attacking. The mount had basically charged itself into his blade. It soon fell limp on the floor, dead.

Acrius closed his eyes and took it all in. That week of marching felt like a month for the boy, so this was a small, yet needed reprieve. He spotted Balthazar casting spells, causing a chill to run through his spine. Balthazar's spell always managed to creep him out. It was one reason why he didn't push his buttons too far. That, and he is a menace with that cane. Soon, his omnipresent grin somehow grew wider as he spotted what seemed to be the leader of the goblins. He mounted his horse again. Enough of the small fries, the leader's head is mine.

Acrius raised a brow as he observed Balthazar cast a spell on him. The goblin's supposed leader now moved slowly, as if under a haze. He frowned slightly; it wasn't going to be much of a fair fight. As such he charged over to the goblin leader's locations and promptly dismounted. With a taunting grin Acrius pointed at the Goblin leader, turned his palm upwards and motioned at the leader to come at him. He wanted to meet the leader's mounted charge as he felt that the hex attenuated the challenge.

"This much should be enough for you, right, O' Goblin Leader?" Acrius said aloud, the distance between both combatants quite large. The Goblin Leader let out an enraged roar and came barreling towards him. Of course, Acrius had something resembling a plan. He'd be dead long ago if he didn't have a good sense of tactics in his foolhardy head. Though, what he was about to do was more insane than tactical.

Acrius believed that, from the Goblin leader's weapon and mount, the only comfortable strike it could do would be a horizontal strike. He planted his longsword into the dirt as the Goblin leader approached. He would do something many would call 'idiotic' or 'irresponsible'. It wasn't something Siegfried would approve of, that's for sure. His feet thud across the muddy dirt floor as he sprinted directly towards the charge of the Goblin leader. His weapon was raised horizontally; just like the boy predicted.

Acrius, using the forward momentum of his sprint, jumped upwards. The goblins' blade nicked his sabaton as he dodged the intended killing stroke. With his open, free hand he grabbed the goblin's face during the jump, forcibly dismounting him off the wolf. The orange-eyed boy slammed the goblin hard into the muddied ground as he landed. With the Goblin leader momentarily stunned, he turned his attention to the wolf who had now turned around. It growled menacingly as it charged at the boy in a desperate bid to save its rider. The short sword slid out of it's sheathe as Acrius turned around and sliced through the wolf.

The wolf whimpered helplessly as it flop to the ground; blood soaked into its matted fur. Acrius sprung up quickly and faced the Goblin leader, who seemed to have snapped out of his daze. His eyes traveled to the dying wolf and then to the swordsman. Rage in the form of shrieks filled the air. After another brief moment, the two swords clashed. The familiar clanging of steel resounded through the battlefield.

The orange-eyed lad was holding back; the hex that Balthazar cast on the Goblin leader still took effect. Its movements were also erratic, clearly enraged at his mount dying. Each and every slowed or enraged movement was deftly blocked or deflected. It was apparent that the fight had become rather anticlimactic. With a disappointed sigh, he deflected the goblin's sword away and thrust into his neck in one stroke. The noises that came out of the Goblin leader's mouth were garbled and nonsensical. However, its eyes bore into Acrius, as if to curse him. The eyes soon became clouded as the Goblin leader breathed his last.

Acrius wiped the blood off his short-sword. He soon retrieved his two-handed longsword and looked around the battlefield; the fight still roared around him. He trod up to his mount again. If he was lucky he may be able to kill one more goblin. He hoped, at least.

"I'm sorry, I didn't know the Prince would be sending anyone ahead, Are his forces almost here? What can we do for you?"

Zatana merely gave a direct nod to the talking soldier, her eyes sharp as she studied the streets crowded with more fights. Well, that was excellent. "Which way is the Westgate?" As the guard began to explain then simply pointed, the cloaked woman twisted in the saddle to give Faira a sharp hiss of annoyance at the situation. "Horses can get to our destination quickly, but this crowd will risk someone getting hurt and us slowing our pace. I can go over the rooftops faster, return here and you can get parcel back." It was hardly a question of if she could do it. To Zatana it was simple. She had been given a task and her goal was to see that task done one way or the other. Between the two of them, Faira was faster on open ground and she would be faster on the rooftops.

Jerking her feet out of the stirrups, Zatana tossed the reins to Faira and stood on the mare's back. The horse shifted for a second then stood still, it was not the first time she had been used as a perch for the dark elf to reach something and it was doubtful it would be the last time. Though her nearness to Steak made the sour tempered mare think about perhaps taking a sharp nip at the other horse for the indignities she suffered. "Keep my horse here, if you would? And be warned, she has a foul temper." With those words Zatana boosted herself up onto a balcony as if the plan was already agreed upon. It hadn't been and if Faira found annoyance with it as Zatana moved to swing up onto the roof, the dark elf was already gaining her rhythm of roof walking. To anyone watching it would look utterly odd in the crab like gait to scurry across the rooftops. Tuning out the chatter from the streets below, Zatana jump the small gaps heading west. It took some concentration and she had little worry about being seen. In fact, she paused for a minute in a nook out of sight of Faira or anyone else and recited the spell she knew by heart. Shadows spun about her, making her harder to see. Just another bit of soot or shadow from a bird crossing the rooftops. It was a minor precaution. Just in case someone got the idea to shoot at the odd woman hopping roofs.

Spying one of the five-foot gaps, Zatana swung herself up onto the peak of the roof and thanked the luck that guided her whoever built it had not liked the studded iron wrought tops. Picking up speed, she sprung from the end that overlooked the street and landed heavily on the lower balcony of the building across the way. A minor issue those streets, she thought with annoyance as she flipped up onto the roof and continued on her way. A few more streets and a few gaps, Zatana was starting to think that all cities ought to just have their roofs be flat. The high roads were so much easier to take that way when you were in a hurry! Seeing the gate nearly before her, she slowed and kept an eye out for any beggar hovering near their pick up spot. Careful to plot her decent to the ground from an alley and to dispell the shadowy magic.

"As do I," Faira said, taking the rein, and watching as her masked comrade vaulted up to a rooftop. "Gods' blood, she wasn't kidding."

While Zatana was making her way to the meeting place, Faira dismounted, so that she stood between the two horses. When Zatana's unnamed steed made to bite her, Faira, without looking at it, kicked the horse in the shin. It was a light tap, not to hurt the beast, but just to distract it. And distracted it was, the horse started and looked at Faira in some confusion, then settled down, though still watched her from the corner of her eye.

"Hold," Faira said, handing the guard both reins and ignoring him as the mare tried to snap at him, while Steak moved behind him to get away from the more aggressive horse.

While this was happening, Faira began to undo straps on her armor(further distracting the guard). She loosened several around her biceps, thig, and calves. She redid the straps, and tested the new configuration by stretching.

Ready now, she looked to the rooftops for Zatana's return.

Co-GM IC:

The rooftops provide for an excellent way to maneuver around the city, and its use now allows for rapid movement, compared to the streets. The light of the sun shines down on the city as the battle rages all around. Most citizens and townspeople have been moved to the city's keep for safety, the streets now used by soldiers and militia to move supplies to the front quickly. Still, the odd peasant, merchant, or child lingers around, gathering their things as they prepare to move.

It doesn't take long for Zatana to reach the West Gate, though, by the end of it, she's gotten quite the workout. Speed for energy, and all of that. True to Balthazar's words, the gatehouse is mostly occupied by soldiers and the occasional straggler. She spots a lone beggar near one of the alleyways next to the Gate. The decrepit-looking man is dressed in a raggedy cloak and scraps of cloth, the pewter bowl in front of him likely his greatest possession. Is this Balthazar's man? You don't see any other beggars around here. As you walk up to ask, he looks up at you.

"Spare some change, good miss?"

@LadyRunic

Were these people simply foolish? Zatana watched as a small family slowly gathering their things, to the dark elf's eye it appeared as though they had no understanding of the danger that was coming. Were they so foolishly sure in their gate against a horde of creatures that would carve them to pieces? Turning away from the scene, Zatana continued to scan the small open space. If all went well the orcs and goblins would be routed or slain one and all. Which meant she needed the package she had been sent for, and to get back over the rooftops to Faira. Seeing one beggar more on his own, she approached the pewter bowl.

A contact would remain in position until the last moment. Their duty was thus and most all of them had the good sense to know multiple paths out of a dangerous situation. Those that failed to understand the meaning of an exit? They did not stay in business long. It had been one of her first jobs when her grandfather had wanted her trained to the shadow and dagger. 'First you listen and you learn. Then you strike with the tool the enemy hands you.' The old adage was useful, but it was a slight bit more complex than surface value. If someone was waiting for a message, then why group up? It would only deter any attempt of contact, and you would only join a group if you were trying to blend or avoid someone. That this beggar was not cringing away gave her a bit of hope as she adjusted her leather breastplate.

"A token of value." Two coins fell into the bowl. Their clamor covering the thunk as the wooden token was dropped right after the first but before the second. Zatana had fished it out but moments before. "Gods, deliver us from this horde." Though the words would signal fear in a plea to the gods, Zatana was more interested if this beggar would pick out what she wanted.

Co-GM IC:

"You are a kind soul, good miss." The beggar says as he examines the alms given to him, a knowing look shining in his eyes. Whether or not his words were simply meant to keep up the facade, or if he actually meant it, you're uncertain. The man scans the area with a practiced eye, before standing up and dusting himself up, picking up the bowl and pocketing the alms as he does so.

"With luck, the Gods may deliver us yet." He says, walking closer as he reaches into his cloak. "Blessings upon you."

Any less experienced eye would've missed the fact that he had quickly reached into his clothes and retrieved a rather thick-looking brown envelope, but you spot it. This drop is well-practiced-- if someone didn't know what they were looking for, they would've simply seen it as an old man moving his begging spot to another area. The man presses the parcel to your side for only a moment, subtly beckoning you to take it.

You do so, and with that, he slinks deeper into the alleyway and turns a corner, disappearing from view. The envelope is sealed with wax, and shouldn't take much to open it if you so desire. Regardless of your choice, you now have the package you need. Time to head back, preferably before the Prince and his retinue arrive.

Leonidas Lead the charge and by the time the goblins noticed it was to late. The Prince came up upon one of the riders ready with one mighty blow. The goblin had seen him coming and tried to raise its shield, But it did little to help as Leoidas' Warhammer shattered the shield and embedded itself into the goblin's side. Cracking was heard as the goblin was removed from its mount dead before it even hit the floor. Leonidas quickly Spun the hammer in his hand adjusting his grip before dropping it onto the skull of the wolf mount slaying the beast as well. The rest of the charge went reasonable well. Many of the goblins found their lived ended by the spears of the Imperial Calvary and things had gone according to Leonidas' plan.

That is except for Acrius... Somehow the fool ended up on foot... A fact that didn't go unnoticed by the enemy forces as well. And although he was able to kill the one that looked like the leader of the goblins he had still left himself open. Two nearby rides had seen their master die and became enraged charging Acrius from both sides. Leonidas was able to see this and quickly rushed pulled the reigns of his horse rushing over to help the boy. Wolves although fast weren't bread for war and luckily Leonidas' horse was and had the speed advantage allowing him to catch up. The end Leonidas' hammer began to have a goldish glow come from it as he swung the mighty weapon crashing into the Goblin's head nearly taking it off just before it was able to throw its spear at Acrius. As the goblin's body fell to the side The wolf continued its charge a bloody frenzy in its eyes. And with the weight of the rider gone the wolf rushed forward in a burst of speed leaping at Acrius.

Balthazar shook his head in disapproval as he watched Acrius dismount, presumably to give the goblin leader a fair fight. Although he managed to dispatch of the rider with relative ease, now there were two Wolfriders moving to attack him. The Prince moved to deal with one, so the warlock decided to deal with the other. He spurred his horse forward, gripping the reins tight. With his free hand, he flipped back to the page he was once at, before firing off another shadowy ray, lancing downwards through the goblin's gut, and into the wolf's back. Both rider and mount soon curled up on the ground, presumably to die of blood loss. The rest was up to Acrius, now.

After the ordeal was dealt with, the remaining 3 goblins were able to see what was going on and took the smarter option retreating and started riding away headed North. Before any of his men road off to hunt them down Leonidas held up his hand, "Let them go, We don't know where they are going and we have something more important to do than hunting down a few stragglers." He said in a commanding tone before turning to the cart that had been the target of this small force. The horses that were to pull the cart were dead pelted with arrows to ensure the cart couldn't escape. It looked like the belongings inside the cart were still intact, but it seemed there had been a cost two bodies lie in the cart an older male and what could of possibly been his daughter. But it wasn't all bad as from underneath the cart the rest of the family started to emerge. A Woman presumably the wife of the slain man in the cart, a young boy that couldn't be more than 5 and a girl who must of been around the age of 18.

The knights circled up around the cart ensuring that no attack would come for the moment and the family looked around. The mother would come up to Leonidas her young son holding onto her let. "Mylord, thank you for coming to our rescue. We wouldn't of lasted long if you hadn't rushed to our aide how could we ever repay you?" The woman said giving a bow to the prince. The daughter on the other hand instantly rushed jumping at Acrius wrapping her arms around him "My hero! You were so amazing the way you leapt in to save me!" The girl said excitedly. Leonidas saw this and just sighed before turning back to the older woman. "There is no need to thank us, It is my duty as Prince to defend my people... I'm just sorry we didn't arrive sooner so we could of prevented this." He said sadly motioning to the two dead in the cart. "You have my condolences for your losses..." Leonidas continued before turning to Acrius. "Acrius since you don't seem to like your horse you are going to saddle yours up to the cart and ride with these fine people back to Bergkoff. You two stay with them as escort." He said while pointing out two of the Knights who responded with a salute. The mother smiled at the prince. "The loss of my husband and daughter will be a great one, but we will move on thanks to your actions my Lord," She says while turning to her daughter. "Elisabeth stop being rude and come show the prince some gratitude." She snapped back at her daughter who reluctantly let go of Acrius and came over giving the prince a curtsy "Thank you for saving us my lord" She said flatly before quickly turning and returning to Acrius while receiving a nasty glair from her mother. "So your name is Acrius then? I'm Liz nice to meet you." she said grabbing onto his arm.

The two knights Leonidas had picked up helped wrap the dead in blankets and got things ready for the cart to move again. After everything was set the group made its way back to the infantry troops The Calvary falling in on the sides to protect the flanks and the cart falling in behind the march. Leonidas made his way to the front seeing Rudolph and Merik as he approached. "Merik what happened to your horse this time?" Was the first thing that came out of his mouth as he fell into his position at the front before turning to Rudolph "Sorry we're late had something we needed to take care of." He added knowing that Rudolph would want to get to Bergkoff as soon as possible.

The rest of the march to Bergkoff was uneventful for most. Acrius on the other hand had to deal with Liz the entire ride as the girl seemed to be stuck to him, constantly asking questions. As the small force reached the southern gate the massive gate swung open and allowed them to enter the city before quickly being closed again. Leonidas would then order his troops to rest and be ready for new orders after finding out the situation within the city. Taking Balthazar and Rudolph with him as Rudolph knew the way to the town center and Balthazar would need to know where he was going to set up his desk.

Zatana gripped the package as it was passed to her, her eyes glinting in interest. The parcel slipping into her leather armor as she disappeared deeper into the alley the beggar was sitting in front of. No need to waste such a potentially easy route to the rooftops. Though as she repeated the memorized spell and became wrapped about in shadows, she hoisted herself up onto a high fence and then a roof. The way back would be easy enough, rooftop walking was one of her favorite things to do after all. But Zatana was all too aware of the parcel as it pressed against her ribs. Slowing her pace for a minute, she fished out the paper and examined the seal. It was possible, she reasoned to get the seal off without ruining it. The downside was that it would take time, something she was not certain they could afford. There was always the risk of magic. Yet, she was an information gatherer and this packet held information she wanted to know. Balthazar was of the same Great Game as she and the motto 'two can keep a secret if one of them is dead' made sharing a tad bit difficult if you did not trust the person explicitly. Zatana, a known dark elf, had no belief that the wizard found her trustworthy.

Pausing by a merchant's shop, she drew one of her thin throwing daggers and slid it between the shutters. Catching the latch, she flicked it out of the eye that held it and slowly opened one window. Finding a bedroom with valuables missing, she noted clothing scattered from frantic owners gathering the best of what they had. Stepping carefully she shut the window slowly behind her and closed the latch. Padding over to the door, she peered into the hall and her lips curved into a cat in the cream smile. One door was a jar and a small trail of papers led out of it. Plucking a receipt from one, she saw the ingredients needed to make soap and a seal on the letter. Good, they might have left some supplies. Shutting the door softly as she stepped into the study, she eyed the window and nodded in satisfaction. A way right at hand, that was good.

Searching the desk, she plucked a small tube of wax and smiled. Luck was with her. Grabbing a candle, she stirred the small brazier that seemed to be favored by the merchant in place of a hearth. Letting the wick catch on a small spark, Zatana placed the candle on the desk, pinning the wax above with another knife and paper below to catch any drippings. Carefully she slid the knife between the wax seal and the envelope, working it free. Taking a few shavings from the bottom of the original wax seal, it wouldn't fool the wizard if he was using magic. A grim and probably true prospect, but Zatana saw no reason not to use this as a test to see if that was idea the case. There was also the added bonus Balthazar might think less of her skill which would give her an advantage.

Pulling the papers out, the dark elf quickly scanned each page. If she had the time, she would have copied them out in her shorthand. But there was no time. Looking over them a second time she tried to commit a report to Balthazar himself. Ever detail was important to remember, and she took pride in getting that information fully and correctly. Nothing else was acceptable. The rogue melted the scrappings of wax from the original seal with the newer wax and allowed a dab of it on the back of the seal. Grabbing her knives and sheathing them, Zatana was about to curse. Setting things in order, blowing out the candle, pocketing the used wax and drippings in a pouch within her armor and letting the wax find it's grip, she grimance at the time she had lost. Flicking the latch open, she jumped onto a nearby lower roof and shot off at an almost reckless place. Careful to be aware of the envelope tucked away within her breastplate.

Faira was scanning the rooftops, her sword still sheathed but unbelted and held in her hands, when the sound of the cavalry force arriving drifted through the gate. She put her hand on the hilt, ready for a fight, but relaxed when the gate began to open. Though happy the force had arrived, Faira felt a little put off that her ride here seemed to have been wasted. Zatana could have managed fine on her own, granted they would feel quite differently if something had happened on the way.

She approached the prince and his warlock right hand, "M'lord, Zatana should be back momentarily with the beggar's report." Just then, she caught sight of Acrius' "predicament," and approached the girl who had latched onto him.

"I'm going to need my comrade back," she said in a low, flat voice.

Before Acrius could mount his horse up he spotted two more goblin riders charging towards his location. "Oho?" He said, not realizing how disadvantageous it was fighting two mounted riders. His ridiculous plan somehow managed to work but he didn't really think past the consequences. Still, a two versus one? A challenge like that would've been invigorating. However it wouldn't come to pass as Leonidas and Balthazar covered him. Balthazar used magic to kill the other rider efficiently. Leonidas, with a mighty swing, took out the goblin preparing to throw a spear at him. The rider-less wolf, however, now leaped towards Acrius.

The oranged-eyed boy had barely managed to unsheathe his short-sword. He was pinned to the floor as he blocked the leaping bite with the broad side of his sword. The only thing between him and the wolf was steel. The wolf snarled and snapped at Acrius as he attempted to bite into him. "Eugh, yuck." He muttered as drool slobbered onto him. Slowly he turned the blade horizontally, the blade now digging into the wolf. In it's ferocity the weapon began digging into its maw. In a few minutes it would weaken. Soon it flopped lifeless on top of him.

A mixture of wolf and goblin blood, sweat, and now slobber. Acrius must've smelled like a dream. With a huff he hoisted the corpse off of him. He knew for sure that he was going to get it from Leonidas later. Even Balthazar had that tell-tale look about him. The goblins soon retreated and Leonidas called off those who pursued them. A small family now emerged from the carriage. It seemed that the two in the front weren't as lucky. A pang of guilt ate at him. Luckily they'll not be orphans. He thought, glancing at the boy as he remembered his youth.

The 18-year old girl sprinted at him at blinding speeds. It was a speed that outpaced anything he'd seen before. Suddenly he was in a neck lock... no, it wasn't a neck lock. A hug?

"My hero! You were so amazing the way you leapt in to save me!"

Oh god. He really just wanted to stretch his bones. Who was this girl? He held his hands upwards, not touching her at all.

"Err, it was nothing...?" Acrius responded awkwardly. "Best not to touch me, I'm covered in dirt, blood, and gods-knows-what."

Despite his warnings the girl clung on like a tight vice. Girls from the city were indeed something else. Acrius always had a sixth sense for feeling eyes on him and whenever he went to the capital women would openly gawk at him. He had no idea why and he believed it was due to his unkempt appearance.

"Acrius since you don't seem to like your horse you are going to saddle yours up to the cart and ride with these fine people back to Bergkoff. You two stay with them as escort."

Some of the soldiers in the retinue stifled their laughters as this was said. Though he tried to glare at them, he wasn't very convincing with this girl clinging onto him. "What!? Why do I ha-" Acrius stopped himself as he saw that look in Leonidas' eyes. "... As you command, crowned prince."

The girl's air depriving hug was let go as she (barely) did a crusty to thank the crowned prince. Even he wouldn't act that brazen against the prince. But knowing Leonidas, he was likely to let the discourtesy go. He felt his blood stop pumping on the arm that the girl latched onto. This girl has a grip stronger than an orc.

"So your name is Acrius then? I'm Liz nice to meet you."

"... Yes. Acrius Stroude." Acrius replied, not at all knowing what the hell was happening. "Nice to meet you... Liz?"

Acrius tried his best to help the two knights posted with him but was little help with Elizabeth clutching onto him. Luckily, she eased up in the cart (but was still too close) and instead barraged him with questions. Battles, Adventures, even his weaponry. Anything centered around him. Why him? He had no idea, who would be interested in someone like Acrius. Still, the orange-eyed swordsman tried his best to answer her questions. Even with his lack of flair, the girl seemed entranced. The 5-year old boy even crawling up and listening to his rather plain retelling of his exploits.

As they arrived in the city, Acrius internally sighed. He did have a soft-spot for younger children, seeing himself in them. Still, this was something he could say he had ever done before. The barrage of questions seemed to never end. The mother of the two likely let it happen to let the kids keep their minds off their dead relatives. He gave the three a nod before he stepped off. However he felt a weight on his arm again. Elizabeth was once again slung around his arm. A few soldiers he knew from the retinue wolf-whistled at the two. Acrius made a mental note to remember their faces for 'extra training' with him later.

"Uhh... You should probably go with your mother and brother to hide... right?" Acrius said unconvincingly. Unsurprisingly she wasn't compliant.

Before she could reply a familiar voice called out;

"I'm going to need my comrade back,"

Elizabeth looked mad and pouty but didn't say anything back. She reluctantly let go of his arm and walked towards her waiting relatives, looking at Acrius the whole time. She waved at him one last time and he awkwardly wave back. With a giggle she turned around and finally reunited with her family.

"Thank gods." Acrius said towards Faira. "That really tired me out, why are girls from the city like that? I owe you one Faira."

"How'd it go on your end? Any issues?" He changed the subject and inquired as he walked towards the prince and his retinue.

"Prince Leonidas!" Acrius called out. "The family has been safely delivered."

Acrius leaned closely towards Balthazar; his expression was dead serious, a burning question in his mind. He was certain that the Balthazar could smell the cocktail of odours on him. "Any way I could wash some of this smell off my armour?"

Co-GM IC:

The wax seal comes off with relative ease, and if any magic had been triggered, you did not sense it. Under the candlelight, you quickly scan the parchments for pertinent information. There appear to be four sheets of folded papers present in this envelope-- two appear to be a report on the battle to come, one appears to be a large map of the region and the city of Bergkoff, and the last one is a sheet of paper, presumably a report that goes directly to Balthazar.

The first two papers are easy enough. It is written in a simple Imperial cipher-- one you've had much experience in dealing with. They change the codes every so often, but you're updated on the current one. These reports detail the enemy's strength: roughly a thousand soldiers strong, comprised primarily of Goblins. Two hundred of the enemy forces are made up of proper Orc Warriors, who seem to make up the army's elite. There is also word of one or two Ogres, who likely serve as impromptu siege weaponry or shock troops. Their leader is Waruk Shieldbreaker, an Orc Warlord of little renown, who seems to be attacking in an attempt to grab power in the area, and to bring glory to his name... Due to the lack of ambition in his circle of officers, it is likely that with his death, the invading army will collapse.

It is difficult to pin down their exact movements, due to their use of the local mountain cave systems to traverse the region. Curiously, they've managed to avoid both Dwarven and Human patrols thanks to this tactic. The attached map lists several cave openings that can be collapsed to prevent the arrival of further reinforcements or to funnel the enemy into a single bottleneck. It appears that the enemy has mostly been attacking from the north and that the city's cannons have been holding the enemy at bay, for now.

The report to Balthazar himself proves to be more difficult. You don't recognize this cipher-- it is likely used for personal messages between him and his network of informants. You're able to decipher a little bit of it though: it seems to be something about fellow informants in the nearby Helmsguard region going silent. Curious, but you don't have enough time to break the entire thing, and its complexity becomes more and more prevalent by the second. Instead, you commit the message to memory, opting to write it down at your earliest convenience. You'll have to spend much time breaking the code once you have the opportunity-- or perhaps you'll be able to get your hands on his codebooks; you're certain he has them stashed away somewhere.

For now, you reseal the letter to the best of your ability and exit the building. The Great Game will continue... but for now, you have other duties to attend to.

@LadyRunic

---

As the battle came to its end, Balthazar slowed his horse to a steady trot and simply moved past Acrius, leaving him to his fate. It was unbecoming to revel in the suffering of others, but the warlock hoped that the young lad would learn his lesson. The rest of the ride to the city of Bergkoff was uneventful. After linking up with the infantry, the army marched towards the city gates, where they were happily welcomed by its defenders. Many were reinvigorated by the arrival of the Crown Prince of the Empire and his retinue, but a few had wondered what fifty or so men were going to do against a thousand.

Regardless of what the people felt, the Prince's army was to find lodgings and rest, to await further orders. No doubt, Prince Leonidas would soon call for him to help establish the war room; until then, however, there was still time for other things. Acrius and the caravan they had saved arrived shortly after, and Faira had come to rescue the young gladiator before he suffers a worse fate. Spotting the mercenary woman overseeing two horses-- her own, as well as the mount of her Drow companion, Balthazar simply waited as she approached.

"Faira." He greeted her professionally. He was going to ask of her companion's whereabouts, but the mercenary had gone straight to the point. As such, he simply nodded in satisfaction.

Zatana was not here yet, and it was unlikely that with her skills, she was delayed due to outside interference. No, the more likely cause was that she was prying some information from his package. Balthazar let out a small sigh as another one of his intermittent headaches came and went. He would have to keep a closer eye on her. The warlock then turned towards the source of the stench-- and his headache.

"Acrius." He says to the young man, leveling an impassive glare in the boy's direction. The smell was a familiar one; the scent of a man who had just fought for his life on the battlefield. Covered in sweat, blood, guts, and saliva, the gladiator had asked him if there was a way to clean up. Balthazar considered letting the boy suffer a little longer, but pragmatism won out in the end.

"I ought to let you wash off on your own, but it seems you've learned your lesson." With that, the warlock spoke a quiet incantation and snapped his fingers, causing the grime and muck upon Acrius to disappear completely, along with that pervasive stench.

Balthazar then stood around, leaning on his cane as he awaited Zatana's return. He would need that information before he left with Leonidas and Rudolf to join the war council.

Going over the key bits of information she had gleaned from the documents, Zatana passed from roof to roof with ease. A few times she quickly changed her step to avoid a loose tile or shingle, but it was second nature to the dark elf. Helmsguard and the agents going quiet. It was something she would need to pass on, if her grandfather knew of it then it would only let him know that Balthazar knew of it. If the aged drow did not? Then it might prove of interest enough to pull him from his research, though that was doubtful. The only reason Zatana had been sent abroad had been to glean what she could from the wider picture and make sure that she was well placed to ensure nothing would interfere with Murdoc Do'ana's experiments. No, that would not go well if it did come to pass. Even as a small child Zatana had quickly learned to integrate herself with the process rather than to seek to disrupt it. Hopefully, she would have time to transcribe down what she remembered of the notes into her grimoire to work out the code later. While waiting for a siege, it should be easy enough to disappear for a time.

Dropping over the edge of one roof, she landed on the ground in an alley not far from where the group had entered. Refixing her hood, Zatana adjusted the few pins that kept it on. It would not do for them to come loose and reveal her for what she was. Hearing the commotion further down she dispelled the darkness she used to cloak herself and moved warily to the alley's mouth. Dark eyes smirked as she spied a pretty girl waving at Acrius, the hot head apparently was rescuing damsels now. A sobering thought of little Acriuses running about. Clucking her tongue softly, she stepped into the street and moved with boneless easy grace towards the small group, which luckily for her contained the wizard. What a grand sense of timing! "Wizard. Your package." Zatana offered the parcel the Balthazar before taking the reins of her mount as it was eyeing Acrius with a bit too much attention and strangely enough standing completely docile. Inclining her head to Faira, Zatana offered no reason as to the time she had taken. There was simply nothing she wished to say and if it did come into question, then she had a reasonable answer. Information within the mind was far more sage than on paper. Especially if she needed to toss the package.

The devious mare sidestepped towards Acrius lipping at his armor as she moved closer to his hair. Gripping the reins in a tight fist, Zatana snapped a sharp command. "Enough." The mare's head had been jerked away just as she tried to take a mouthful of hair and pinned her ears back in displeasure as the woman hauled herself into the saddle. If only to keep a better eye on the wicked mare who was wont to start trouble while she sensed a fight brewing. "Soon enough." Zatana murmured, patting the grey neck.

Magic. How it made life utterly convenient. Acrius made a mental note to bug Balhazar on teaching him that 'clean' spell. He smelled immaculate, nary a whiff of the odour the plagued him. "Appreciate it, gramps." He said with real gratitude and an actual smile. Atleast he was now presentable. He himself didn't mind the smell, he was used to it after all. And if a smell would make you gag, then you'd have no place in the battlefield. In the past, Siegfried had grilled him alive when he trot behind the prince; the smell that Acrius exuded visually repulsed those the around him.

As Acrius mused those thoughts, he felt a horse staring at him. Now a horse was staring at him. It was Zatana's mare. It seemed that he couldn't escape being gawked at. Then Zatana herself appeared and handed off a package to Balthazar. From the little he could gather the mission itself was successful. That was all he thought about, not even considering that Zatana was oddly late for a woman of her skill. She was mysterious, to say the least. All he could vouch for was her skill in battle. He hoped that'd she'd grant him a duel sometime soon.

The horse now nuzzled into him and began nipping at his armour. What a lively beast. Acrius was about to lightly push the horse away as it neared his hair when Zatana jerked it away. "Thanks, I just got clean," He said simply, "Quite an animated mare you have there, Zatana."

After what must of been over five minutes, Rudolph noticed the Prince and the rest finally emerge from further down the road, and with the previously troubled caravan. "To attention lads, they're back." Rudolph ordered the men.
"Sorry we're late. We had something we needed to take care of." said the Prince as he came before them. "Understood mi'lord." he replied simply nodding, whilst looking at the caravan coming behind that had somehow employed the young Acrius as its driver. He turned and ordered the men to begin marching once again.

As they made way toward the city, Rudolph caught glimpses of the battle that occurred, and it seemed as though the defences had successfully driven the greenskins back, despite their clearly sizable force being enough to scale the walls.

With the temporary respite at hand, the army finally arrived in Bergkoff without difficulty. After the Prince ordered the men to take rest from their journey, Rudolph gathered his own kinsmen amongst them and had them go back to the city barracks to get some rest. He turned for a moment to look at the city, Home Sweet Home he thought, and then sighed with relief.

Rudolph walked up to the Prince and gestured to him to follow, "This way mi'lord. The Duke will likely be grateful you're here." he said as he turned to lead the way. The cannon fire had thankfully stopped before they arrived in the city, so he wouldn't have to endure a headache this early in the day just yet at least.

The streets were only partially busy as they past through. It was mostly being guarded by troops who were making sure civilians were escorted to the keep.
Some homes and shops were already destroyed. Rudolph shook his head in annoyance as he saw this, and renewed his pace to the keep im turn. "This is the last city from the Kingdom of Karsburg. Thanks to the bloody Drow of course." he said with evident frustration in his tone, "None of us were around at the time of the war, but the distrust and general disliking of Drow is still here, hence why you'll not likely find any about."

The keep itself was scarred from the Orc artillery, although somewhat minor due to the walls of the fort being sturdier than they looked. The gate of the keep was naturally abuzz with activity as civilians were slowly but surely making their way in. The occasional scuffle would appear amongst them, until the guards intervened.

Rudolph held up a hand to one of the gate guards as he approached, "We need to meet the Duke. Prince Leonidas Lionheart of the empire is here to help.", and as he mentioned the name, some of the crowding civilians looked up in surprise at the Princes arrival. They watched as he passed by, some bowing in respect, most chatting and gossiping.
"Oh" said a guard, "You! Inform the Duke that the Prince of the Empire is here!" he loudly ordered to another guard in the keep behind him, before ordering some of the other guards on the outside to help make way for the Prince.

Rudolph turned toward the Prince and Balthazar, "Go on ahead mi'lords. I won't be able to accompany you further. Theres other duties I have to sort out anyway." he said gesturing the two to press on and giving a slight bow in respect before heading back down the road from the keep.

"Right this way my lords." said the guard bowing at the gate. On the interior of the keep, the citizens were being escorted down into an underground chamber, beneath the keep's throne room.
Another building within the courtyard had been unlucky from the orc barrage, it was in ruins. The wounded and dead littered the area, with physicians trying their best to aid them.

"Quite an animated mare you have there, Zatana."

"She is trouble," Faira agreed. "Come, we need to see about further orders now. This quiet won't last."

She made her way to rejoin the Prince, as the enterage was led into the keep itself. She nodded at Rudolph as they passed, but understood he likely had other matters to attend to now that he was home.

"Things are worse than they looked from the south side," she commented, scanning around at the more obvious signs of battle that were to be seen here.

Merik Roak

Merik walked casually down the road or as casual as one can with his stature. The prince looked successful in his endeavor to knock out some goblin scouts and it would seem another young member of the group had a new friend.

@Arthanus"Merik what happened to your horse this time?" the prince asked.

Merik could only shrug at the man, “Horse not used to thunder tube.” It really was the only thing he could think of for a reason. The horse was a bit more used to him being around but was still on edge whenever they were alone. Merik just assumed it was because of him still being a predator.

The rest of the walk back was still uneventful, the thunder continued to echo from the other side of the city. As they drew closer more and more peasants began showing up heading for the town. It was a common practice, bring in those that can’t protect themselves and bolster the number of militia at the same time. The giant lizard put away his sword and followed behind the prince into the city. More people where starring at them now but he didn’t care.

Some of the others seemed to be doing something but they were all ordered to rest, Merik did not know why humans tire easily. Looking around for a moment the large reptile spotted the elder magic man he has seen time and time again by the prince’s side. Quiet when he needed to be but a good teacher, he has taught Merik many things from behavior to the world around them.

@HawthorneApproaching the old man Merik paused before him and reached for something under his armor. “Elder, Merik find strange plant for you.” Something Merik did like doing was to find some things while he was adventuring in the forest. Anything that was unusual or rare to him he would bring to the man. Merik doesn’t have a grand understanding of magic and to him it’s a way to help.

He pulled a piece of cloth out and unfolded it to show a pale blue mushroom that seemed to be emitting a weak blue light even in the daylight. “Did Merik do good?” he asked while holding it out to him.

If Balthazar did or did not take the mushroom Merik would still continue to speak loud enough for the prince to hear. “Merik will go to west gate, help defenses. Come get Merik if need him.” A small smile then looking down to the wizard once more. “Be safe Elder, Merik like stories. Want to hear more.” With a nod the large lizard began making his way towards the west gate through the crowded streets.

Balthazar looked over at Zatana with an aloof expression. She had arrived with his package. "Zatana." He outstretched his arm towards her, taking the envelope from her hands. The warlock brought the thing close to his scrutinizing gaze, flipping it over once or twice to inspect it for damage. He was certain that nothing was taken from it; it did not feel any lighter or heavier than his usual reports. The seal was unbroken-- but that did not mean it was not tampered with.

He would have to assume that this information was compromised regardless. Nevertheless, he gave the Drow a nod and a rare word of praise. "Excellent work." Balthazar said as he secured the envelope in his coat pocket. It would not do for someone to snatch it out of his hands as he walked through the city. As Zatana, Acrius, and Faira split off to speak with one another, Prince Leonidas and Rudolf had prepared to move towards the keep.

Before he could follow them, however, he was spoken to by the group's Lizardman, Merik. Balthazar did not look upon the Beastman with any particular favor-- he simply treated him the way he treated everyone else: with a degree of impassivity. Sometimes, he was called upon to teach the rest of the Prince's retinue in certain topics that they needed to learn. The warlock had given the Prince advice on matters of intrigue, Acrius several pointers on magic, and Merik... general information about the Empire and the lands surrounding it. The Lizardman was a curious one, and while he was less adept at sitting down and learning from history books, he took to stories well enough.

"Merik." He greeted the Lizardman as he approached. When Merik had offered a glowing blue mushroom, the warlock adjusted his glasses in response, taking the cloth and mushroom in hand. "A Beryl Waxshroom." Often sought after by dye makers in search of the titular blue-green pigment, this mushroom was safe to touch, but the spores could irritate the eyes and the fungus causes great stomach pain if eaten. If processed, the lustrous colored liquid can be used as a dye or be placed in a lantern to be used as a light source that only needed to be shaken to glow. It also had its uses in a few magical rituals-- typically those involving the Moon, as well as Life and Death.

The warlock let out a sigh, securing the fungus in his reagent pouch. "Yes, Merik. You were very useful." It was rather uncommon to hear the man praise people twice in a single day, let alone an hour. Still, he figured that initiative should be rewarded, and he knew the effect that his words could have on people. As the Lizardman walked away, Balthazar moved to rejoin the party en route to the city's keep.

The Duke of Bergkoff was likely awaiting the Prince to see how their forces could coordinate. It would not do to keep him waiting for long. Balthazar gave Rudolf a parting nod as he left, presumably to meet with his men. The keep was aged and weathered-- the warlock was reassured somewhat, knowing that these old walls would hold, when the time came for it. It had faced sterner stuff than an army of Orcs and Goblins, after all.

The man continued to be at the Prince's side as they walked inside. It was time to establish the War Council.