(Royal Palace of Racksom) Surahnian Tactics is an Artform (15th Board)

Description: Following the performance of the barbarian on several counts, Zartear concluded it would be a well balanced chance to turn this man into his Swords Master. This news will be announced in the meeting. However the other officials among his hand picked class will also come together (the new Swords Master included, of course) to make known their plans. Now is the time for the Surahnian Rebels to devise a course such that their weak foes, DDC will have no rest.
Then there is the issue of the dragons to the north.

Setting:
3rd floor of the Royal Palace in the Grand Meeting Hall
The time is 7pm and there is soft rain falling outside.
This board is set approximately 11 days after Zartear greeted his new tactician and swords master-to-be (at that time, unknown)

Day: 5th July, 3709

Joiners:
---Zay (Zartear)
---Rogue (Atoro)
---Nen (Andyr)
---Nyx (Cato)
---Eldarwen (Siofra)
---Taj (Eythil)

(Anybody with a high ranking S.R official may join this board if they wish--->there is no specific joiner limit)

Zartear strode through into the Meeting room, having come from his private quarters. It would take a while to get used to living in such a slummy palace, really. He noted the wood and stone were old, strong, yet rough and unshapely. The previous royalty hadn't made a point of exuding royalty in their home. Hardly surprising, when he'd seen the state of the supposed upper-districts.
Just as well they came when they did, Racksom would not far in the future, be anew and exquisite.

The table before him was small, well, in comparison to the dining hall grand table. It was oblong with a large throw of cloth over it, bearing the Surahnian Rebel emblem, a proud centerpiece to the table. A fitting symbol for them to meet over, then discuss the future they would cast.
Whatever was decided upon in this room, he was fully convinced, would be set in stone. Zartear would always have his contingency plans, but it would be failure enough to come to that.

Zartear took his place at the Masters chair to the head of the table, settling his arms squarely on the table, fingers idling impatiently.
"Send them in." He said flatly, eyes set on the main entrance to the room, though a glance to the side of the room stole his eyes for a moment.

Where once paintings of the South Western forests had adorned the walls, there was now his beautiful self, standing tall and gloriously as a large full body portrait. A far cry from his beginnings, pride was in his expression, his most loyal servants of the nation formed the background. Zartear hated it. There was a traitor in the bottom left, the former incompetent swords master to the bottom right. They were a blemish to the walls and had worse still, been liabilities to his power.

Zartear looked back again to the entrance, soured by the remembrance of those men, long dead for their treachery. He sought out his newcomers with keen eyes and prepared a warm smile, as befitted a warm, yet certain, King.

Atoro had been waiting outside the room that had been designated as the place the high-ups of the Surahnian Rebels would hold their first tactics meeting for what seemed like an age. He had been early, both understandably eager (which was a strange word to associate with Atoro) and collected at his finest level, so as to make the best impression. It wasn’t so much that he was so worried about Zartear’s personal opinion (although that, of course, was important), but more the power that he might be able to gain if this meeting swayed the right direction for him. Things would be… interesting, to say the least, trying his hand against these others Zartear had picked as his finest. He would have to be superb- and he would be. Atoro thought he might actually have an interesting discussion on his hands for once, rather than superseding himself over the rest of the army like he had been for the past week and a bit. Such dull creatures, normal men.

The anti-room slowly filled up with the others as they all arrived, Atoro mostly staying to one side of the room, watching and waiting, not deigning himself to speak too much with the others. Of course, he had to be polite, make himself a few allies, but the idle chatter that would possibly occur before a large meeting both wasn’t to his liking, nor interested him. There would be many useful things to speak about soon, and probably afterwards too. He despised the fawning of those lower than him too; the others attending the meeting would no doubt be above such things, but their accompanying archers, or soldiers, were held with nothing but contempt in Atoro’s eyes. They longed only for the praise of their commanding officers.

As soon as the doors opened to the main chamber, Atoro stepped away from the wall, joining the others to walk through- the flag draped across the table in the centre of the room, bearing the SR’s standard, was the thing that caught his attention first, followed quickly by the large portrait of Zartear hanging on one wall, the man himself sitting at the head of the table below it. It was time to let the fun begin, and for Atoro to show his worth. He would replace whichever men it were that stood around Zartear in his portrait, and no doubt remain there a lot longer than these now-presumed dead men. That, he would make sure of.

Andyr was one of the last to show up, not that he'd wanted to insult Zartear, but because he had a wealth of new responsibilities. With Kvinna and Anderson (formerly Little Blond), and of course, his new squad of men, life had become very busy for him in a very short span of time. He'd had enough time to bathe, dress and braid his hair, still. One did not show up in the company of royalty looking and smelling a mess.

Freshly scrubbed (with the help of some very nice washerwomen) Andyr smelled like lilac (a scent he enjoyed) and his hair, ever in its horse's mane 'do, shone a brilliant blond, devoid of the dirt and sweat of work. He wore a sleeveless shirt, the front laced loosely so as to expose the cleft of his chest, exposing his inked in brand. Around one biceps was a golden torc, around the other, black, braided leather. He sported vambraces on each of his wrist and a new ring upon his littlest finger. He wore the laced up breeches popular to the Surahnians and the boots to go along with it. They were brand new of course, commissioned to fit him well. His wide swordbelt circumvented his waist, though it was devoid of swords.

He understood completely the need for caution. Still, he did not need his swords to harm anyone.

Upon spying Zartear at the head of the table, he smiled widely and spread his hands to show Zartear his new look... all thanks to him of course.

With Anderson's help, and a little reading on his own time, Andyr had a firm grasp on the language. All would hear, today, the intelligence of a Northern Barbarian.

Last edited by Nyx on Wed Mar 14, 2012 12:59 am; edited 2 times in total

Cato sat in the window sill watching the rain fall outside, as those who were summoned to the meeting droned on about this and that. All unnecessary and trivial things. He felt naked without his bow, arrows and sword. Even if he didn't use the latter as much as the former. He kept the new faces in the corner of his vision. He wouldn't trust them as far as he could throw or trip them.

The darkness, the beast, within him stirs. It could feel the need for a good fight and Cato had not fed its needs since the last battle. He would have to get his elite archers out for some hand-to-hand combat. He could feel an agreed rumble as he pulls a vile of dragon's blood from his belt and downs it.

When the doors open he lets some of the others enter before him. Never wanting to be first nor last. Seeing Zartear he bows in respect. He took in the room and shook his head at it. "Pathetic," he mumbles to himself. His eyes roving he noted the SR standard and the portrait on the wall. If he gets a chance he will see if Zartear wants a new one commissioned. He doubted it though, the portrait was like a tattoo of a old lovers name on your arm.

Siofra was both excited and nervous about the upcoming meeting with Zartear and the other officials. It would be quite interesting to see who the leader had chosen to be his respective masters. Yet, at the same time, the usual tension reigned within her, afraid that something might go wrong. Not to mention the fact that she was most likely going to be the only woman in this meeting – once again – which did not make her standing any easier.

Like the other high ranking ones, she kept herself to herself and only stepped closer to Cato once it was time for them to be called into the hall. After taking in the form of Zartear at the head of the table, her eyes roamed about the room and inevitably fell onto the flag adorning the table as well as the Surahnian’s rather large portrait on the wall. Forcing herself not to snort at this, she hissed at Cato, under her breath: “Beware, he might hear you.” But her eyes twinkled lightly at the words, she was thinking the same and was rather amused by the bowmaster’s reaction.

Once the door closed again behind the lot, Siofra’s eyes took in the forms of the other two men, who had stepped into the room alongside Cato and the half-elf. She had heard rumours about both of them but apart from the fact that the north man was indeed very huge and the other one did have a rather arrogant air about him. It remained to be seen what else she had heard about them would be true, though she could already tell that the barbarian was by far more cultivated as he had been portrayed by some.

This would most certainly be a rather interesting meeting, she was sure of that. Siofra for one would remain as quiet as possible and would let Cato do the talking unless the bowmaster saw fit for her to reply. For once, Siofra was quite content with such a resolution as well, preferring to learn more about the others first.

Zartear watched them file in. All that were required were present. He raised his right arm from the table, his palm open.
"It is with pleasure I meet you all again, it has been far too long of a time. Join me." A slight smile of humour passed on his face, "Ah well not all of you anyway. As I am sure you remember well." His demeanor was welcoming, but the minute they had all entered he had made a point of reasserting recent events. Though he was here to draw the best talents from them all, ultimately, they would all answer to him alone. Zartear in this situation saw no reason for disgression.

His eyes flickered back up to the man further to the back, Andyr.
Hardly what he had been before, he was now clean, polished and primed for duty. Zartear nodded with approval, then at once, took to his feet.
"Before we begin, I present to you Andyr Hildr," He'd made some attempt to not entirely ruin the pronunciation. Then he extended a hand from across the room, as if with great pride, "However his name is of no importance. You will better know this man as the Swords Master. The title alone, bestowed by me unto him, should tell you all you need know of him. I trust you all will undoubtedly agree with me."

Zartear made certain he left nobody questioning how he felt about this. His convictions told him the man was strong, a great asset to have. Without the slippery quality the exceptionally talented often picked up.

"You may all be seated." He said, allowing himself to remain standing for a while longer while they gathered around the table, then taking his place on the plush chair of his own. "...Though, I am a fair King. Would anybody contest this man's brilliance?" Again he searched the faces of his subjects, ferreting for doubts or discomfort. He knew the moment he'd made this decision many Surahnians would disapprove, Andyr was a barbarian holding perhaps, the most celebrated rank.

Before Atoro had entered the main room, he had noted offhand that Andyr, the barbarian who thought himself so smart during Atoro’s first meeting with Zartear, had also appeared. This was odd, but he didn’t think too much of it; perhaps Zartear wanted someone who looked imposing at his back. Why he would want such a show of power at a tactics meeting was strange, but there were always reasons for a leader to boast their power. There was nothing as so effective as brawn backing up the Surahnian’s obvious brains when dealing with people only a little under his own rank; these, of anyone, were the men (and apparently woman, how interesting) who would make any move on his rank. If they dared.
Atoro wasn’t so foolish to make a direct move, if he wished to. However, these others, they were probably not on the same level of intelligence as Atoro. Probably- ha, even that was overestimating them. But he had to be polite to his apparent equals.

He rested his hands on the back of one chair as they all arranged themselves around the table, waiting for Zartear to sit before he too, took his seat. No need to annoy the man trying to be smart; there were many more sophisticated ways he had perfected to frustrate people to use such childish tricks anyway. His eyes flicked around the others present too, skirting past Andyr. The barbarian would probably take any slight interest from Atoro as a challenge, and as much as Atoro would have enjoyed sparring verbally, anything more (the man was huge!) was definitely not something he even wanted to consider. But as Zartear formally introduced the man, he turned slowly towards the blonde giant, eyebrows dipping slightly and eyes creasing just a little at the corners.
Swordsmaster? This barbarian is the new swordsmaster? Of all the… no… but this is no matter for laughing…
Thoughts flickered through his mind quicker than lightning, an overriding warning to himself meaning his only reactions were the slight frown on his face, and a tightening of his fingers around the back of the chair in front of him.

He wasn’t going to let the barbarian anger him, these there things to be saved for outside this room…
The new swordsmaster!
As if Andyr hadn’t be so much of a thorn in Atoro’s side before, now this. He might actually have to work with the man, put up with him as an equal; and from the looks of it, he had had some training since Atoro had last seen him- perhaps not in intelligence, but he had been dressed properly, rather in the rather more traditional clothes of Dragons Cove. Why, he was even trying to fit himself to the place by wearing Surahnian garb.

Atoro pulled the chair out from under the table slowly, trying not to let the bubbling anger inside him at the barbarian show. Those at this table would pick up on that, and here was no place to make mistakes, not at their first meeting. Zartear almost seemed to be… encouraging him however, with his next question. Atoro left a moment’s silence before speaking.
“This man you have chosen as your Swordsmaster must be a different man to whom I met ten days ago. I had somewhat different words in my mind following our encounter to ‘brilliance’, although, that may have been the circumstances.” His eyes flicked to Andyr again, unable to help himself from waiting for a reaction. “A surprising choice.” He quickly drew his gaze back to Zartear again.

Andyr smiled widely, soaking in his King's praise. He chuckled at his last words and walked forward to the table, taking his place nearest the King. After all, there was no second in command. Until then, the men sat around him as though the rank didn't exist, and apparently Andyr's rank was pretty exalted. The chair groaned as he settled his bulk on it and he tented his fingers, elbows resting on the table. The way his biceps bulged around the golden torc and the braided leather was almost obscene, quite intimidating to anyone who thought of challenging him physically. Of course, no one was foolish enough to do that. However, most people thought mighty brawn meant a minuscule brain.

He grinned wide at Atoro's reaction. He remembered the man. Racist scum. Untrustworthy snake. A slimy slippery bastard he'd sooner punch than work alongside.

But they were both King Zartear's subjects, men who had some say in how the great new nation of Surahnia would proceed into Dragon's Cove. He would try and not crush the man's throat.

"When we first met, Atoro, I had not had a firm grasp of the language. However, with tutelage and much reading, I have become proficient enough in this tongue so as to express myself properly. So yes, I am a different man than the one you met ten days ago" he said and sat up, putting a hand to his chin, as if in thought. "Has it been only ten days? It seems I have proved myself over much to the King. It is as much a surprise to me, my sudden jump in the ranks, as it is to you" he said, but he did not at all sound as though he was surprised.

Andyr was not a man to be surprised for good fortune. He knew very well that he made his own fortune, by virtue and merit.

He turned to look at Zartear.

"My King, I also wish to inform you that I've recently come in the possession of a dragon. It hatched in the stables. I am told it is a Lion-maned. I call her Kvinna. I believe she will be a good example of dragons as a part of your New Surahnian empire" he said. "I'd forgotten about her in our correspondences, for they were strictly business". This last bit he said whilst looking at Atoro.

Sinking into his seat his leg still bothering him from the sacking but did not let it show in his face of body movement. He did give a soft chuckle to Siofra's comment. He knew well that all seated or standing here would pounce on him or any that showed even a hint of a weakness. Cato nodded in agreement with the choice of new sword master. The barbarian would bring a new style to the already present way the infantry fought. Zartear made a good choice now hopefully it wouldn't bite any of them in the butt later.

Cato's attention slipped from Andyr to the other new face int he meeting. The arrogance and just "my poop don't stink" air about him just made Cato's dagger hand itch. No one was better then the other only Zartear was above them, the sooner Artoro realized it the better. He watched the anger in Artoro's eye as he glared at Andyr. Hmmm well isn't this interesting. I wonder how this came about.

"A fine choice My King, he will bring a new flair to the swords. He may be able to refine them better then the last one."

His eye slip to Artoro to see a reaction.

He looked at Zartear, to see if he would stop the verbal sparring.

He pulls a vial out of his belt and downs it, the liquid fire coursing through his veins. "My King if it would please you, may we get to the business at hand instead of listening to this verbal sparring." If no one else would end it he would. He may not be second in command but he hoped he held some sway with the other masters.

First impressions aren’t always what one should go by since people could easily prove the observer wrong, but with this rather slim man, Siofra seemed to have been spot on. The arrogance was oozing out of him as he replied to Zartear’s introduction of the new swordsman, making Siofra wonder what on earth the history between those two was. It was clear however from the very start that they did not like each other and made no secret about it either.

When Zartear invited them all to sit down around the table, Siofra slipped into a chair next to Cato, quietly and without the show everyone else seemed to be putting on. Of course, nobody took real note of her presence anyway. Or at least the new swordsman did not even once look at her, his eyes fixed on his opponent or Zartear. Keeping his eyes on the target, Siofra thought. It could be both useful and fatal.

From the rumours she had heard, she had really not expected this man to be appointed to such a noble rank such as swordmaster, but she had to admit that he was definitely very fitting for the role. As she watched the show of muscle he made when merely pulling out a chair from the table to seat himself upon, she wondered if that was the reason Zartear chose him: muscle.
The obvious thought of muscle not having brains shot through her own mind but just as she was about to catch herself from finishing the thought, the man now introduced as Andyr opened his mouth and she knew the so-called rule did not apply to him.

Siofra definitely had to note that the man did not only have muscle but brains as well though she was a little put off that the two men were now trying to proof who was the better out of them. Their dislike of each other was almost palpable even though they were not openly attacking each other. Of course, they wouldn’t dare in Zartear’s presence. However, it was rather interesting to listen to and the half-elf intently followed the conversation, all the while keeping her face neutral.

“Very wise choice, my Lord,” she finally added her two-cents. “I’m sure he will make quite the impression on your enemies.” And it was her honest opinion. Any inhabitant from Dragon’s Cove coming across Andyr will gulp, in the very least, and start doubting their own abilities even before they have seen the swordmaster in action – which she had not yet seen either but she was relatively certain that he would make a show of that just as much as he did of everything else apparently.

When Cato suddenly asked Zartear to get on with the meeting however, she almost flinched. The bowmaster did have his respect established within the SR ranks but to her, this almost seemed like a sort of insult. Her eyes flickered back and forth between Cato and Zartear, hoping that this would not cause an outburst.

He heard each of them in turn, absorbing all they had to say. Atoro, he wasn't sure of exactly how his decision to promote the barbarian would play with him, though his contempt of the barbarian had been made obvious many times, Zartear commended him mentally for showing as much self restraint as he had. It was not in his interests to provoke the two though, whatever their squabbles were, Zartear needed unfailing consistency from his highest servants.

On hearing Andyr had found himself a dragon, if only a hatchling, he simply nodded. There were many, yet few were of any good. He had immediately written this off in his mind.
However, when Cato spoke, his fingers stroked the table with a level of tension. The man had been here all of a minute.
"Sparring?" His face was mildly puzzled, "I asked them a question, Bow Master Cato. Questions require answers, I have found." He then moved his serpentine gaze away from the man, instead taking them all into his view, a glaze of undisguised disinterest over his eyes. "I declare that, we must now discuss the real matters at hand." He held out a hand to the air with a dismissive flick of the wrist, searching for a guard, whom promptly served him, laying out a vast map of Dragons Cove on the table. It lay perfectly flat and the ink seemed to shift to focus the map magically. Work of scroll dragons, no less. Something valuable had been salvaged from this palace, afterall.

"What do you see my servants? Here, is the definitive map of New Surahnia, however the war is not won, there remain obstacles. Hard as this may be to believe." He drew a finger back and forth in front of him, feeling the roughness from the ancient scroll before resting it upon the Everbridge. "Such as, this. There is no ambiguity. The S.Rs advancement depends upon our power moving eastwards, however, it has been too long since we have last spoken. I am here, not to host for my pleasure, least of all yours, but to hear of your experiences and dare I say, your suggestions." He then addressed them with a stronger note "Were the power entirely yours, how would you further our grasp?"

His eyes roamed from person to person, before settling on Atoro firmly. To hear all of them first was important, lest the meeting collapse into shameless ear tickling. Zartear was no fool, that was the nature of all lessers, to obey, to please their superiors.

“I see,” Atoro said curtly to Andyr’s words, keeping his words supremely levelled. He would say no more, at least not obviously, not in front of so many people who seemdd to agree with Zartear’s choice of swordsmaster. Or was that just because they all wished for his favours so desperately?

There was baiting in Andyr’s words all right, it was so obvious he could have pinned it with a spoon (let alone a knife), but he refused to rise to it. Or at least, refused to rise to it so obviously. Let Andyr be so unsubtle to try and taunt him openly. Atoro had already determined he was a barbarian fool, and these things only served to reinforce the idea- not that Atoro would change his mind any time soon when it came to the man. A dragon? Why, who needed a dragon. They were pathetic, insolent creatures, more often than not a danger to whatever plans were laid. They had too much free spirit in them to be properly utilized.

His eyes flicked to Cato as he spoke; sparring? Why, this was idle chit-chat, sparring wouldn’t come into the game at all while at this meeting. Or at least, if it did, Atoro would make it so difficult to detect that one of normal intelligence would have no idea what was going on. These men (and woman) were smarter than your average grunt in the army however; it was somewhat interesting to ponder the reactions that might be provoked. But first, there were proper things to discuss. Andyr would wait until a later time, if even Atoro decided to take that much of his time out of the day. He leant forwards as Zartear procured a map from one of the guards present in the room, his eyes scouring over the parchment with interest. Ah, this was a very good map. It would do well, be useful for planning the intricate details of where troops needed to be moved, what could be undertaken to produce the fastest and cleanest of results in their favour.

Feeling Zartear’s eyes drift towards him, Atoro gestured to the map, taking it as a cue to speak. “The survivors who decided to flee from Racksom have gathered at the Everbridge, here.” He tapped the map, then let his finger drift up the line that was the river that ran through the middle of the bridge. “Unfortunately, this is also the best place to cross the river, as it has cut a gorge, so higher or lower down its course, it is difficult to traverse. They will, naturally, decide to build some sort of fortification there.” The natives may even have the guts to try something more original, perhaps taking down the bridge itself to stop the Surahnian Rebels from crossing. “They will expect us to use the bridge as a route to attack them, which is an entirely feasible option, if a little… predictable.” He paused, pretending to think. “I suggest something a little more unique. We have dragons, and fine swordsmen with stealth, do we not? Utilizing them in a situation such as this may prove to be benefitial.” He wondered lightly if any of the others understood what he was getting at. If not, then he would glean much enjoyment from explaining his plans fully to them- and the pause for others to speak would give him a chance to fix any errors that might be found in his plan.

Andyr seized upon the pause to speak what had been troubling him since Zartear spoke up of moving eastward. They were thinking singularly, when it was quite obvious they had another angle to this war, a very powerful, very bloodthirsty angle. He leaned forward, a frown turning down the corners of his mouth, and his brow creasing. He may have stumped those who did not know his kind as to how old he was, but Andyr was a man grown, and had seen enough of life to line his face if but subtly. "I do not wish to derail our conversation from going eastward. I have crossed the bridge myself to make it to the capital of New Surahnia, however... my insights about this bridge, and its dimensions comes after my apprehensions about the foul beasts I've been hearing about from some of my men". Yes, he'd already been given a squad of men to train, although given was a term taken lightly. He'd practically commandeered the men for training. "They call themselves the Maledictus Eice, and they are a force of dragons, bloodthirsty murderers that will cut down any man, woman and child, regardless if they wear Surahnian standard or peasant's clothing... I do not wish for us to be pinched in some hate crime against humans..." he said. "That being said, the bridge is wide and long enough to span the gorge, aye, and a whole company can cross at a time, I do believe. Destroying the thing would be a mass working, but if they are desperate and foolish enough, they will destroy their bridge... preferably with men on it... I would hear your plan, Atoro, if you are as intelligent as I believe you to be, you have thought of something most clever. Afterward I am sure it would be child's play to set precautions in case marauding dragons decide to be opportunistic.".

He could be polite, for the sake of war.

Cato did not take a front to Zartear's remark. Like many time he let such comment roll off his shoulder. He watches the others reactions as Artoro and Andyr talk, taking it all in. Looking down at the map placing and thinking of all the possible situations, especially where would the best places for his archers. They would be best placed on the hill tops. The high ground was always the best advantage for them. A few of them could even ride on dragon back. It was a little trickier then riding on horseback. The wings would always get in the way. It had been some time since he had trained on dragon back. He will have to find a willing dragon to train with.

Cato waited till he heard from all their ideas on what should be done. Since many voices can say the same thing but sometimes it is the one voice that says something completely random that will be heard the loudest. Not saying he wanted to be the single voice but he was curious to see what the others had to say. He wanted to make sure he would have the best outcome for his archers. It was his men, which would most likely take out some if not most of the defender army. As well as picking of any stragglers along the way and what if any cowards who would run away from the battle.

He looks at Siofra to see if she has any input in the matter.

When the map was spread on the table, Siofra immediately recognised it as one of the parchments she had stolen from the stone tower in Racksom. The work of the scroll dragons was legendary and this map was a wonderful specimen of their craftsmanship. For a brief moment, Siofra wondered if the others even knew how to appreciate such a piece of art for what it was rather than just as a map but it should not be of any concern for her and thus, she quickly pushed any such thoughts aside, rather concentrating on the matter at hand, namely the question Zartear had just asked.

While she listened to the men’s suggestions and comments to the questions, the half-elf wondered what Cato would have planned for the archers for an advance towards the Everbridge but to her utter surprise the Bowmaster did not say a single word but rather looked to her to speak up. So much for trying to keep a low profile, she thought, not very happy about this turn of events, but she did not let anyone see this.

With a brief nod to Cato, she turned to look at Zartear, making sure she kept a somewhat devout demeanour so as not to give the man any ideas, but alas, the first in command for archers had wanted her to speak up, thus she would do so.
“As far as taking down the bridge is concerned, it would be a nigh impossible undertaking as the stone structure is warded with powerful spells to hold it upright and I doubt that the refugees have the arcane power in their ranks to destroy these wards. The time it would take to alert a few strong mages to such a possibility would probably be long enough for it to be too late to do anything against the advance of a powerful army such as ours.”

Her eyes flickered between the men, wondering how quickly she was going to be shot down for daring to speak up against what they had said, but after all she was a native and, unlike Andyr, she had travelled the lands quite a fair bit more than just one tiny passage over the Everbridge.

Resuming to talk, she looked at Atoro. “If you suggest surprising them from behind by transporting a few soldiers via dragon, that might work very well. The natives of the island are peaceful and inexperienced in the art of war. They would most likely not expect that kind of trap, at least not so soon. They are still weak from the battle of Racksom and would be looking over their backs towards Racksom for an attack instead of awaiting one from a different direction.”
If this was what he had intended, the plan would be genius. Of course, devastating for Dragon’s Cove, but it was still tactically well planned. The half-elf resumed to be quiet after this rather long talk, purposefully never taking the words “if i were in charge” into her mouth. It would not do, and she was glad to see nobody else dared to speak such a challenge themselves, even if it had been what Zartear had wanted to hear – between the lines at least.

Zartear listened to Atoro carefully, following his fingers with his eyes across the map. He disliked that they had to set foot on the island in such a less than ideal position but alas, it was the only way one could have shored. The reefs, rocks and fierceness of all other sea around the island made the thing quite a monster to deal with...That put sending a fleet around to pierce the Defenders heavy with riches yet unprotected regions out of the question. Oh if only. Then he would already be dining in the capital.

Then he heard the additons, the dragons to the north, their predicament in expansion, and the appproach of dragons from the opposite direction to scatter the DDC refugees. All relevant.

"It is true our situation is not ideal, however, we have two options as far as expansion to the east is concerned. We can take the northern route and forego the everbridge entirely, forming a stop gap that separates the Capital from the south-eastern settlements of Dragons Cove, or follow through on the bridge as the direct route. Now." He collected his thoughts, taking a breath before he began. "From what I have collated, neither is a wise decision. Instead, I see the absorbtion of Jiluria as the next logical step. It is closer than the everbridge, let alone forming a an encampment by the Amelle Forest, so we will not spread our men so thinly. It is wealthy. There will be plenty to be taken from the inhabitants. We will have subordinated the south west entirely, we will have fewer borders to defend, and in addition, there should be far less fight than was seen in Racksom, as effortless as that was for our efficiency. I am unaware what they are holding back beyond the everbridge."

The truth, in it's entirety. Was he afraid? Hardly, though he'd sooner not abuse the forces he'd collected, waste them on scattered operations and let the dragons on their doorstep take any more land. Zartear was unaware they had flown far northward since, so he had to be cautious with their extension.

"Now my capable ones...As it stands I know that Jiluria is barely defended at all, and although quite influential, does not hold sway like other places on the isle. This should be no issue to us. All the same, as is my duty to hear, do you have any suggestions on how we must go about the subordination of Jiluria? Now is also the time to declare any intelligence that you have gathered. All of it, your eyes, are mine."

He finished and awaited the next round of suggestions, noting the subtle contest between them all. Zartear of course, already had a fine plan made all to himself regarding Jiluria, but there was always benefit to absorbing the best of other people. Well, these ones.

Hmm, there were some interesting ideas coming out of the others, at Zartear’s question. Andyr thought some threat from the north by revel dragons was their most important problem at the moment? Well, Atoro didn’t think much of that suggestion, and not just because it came from the ice plainsman- but it did have some founding in that. A pack of rebelling dragons would be strong in muscle, but if they thought they were going to get something out of attacking the SR, then there was an obvious flaw. If they were a real threat, then there would have been much more concern over this group before they had taken Racksom, not just afterwards. And more kerfuffle too; they couldn’t have been a huge group, for just a few whispers to have reached them. Rather, there would have been a wave of information. He said as much, waiting for a slight lull in conversation.
“This Maledictus Eice, they cannot be very large, for word of their party to have only reached us at this late stage. Their occupation of the island,” he waved generally over the map, not quite knowing where the group was stationed at the current point in time, “perhaps needs monitoring, but little more. They would be foolish to attack at a time such as this, when the SR are at their full strength. And with such goals in mind, they may slit their own throats exacting them.”

The bowmaster didn’t seem to have much to contribute on the matter of tactics, however his second in command seemed to be a sharp one, despite being a woman. How interesting. She may actually be useful in the long run. He would have to keep an eye on her; Siofra, was that her name? He hadn’t paid much attention, not thinking their paths would cross any time soon. “Yes, a little as you have said; a night attack on those at the Everbridge, using soldiers who are quick and efficient.” Dragons had the advantage of being able to manoeuvre a fair few soldiers into position each, and made fearsome opponents when thinking about it. “We cannot have the DDC thinking they can launch a second attack on us.” Couldn’t have then getting cocky now, could they?

But now, Jiluria. The seaside town was so small, Atoro had almost missed it, yet he would never quite forget it. Rintho, that two-faced coward lived there most of the time- when he wasn’t off running around Kaionar or Tarz or wherever else he got to. However repellent his company was, he was definitely a profitable source of information, and magical items. And once again, it would put Atoro right in the lead for knowledge. Perfect.
“I have an associate in Jiluria; he will provide information with only a little… persuasion.” Meaning, if Rintho didn’t give Atoro what he wanted, there would be a repeat performance of Kaionar. Well, with a few minor changes. “However, he’s currently on a small errand, if I am to believe correctly.” If he wasn’t, well… “The town is corrupt, its inhabitants undesirable to say the least, from my experience. It should take little to conquer it.”

Andyr rose his brows at Atoro's rebuke of his concern of the dragons. He waited until the man was finished. "We in the North do not fear a wolf, despite the fact they are born hunters and are very populace in the dense forests we frequent for hunting" he said. "But when one wolf becomes a pack, we become careful, and we guard ourselves even if we know that these wolves would not attack us unless they gathered some strength. Still, if a pack is starving and we are too close to their den, they will attack..." he looked sideways at Atoro. "The name of this place is Dragon's Cove. These rebels will gather strength, and with the backing of so many different creatures with strange abilities and ranging sizes from huge to tiny... we would do well to at least prepare against them".

He sat back and stared at the little town of Jiluria on the map, then at the bridge and beyond. "You know well, my King, that you can crush this small village. I suggest not doing that" he said. "As an empire we want people to accept, I suggest bringing them gifts, like we do in the North to tribes we want to get out of our territory. We bring them gifts of food, and fur and an entire deer, beads, feathers, baskets, tents... only I believe we should send gifts of dancing girls, food, silks... and take some survivors of Racksom with us... maybe send some delegates and have the army at their backs. It would show the might, the generosity and the mercy of Surahnia" he said.

"And if they choose to defy us, we will pinpoint the leaders, take them out and sweep into the village, owning it like you would any possession, my King" he said. He looked around the table, at the woman Siofra and couldn't help but size up her bosom, then looked to Cato. He wondered if the old man was getting some of that. If not... he smiled to himself and looked back at the map. A woman that was smart was a challenge, and a smart woman with curves was not only his type, but challenging. He couldn't resist a curvy challenge.

If they could keep the dragons up north they may be able to spread their boarders along the base of the island. Leaning forward Cato looks at the map trying to think of what would the best outcome be. What are the possible outcomes? What is unseen? He was half listening to the others until Zartear began talking. He sat back and listened trying his best at least. If only the dragons up north didn’t pose a threat then the island would be easy enough to take over.

Someone or a group needed to be sent up north to find out how many dragons were in ME. It had to be someone who knew every type of dragon the inhabited the island. Cato nodded in agreement with Andyr. “The Northerner is right we should at least keep an eye on them. At least we would then know what their strengths and weaknesses could be. It is better to know where all the pieces are and where they could possibly go before making a definitive move.” He looked over to Zartear.

“My King I suggest sending a small group to gather intelligence on the ME especially ones who know many of the different dragon species here on the island, at lest we could prepare our troops for when they turn their attention and their hunger to us.”

Cato enjoyed the ideas Andyr had, he will have to seek out the swords master at some point. If anything else the Northerner would be a useful ally.

Siofra couldn’t really remember a first attack on the SR from sides of the DDC, as Atoro had just implied, seeing that the SR had simply taken Quinsilla and Racksom but she was smart enough not to let a snide comment fly on this matter. It would not do at this moment in time, but she made a mental note to watch out for Atoro’s apparently ability to twist any words around the way they suited him, whether meant they had been intended in that way or not.

At least they seemed to both be on the same page what a possible attack on the Everbridge could include and their concern, or lack thereof, with regards to the raiding dragons – a small relief for her not to have any word she uttered immediately discarded. However, she could see Andyr’s point as well and the raids have been more frequent lately, so maybe they really should keep an eye on them. A notion Cato seemed to share, thus Siofra merely nodded along to the proposals of the men, showing her consent.

The half-elf almost had to laugh at Zartear’s sudden proposal of taking Jiluria, or maybe not quite so sudden. If it was one thing she had learned about Zartear in the meantime, it was that he always had an agenda. And he generally did not disclose it to anyone.

“I agree with both Atoro and Andyr. Gathering intelligence and having allies on the inside is the first step in gaining their trust before sending in a few selected Surahnians to mellow them into trusting us, showing them just how much you could offer them, before you, my Lord, would make a personal appearance and sweep away any possible remaining doubts. The people of Dragon’s Cove are not used to war and fighting, other than small town fights between neighbours, and they will certainly embrace the chance to avoid a war if they can. They have no means of defending themselves for the most part. It would be a waste of possible allies to try and take Jiluria entirely by force. Yet, if all else fails, there’s always other means and ways,” she added with a nod to Andyr, who had suggested the more violent approach.

Of course, it did not escape her that the northman was finally acknowledging her, even if it was only to stare at her breasts. She ignored the matter without shifting positions or glaring at him, dismissing the whole thing for what it was, a look and nothing more. Instead, she focused her attention back on Zartear, carefully keeping her mouth shut over any additional information she might possibly have to divulge. She was a second, it was not her place.

Zartear smiled with a vague sense of pleasure.
"Yes, this is just as I had thought it. Then now, there is to work out the details." He cleared his throat and his hands on the table became soft, relaxed. The tension seemed to drift away for a while.

"It will work as such then." He looked to Atoro, "We will gather our information regarding Jiluria, and most importantly, it's surroundings, rebels and potential obstacles native to the area. We must also be sure to round up all and any resisting within it's area of influence, from what I hear, Jiluria may surprise us with the rats it is home to. Yet, in time, a rat may become a faithful dog. Atoro you will be responsible for reporting back to me directly on what you learn, to every inch." He now turned to look to Andyr then briefly to Siofra, "On the matter of taking the land itself, as you say Sword Master, there should be little force in this process. While the Surahnian army shall not cut them with the blade, this time, the fear of the whip alone should be plentiful to keep the disloyal from becoming true to form...Then I will say, as you are one of great loyalty it is only fitting you show them how it is to be a true Surahnian. Do you not agree?" The question was somewhat rhetorical.

Finally, he addressed Cato. "The last item, on the subject of the dragons..." He sighed aloud and leaned back, sinking into the chair raising his arms in a lax gesture."We will learn what we can of this other foe, and for now there is no more to it. While we will never make the same mistakes as my forefathers and turn a blind eye, we must never show doubt or fear to them. Indeed, what is there to show if you have neither fear nor doubt? Cato, I will allow you and your second, to operate on that front. It may not be your area of true expertise, however the greater portion of our body will already be focused upon stabilising and developing Racksom, and of course, pressing forth past the everplains."

Zartear seemed very satisfied with this and pressed his hands together, then mused openly to them, his nature seemed warm and almost jovial "What do you think Jilurians prefer? Surahnian girls that they cannot hope to tame or gold too heavy for them to carry?" He let the quiet then hang in the air, not giving them the permission to speak with his attention, yet. For that time he seemed detached, as if thinking.

His steely eyes passed over each of them. "Servants, are there any objections amongst you?"

Last edited by Rogue on Sat May 19, 2012 10:06 am; edited 1 time in total

Atoro thought little of sending a whole troop of men north to keep an eye on the so called “Maledictus Eice” was a foolish waste of troops, but there was little it seemed he could do about it, with Cato agreeing with Andyr. If they needed men to go north and spy on such a pathetic bunch of dragons, then they hardly had cause to send a whole troop of soldiers out there.
Zartear seemed to see a similar vein of truth though, and although Atoro could see uses for archers in other departments, it was better them sent after some small rebellious group of dragons, than warriors.

There were so many players in each game, it Atoro hadn’t been such an expert at tactics, he would have found it difficult to figure out the next moves the various factions might make. But even those, he knew, were many, and far from foolproof. He was an immigrant to the land, and although he had studied a little of the ways of the natives, and maps, the knowledge he had picked up was far from extensive.

As for Jiluria, well… he would have to start collecting information on the town, and more than just from his one current source. It was always good to have a multitude of people to refer to for information, lest they get cocky and ask for favours, or decided to double cross him and send him false information. Cross-checking valuable information was key, when it was of such importance as matters of state. And even more so when his sole contact at the present was Rintho.

He gave a thin-lipped smile at Zartear’s joking, not entirely sure what to make of it. It was little like a wolf baiting its pack, the way he laughed, but still insisted on dominance. Although, with so many volatile men in the room, Atoro himself would have taken exactly the same path. Had he not been expected to defer to Zartear. He had to stop himself from making some sort of comment though, quite firmly. Instead he settled with little more addition to the conversation.
“There are no objections from me, my liege. Although, my contact may take a little time to get hold of. He is rather… difficult to find.”

Andyr completely missed the air of domination and simply smiled at Zartear's obvious command. Zartear was a man in possession of control and fully aware that he commanded it. He was also unafraid of his subordinates, but wary of them. Andyr had not missed his gaze, scrutinizing each one of them, committing them to memory. He didn't know how Surahnian's told each other apart, to him they looked a lot alike. However, he was impressed and reassured that he'd joined the right faction. The Surahnian Rebels would bring him the glory in battle he sought. Their agenda did not disturb him, for he did not find these farmer types his people. His people were hardy survivors that often fought each other for territory. He could agree with the warrior way of life; the life of a conqueror. So far, he had not been displeased by the Surahnians, even Atoro. A man had to be unwavering in his position and whilst Atoro was a pain, he was a good tactician.

Granted, he'd have to have his information updated, the Surahnians were working on a limited informational system. While knowing the enemy was weak and pitiable helped, one never knew if they'd regroup and come at the Surahnians with everything they had.

"My King I have no disagreements. You have already decided on Jiluria, and on how to take her, I believe. So knowing this, I ask, have you also already decided who goes bearing gifts?".

“None my king.” Cato looks to the others at the table to see their reactions to Zartear’s scrutiny of them. He will take a small contingent out and see what we can find. It would be easier to move with a small group. Too big of a group would cause the attention they didn’t need. With Siofra, himself and a hand full of those who have had the ranger training will do. The rest would be better used in defending the walls while being rebuilt.

As he sat there Cato looks over the map and begins plotting out the routes they would take. He was also thinking of a list of who would be going since there was only a handful of the ranger trained archers. They would have to travel light but not to light.

His hand begins to twitch and with a long sigh, pulls out the vial from his belt. Pulling out the cork he downs the irony liquid within the glass. He was tired of keeping the beast at bay. But he did not want to become what it promised him. What he gained from it already was good enough for him.

» C1 Racksom~~~~And then, there was War~~~~(5th Board)
» (C1, Racksom) The Making of Men (12th Board)
» Tremors in the Earth....C1, Racksom (4th Board)
» (C1, Racksom) Rising in the Ranks (10th Board)
» (New Racksom) Power's many faces (27th Board)