Nain and Durgil strolled down the road once more towards the city. The long ribbon of the river stretched to the north and south, and it was straddled by the large city that was before them. The ramparts were still in good order, although the Dwarf saw little evidence of proper sentries. On the outskirts of the walls, where bazaars and other trading markets would usually be erected by lesser, or local merchants, the grounds were empty of folk in any great number. The two companions did see people, but they were few and all of them were grouped to themselves.
The city was still wonderful to look upon - another great work by the hands of the Men of Westernesse. Though established early in the Second Age, it was not until the coming of Elendil and the formation of the north and south Kingdoms that Tharbad was given any great attention. The High-king of the newly formed Dúnedain realms deemed the city the gateway that connected the two nations and so great earthworks were done and the city raised. Nain was impressed by the hands that had once moved the stones that made up the northern wall and gate, for they were sound and would stand here long after these folks were gone.
The north wall had a total of eight gates - seven lesser and one main gate, Annon Forn. The two companions made this their target, as the road on which they walked led to its towers. As they approached, Durgil saw that the large, iron-reinforced doors were open and access to the city and the bridge over the Gwathló was unhindered. Cobblestones were now under foot and Nain and Durgil walked under the shadow of the north gate. It was here that they were finally hailed, "Yo there! Speak your business in the city."
Durgil saw a group of men, all armed and armored, though their mail was light. Each had a spear in hand, shafts pointed to the sky, and swords on hips. There were four standing guard and another two forms were standing in the shadows.
Nain looked up at his companion. One never knew in these dark days how humans would react to the presence of an unknown Dwarf in their midst. He thought it best to let Durgil speak for them.
An older man strode out of the gatehouse, his whiskers grey on his cheeks, his hair thinning on his pate. He, too, wore a sword on his belt, although the leather had seen many new holes added to its length, as the man's girth was wide with a belly. Still, he had the kind face of a man who had seen many years, most sad and dark, but one who knew of better times. There was also a strength in the eyes that gave proof of his station as a guardian of the city.
Though he was not of the kin, he had served under a number of those who carried the blood of Isildur, and so knew Durgil right away as a Dúnadan and a noble. He also had great familiarity with the Dwarves of the Mountains having greeted them on both sides of the city, and so in a huff he called to his men, "Oy now! Do you not recognize the blood of Kings, when you see it - and have you no courtesy for our friends of the Mountain-folk!"
The old soldier made his way to the two travelers, "Good day, good sirs! Welcome to Tharbad - might I draw you some water from our well to quench the thirst from your road? Have you horses needing a groom? Er...I forget myself, no Dwarf would be caught astride a horse! Do you have a wain bearing goods? Are you here to enter the city or merely pass through and over the bridge?" This last question brought an evident look of concern to the old man's face, but it was quite obvious that he had not seen many reputable travelers in recent days.
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/52987685/oldguard.jpg)
:ooc: the man in the pic has no facial hair and is a bit more ornately armored, but he gives off the image that I see in my brain of an older guard.
Durgil smiled kindly to the gentleman. "Yes, please, you are most kind," the Dunadan said taking a sip. "Don't mind your friend, these days have troubles and we all must stand fast against them. I am Durgil of Arthedain, a liege-lord to the King of the North. This is my friend and companion, Nain. Our business... well our business these days is your business -- the business of Tharbad and its people. We seek to inquire with the lords of your city regarding these troubled days. My friend and others were on the riverbank last night," he says, massaging a still sore wound.
Nain looked up at the man.
"There was a time that I'd ha' brought goods to your fair city, but these days my skill with the ax has been in more demand than my skill with the forge."
"Those were better days," replied the guard to Nain, "would that they could be again."
Another of his men came with a bucket and ladle of fresh drawn water from the well just inside the gates. He handed the ladle to Durgil and answered, "It is long since we have seen an embassy from the King in Arthedain! I am gladdened to hear that King Argeleb has once more taken an interest in the city of Tharbad, though our own liege-lords rule here." With those words, the old man's face took on a concerned look. "Governance of the city has fallen from our High-lords to lesser-men. It was Lord Farnor, son of Argolan, that had ruled here for many years. Sadly, he and his family took ill and wasted away over the last winter. Lord Hamad, our Margrave, took up rule from my liege-lord whil'st he lay in his sick bed. Hamad still sits upon Tharbad's seat. Come, walk with me."
The old guard turned towards his men, "See to the gates. I wish to walk a ways with Lord Durgil."
They passed through the North Gate of Tharbad, which rose three-stories. Before the gate had been a moat, or a canal, which were prevalent within the city - small waterways that had been dug out to allow the river to fill them and so provide a means of transport, commerce, and defense. The city was known by some as the City of Bridges. The old man led them down the main throughway called the Menetar. Businesses and residences were visible on both sides of the street - carpenter, smith, cooper, haberdasheries, and homes. An inn sat near the gate, too, to welcome any travelers. A thin line of smoke rose from its chimney.
Nain noticed the quiet of the city. There were people about, conducting business and being hospitable, but there was a pall over everyone. It was certainly not the ebullient city that he remembered from past journeys.
"I see," said Durgil, contemplating the politics of the city. "What more can you tell me of this Hamad? And what of this Guilin, who led the defence last night? And where does the people's allegiance sit?"
Nain walked quietly behind the two men, watching, listening and contemplating the changes that he saw to this once great city.
:ooc: his wife's (-D
:ooc: Ummm... Shawn... you are with Celdrahil at the river, not with Nain and Durgil. ;)
Good post though! :tup:
Quote from: tomcat on Oct 24, 2014, 07:34 AM
:ooc: Ummm... Shawn... you are with Celdrahil at the river, not with Nain and Durgil. ;)
Good post though! :tup:
Clearly, I need more sleep. Let me try this again. :-[
"Hamad is a good man and lord, though his blood leaves many to question his station. He is of both Eriadorian-stock and Dúnedain, but the blood of Westernesse is thin. It is said that his lineage reaches back unto the Second Age and the Númenórean colonists that settled the region...who built Tharbad, even! But those days are long gone and Hamad's forefathers did not stay true to their kind, some taking up with women of these lands. When the Elendili came and settled and took up reign, Hamad's grandsires were already of lower station. Still, he is a good and just man and has ruled here in Lord Farnor's stead since he passed."
They continued walking towards the river and the bridge that crossed it, "The people listen to him, but the city has become broken into smaller cantonments of strong-men, or sick. The many physicians that we once had who were wise in leechcraft instructed us to isolate the sick within the city, and so we did. The physicians though were soon reduced in number as the sickness took even them. Now, Hamad has us rule in strength against any that might seek to escape these cantonments of sick folk. In other areas, thieves and ruffians - those that would seem to do the Dark Lord in Angmar's will - defy us and raid into the areas we keep safe and civil. Lastly, wild news comes to us from across the bridge of a rising darkness under the banner of some king out of the hills, though no immediate threat has been made to the city." The old guard's words were interrupted by Durgil's last question, "Uh...Guilin? Who is he Milord?"
"I cannot fault the man for his duty to his people, reminds me of someone I know..." Durgil trailed off. "We should meet him, I think," he says sideways to Nain. "We've heard of this Gibbet King through others and the news is dark, but we should see to the matters on this side of the river first. But I must say I'm surprised you've not heard of this man, Guilin. He led a large contingent of men in defense of the city last night. My friends and I had just arrived when word came of an invasion of orcs and brutal wild men." Durgil and Nain recount the tale of the previous night.
"I do have one more question to ask, are there any that plot against Hamad's rule, within Tharbad that is? Even whispers would be useful." Durgil paused a moment, a little disgusted with himself regarding inserting himself into political intrigue -- a trait his father excelled at, thus he rejected. But these circumstances required it, marginally at least. "Father would be proud," he thought, shaking his head.
:ooc: doug, i was a little confused for a bit too. I thought Guilin was in or closer to Tharbard than it appears he was.
Nain simply nods at his friends suggestion that they meet Hamad, it seemed like a good idea to know this ruler if they were going to be spilling blood in defense of his city. He was also a little shocked at the fact that the gate guard didn't recognize the name of the man who led the forces protecting his cities flanks.
Quote from: Telcontar on Nov 10, 2014, 06:14 AM:ooc: doug, i was a little confused for a bit too. I thought Guilin was in or closer to Tharbard than it appears he was.
:ooc: I have it in my mind that there is a schism between the folk of the city and those outside. Since the plague, the people within the city have become very xenophobic to the point of ignoring the outer lands and the needs of those people. Resources, too, are a challenge and those that there are are closely guarded (i.e. men, women, livestock, other foods, healing herbs, healers, etc.) Everything is a commodity and no commodity is spent without first being heavily debated.
In truth, the people outside the city, though less wealthy in terms of coin or other treasure, are actually doing better, as they have the fertile lands to sustain them and both domestic and wild animals. The Tharbad-folk have cloistered themselves in and so are slowly draining away their well-being.
Thus the aloof nature of the guards to the outside problems and not knowing of the small town's local leadership.
Quote from: GandalfOfBorg on Nov 10, 2014, 04:17 AM"I cannot fault the man for his duty to his people, reminds me of someone I know..." Durgil trailed off. "We should meet him, I think," he says sideways to Nain. "We've heard of this Gibbet King through others and the news is dark, but we should see to the matters on this side of the river first. But I must say I'm surprised you've not heard of this man, Guilin. He led a large contingent of men in defense of the city last night. My friends and I had just arrived when word came of an invasion of orcs and brutal wild men." Durgil and Nain recount the tale of the previous night.
"I do have one more question to ask, are there any that plot against Hamad's rule, within Tharbad that is? Even whispers would be useful." Durgil paused a moment, a little disgusted with himself regarding inserting himself into political intrigue -- a trait his father excelled at, thus he rejected. But these circumstances required it, marginally at least. "Father would be proud," he thought, shaking his head.
:ooc: Matt, could you give me a Persuade [Charm] test against a TN 10
If you choose to reason with him with logic, I need a Debate [Negotiate] TN 10, instead.
:ooc: We are warriors, I'll go the no-nonsense route...
TN 10 Debate - 2d6+6 : 6, 3 + 6, total 15
:ooc:That makes sense. Nain thinks, like a dwarf, that Dwarves would have a different attitude toward another group of their kind that lived nearby, probably because there are fewer so they tend to stick together more. Humans are far more fractious in their dealings with their own. But he'll keep his opinion to himself for the moment, he doesn't have an excess of wit but he has enough to hold his tongue at this point (I think.)
Durgil's direct question and his noble mien caused the old guard to stop and it was plain he was debating within his own mind as to how to answer this Lord out of the North. It took only a moment for the decisions, and Durgil could see he had secured a confidence in the man. "There are no plots that I, or the guard under my command, know about. Hamad is secure in his rule here, though perhaps he dismisses himself as qualified. It is long since the Dúnedain have ruled here and the stability that once was is not forgotten, but sorely missed. Come, I will take you to the Hall of Tharbad and you may meet our Lord. And forgive me Lord Durgil, but I am Cordale, Master of Arms of the Lord's High Guard of the city of Tharbad."
Nain thought the title a bit pretentious, but it was the way of things with Men. To the Dwarf, save for the stone work that was quite solid, there was not much left to Tharbad that rung of the High-men of old. Still, the traditions and titles were held, albeit in the best fashion that could be achieved in these times.
They followed Cordale to the end of the Menetar and to the first of the two bridges that spanned the Greyflood. It was called the Iant Formen, in the old tongue, and it ended on Tol Gelin, but which was commonly referred to by the people as simply, 'the island'. Durgil could see the empty slips and docks that had surely once teemed with sailors, bargemen and fishermen. The abundance of the river's catch along with the goods coming up from Gondor, or south out of Arthedain, would have made for vast wealth and opportunity. Now all sat idle and empty, rotting in the waters that ran continuously down stream. The smell of the river was rich in the air and sea birds hung on the winds above having followed the river north. Though quiet, it was not totally empty - guards still walked patrol and the few remaining river-folk still managed to eke out their living.
The trio passed an inn that sat on the bridge, along with a few trade posts and shops that once would have aided in the transfer of marketable goods from river to the square, but most were shuttered. They came at last to the island and first was seen a large barracks that was abuzz with activity of the city's guard, and beyond was a lordly manor called the King's House. Walled gardens surrounded the turreted manor, but they were now overgrown and untended. Tales told of how once flowers and ivy colored the house in beautiful swaths of scented glory when the Regent Nurnhir and Princess Nirnadel were its occupants. That was over two-hundred years ago and time now withered even the stone.
Smoke rose from the chimneys and voices could be heard coming from the halls inside. Cordale led them into the gates, waving at his fellow guardsmen as he did, and to the doors proper. Durgil and Nain looked into a high-ceiling, airy hall which had a simple wooden throne atop a dias. On the throne sat a man with long brown-hair that was streaked with white. Age creased his face and his eyes squinted from the smoke that filled the room, but he was a kind-looking man, and his toothy smile would appear from the neatly trimmed beard whenever humor took him.
"And you believe that your rights extend to the people's wares though their goods be pilfered? You call yourselves a Trade Guild, but you trade in the stolen sweat and labor of others!" Hamad's face was cracked in a smile as he laughed at his own joke. The intended target of his humor stood before him - tall and slender and eloquently dressed. The other man's pate was balding and he had a waxed moustache that stretched out on either side of his face. He leered at Hamad, "Forget you not, Lord," there was contempt in the uttered title, "it is by our hands that you sometimes eat! It is by our efforts that your guards are fed - the very men whom you set as a fence against the sick and dying within your walls...those that you cannot help."
Cordale grunted and whispered, "Imlach Hardadrimis...Master of the Trading Guild, but truly a notorious thief. Unfortunately, my Lord Hamad must have an insufferable alliance with the guild at times to see that there are necessary commodities entering the city."
As the old guard filled his guests in on the other man's reputation, the booming voice of Hamad brought their attention back to the center of the chamber. "I see my Gatekeep stands at my door...what is it, Cordale, and who do you have seeking audience?" The guildsman looked slighted by this interruption of his own time with the Lord of the City -his demands had not yet been met.
"Forgive me, my Lord, but I bring to you Lord Durgil, Dúnadan out Arthedain and servant to King Argeleb. With him is Nain, Dwarf out of the Blue Mountains. They wish to speak with you at your next convenience."
Durgil gave city's lord a salute in deference to his station. A biting remark came to mind regarding the guildman's barb but the young Dunadan bit his tongue... for now.
"Lord Hamad, well met and thank ye for yer hospitality. Master Trader, I'm a tradesman myself of no small skill, perhaps I could help ye with the the dilemma ye find yerself in?"
The head of the Trading Guild turned to face the Dwarf and he smiled, but not in the Dúnadan's direction. Imlach had no desire for any interference from kingsmen out of the north, but he was a businessman and always looked for opportunities - hence the reason why the guild had slowly evolved from legitimate trade to more deceptive means. In these times, the ability to conduct proper business transactions was difficult at the least. It was far easier to procure products and wares in a different fashion. And so, thieves filled the ranks of the guild and strong was its hold on Tharbad's commerce. For Imlach, Nain presented a new opportunity to create contacts within the Dwarf Realms and surely the possibilities that would create could increase his wealth.
The Guildsman affected the most courteous of greetings, "Master Dwarf, it would be an honour to have our merchant halls graced by your keen insight. I am Imlach Hardadrimis and I am the Chief Guildsman in Tharbad. Our business stretches to the ends of Tharbad's city limits and beyond...surely in your trades you have seen our seal adorning many a ware?"
Hamad gave a hearty laugh, "And so you still take the time in my court attempting to control the floor! Imlach, you have had your say and you will be given more time, but I would ask that you stand aside so as I might properly meet these visitors to our fair city. Greetings to you Durgil of Arthedain, and to you Nain of the Blue Mountains! I am Hamad and I am Steward of this city. How might we serve such distinguished guests."
:ooc: I have expedited getting the two threads back together - but Tom or Shawn, give this scene a bit longer to evolve before you bring your character into the scene.
In other great news - I just finished writing out the next 4 scenes of our game! I haven't been this proactive in our game in a LONG time and it has shown. I apologize for my half-assed work and I look forward to what comes of this particular chapter. ;D
Nain gave a nod when the man asked if he'd seen their wares. He remembered days long ago, before the plague, when he'd seen wares from Tharbad, but that had been many years ago, probably before this man had even been a twinkle in his fathers eye.
The mans ignominious mean was almost palpable. Fortunately the steward stepped in before Nain said any more.
"Lord, my companion here and others, were given word of dark tidings in this land. My brother, Dirnhael, hails from this region and we traveled in haste to provide any assistance that we could. Upon arriving, barely off our horses, we found that our presence came in time with the northern shores under attack from orcs and wild men. We assisted where we could but the night was won due in no small part to a captain named Guilin," Durgil said, absently rubbing a sore wound. "It is said that these foes come from the wild lands not too far from here and that this self-styled Gibbet King may be involved as well."
Hamad's brow furrowed at Durgil's words, "There was an attack on our northern walls and I was not made aware?!"
Cordale handled the answer to his master, "No, my Lord, there was no attack on the city. T'was the outlying burg of Fennin Dorath of which he speaks. It seems that this Gibbet King - a nuisance to be sure - has made efforts at gathering forces to his banner. This petty army must be making forays against the weaker towns. Apparently their strength must be unimpressive to be sure for Fennin Dorath to turn the attack aside. The town is naught but hunters and fisher-folk. Some bargemen and shipwrights still live along the shore, but no true knights and warriors."
To the eyes of Durgil and Nain could easily be seen the flush of anger cross Hamad's face. "And you just bring news of this to me now, Cordale!" His voice rose as he continued, "Surely a nighttime engagement would be seen from our walls and we offered nothing in aid?!"
"Again, Lord Hamad, it comes down to resources," stammered the elder knight.
"Damn your talk of resources, Cordale! I oblige your presence as Master-of-Arms due to your family's long service to this seat, but speak no more to me of resources. Too few men... too few swords! Each day we lose more good people because of the apparent fear to step beyond our own walls."
"It is not fear, my Lord...but...we...there are not..."
"Enough!" Hamad bellowed. The hall grew quiet. Even the Trade Guild master drew back from the wrath of the large man on the dias. "Master Cordale, you may return to your duties. I will speak to our guests. Everyone else...clear my hall."
The old knight bowed with deference to the Lord of Tharbad. He looked to the two companions and nodded and then he backed from the hall. A crowd of others milled past Durgil and Nain and into the daylight outside. As he passed, Imlach spoke to Nain, "See me when you are available, Master Dwarf. I would speak further of the opportunities that might be available between our peoples."
And then it was just Hamad, a few city guards in inconspicuous locations, and the Lord's advisor standing at his left-hand. The noble stood from his seat, "Forgive my outburst. It is not the manner in which I would have you see my house." Hamad gestured them to join him at a long table adorned with bread, fresh cream, and fruits. "Come... tell me more of what you know and have seen."
The lord was respectfully silent as the two companions spoke of the night before and the attack by near two hundred Wild Men and Orcs out of the North. He was visibly bothered by the telling of the lives lost and those left wounded on the banks of the river. Durgil could see an impotence in the man - not because he personally lacked strength or will, but because the conditions of Tharbad, and the surrounds of Cardolan, were now weak with sickness and loss.
"Lord, I understand your plight all too well. In the North, frankly, sir, we are in decline as well. Our lands are spread wide but too little is given to their defense except in great need. No one wishes to uproot and retreat but if the people in the area are to survive, it might be wise to encourage them to move closer to the city -- they then would be easier to defend. This of course would bring more sick to the area as well. One of my companions is of the Fair Folk and adept at healing -- he may be able to lend a hand or give counsel to your masters of leechcraft. The others of our group are more adept on the field of battle. We are kin, Lord Hamad, and we are at your disposal."
Nain simply nodded his agreement with the Durgil's statement.
Hamad listened as he grabbed a trio of stemmed cups and poured a heavy-scented spiced wine into each. He handed two to his guests and took a pull from his own, "Your words of the North do not comfort, Lord Durgil. The condition of Cardolan has always given rise to the thought that Arnor has all but fallen, but still hope lies in the blood of Isildur and your kin who sits upon the throne in Fornost. We of Eriadorian stock have faith that the strength of the Dúnedain will stem this evil tide." He thought a moment of his guest's advice, "T'was the sickness that caused a large exodus of the city. Our population had already been greatly depleted having never recovered the destruction of our army at Amon Sûl and the death of our Prince. The ravaging forces of Angmar drove us from our lands. Two hundred years - many blights, shadows rising in our sacred tombs and barrows, constant attacks of raiding men and orcs, and now a terrible sickness - we have never recovered our strength. We merely hold on in hopes that the King in Fornost Erain can quell this evil. I do not know who is safer? The folk that live in wide spread communities living off the land and surviving, or us who still defend the ancient walls of this city in some semblance of civilization? We still ply the waters and keep the road as far as we can control, but trade from both north and south has dwindled and our coffers run empty. We begin to question what do we really control?"
There was movement again at the entrance to the hall and the Lord of the City looked up to see who might be disturbing his requested privacy. It was Cordale once more bowing, "My Lord, forgive my disturbance, but I bring two more of Lord Durgil's companions. I present Lord Dirnhael, Knight of Arthedain, and Lord Celdrahil of Minas Ithil in southern Ithilien."
The anger that had risen due to being interrupted quickly ebbed with the names of the new guests. Surely this was a boon for Hamad and Tharbad, three noble Dúnedain in his house, and a Dwarf from the mountains. Was there a new hope rising for he and his city?
Celdrahil strode lordly into the hall of the Steward of Tharbad and stopped before the seat of the city's lord.
"Lord of the House, I, a traveling son of Númenor, and scion of the Elendili, seeks hospitality within your home and city so that within its walls we may speak of the light of the west and lessen the burden of our exile here in Middle-earth. I am Celdrahil of Ithilien, soldier of Gondor."
The knight bowed and waited to be recognized by the master of the city.
Hamad looked at the man walking towards him and took another pull from his drink, as he listened to his introduction. His eyes bent down to the Dwarf with a smile and he whispered behind his cup, "That was a mouthful."
The Steward lowered the drink and smiled at the two new arrivals and then raised the cup again in salute, "You are welcome in my home. I have just had the good opportunity to meet your companions, although your name rings familiar. Did you not pass through Tharbad, not long ago?"
Celdrahil rose.
"Indeed Lord I did. Last year before heading north to meet with my kin in Fornost I passed this way though we did not meet in person. I had asked your leave to examine the docks and quays of the city at the time. Having now completed my journey north I will say now with certainty it will be the river that will link this city with the kingdoms to the north and south, for the road is now to long and arduous for commerce. That however is a tale for another time."
"I come to report what my friends here have already perhaps told you. The outlying peoples are under attack from men who keep the company of orcs. They have defended themselves stoughtly and I have pledged myself to aid them. Even now they plan and seek to take the initiative, but they do so in isolation. This is a threat to the whole city, yet those of the villages and towns along the river are seemingly fighting alone."
Nain smirked at the stewards comment but covered it and the chuckle that needed to be stifled into his own cup.
Hamad could only give a grim nod of understanding, "It shames me to say that I am only finding out now that they have been attacked, and so close to my walls. It seems my captains of the guard have conspired only to bring tidings that affect the city directly - not our wards beyond. I have heard of this Gibbet King in rumours only, but now I see that he is a true threat."
The lord of Tharbad motioned to seats for Celdrahil and Dirnhael to take and had his steward bring them wine. He continued, "The gates of our city are not shut to those outside, lest they be evil-doers in their own right, but still the people stay where they are. The fear of this sickness keeps them out, for I hear that rumours speak of wild infestations within our walls. It has been said that whole sub-divisions of the city are naught but dying and diseased. Although this be partially true, as I have cordoned off an area where those that suffer are to stay, it is not rampant throughout Tharbad. In truth, city blocks are empty because people have just left and our population dwindles.
"So, if the people outside of the city will not come within for safety and would defy this Gibbet King at their own doors, then let us make counsel as to how Tharbad can assist them. What methods do you now plan to meet this enemy? How great is his force? Do you know?"
Celdrahil nodded and sat at the table with the other lords.
"I assure you the Gibbet King is very real, and if the words of the people in the hinterland are to be believed seeks to ultimately conquer the city. Many speak that his agents are already present here in the city working towards his coming. More disturbing still is that the wildmen have rallied to his banner and stalk the lands in the company of orcs. He has paired the rolling tide of the orcs with Wildman raging warriors. They are brazen, fearless, strong, and were challenging to the experienced in our party while blowing through the inexperienced river folk like an autumn fire through grass. They came in boats across the river, were ultimately repulsed, but at some cost.
I spoke with the Captains and leaders of the folk about how to proceed. Currently they are engaged in preparing some defensive works to protect against land and water attacks. More importantly however they are organizing to establish a watch upon the land and sentries to alert them of bands moving on their settlements. If I may, I also have some suggestions."
The knight of Ithilien did not wait for the Lord of the City to respond before he pressed ahead.
"I am a soldier, and I will speak plainly. The folk see no aid or succor from the city, nor do they expect it to come. Few are the folk who would abandon their homesteads and the graves of their fathers, even in the utmost need. The city has always been there in their lives, but it is not a sanctuary. Should they even seek the safety of the walls to what end? Whatvwould they do here? Their skills are not those of city dwellers and they would be preyed upon as cheap manual labor and extorted for living space in rents and fees. The population of the city will not grow from these folk Lord. They will remain where they are and prosper or be ground into the dust of Cardolan. You can however provide them with aid and establish the city as an ally. My friend Nain here has all of the traits of his folk. With a small party of men from the city and his knowledge you could quickly aid them in preparing their defenses. This would cost you nothing in lives or resources except for time and sweat. In addition, perhaps sparing a few men of the guard, or even those who have retired and drawn pensions to provide rudimentary instruction in the ways and techniques of war would be of immense value. They are skilled as individuals, but very few know the manner of fighting in a group or how to support each position or adjacent unit. In a short time the people of the villages would be safer, see the real and legitimate aid of the city in their lives, and confront the Gibber King with a united front. In the long history of Arda ever is it the wile of the enemy to divide and reduce. The strength of men is in honor and friendship in the face of adversity.
I would hazard also that too long have you have been here in the hall and relied upon the reports and advice of your councilors. Ride through the city. See what condition it is in and speak to its people. Not the ones that your counselors allow you to see and hear, but the common man. Then go to these people and lend the aid of your people to them. Show them that the Lord of Tharbad is not concerned only of collecting the coin of taxes and shutting the door against the world, but is willing to act and fulfill even the unrequested need for aid from those he owes nothing."
:ooc: that was an awesome post, Tom. I will have a reply shortly - my daughter is on Nick Jr. Right now.
Was the look on Hamad's face anger, or perhaps embarrassment, the Celdrahil saw when his words were spoken? He wondered.
In any case, it was fleeting as a look of resolve replaced the other. "I am finding that I am not the man that should sit upon this high seat," Hamad sighed. "I was but a swordsman of rank to my Lord Farnor, who held this seat before me. It was he that placed me here as he lie dying with fever. Now I find that what once was my duty to Tharbad has been forgotten, as I sit idle on the dias. T'was I that once walked the streets of Tharbad and saw to the people, in the name of my Lord." The man shook his head and age was now on his face. "Your words are good medicine, Celdrahil. I will heed your advice. It is time to find out what is going on outside of my own gates, and not of the city, but my very yard within."
Wine was poured again for all of those around the table. Hamad tore a loaf of bread into five shares and adorned each plate with plump, purple grapes. The servings were then distributed. "We will break our fast and then I will ride forth to the north gate to see the town that has won the day. Then it will be off to the south gate and to see what lies on our eastern shore. While we eat, tell me - what is your plan now?"
"I have not come like a bear in autumn to paw at the hive, disturb the bees, and leave. I have promised the people of the north shore to assist them in their troubles and so I extend that aid to you as well. You will not ride alone Lord Hamad when you sally forth from your hall. Once we have a good opinion of the situation, some defenses and warnings in place, then we can plan our own offensive against the self proclaimed King."
:ooc: Gonna read that as a "bear" instead of a "beer" - though a honey brown is a product of said hive. ;)
"Your aid is timely and appreciated. It begs the question... why are so many lords of Arthedain now at my door? What word came from the south to bring you here?" The companions could see that Hamad was truly curious and that no conspiracy was hidden within his inquiry.
Celdrahil spoke only one word and left it hang in the room for others to elborate if they cared to.
"Mithrandir."
Quote from: Telcontar on Feb 02, 2015, 01:08 PM
Celdrahil spoke only one word and left it hang in the room for others to elborate if they cared to.
"Mithrandir."
"He has counseled me in the past; only briefly, but each time, his words have proven wise. These lands raised me, and he knew that I would wish to keep them safe, if I am able."
"This name, too, I am familiar with. An old-man wanderer, yes? He has passed through Tharbad in the past but never during my Lordship. I recall my Lord Farnor speaking of him and saying that he would give counsel at times, and it was well-received. Still, the people say troubles follow him like crows." Hamad tore a piece of bread and began to chew it only to follow it moments later with the last of his wine. "Come, let us take a walk. We shall go to the walls of this city and look out to see what we can see."
The companions followed the Steward's lead and finished their own food and drink. Once done the group all walked from the hall and out into the afternoon warmth. They made their way north over the bridge and then followed the streets to the Annon Amrun - the Sunrise Gate. Hamad lead them to the top of the highest tower there, which only stood one story above the other roofs surrounding.
He pointed, "My northern watch and the road to the Fennin Dorath." The town could be seen on the horizon - smoke plumes rising, but probably now just from hearths and cooking stoves. The Steward gestured east over the river, "The confluence of the river is a great mire called the Nin-In-Eilph - a wretched land full of quicksand and other dangerous traps and creatures. You say that this is where the attack came from?"
Quote from: tomcat on Feb 06, 2015, 07:36 PM
The Steward gestured east over the river, "The confluence of the river is a great mire called the Nin-In-Eilph - a wretched land full of quicksand and other dangerous traps and creatures. You say that this is where the attack came from?"
"So it would seem," Dirnhael replied. "Wild men led the raid; they fought with a ferocity of which I have not seen in many moons. But their attack was stealthy and well-planned; I do not believe that the same men that stormed your shores were the architects of this incursion -- something else guides their hand."
As the others looked on up the river towards the site of the previous night's battle, Durgil pondered over the Gibbet King and his influence on the other side of the river.
Nain sat back at the table watching the men's backs and drinking his ale as they pondered the river outside.
"We should just go over there and kill him. Without a strong leader the wildmen and orcs would likely fall to fightin' among theirsleves or lose direction and wander back to what e'er hole they climbed out of."
:ooc: Doug, we have the map of the city, but can you give us a quick concept sketch of where the town is, the villages, the swamp hilltop, and anything else. I am getting lost in the conceptual lay out of this and have a picture in my head that I dont know is accurate.
:ooc: Here you go, Tom. The town indicated is Fennin Dorath.
Celdrahil stood on the rampart and pointed out the flow of the battle and the avenues of approach as best as he could reckon them.
"Will you ride out to see the folk lord?"
"I will," Hamad nodded.
The sun sat high in the afternoon as the men followed the city's Steward back towards the primary gate - the Annon Forn - where stables were still kept and horses ready. They crossed back over the inner bridges that crossed the man-made canals that made an inner ring within Tharbad. Some of the bridges were permanent structures of stone that arched up high allowing larger flat-bottomed barges to go under, while others were made of wood that could be raised by rope and pulley. The canals allowed for an inner defense, but also enhanced the city's trade by allowing polemen to bring their wares right to where they could be sold.
Celdrahil noticed that some of the bridges were broken and impassable, while others were missing rope and tackle that would allow them to be raised. He had also taken note of the empty windows and quiet buildings and homes. Tharbad was slowly dying from within even as it fought to survive in a world that had cut it off. The Dúnadan imagined the city of yesteryear when Cardolan was still mighty, or even prior when Arnor ruled the north. It must have been as active as a beehive in summer. Once more Celdrahil cursed the Shadow that seemed to stretch from out of the North - even from the East of his own homeland.
His thoughts were broken by Hamad, "We will ride out to meet Guilin and his town elders and see how the city can better aid him. I would also see this battlefield and pay honor to the fallen." The group mounted and departed Tharbad taking the road north to Fennin Dorath less than a league away. "What do you believe is his endgame, this Gibbet King? Surely he does not believe he can sack the city. His horde might be fearsome to smaller towns, but it does not seem he has an organized force to perform such a feat as attacking the city. Perhaps we need to espy his works - find from where he directs his forces and see if we can discover his intent."
"The same that all darkness seeks -- power. If the influence of Men were to wain, especially here, the North and South Kingdoms would be perilously cut off from each other. Divide and conquer, scheme and whisper, encourage decay and foul ends. We can't let that happen," says Durgil.
"Then let us pursue this foul host into whatever hole it hides! HYAH!" Hamad yelled as he spurred his horse into a run.
:ooc: I will start a new thread tonight after my class. Feel free to add anything else you want to here.