This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
On the eighth day, Martin meets with King Haddian in the morning in his bedchamber, unlike most of the previous meetings, which took place in the parlor. Haddian is sitting up and poring over a slew of parchments with reading glasses perched on the tip of his nose. When Martin enters, he offers a mischievous smile.
"Martin," he says. "You were a difficult one to figure out. Moreso than Bulwark even. I do hope you like what I have in store for you, though."
With that, the king sits up, smoothing the fine blankets draped over his legs. In an imperious voice, he says to Martin and the attendant, the only other two in the room, "Martin, for your dedication to a cause you were thrown into, I present this bow."
The attendant reveals a fine looking bow that must be quite old. Old, but well-maintained.
"This is the Song of Vengeance," King Haddian says. "It was crafted by the silver dragon Kyldruntas for the druid Pio Loasa to battle Kurdach the Dragon Killer. Loasa struck Kurdach in the eye, it is said, using this very bow, before he escaped into the Blacktooth swamps to never be seen again."
The king looks intently at Martin as the man marvels at the gift. "It requires great focus to use, which leads to my request. I would like to appoint you as my Emissary of the Road. You will receive the charge with protecting the King's Road. My road. My legacy. This is a monumental task. Literally. It will require much travel, through the wilderness as well as the cities and towns of Albion, especially Alciondria. Should you accept, I will provide you with my plans and a team to help you oversee this project. I do hope you will accept."
nschrock:
Martin has a new item on his character sheet!
History(15) check: 16
Martin is VERY familiar with the story of Kurdach and Pio Loasa. This bow is incredibly meaningful to Martin!
“This is... well, I suppose anything is a kingly gift when you’re the king, but you really lived up to it. I accept both the rewards and responsibilities. Thank you.” Martin is a bit teary when he says this. “I hope I do right by both.”
“This is... well, I suppose anything is a kingly gift when you’re the king, but you really lived up to it. I accept both the rewards and responsibilities. Thank you.” Martin is a bit teary when he says this. “I hope I do right by both.”
Haddian claps his hands together. "Excellent!" he says. Then, leaning forward conspiratorially, he adds, "This is one of the best parts of the job. I do have one more boon to offer you, though. My mages and I have established a network of teleportation circles around Alcion. In 10 days time, I will be returning to Alciondria, perhaps for the last time. I offer you transport to anywhere in Alcion that you would go for the next 15 days, to report for duty in the capital on the 16th day. What say you?"
Martin will walk the streets of Masa, checking the familiar haunts of Gargus until he finds the old Druid. When he finds him, he’ll have a long chat talking about what he’s been up to, and his new job.
Eventually he tells Gargus that he wants him to come with him back to Alciondria. He wants to continue the way of the druids, with him.
It is Tock's eighth meeting with the king. Haddian has been extraordinarily kind. Their conversation about the kenku tribes in the eastern lands were especially enlightening for Tock. Haddian cannot suppress his grin as adopts a regal tone.
"Tock of an unknown kenku tribe. I, King Haddian, present to you this precious artifact," Haddian nods to his attendant, who unveils a small, perfectly round stone resting on a pillow. "This is the Riverwise Stone, used by the nymph Aquestra more than 300 years ago to save the Court of the Spring from a raging flood. It was gifted to Aquestra by the god Silvanus himself for this very purpose. I entrust it with you to discover its properties, which I'm told provide remarkable clear-headedness to the user."
As Tock opens his beak to respond, Haddian barges on. "Additionally, I appoint you as a Special Emissary to the Crown. This is a title reserved only for advisors of the crown, of which I have six. Well, now seven. Yours is a role that I dub 'arcane spymaster'. My current spymaster is quite good. As is my arcane advisor. But you will fill the hole they have failed to see thus far: Arcane infiltration and information gathering. You will employ a small staff of your choosing and advise and protect the crown from arcane threats of an insidious nature."
Haddian raises his eyebrows in expectation of a response.
Tock accepts the present and the title with gravitas, "Thank you so very much Your Highness. You will not be disappointed."
"I have given this some thought and would like to request another appointment, a more public one to give me an official reason for being around. I am sure you have a master of ceremonies or events coordinator. Would you think it appropriate for me to be an assistant to such a person? It would give me reason to travel, to talk to people and to stick my beak into everyone's business. Besides, I can juggle and entertain a crowd with the best of them."
King Haddian ponders this for a solid two minutes, creating an excruciating silence. But Tock is able to study the king intently as the man thinks. His body is clearly frail - he coughs several times during his silence - but his mind is sharp. At last he finally says, "My attendants coordinate my needs and estate staff coordinate most royal events. But the desire for an audience with the crown is overwhelming. Such will be the case even when I am gone."
The king is still thinking, making his answer sound like a "no". But then he continues, saying, "So let me amend my offer to be called that of Emissary of the People. Your thoughts on security from magical persuasion are an important one, so I think you should be involved in shaping the policy for. But your official purview will be in vetting which events, from personal meetings to dinner invitations, that the crown will entertain. You will need to vet the audience and work with all manner of people, from my own personal attendants, to nobles, to the King's guard, to commoners seeking help from the crown, to my own Mistress of Ceremonies, to, naturally, myself. This will be a complicated role and it will not always be a pleasant one. You will have to work closely with my secretary for scheduling purposes and you will also need to travel wherever the crown goes. It will be a public but thankless job, as you will be forced to say "no" more often than "yes" to all the requests you will receive. How does that sound as a compromise?"
Bulwark has been spending his time around the grounds somewhat... lost. The first few days he kept his vigilance about him, constantly on guard for anything that might jump out of the shadows, but it quickly became clear that they were safe here. There was no enemy to fight. Nothing to protect against.
He was unsure what to do with himself.
He follows Dog to the training grounds, helping engage the guards in combat, 'subtly' tails Tockas he scouts the grounds, making sure he's fine, watches over Gash as he entertains Gentoa with tricks both magical and mundane in nature. Even inserts himself awkwardly (though he doesn't seem to mind) into some of Martin and Althus' activities, wherein he doesn't speak much beyond thanking them for their help, complimenting their ability and willingness to put themselves in harms way for others.
He shakes his head at Dog's question, "Incorrect idea of my purpose. Do not desire to seek more things to protect. Seek to protect what I have. Outside of that my predilictions are..." He is quiet, but for the whir and click of his inner mechanisms. Dog gets the vague impression that if his face could move he would be frowning. "...Unclear."
When summoned to the King's chambers, his answers concerning their adventures so far are woefully bereft of any subjectivity, listing the events of their journey as more of a fact-orientated report. When asked about himself he is... forthcoming, though distinctly reserved.
At the King's last question, Bulwark is silent for a moment. "Status of Alcion is unimportant to me, beyond being a safe region in which to reside. I care not for the legacy of the nation, the crown, or its people. I was created with a purpose: To protect. In that I failed. I do not wish to fail again."
Bulwark has been spending his time around the grounds somewhat... lost. The first few days he kept his vigilance about him, constantly on guard for anything that might jump out of the shadows, but it quickly became clear that they were safe here. There was no enemy to fight. Nothing to protect against.
He was unsure what to do with himself.
He follows Dog to the training grounds, helping engage the guards in combat, 'subtly' tails Tockas he scouts the grounds, making sure he's fine, watches over Gash as he entertains Gentoa with tricks both magical and mundane in nature. Even inserts himself awkwardly (though he doesn't seem to mind) into some of Martin and Althus' activities, wherein he doesn't speak much beyond thanking them for their help, complimenting their ability and willingness to put themselves in harms way for others.
He shakes his head at Dog's question, "Incorrect idea of my purpose. Do not desire to seek more things to protect. Seek to protect what I have. Outside of that my predilictions are..." He is quiet, but for the whir and click of his inner mechanisms. Dog gets the vague impression that if his face could move he would be frowning. "...Unclear."
When summoned to the King's chambers, his answers concerning their adventures so far are woefully bereft of any subjectivity, listing the events of their journey as more of a fact-orientated report. When asked about himself he is... forthcoming, though distinctly reserved.
At the King's last question, Bulwark is silent for a moment. "Status of Alcion is unimportant to me, beyond being a safe region in which to reside. I care not for the legacy of the nation, the crown, or its people. I was created with a purpose: To protect. In that I failed. I do not wish to fail again."
On the eighth visit with the king, he is walking, slowly, from his bedchambers to the parlor, when Bulwark arrives. Bulwark walks with him quietly, only the mechanical sounds of Bulwark's movement and Haddian's quiet footsteps. Once in the parlor, Haddian is helped into his seat as Bulwark stands quietly nearby. Finally, Haddian speaks.
"You'll recall in our earlier conversations that I mentioned my legally granting sentience to constructs such as yourself. That was perhaps the most unpopular pronouncement I have ever made," he says. "Do not mistake that for regret. I have no regrets about it. It was the right thing to do. Of the many constructs I have met, though, you are the most...reserved of them. On the surface, you appear to be what many of my skeptics claimed: A slave to your directives. But that was never my experience with others of your kind, Bulwark. And I think, in our talks, that we have barely scratched the surface of who you are. Besides, there are plenty of people who are not constructed are reserved and singularly driven as you are. And you are free to be as they are by my very own decree."
The king nods to his attendant who unveils a maul, ornate with dwarven runes and styling. "I do not think you will care about the history of this weapon or even that it is given to you as a reward for your service to the young princess. But I do enjoy the history of these things and so I will indulge in telling you of it. The Avalanche Maul was constructed to fight your kind by Fermin Stonebreaker and wielded by Burlic the Bearded during the mage wars. Both Fermin and Burlic were considered heroes, though both of them flawed ones, and they would surely have despised the thought of you wielding their weapon. I do not, though, because the constructs who battled the dwarves during the Mage Wars were...not of their own mind. I gift you this weapon because I believe that you are."
Haddian coughs briefly, then continues. "Additionally, I present to you a choice in which to exercise that mind. I believe it to be the best fit for you, Bulwark, because of who you are and what drives you to act. I wish to appoint you as Emissary to the Queen. You will be tasked with protecting my wife until the day she dies. If you accept, then I know it will be a life long-lived. This position will include a small retinue of guards under your command. But it is not an administrative position. What say you?"
Bulwark looks at the weapon, its intricate detailing, the impressive craftsmanship of it, and reflects that the King is correct. He holds the weapon's origin in no particular regard, except... that's not quite true. It, like him, was made with a purpose. To be a weapon designed to kill a specific enemy, and to be nothing else. Now it has a chance at another use. Another direction to be taken in. He tests its weight, going through a few simple maneouvers.
Sentience wasn't something he asked for. It isn't something he knows what to do with.
Deep within him, something clicks.
"I believe..." He hefts the maul, slinging it acorss his back. "...That that is something I would like to try."
Althus is disappointed that he is unable to do much to help the king, though he simply seems resigned in the moment. He spends most of the time is quiet contemplation and prayer, searching for guidance from Helm. He'll gladly tell Dog about his past, speaking of his origins as a created organism and the spiritual journey that he was sent on by Helm, which led him to the group.
In his discussions with the king, he is as respectful as he knows how to be, "But your majesty, I am a paladin of Helm first and foremost. I go where he directs me, and trust that he's sending me where I'm needed most. Through him, I will perform as much good as I can do. I would like to stay with everyone, but if Helm calls me, I must go."
Dog is quiet during the presentation, and examines the sword with a serious expression. “I like cold. Thank you. Very much.”
After the job offer, Dog is surprised, because he had been expecting to be sent on his way. So the idea of staying close hadn’t occurred to him. “That sounds... did Genny, Gentoa, ask for this? Nev, Neventi? I could... I think it sounds similar to what I have been doing, just hopefully without as much confusion and panic. Then again, I’ve seen her try to eat a bowl of porridge over a carpet before, so there will always be panic. I’ve gotten familiar with the kingsguard here - how do you see this role and the new retinue of guards liaising with the existing kingsguard? My only precondition in accepting is unfettered access to libraries. For one thing, I need to know all I can about this Ice Blade fellow, and the deep gnomes he terrorized. I’d also like to be able to take leave when I want, to travel the realm alone and with my friends. I’ll be more useful to the princess if I stay sharp. And are the Goliath herds across the mountains part of your realm? I’ve always wanted to go visit them. My parents said they were barbaric and uncultured but I’ve barely met any of my own kind. I should probably go say hello to my family. The last time I saw them we had words, many of which I regret. Boy, my dad is going to love seeing me casting spells. I’ll never be able to live it down.” His mind spinning faster and faster, he begins talking about other things we wants to do, and then back to the job at hand, improving the training regimen of the guards, adding in arcane lessons for them, some things he’d have to talk to Tock and Gash about...
Bulwark looks at the weapon, its intricate detailing, the impressive craftsmanship of it, and reflects that the King is correct. He holds the weapon's origin in no particular regard, except... that's not quite true. It, like him, was made with a purpose. To be a weapon designed to kill a specific enemy, and to be nothing else. Now it has a chance at another use. Another direction to be taken in. He tests its weight, going through a few simple maneouvers.
Sentience wasn't something he asked for. It isn't something he knows what to do with.
Deep within him, something clicks.
"I believe..." He hefts the maul, slinging it acorss his back. "...That that is something I would like to try."
The king studies Bulwark, who studies the maul, a smile creeping onto this face. "I am glad to hear it," he says. "You may begin now, or you may take some time to yourself. We leave for Alciondria in 15 days time. I would like you to accompany Queen Duliani then, at least. If you would like to go somewhere, I and my mages have established a vast network of teleportation circles around Alcion. Just tell me where you wish to go and it will be so. As long as you are back in 15 days."
(And now you may write Bulwark's final scene before the credits roll!)
Dog is quiet during the presentation, and examines the sword with a serious expression. “I like cold. Thank you. Very much.”
After the job offer, Dog is surprised, because he had been expecting to be sent on his way. So the idea of staying close hadn’t occurred to him. “That sounds... did Genny, Gentoa, ask for this? Nev, Neventi? I could... I think it sounds similar to what I have been doing, just hopefully without as much confusion and panic. Then again, I’ve seen her try to eat a bowl of porridge over a carpet before, so there will always be panic. I’ve gotten familiar with the kingsguard here - how do you see this role and the new retinue of guards liaising with the existing kingsguard? My only precondition in accepting is unfettered access to libraries. For one thing, I need to know all I can about this Ice Blade fellow, and the deep gnomes he terrorized. I’d also like to be able to take leave when I want, to travel the realm alone and with my friends. I’ll be more useful to the princess if I stay sharp. And are the Goliath herds across the mountains part of your realm? I’ve always wanted to go visit them. My parents said they were barbaric and uncultured but I’ve barely met any of my own kind. I should probably go say hello to my family. The last time I saw them we had words, many of which I regret. Boy, my dad is going to love seeing me casting spells. I’ll never be able to live it down.” His mind spinning faster and faster, he begins talking about other things we wants to do, and then back to the job at hand, improving the training regimen of the guards, adding in arcane lessons for them, some things he’d have to talk to Tock and Gash about...
The king grins as Dog talks breathlessly in response. When he gets a word in edgewise, he says, "Not even I get unfettered access to my libraries. The librarians are strict with some of those ancient tomes. But you will receive access. That is an easy boon to grant. As for travel, it will be a given. And personal time is important for all who serve the crown. Such as now. You begin your duties in a tenday when Princess Gentoa and Neventi ride for the capital. Until then, begone!" The king makes a light-hearted waving-away motion. "Your final boon is to use the royal teleportation circles to travel anywhere in Alciondria and back. You have ten days do go wherever you wish. Where will you go, Doggear Brakespine?"
Althus is disappointed that he is unable to do much to help the king, though he simply seems resigned in the moment. He spends most of the time is quiet contemplation and prayer, searching for guidance from Helm. He'll gladly tell Dog about his past, speaking of his origins as a created organism and the spiritual journey that he was sent on by Helm, which led him to the group.
In his discussions with the king, he is as respectful as he knows how to be, "But your majesty, I am a paladin of Helm first and foremost. I go where he directs me, and trust that he's sending me where I'm needed most. Through him, I will perform as much good as I can do. I would like to stay with everyone, but if Helm calls me, I must go."
The king eyes smile, though his mouth does not. "I have encountered only a few paladins in my 20 years as a king," he says. "Only barely more than any your people. You are an exceedingly rare person, being a combination of two rarities as you are. None of the paladins that I have met could be persuaded to serve a king. They serve a higher power."
King Haddian allows a moment of silence to punctuate his little speech and Althus, in his seven days of meeting with the man, knows to let him continue. "I am not destined for the heaven of Helm, but I think I know where you are headed next. And we might be of mutual assistance to each other in that regard," he says. "In northern Poria, one of the warlords of the neighboring country is terrorizing the villages. He appears to be building an army to push south and claim the unprotected lands of Poria. We are on good terms with our neighbor but Poria is not a wealthy kingdom. They are young and disorganized but trying hard to govern right. I am sending a force of soldiers to help Poria defend the helpless villages in the north. The Porian army needs military instruction and recruiting support in advance of The Fang pressing their attack."
The king studies Althus as the paladin listens, waiting for Haddian to come around to the point. He does so now, saying, "Althus Pelivar, my request is that you present our military aid to Queen Gerica the second of Poria on my behalf. If you happen to find yourself in northern Poria, aiding the villagers under attack there, then...well then I think you will help a lot of people. Helm guide you, wherever you end up. If you accept this assignment, you will have my thanks, and that of the people of Poria."
Dog definitely wants to go back to the East, to see if he can track down Crowley and Bazza, and then the dwarf guardsman who lived in the town where they found Nev and Genny (he offers to accompany them there if they want to go). He can’t quite bring himself to go visit his parents and the arcanist they work for, or the Goliath herds - that might come later.
He also tries to go back to the mountains where they found Merxina’s underground city, for some hiking, fresh air, and maybe some Goliath skiing or sledding. Some winter relaxation - he’s always loved the mountains and the snow.
He also asks Nev and Genny if they want him to take the emissary job, as it’s up to them as much as it’s up to him.
Neventi is delighted that Dog has accepted the position!
And King Haddian sends a messenger to find out the whereabouts of Crowley and Bazza, determining they made it all the way to his home in Ketudas in the north of Alcion. (He learns of this while exploring Merxina's underground village and sledding in the mountains.) Crowley, Bazza, Q'wai, Tyrol, Tick, and some of the others had quite the adventure bringing him to Ketudas, it seems.
(Dog may now write his outro before the credits roll!)
Bulwark makes his request of the King, a day to travel back to the labyrinth of the Minotaurs, where he searches for the remains of his creators. He buries two things that day: the friends he failed, and the hold that failure has over him.
On his return, he informs his companions of his decision, glad to hear that most of them will be accepting positions of a similar intent, at least enough to be able to keep in semi-close proximity. To them he is perhaps noticeably lighter in disposition, still not the most chatty person around, but markedly warmer.
The final scene of Bulwark is of him standing dutifully behind Queen Duliani, his two mauls strapped to his back, his warhammer and shield at his side. She makes an off-hand remark, and Bulwark's nonchalant response has her in tears with mirth, much to his confusion. And as he watches over her, the sounds of whirring and ticking deep in his mechanical core that once perhaps were old and worn, now have the tone of fresh clockwork.
The hiking and sledding and quiet and cold of the mountains settle Dog's mind. He looked for more answers in Merxina's city, but is actually okay with not finding many. He is at peace with himself, alone, enjoying not being chased by fiends and worse. When word of the circus' location comes to him, he pulls himself away from a climb to the far summit, and goes to Ketudas.
A day later, Dog (and perhaps Tock and Gash if they want to join) spends about two hours telling Crowley and Bazza and the other circus members about what happened when they left the circus. The dinner table at the tavern in Ketudas is alternately quiet and boisterous. At the end of the tale, there's a long period of silence. Then one of them smiles. Then one chortles. Then the wave comes, of laughter, amazement, disbelief, back slapping, all at once. "An angel child? Gash is a real wizard? FeyTok in a labyrinth, now an action figure? Dog met the king? DOG? The strongman bouncer? Angels? Devils? Vampires? Dragons? Dog learned to talk??" The group begin to theorize about what Dog and the others really did. It starts out sincere, and then turns to good-natured farce very quickly.
Crowley is furiously taking notes, laughing to himself.
"Even if only half of this is true, ALL of it is going into the new circus plotline. Dog, we'll have to find someone else to star in it though. No one would believe it if it was you and Gash and Tock. We'll get a real star. And we'll be swimming in silver, if we can pull it off...."
Dog is very happy to share his excitement and stories with his old friends, and they can believe whatever part of it they want. He does wonder about Genny and Nev, and so he returns to Pallaxus the next morning via teleportation circle. His reunion with Genny is joyful, the girl running straight at him and then somehow right up his leg and halfway up his frame to wrap him in a surprise hug, while he pretends to fall over, howling like a hound. The kingsguard are alarmed at first, unsure which of the two is more concerning. The giggles put them at ease and stay their hands, but they take longer to unfurrow their brows.
He is very content to hear the new clockwork sounds in Bulwark.
The preparations to leave for the capital the following day see lots of people hustling and scurrying around. Dog, the smell of mountains and taverns finally washed off him, his armor gleaming and his weapons hanging by his side, stands tall directly behind the crown princess. His expression deadly serious, eyes running around the courtyard one more time for threats that aren't there. The group of advisers, guards, courtiers, royal family members all preparing for the journey to the capital, barely notice him. One new face bumps into him, grumpily cursing at the "confounded pillar" until he sees he bumped into a goliath, eyes rising to Dog's face, and he shrinks away with swallowed apologies. Gentoa looks back at the commotion, straight up at Dog. He feels the gaze, and then his eyes cross, and his tongue sticks out, and the courtyard is filled with tiny giggles.
"It's a lovely day,"he says in his deep, deep baritone, winking at the princess and her mother.
On the eighth day, Martin meets with King Haddian in the morning in his bedchamber, unlike most of the previous meetings, which took place in the parlor. Haddian is sitting up and poring over a slew of parchments with reading glasses perched on the tip of his nose. When Martin enters, he offers a mischievous smile.
"Martin," he says. "You were a difficult one to figure out. Moreso than Bulwark even. I do hope you like what I have in store for you, though."
With that, the king sits up, smoothing the fine blankets draped over his legs. In an imperious voice, he says to Martin and the attendant, the only other two in the room, "Martin, for your dedication to a cause you were thrown into, I present this bow."
The attendant reveals a fine looking bow that must be quite old. Old, but well-maintained.
"This is the Song of Vengeance," King Haddian says. "It was crafted by the silver dragon Kyldruntas for the druid Pio Loasa to battle Kurdach the Dragon Killer. Loasa struck Kurdach in the eye, it is said, using this very bow, before he escaped into the Blacktooth swamps to never be seen again."
The king looks intently at Martin as the man marvels at the gift. "It requires great focus to use, which leads to my request. I would like to appoint you as my Emissary of the Road. You will receive the charge with protecting the King's Road. My road. My legacy. This is a monumental task. Literally. It will require much travel, through the wilderness as well as the cities and towns of Albion, especially Alciondria. Should you accept, I will provide you with my plans and a team to help you oversee this project. I do hope you will accept."
nschrock:
Martin has a new item on his character sheet!
History(15) check: 16
Martin is VERY familiar with the story of Kurdach and Pio Loasa. This bow is incredibly meaningful to Martin!
“This is... well, I suppose anything is a kingly gift when you’re the king, but you really lived up to it. I accept both the rewards and responsibilities. Thank you.” Martin is a bit teary when he says this. “I hope I do right by both.”
Paladin - warforged - orange
Haddian claps his hands together. "Excellent!" he says. Then, leaning forward conspiratorially, he adds, "This is one of the best parts of the job. I do have one more boon to offer you, though. My mages and I have established a network of teleportation circles around Alcion. In 10 days time, I will be returning to Alciondria, perhaps for the last time. I offer you transport to anywhere in Alcion that you would go for the next 15 days, to report for duty in the capital on the 16th day. What say you?"
“I’d say... I’d like to see home. Masa. Then I have work to do on some roads. I think I should travel them a bit if I can.”
Paladin - warforged - orange
"Done!" the king says. "Aricellus will make the arrangements. I will see you in 16 days."
(Now is your opportunity to write Martin's final scene before the credits roll.)
Martin will walk the streets of Masa, checking the familiar haunts of Gargus until he finds the old Druid. When he finds him, he’ll have a long chat talking about what he’s been up to, and his new job.
Eventually he tells Gargus that he wants him to come with him back to Alciondria. He wants to continue the way of the druids, with him.
*fade to black, end of the chapter for Martin*
Paladin - warforged - orange
Tock accepts the present and the title with gravitas, "Thank you so very much Your Highness. You will not be disappointed."
"I have given this some thought and would like to request another appointment, a more public one to give me an official reason for being around. I am sure you have a master of ceremonies or events coordinator. Would you think it appropriate for me to be an assistant to such a person? It would give me reason to travel, to talk to people and to stick my beak into everyone's business. Besides, I can juggle and entertain a crowd with the best of them."
King Haddian ponders this for a solid two minutes, creating an excruciating silence. But Tock is able to study the king intently as the man thinks. His body is clearly frail - he coughs several times during his silence - but his mind is sharp. At last he finally says, "My attendants coordinate my needs and estate staff coordinate most royal events. But the desire for an audience with the crown is overwhelming. Such will be the case even when I am gone."
The king is still thinking, making his answer sound like a "no". But then he continues, saying, "So let me amend my offer to be called that of Emissary of the People. Your thoughts on security from magical persuasion are an important one, so I think you should be involved in shaping the policy for. But your official purview will be in vetting which events, from personal meetings to dinner invitations, that the crown will entertain. You will need to vet the audience and work with all manner of people, from my own personal attendants, to nobles, to the King's guard, to commoners seeking help from the crown, to my own Mistress of Ceremonies, to, naturally, myself. This will be a complicated role and it will not always be a pleasant one. You will have to work closely with my secretary for scheduling purposes and you will also need to travel wherever the crown goes. It will be a public but thankless job, as you will be forced to say "no" more often than "yes" to all the requests you will receive. How does that sound as a compromise?"
Bulwark has been spending his time around the grounds somewhat... lost. The first few days he kept his vigilance about him, constantly on guard for anything that might jump out of the shadows, but it quickly became clear that they were safe here. There was no enemy to fight. Nothing to protect against.
He was unsure what to do with himself.
He follows Dog to the training grounds, helping engage the guards in combat, 'subtly' tails Tock as he scouts the grounds, making sure he's fine, watches over Gash as he entertains Gentoa with tricks both magical and mundane in nature. Even inserts himself awkwardly (though he doesn't seem to mind) into some of Martin and Althus' activities, wherein he doesn't speak much beyond thanking them for their help, complimenting their ability and willingness to put themselves in harms way for others.
He shakes his head at Dog's question, "Incorrect idea of my purpose. Do not desire to seek more things to protect. Seek to protect what I have. Outside of that my predilictions are..." He is quiet, but for the whir and click of his inner mechanisms. Dog gets the vague impression that if his face could move he would be frowning. "...Unclear."
When summoned to the King's chambers, his answers concerning their adventures so far are woefully bereft of any subjectivity, listing the events of their journey as more of a fact-orientated report. When asked about himself he is... forthcoming, though distinctly reserved.
At the King's last question, Bulwark is silent for a moment. "Status of Alcion is unimportant to me, beyond being a safe region in which to reside. I care not for the legacy of the nation, the crown, or its people. I was created with a purpose: To protect. In that I failed. I do not wish to fail again."
On the eighth visit with the king, he is walking, slowly, from his bedchambers to the parlor, when Bulwark arrives. Bulwark walks with him quietly, only the mechanical sounds of Bulwark's movement and Haddian's quiet footsteps. Once in the parlor, Haddian is helped into his seat as Bulwark stands quietly nearby. Finally, Haddian speaks.
"You'll recall in our earlier conversations that I mentioned my legally granting sentience to constructs such as yourself. That was perhaps the most unpopular pronouncement I have ever made," he says. "Do not mistake that for regret. I have no regrets about it. It was the right thing to do. Of the many constructs I have met, though, you are the most...reserved of them. On the surface, you appear to be what many of my skeptics claimed: A slave to your directives. But that was never my experience with others of your kind, Bulwark. And I think, in our talks, that we have barely scratched the surface of who you are. Besides, there are plenty of people who are not constructed are reserved and singularly driven as you are. And you are free to be as they are by my very own decree."
The king nods to his attendant who unveils a maul, ornate with dwarven runes and styling. "I do not think you will care about the history of this weapon or even that it is given to you as a reward for your service to the young princess. But I do enjoy the history of these things and so I will indulge in telling you of it. The Avalanche Maul was constructed to fight your kind by Fermin Stonebreaker and wielded by Burlic the Bearded during the mage wars. Both Fermin and Burlic were considered heroes, though both of them flawed ones, and they would surely have despised the thought of you wielding their weapon. I do not, though, because the constructs who battled the dwarves during the Mage Wars were...not of their own mind. I gift you this weapon because I believe that you are."
Haddian coughs briefly, then continues. "Additionally, I present to you a choice in which to exercise that mind. I believe it to be the best fit for you, Bulwark, because of who you are and what drives you to act. I wish to appoint you as Emissary to the Queen. You will be tasked with protecting my wife until the day she dies. If you accept, then I know it will be a life long-lived. This position will include a small retinue of guards under your command. But it is not an administrative position. What say you?"
Cytonus:
Bulwark has a new item on his character sheet!
Bulwark looks at the weapon, its intricate detailing, the impressive craftsmanship of it, and reflects that the King is correct. He holds the weapon's origin in no particular regard, except... that's not quite true. It, like him, was made with a purpose. To be a weapon designed to kill a specific enemy, and to be nothing else. Now it has a chance at another use. Another direction to be taken in. He tests its weight, going through a few simple maneouvers.
Sentience wasn't something he asked for. It isn't something he knows what to do with.
Deep within him, something clicks.
"I believe..." He hefts the maul, slinging it acorss his back. "...That that is something I would like to try."
Althus is disappointed that he is unable to do much to help the king, though he simply seems resigned in the moment. He spends most of the time is quiet contemplation and prayer, searching for guidance from Helm. He'll gladly tell Dog about his past, speaking of his origins as a created organism and the spiritual journey that he was sent on by Helm, which led him to the group.
In his discussions with the king, he is as respectful as he knows how to be, "But your majesty, I am a paladin of Helm first and foremost. I go where he directs me, and trust that he's sending me where I'm needed most. Through him, I will perform as much good as I can do. I would like to stay with everyone, but if Helm calls me, I must go."
Dog is quiet during the presentation, and examines the sword with a serious expression. “I like cold. Thank you. Very much.”
After the job offer, Dog is surprised, because he had been expecting to be sent on his way. So the idea of staying close hadn’t occurred to him. “That sounds... did Genny, Gentoa, ask for this? Nev, Neventi? I could... I think it sounds similar to what I have been doing, just hopefully without as much confusion and panic. Then again, I’ve seen her try to eat a bowl of porridge over a carpet before, so there will always be panic. I’ve gotten familiar with the kingsguard here - how do you see this role and the new retinue of guards liaising with the existing kingsguard? My only precondition in accepting is unfettered access to libraries. For one thing, I need to know all I can about this Ice Blade fellow, and the deep gnomes he terrorized. I’d also like to be able to take leave when I want, to travel the realm alone and with my friends. I’ll be more useful to the princess if I stay sharp. And are the Goliath herds across the mountains part of your realm? I’ve always wanted to go visit them. My parents said they were barbaric and uncultured but I’ve barely met any of my own kind. I should probably go say hello to my family. The last time I saw them we had words, many of which I regret. Boy, my dad is going to love seeing me casting spells. I’ll never be able to live it down.” His mind spinning faster and faster, he begins talking about other things we wants to do, and then back to the job at hand, improving the training regimen of the guards, adding in arcane lessons for them, some things he’d have to talk to Tock and Gash about...
The king studies Bulwark, who studies the maul, a smile creeping onto this face. "I am glad to hear it," he says. "You may begin now, or you may take some time to yourself. We leave for Alciondria in 15 days time. I would like you to accompany Queen Duliani then, at least. If you would like to go somewhere, I and my mages have established a vast network of teleportation circles around Alcion. Just tell me where you wish to go and it will be so. As long as you are back in 15 days."
(And now you may write Bulwark's final scene before the credits roll!)
The king grins as Dog talks breathlessly in response. When he gets a word in edgewise, he says, "Not even I get unfettered access to my libraries. The librarians are strict with some of those ancient tomes. But you will receive access. That is an easy boon to grant. As for travel, it will be a given. And personal time is important for all who serve the crown. Such as now. You begin your duties in a tenday when Princess Gentoa and Neventi ride for the capital. Until then, begone!" The king makes a light-hearted waving-away motion. "Your final boon is to use the royal teleportation circles to travel anywhere in Alciondria and back. You have ten days do go wherever you wish. Where will you go, Doggear Brakespine?"
The king eyes smile, though his mouth does not. "I have encountered only a few paladins in my 20 years as a king," he says. "Only barely more than any your people. You are an exceedingly rare person, being a combination of two rarities as you are. None of the paladins that I have met could be persuaded to serve a king. They serve a higher power."
King Haddian allows a moment of silence to punctuate his little speech and Althus, in his seven days of meeting with the man, knows to let him continue. "I am not destined for the heaven of Helm, but I think I know where you are headed next. And we might be of mutual assistance to each other in that regard," he says. "In northern Poria, one of the warlords of the neighboring country is terrorizing the villages. He appears to be building an army to push south and claim the unprotected lands of Poria. We are on good terms with our neighbor but Poria is not a wealthy kingdom. They are young and disorganized but trying hard to govern right. I am sending a force of soldiers to help Poria defend the helpless villages in the north. The Porian army needs military instruction and recruiting support in advance of The Fang pressing their attack."
The king studies Althus as the paladin listens, waiting for Haddian to come around to the point. He does so now, saying, "Althus Pelivar, my request is that you present our military aid to Queen Gerica the second of Poria on my behalf. If you happen to find yourself in northern Poria, aiding the villagers under attack there, then...well then I think you will help a lot of people. Helm guide you, wherever you end up. If you accept this assignment, you will have my thanks, and that of the people of Poria."
Dog definitely wants to go back to the East, to see if he can track down Crowley and Bazza, and then the dwarf guardsman who lived in the town where they found Nev and Genny (he offers to accompany them there if they want to go). He can’t quite bring himself to go visit his parents and the arcanist they work for, or the Goliath herds - that might come later.
He also tries to go back to the mountains where they found Merxina’s underground city, for some hiking, fresh air, and maybe some Goliath skiing or sledding. Some winter relaxation - he’s always loved the mountains and the snow.
He also asks Nev and Genny if they want him to take the emissary job, as it’s up to them as much as it’s up to him.
Neventi is delighted that Dog has accepted the position!
And King Haddian sends a messenger to find out the whereabouts of Crowley and Bazza, determining they made it all the way to his home in Ketudas in the north of Alcion. (He learns of this while exploring Merxina's underground village and sledding in the mountains.) Crowley, Bazza, Q'wai, Tyrol, Tick, and some of the others had quite the adventure bringing him to Ketudas, it seems.
(Dog may now write his outro before the credits roll!)
Bulwark makes his request of the King, a day to travel back to the labyrinth of the Minotaurs, where he searches for the remains of his creators. He buries two things that day: the friends he failed, and the hold that failure has over him.
On his return, he informs his companions of his decision, glad to hear that most of them will be accepting positions of a similar intent, at least enough to be able to keep in semi-close proximity. To them he is perhaps noticeably lighter in disposition, still not the most chatty person around, but markedly warmer.
The final scene of Bulwark is of him standing dutifully behind Queen Duliani, his two mauls strapped to his back, his warhammer and shield at his side. She makes an off-hand remark, and Bulwark's nonchalant response has her in tears with mirth, much to his confusion. And as he watches over her, the sounds of whirring and ticking deep in his mechanical core that once perhaps were old and worn, now have the tone of fresh clockwork.
Fade to black.
The hiking and sledding and quiet and cold of the mountains settle Dog's mind. He looked for more answers in Merxina's city, but is actually okay with not finding many. He is at peace with himself, alone, enjoying not being chased by fiends and worse. When word of the circus' location comes to him, he pulls himself away from a climb to the far summit, and goes to Ketudas.
A day later, Dog (and perhaps Tock and Gash if they want to join) spends about two hours telling Crowley and Bazza and the other circus members about what happened when they left the circus. The dinner table at the tavern in Ketudas is alternately quiet and boisterous. At the end of the tale, there's a long period of silence. Then one of them smiles. Then one chortles. Then the wave comes, of laughter, amazement, disbelief, back slapping, all at once. "An angel child? Gash is a real wizard? FeyTok in a labyrinth, now an action figure? Dog met the king? DOG? The strongman bouncer? Angels? Devils? Vampires? Dragons? Dog learned to talk??" The group begin to theorize about what Dog and the others really did. It starts out sincere, and then turns to good-natured farce very quickly.
Crowley is furiously taking notes, laughing to himself.
"Even if only half of this is true, ALL of it is going into the new circus plotline. Dog, we'll have to find someone else to star in it though. No one would believe it if it was you and Gash and Tock. We'll get a real star. And we'll be swimming in silver, if we can pull it off...."
Dog is very happy to share his excitement and stories with his old friends, and they can believe whatever part of it they want. He does wonder about Genny and Nev, and so he returns to Pallaxus the next morning via teleportation circle. His reunion with Genny is joyful, the girl running straight at him and then somehow right up his leg and halfway up his frame to wrap him in a surprise hug, while he pretends to fall over, howling like a hound. The kingsguard are alarmed at first, unsure which of the two is more concerning. The giggles put them at ease and stay their hands, but they take longer to unfurrow their brows.
He is very content to hear the new clockwork sounds in Bulwark.
The preparations to leave for the capital the following day see lots of people hustling and scurrying around. Dog, the smell of mountains and taverns finally washed off him, his armor gleaming and his weapons hanging by his side, stands tall directly behind the crown princess. His expression deadly serious, eyes running around the courtyard one more time for threats that aren't there. The group of advisers, guards, courtiers, royal family members all preparing for the journey to the capital, barely notice him. One new face bumps into him, grumpily cursing at the "confounded pillar" until he sees he bumped into a goliath, eyes rising to Dog's face, and he shrinks away with swallowed apologies. Gentoa looks back at the commotion, straight up at Dog. He feels the gaze, and then his eyes cross, and his tongue sticks out, and the courtyard is filled with tiny giggles.
"It's a lovely day," he says in his deep, deep baritone, winking at the princess and her mother.
Fade to black.