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Figures Painted by: Vynnie
Being a warlord in a heroic age is a very people-centered job. Not merely in the sense of organizing large groups; it is not enough just to put a thousand men in formation with spears. A gifted leader knows that some people rise above the rest in stature, in deeds, and in raw dumb luck. Spearchuckers can hold a line or signal for rescue, but it is fellows like these below that really make things happen.
Some heroes you will recognize from the moment you lay eyes upon them. Foolish indeed is the leader who shuns the aid of wizards and knights errant, or ignores the counsel of angels. Mounted wizard painted by Marcus. |
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Be alert, moreover, for the many forms practitioners of the Secret Arts may take. And give no short shrift to those who pray, for ofttimes their prayers are answered. |
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Mark the difference between simple recruits in your horde, and those who rise to glory on the edge of the sword. Ply these fine ruffians with drink, song and public esteem to ensure their acts of heroism are committed in your name. |
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And who shall provide such royal treatment? Never disdain the local barkeep, for he is the core of complex social networks. Dragon to be slain? Treasure to be had? Fell beast stalking the land? He is the first to know the rumors and the quickest to utter them in the right set of ears. And his wenches bear cold beer and warm smiles that remind warriors of their love for their sovereign. |
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Never exclude barbarians from your drinking halls. Be their demeanor coarse and their odor coarser, their hearts are made pure by the wildlands and fate shall smile kindly on them when kingdoms hang in the balance. |
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Likewise with the elves and wildmen that defend the woodland reaches. Court them gently, for they are skittish of cities. But with their careful assistance your every wooded acre shall be a pitfall for your enemies. |
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The dwarven folk are another matter. Gold they value, and hard steel, and the stones of mighty mountains. Give them these things and honor your word to the letter. They repay deceit with vengeance, but respect fidelity with their life's blood. |
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Want and oppression can drive even the strongest spirits into the underbellies of your cities. Seek them out, for their silent blades and unseen eyes can haunt your enemy's camp and keep in the darkest of night. But fear their deceit, for life has taught them no honor. |
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The darkness is powerful, and those who serve it may yet be pawns for even the noblest dominion. |
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