Lars Johannson Baron of the Eastern Marches

Baron Johannson controls the Town Of Bend and adjacent areas along the Beldethian River in easternmost Gilduin. About a year ago he was seduced into the service of Barand Of Fortunato when Barand recovered the Sir Dudley Whitehelm while Dudley was investigating the appearance of the head (known only as "The Master"). His paramour Chaedi and her allies rescued Dudley from the Baron's dungeon. In the process they initiated a rebellion against the Baron due to high taxes he has been extorting from the town's inhabitants. These taxes were being used to fund Barand's expedition to Torona, which left Bend right before the rebellion started.

Once Dudley was freed the adventurers also destroyed the Misfortune Devil who was in charge of keeping Lars under control. With this creature destroyed Lars is no longer under the influence of the Head and will act according to his general demeanor.

Personality

Lars is a rather haughty nobleman of an ancient lineage and has a reputation as a tough duelist. Off the field of honor he is a capable leader but lacks a strong character. He tends to cater to the desires of others, though he would never admit this to himself or show weakness.

Resources

Lars occupies the large castle located in Bend, which is the seat of the Johannson dynasty. He has approximately 100 soldiers under his control, as well as several experienced warriors, etc. He also owns several large estates scattered about the Eastern Marches and a town house in Torona. As Baron he is entitled to levy taxes from the town for purposes of defense etc. His soldiers generally serve as the garrison for town gates and back up the city watch when necessary.

Current Activities

Due to the currently ongoing rebellion Lars' control of the town itself is now tenuous. He has also made an enemy of his brother Guillame, the High Priest of Nomok in Bend, who is also a follower of Barand. Guillame has however been forced to leave town and is currently heading to Torona to warn Barand of Lars' defection from his cause. Barand will no doubt attempt to overthrow Lars and replace him with his brother. This eventuality, coupled with the civil war brewing in Gilduin, will force Lars to seek help from forces in Kinergh. Many of the families and population of the Eastern Marches are closely related to the people of southern Kinergh and this may draw Kinergh into the civil war.

Tactics

Lars has no compunction about engaging his most threatening foes, but will rely on his mobility (artful shift) to avoid being surrounded and pinned down. He is unlikely to fight to the death.

License

No unauthorized distribution without the express written permission of the copyright holder.

This document was prepared using Hairball version 0.5.1 on 2022-02-26