April, she said.
It happened all too fast. Hylaen was staring right at her, but failed to notice she was soaring at his direction. Entranced by her silky voice, reacted a second too slow and April was already in front of him, taking up the entire horizon with her beauty.
”Oh my. What happened to your face? Was it a fire?” she inquires reaching out and touching Hylean arm’s in a gently manner, consoling him for the supposed fire that disfigured his face.
His immediate reaction was to run away, but as his arm was held hostage, all Hylaen could do was stay and stare, paralyzed like scared doe. And then, as a reaction that surprised himself most of all, Hylaen let out brief laugh. An honest self assured one, not his usual anxious giggle that is to be expected out of such situations.
”Sorry, my lady” he said, without the usual insecurity. ”It’s just that it has been awhile since I’ve been asked that in such a direct way. Don’t worry, I don’t mind.” The elf adjusted his wooden mask, suddenly worried, aware of how close April was standing. ”A fire it was, yes, in a sense. Lab accident. It is what you get for meddling with explosives for too long” he adds, jokingly, without much humor. Remembering the incident took away the mirth from the conversation. Then he attempted to smile again. ”I apologize for the mask, usually makes things easier for everybody. Not a very interesting story, I’m afraid. I rather hear from you, my lady. You are Tegan’s sister, and part of the other charter group sent to these lands. Now this is an interesting coincidence. Unless it is no coincidence at all? What a lady such as you have been doing in these wilds?”
Hylaen asked in a voice he hoped sounded kind. During all conversation, the elf let April remain with her hand resting on his arm. While in later years he had grown unacustomed to contact of any kind, he found her touch unusually conforting for some reason.
"Are you the leader of your group, April? What brave things have you done so far?"
”No, no. I’m no leader. That would be Yssra.” the she smiles and continue to answer the questions ”Brave things? Well, Tegan got into a fight with her boyfriend, and then she blamed me and dad for everything bad in her life, before running away from home.” this last bit carries a hit of sadness on the pretty woman’s voice ”Dad started drinking a lot after that, and one night I found him crying, that his little girl had fled. So I gathered my courage, packed my things, and came looking for Tegan.” she lock arms with Hylean, walking around with him as if they were a couple. She drags him closer to Night, she shyly extend her hands towards the white steed before asking Djebelle ”Can I touch her?” her eyes sparkles with excitement as she asks the question.
She then continues her tale. ”Tracking Tegan wasn’t that hard. You know, she does look a lot like me and tends to attract a lot of attention. My path led me to Brevoy and there, I wasn’t able to find her at all. She seemed to have vanished without a trace. However, on Brevoy I got into trouble with some hooligans, a group of disgusting and scary man tried to kidnap me, but Yssra group saved me. That’s how I met them. They were in search of one more companion to map the wilderness, and extended me the offer. At the time, I was torn inside. While I wanted to accept the offer, I had to search for my sister.” she laughs charmingly and continue ”My surprise when I discovered that Tegan was part of the second group of charters! That made me so happy! Our family has now double chances of prominence! One way or another, a bright future look up on us. After that, I sent a letter home, told dad of our fortune, and resolved to accept Yssra offer.”
He finger dances seductively at her lip, she looks at Hylean, then Djebelle ”So, I travelled alone from home, in search of my runaway sister, got attacked by unsavory man, and accepted a quest to discover the wilds and bring order to the stolen lands. Is that brave enough?” she smiles again.
Told his history.
Arms still locked with the masked elf she says. ”Yes, it’s really a surprising coincidence! I couldn’t believe it myself if this wasn’t actually happening to me. And what you mean about explosives? What sort of thing you did before this? Are you some kind of terrorist?” she ask jokingly.
At Damiel's question, Rendyl steps over to the usually-scowling elven man, watching his motions for a moment before shaking his head. "Almost. A horse is not like a dog...we're not petting them. This is actually relaxing their muscles and removing the lather and sweat from their coat. You don't want to rub the skin off, but put a little more force into it. Yes, like that!" The ranger gave the elf a tired smile before walking back to perform his grooming duties.
The lanky man chuckled at Djebelle's statement about Night, nodding. "Yes, she seems to have an affinity for you and no other." His head cocked to the side slightly, eyes narrowed in contemplation as she mentioned her father and their grooms. A life of privilege, then? He had expected such from the one lady, but it was a surprise from this one. "Of course, this is what you do first..." Rendyl proceeds to go through the steps he takes to care for their equine companions. Though he isn't an rude or unkind person, it seems that tending to animals is usually preferable to the young man than tending to their human counterparts.
Hylaen felt his face hot beneath the mask for several reasons.
"Not a terrorist, no" he said, trying to laugh with her, dispite his embarassment. "I was- Am an alchemist. Court alchemist to be precise, in service of House Orlovsky of Brevoy. His lordship from Eagle's Watch send me himself from the top of Mount Veshka to come here with instructions to help the charters. Before this vital assignment, I was responsable for overseeing the development of alchemical weaponry and provisions for defensive purposes. My magical talents allowed me to work in several projects. As an elf, I actually served more than one good generation of the House. The grandfather of the current lord once said my work was indispensable.
Hylaen felt like a fool bragging about himself to others like that, but his mouth seemed to be working by itself and he couldn't stop talking. For Hylaen, alchemy was always more about the accomplishments and the knowledge than the prestige. Although, the elf thought guiltly, he never hesitated collecting the comforts his position awarded him.
While some of the party are being distracted by horses, the others by a pretty lady, and finally one being distracted by hot water and sewing, at some point Oleg approaches the lonely Viklop, still tending to his gear.
”Got a moment?” the man asks shortly.
”Heard you went to the bandit camp and took care of ‘em. Did you perchance found a ring another their things?” the man seems somewhat distressed asking such thing.
”Is the water warm enough?” the gentle voice of Svetlana asks from behind the door. ”I have a change of clothes with me if you need. Judging by the state of your dress…” her voice trails of waiting for your answer.
Somewhat startled, for the young man had been somewhat fixated on cleaning and repairing his weapon that he did not notice Oleg approach.
"Oh..what? A Ring? We found a set of ear rings, but that was all. Was there something specific you were looking for?"
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Oleg looks at you for a moment and then adds, ”the first time those bandits were here, led by that woman, one of them took Svetlana wedding ring. She has been distraught ever since. She tries to hide if from me, but I know it was quite a blow to her. Will you keep an eye out for me? I’ll make sure to repay you for our efforts if you manage to find it.” he turns to leave, before adding ”Ah, don’t tell her ‘bout it. Don’t wanna get her hopes up in case it’s fool’s errand.”
Nodding to Rendyl in thanks for providing the guidance on how to take care of his new horse, Damiel finishes the rub down and provides feed and water for the beast. Speaking softly to the beast, "you need a name. How about Kaeli."
When he finished with the horse, he listens a bit to Hylaen and April, thinks to himself she is cute for a human, and she is plying him for information. I hope he doesn't tell her everything.
Djebelle smiles at April: "Families can be difficult, can't they?"
she lock arms with Hylean, walking around with him as if they were a couple. She drags him closer to Night, she shyly extend her hands towards the white steed before asking Djebelle ”Can I touch her?” her eyes sparkles with excitement as she asks the question.
Gods, the girl is pretty. Djebelle is suddenly, acutely, aware of the fact that she has been travelling at speed for days and that she hasn't washed properly since the last time she was at Oleg's. She probably reeks of battle and horse and sweat.
She suddenly realises that April has asked her a question.
"Oh - that's, um, up to Night, I suppose - she doesn't like everyone, but you could give it a try. What do you think, Night?" Djebelle feels slightly self-conscious talking to a horse, but she has realised that Night can understand what she's saying.
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”An official person!” April says with a small courtesy. She seems about to say something else when Djebelle talks about Night.
As expected, Night did not voice any answer but looked disinterestedly at April. You have not been near Night for too long, but you are sure such look means “no”. April however didn’t catch this part, and proceeded to pet the horse mane, occasion when Night actively displayed her annoyance, biting the air just besides the young woman’s hand. It’s clear that it’s a warning of some sorts.
April yelps like a frightened puppy seeking refuge in Hylean arms.
It was already late when you arrived at the trade post from your trip into the bandit camp. The sun slowly hides behind the horizon, casting its dying light over the place. The call of night birds, and the silence that precedes night. Slowly, the smell of food fills your mind as you remember your last meal prepared by Svetlane. A simple, yet delicious meal.
It does not take much, after that, supper is served at the wooden tables outside. Lit torches provides a comforting light. The food is a simple stew served with smoked meat, bread, vegetables and ale, but Svetlana made sure to cook a huge amount of food, and no matter how much you indulge yourself, there’s almost more if you want so.
There are two wooden tables outside, and by an unspoken rule, each group of charter takes one of the tables. The soldiers, except the Lieutenant, don’t join you for supper. April seemed eager to join your table as well, but some stares from Tegan send her away to her own group table.
"So April, are you part of the other charter? Who are the others?" Tegan folds her hands into her lap as she sits at one of the wooden tables. She feels significantly more confident being clean and her hair brushed. "These are my companions: Vik, Hylaen, Djebelle, Rendyl, and Damiel."
”I’ve already met them, maybe not by name, at the stables.” she smiles charmingly again before adding ”I’m April, it’s a pleasure to meet you all. And yes, somehow I ended up being part of the other group of charters.” she mentions to the others sitting at the table ”Yssra Morr is the leader of the group, there’s also Thordrak Rockscream, our fearsome warrior, Daedric Tothgarson which deals with matters of faith and magic and Cassia Verdun our scout.” April doesn’t seem overly concerned on hiding this information from you. From the way she is talking, it seems she consider your group more of allies than actually competition.
Yssra on the other hand, has that haughtily noble disposition, as if everyone else was beneath her. She glances your direction, giving a curt nod, before eyeing the food for a moment, and trying it, as if she was about to eat something poisoned. After tasting it, she finds the flavor acceptable and starts eating slowly, without giving too much of attention to anyone else.
The dwarf on the other hand, eats loudly and is not shy about expressing himself. ”Pretty good stuff.” he burps loudly and laughs louder yet. ”Needs only some real dwarf beer and would be a feast!” he turns then to Rendyl ”Dinnae ye say yer group killed bandits? How it feels lad? Ta promote the king’s justice with yer own hands?”
As usual, Rendyl proceeded to eat quietly, leaving his companions to make small talk at their meal. The food was delicious, a wonderful reprieve from the hard tack one grew used to out in the wilds. While the wilds were as much a home to the ranger as any, it felt good to be behind guarded walls, as well, not having to worry overly much about the terrors of the night.
The ranger nods agreeably to Tegan's sister, only making brief eye contact. The young man sighed, thankful that April and this Yssra didn't seem to want to talk too much. As the dwarf from the other charter asks his question, Rendyl takes a moment to reply, trying to think of a diplomatic approach.
"We did, Thordrak. Making this land safer for future settlers and inhabitants did feel good, aye." The ranger gives an answer skirting the more obvious question the dwarf asked, not wanting to delve into that arena again so soon after his arguments with Tegan.
Vik quietly eats, then heads outside the fort. He wanders over to the mass grave dug for the bandits and sits on the grass in the early evening light. He ponders what had gone through their minds as death claimed them...and in doing so, relived his own near death. His hand goes instinctively to his hilt, ant the feel of the familiar grip and pommel comforts the swordsman.
Damiel sits at the end of the table furthest from the other group, and keeps an eye and ear on what is being said and what he observes. At the beginning of the meal, he asks Svetlana "perhaps you also have some water for drink, ma'am?" When/If she brings water, he politely thanks her for her kindness.
At Tegan mention of the others of their group to April, he stands as he is introduced, and for a very brief moment the scowl is gone, "Damiel Morgethain at your service lady" and then he goes back to scowling, eating and observing, especially April, trying to get a "feel" for her questions and her feelings towards the group and especially her sister.
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The dwarf on the other hand, eats loudly and is not shy about expressing himself. ”Pretty good stuff.” he burps loudly and laughs louder yet. ”Needs only some real dwarf beer and would be a feast!” he turns then to Rendyl ”Dinnae ye say yer group killed bandits? How it feels lad? Ta promote the king’s justice with yer own hands?"
Djebelle breaks into a cold sweat at overhearing the dwarf's comments, and hastily gulps down her tankard of ale, before refilling it. It's bitter, but she hopes that the drink will take the edge off her dreams: she has been haunted by the three kills she has made: two with blade, up close, and one with the sling...
...and worst of all are the nightmares when she re-lives the explosion, when she stands up, horribly burned, and prays for healing - and nothing happens...
She shudders and downs another tankard of ale, but she can't blot out the conversation. She gets up, hastily. "'Scuse me, I need to, uh... need to - just remembered..." Mumbling vague excuses, she stumbles away from the table.
”Is the water warm enough?” the gentle voice of Svetlana asks from behind the door. ”I have a change of clothes with me if you need. Judging by the state of your dress…” her voice trails of waiting for your answer.
Tegan opens the door ajar to receive Svetlana: ”It’s perfect, thank you. Thank you for the clothes.” Tegan turns and rests the clean clothes over a chair back, ”When I get a little more money – and time,” Tegan adds ruefully, ”I want to order a couple bolts of cloth to make two new dress. I’m thinking a ruby dyed cotton and maybe a darker blue for the coming season.” Tegan shakes her head regretfully, she’d been in such a rush to escape from home that she’d hardly packed. Although, what was probably the most disappointing, is the realization that it had all seemed to be for naught. Tegan sighs, I’m not going home so there’s no use being sad.
Tegan hears her father’s strangled voice behind her. Her father drunkenly grabs Tegan’s shoulders and stares into her face with his unfocused, bloodshot eyes. ”Mira,” Tegan’s father repeats softly, lifting a hand to cup her cheek.
Shocked, disgusted, confused, Tegan pulls away from her inebriated father and rushes outside. Tegan’s father drunkenly staggers to the porch but Tegan has already sprinted away.
She keeps running until she’s at the edge of town. She hasn’t been to the tannery in years, not since she was fifteen, but she didn’t have anyone else. She grasps the doorframe, breathing hard. ”Pe. Peter,” Tegan puffs, still out of breath. A young apprentice boy stares confused at Tegan’s arrival, but quickly retreats into the shop to presumably get Peter.
Tegan ties her apron around her waist the joins the others.
~*~*~*~*~
Tegan has no interest in conversing with adventurers who associate themselves with her sister.
Tegan joins her companions at the table for Svetlana’s meal, but occasionally glances over at her sister. Turning back to her companions, Tegan leans in: ”I think we should question Kressel after dinner. Then we can discuss where to go next.” Tegan sits up straight again and states the obvious: ”T- There are definitely move bandits out there.” Tegan winces at her own stutter.
It’s difficult for Tegan to feel confident around her sister. Her sister’s undeniable presence makes Tegan feel small and insignificant. Tegan had always told herself it was the two years her sister had on her in age that created the gap, but as an adult, Tegan knew age had nothing to do with it.
Tegan finishes her meal quickly and rises to offer Svetlana help. ”Can I help you clean some of these dishes, Svetlana?” Tegan feels a certain level of kinship with Svetlana. Tegan could have seen herself in Svetlana’s shoes if Peter had loved her. Tegan rolls up her sleeves, grab a dirty plate, and stick her hands into the soapy water.
Tegan flicks her long eyelashes towards Djebelle as the woman excuses herself from the table. Tegan knows it’s because of the dwarf mention of killing the bandits. Soft-hearted and naïve, Tegan thinks to herself. Tegan has her sister and father to thank for her own lack of naivety. Tegan makes a mental note to search for Djebelle before the party interrogates Kressle.
~*~*~*~*~
When the others are ready to proceed, Tegan heads to where Kressel is being held. Tegan holds up the wooden music box and the silver earrings, ”Who did these belong to? I want a name. Were they personal items or items for sale the merchant was carrying?” Tegan’s pink lips tighten into a firm line, awaiting a response.
”Where’s the Stag Lord?” Tegan unfurls a map of the area
Tegan looks towards her companions, wondering if they have anything to add to the interrogation.
~*~*~*~*~
After the interrogation is done, Tegan goes to find Lieutenant Garess. ”Lieutenant, with your experiences, what do you think should happen to Kressel and her bandit crew?” Tegan stares, unblinking, with her dark eyes, up at the person who’s responsible for defending the Trading Post.
Tegan folds her arms over her chest. ”Lieutenant,” Tegan sighs, ”this may not be appropriate for me to say – as you don’t know me very well - but please be careful around my sister. She’s probably the most beautiful woman you've ever seen, but don’t let her charm you and your soldiers into neglecting your duties here.”
”I hope we can work together and make the Stolen Lands safe… Why did you decide to come here, Lieutenant? I came here to escape my family, but you see I’ve failed.”
Hylaen joined his companion for dinner, of course. It was the polite thing to do. Also, he was curious to know about their competition. As uncomfortable as it was for him, being around adventuring types, the alchemist felt it was his duty to be informed about their affairs. However, as all set down to eat, Hylaen felt somewhat disappointed that both groups had to sit apart in different tables. He was looking forward to enjoy April's charming presence during supper. Now the elf contented himself to glance at her whenever possible and smile shyly from time to time.
Dinner was an uncomfortable, awkward experience, though. Most people ate silently and the elf realized nothing would be discussed between any of them, if unencouraged. It was enough to awake Hylaen’s diplomatic inclinations, despite his timid nature.
”So... how long have your group been traveling along the Green Belt?” asked Hylaen to the other table, in conversational tone. ”We have dealt with some bandits. Have you encountered danger around these parts?”
To Tegan, Hylaen nods. He was looking forward to talk about their future missions. "I will be there".
”Ye did well lad.” the dwarf laughs again spilling beer over his beard and clothes, he doesn’t seem particularly bothered by the fact Rendyl didn’t answer his question, or maybe he just didn’t notice you dancing around the answer.
Meanwhile, Svetlana brings the water requested by Damiel and smiles gently as he says his thanks.
"Damiel Morgethain at your service lady" and then he goes back to scowling, eating and observing, especially April, trying to get a "feel" for her questions and her feelings towards the group and especially her sister.
Her eyes light up for being talked to. Somehow, it seems she was feeling dejected for her own sister had been ignoring her all night long. Since they arrived, Tegan refused to talk to April at all moments.
Taking this opportunity, she raises for her place in the table and walks over, extending her hand in a friendly manner. ”April Ryker at yours, my lord.” she says mimicking the serious tone on Damiel’s voice.At this point, Djebelle get raises from the table excusing herself as she stumbles away. April glares at the dwarf ”You’ve upset her!” she says.
”Me? Wait. Dinnae did anytin.” The dwarf look utterly confused as for why this is his fault, but without giving anyone a chance to say anything he grabs two mugs of ale and runs after the young woman that just bolted away from dinner.
And while everyone was still stunned by the dwarf and cleric’s departure, April uses the chance to sit at your table, between Damiel and Hylaen. Her hands gently brushes at the masked elf’s hands, acknowledging she saw his glances, but she turns to Damiel and asks. ”Forgive me for being blunt, but you are different from the rest of your group. I mean, we all look like young people trying to earn fame and fortune.” she doesn’t finish the question, but it’s clear she’s remarking the fact that Damiel seems to be a lot older than everyone else here, except maybe the dwarf.
You walk away, without paying any attention to what you are doing, or were you are going. Maybe is the alcohol, or maybe is your own mind, but you didn’t even noticed that you’ve walked past the guards and outside the trading post. The dim light from the torches inside barely casting any illumination to show you where to step next.
The sounds of conversation and dinner fades away, and the quiet of the night embraces you. Oddly, you feel more alive and at peace in the quiet darkness. There is something comforting in the darkness, a promise. Even if you do not know what that promise is.
It’s been days since the voice, your thoughts last spoke with you, but you still feels like it’s always there, watching. Even in the dark, you’re never alone.
”Yer okay lass?” the strange, raspy voice asks in the darkness, dragging you back to reality. When you turn around, the same dwarf that started all of this is standing at your side, holding a mug of ale for you.
Trying to sense how much of her statement is actual query, or just an invite for him to tell her way too much, he thinks, she is a crafty one, but I will not fall into her trap.
"Yes I am" he replies to her, "and why is that a concern for you?" he finishes up trying to turn the game back on her. Two can play that game he thinks to himself, but be very careful Damiel.
Rendyl is quite thankful that the dwarf excused himself to chase after Djebelle, though he makes a note to go check on her soon. While it seemed that order reigned at Oleg's for the moment, they didn't know much about these other adventurers and they might be opportunistic enough to waylay one of the ranger's group who happened to wander off alone.
At Tegan's comment at dinner, the young man nodded his head in agreement as he savored the wonderful meal. Questioning the bandit leader about the location of her cohorts certainly did seem a good next step before deciding where to go and what to do next. Plus, he just wanted to be agreeable with her to mend any hard feelings between the two.
As April slid between his two companions, Rendyl took that as his cue to leave. Though the young woman seemed to be drawn to the more exotic of his companions, he thought it best not to tempt fate. He finished off the last of his food and ale, and politely excused himself before heading outside to check on the priestess before they went to question Kressle.
"Oh. Thanks." Djebelle gratefully accepts the mug and drinks it down, grimacing as she adapts to the taste.
"Am I okay?" She blinks at the dwarf, owlishly. "Well, I'm alive, which is more than the three men that I've killed... The first one, I didn't really know what I was doing, I just chopped at him with my sword until he went down. The second one, I remembered my lessons, a single cut across his neck. The third, I bashed the side of his head in with a slingshot."
She sniffles. "And I know I didn't have a choice, it was them or me... But I wish they'd surrendered. I offered them the chance and they didn't take it, so I had to fight them... But that doesn't make me feel any better."
She gives a hiccup. "Thank you for the ale, it helps. A bit."
Why she started ta cry? the dwarf questions himself at loss of that to do or say. Heck, he don’t even know what he’s doing here bringing ale to a complete stranger. Before he knew, he’d already done it, and well, since he’s here, no point in going back now.
Sholda say sometin? doubts hacks his ale muddled brain.
The dwarf uses his entire mental prowess thinking of the best way to console the woman he does not even know. His calloused hands reach out gently tapping Djebelle on the back. ”There, there.” the voice says.
The amount of people around the table had somewhat diminished considerably. Tegan was helping Svetlana with the dinner chores, while Djebelle and the dwarf were drinking staring at the black night. Rendyl, the brave, fearing he’s the next target on April’s list, quickly decided to inspect his companion safety, afraid the opposition might have something planned for her. The brooding Viklop ate focusing all his attention on the meal, as if the poor stew was some enemy he had to overcome, and not soon after that, meal defeated, the swordlord heads out, seeking comfort on his on loneliness and sword. Soon after, the lieutenant finishes his meal and excuses himself as well. It was time to check his subordinates and get them something to eat.
That leaves at the two wooden tables the three elfs: Damiel, Hylaen and the silent lady, the humans: April and the opposition leader, and finally the half orc.
”So... how long have your group been traveling along the Green Belt?” asked Hylaen to the other table, in conversational tone. ”We have dealt with some bandits. Have you encountered danger around these parts?”
The question hangs in the air for some moments until finally after a sigh Ysrra answers it. ”Couple of days. Apart from the occasional pack of wild wolves, there wasn’t much yet.”
"Yes I am" he replies to her, "and why is that a concern for you?"
April blinks surprised at the unfriendly tone of the answer. She opens her mouth to say something, then closes it, then opens it again, before adding ”Just curious, sorry.” she says in a defeated manner. Looking at her reaction, it seems she feels bad for asking things she shouldn’t have.
She then turns to Hylaen, with surprised eyes ”Did my questions earlier offended you as well?” her hand find his holding it tightly for a moment, before she releases it altogether.
That went better than I expected he thinks, but I still can not get a good read on her.
Finishing up his meal Damiel stands, and asks Svetlana, "where should I put the dishes, and can I help with the cleanup?".
Damiel heads to the top of one of the corners where the catapults are, and sits down looking out over the land, and up at the sky. He spends perhaps an hour up there, trying to get a "feel" for the land, then he comes back down to see if Hylaen finally succumbed to April.
"Offend me? N-No, of course not. You were most gracious, my lady" says Hylaen, holding her delicate hand in both of his, distressed by her sudden sadness. Then he realizes the condencending glare of Ysrra and releases April's hand at once. He was growing restless sitting there, under so many stranger's eyes. When Damiel rises to leave, Hylaen looks at him pleading, and then watches as he walks away.
After that, the alchemist avoids further physical contact with April. He could feel the eyes of her companions and the weight of their judgment. His affection for her was illogic, different from everything else that happened in the past, yet he didn't cared. However, April wasn't there by herself, and neither was Hylaen. There was their rivarly to be considered, and Tegan - and the real reason, Hylaen's own crushing fear of rejection.
When the dinner is over, Hylaen bids April a disappointed good night and goes to his shared room in silence.
While one elf waged the other one elf falls, it ended disappointingly uneventful. April seems torn to see Hylaen bid her farewell, but she doesn’t push any more intimacy, maybe for the rest of the charters relief, and Hylaen disappointment.
Having already accepted help from Tegan, Svetlana refuses Damiel offer. ”Don’t be silly dear. You go do what you gotta do, and leave this for me.”
--
Hylaen had promised to join Tegan while interrogating the prisoner, but his love addled brain couldn’t think anything else other than April. Meanwhile Rendyl finds Djebelle and the Dwarf in a very awkward silence, staring at the darkness.
--
After everything is done and set, they moved to interrogate Kressle.
”Who did these belong to? I want a name. Were they personal items or items for sale the merchant was carrying?”
Even tied and most likely condemned to death, Kressle laughs at face such naïve question. ”Do you ask the cattle its name before you butcher and eat it?”
”Where’s the Stag Lord?” Tegan unfurls a map of the area.
She laughs even harder than before. ”Are you even trying to scare me missy?” the contempt on her face is palpable ”You’ll find his fortress down the south, an old monastery surrounded by sturdy walls, at Tuskwater lakeside.” Kressle seems almost eager to share this information with you.
Rendyl gives the bandit woman a dark look at her comment about cattle but says nothing. The woman was literally digging her own grave with such words.
After Kressle eagerly answers Tegan's question about the location of the fortress, Rendyl adds his own questions.
"How many men are stationed there?"
"Are there any other outposts such as yours?"
"Is there a secret phrase you need to utter to gain entry, should you possess a stag medallion?"
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With the interrogation out of the way, her stomach full, and a clean set of clothes on her back; Tegan is ready to confront her sister. The night has calmed down and people are getting ready for bed.
Tegan approaches her sister and calls to her quietly, ”April?” Tegan makes eye contact with her beautiful sister and motions to the huge double doors at the entrance of Oleg’s Trading Post. ”A word?” Tegan knows it’s too much of a coincidence for her sister to be here. Knowing her sister, April was probably here to see Tegan, for reasons Tegan wasn’t aware.
Tegan leans against the side of the wooden palisade, her hair flattening against the wall. ”I was really surprised when I saw you here.” Tegan glances down, guiltily. ”I- I left in such a rush and I didn’t tell anyone where I was going.”
Tegan raises her long eyelashes to meet her sister’s own, ”Peter told me he asked you to marry him. That would settle a lot of the drama, you know – with Mason.” Tegan searches her sister’s face for any signs of guilt and frowns, drama you caused. ”Mason’s crazy but his father’s in charge of the church. I know he’ll keep his son in line if you return home and agree to settle down… Did… you accept Peter’s proposal?” Tegan question is hesitant.
Tegan clasps her hands together at her waist and sighs, ”I want you to know I didn’t leave because of Peter. I’ve lived at home for six years knowing how he’s felt about you.” Tegan meets April’s gaze straight on, ”I left because I couldn’t stand you and father.” Tegan hopes her words sting.
Tegan narrows her eyes, admitting a secret she and her sister both share: ”Every year we grow a little older, father goes a little more insane. One day he’ll go too far.” Tegan cringes when she thinks of how her father would mistake her and her sister for their mother. Tegan pities her father and his dependence on their mother but she couldn’t always handle him. ”And you-“ Tegan switches to chide her sister’s crazy escapades.
Tegan throws her hands into the air incredulously, ”you were never home. Always gallivanting out with men or causing an uproar at parties.” Tegan makes a flourish with her hand over her body to suggest licentiousness. They’d grown up in a small town, but Tegan’s sister has always brought a new level of wildness to any gathering. Even in the most supercilious of gatherings – like the mayor’s grandmother’s birthday, April was there in a low-cut dress, causing a scene. ”You-“ Tegan has to repeat the first word, as if not believing her own words, ”You had the mayor’s own mother taking sips of Absinthe each time one of the Captain’s guards made a cherry land in her neckline. She drank so much, she passed out on the harpsichord!” Tegan shakes her head in disbelief, thinking of the seventy-year-old woman giggling while the young, handsome men aimed fruit into the top of her bodice.
”I had to provide for our family. We would have been living off other people if I hadn’t learned to sew.” Tegan is keenly aware her sister doesn’t mind using other people for her own personal gain. Her sister had never seemed to feel a pressing need to work when she could just use her words to coerce others. I had to force myself to grow up. Tegan feels sorry for herself and a flurry of snowflakes twirl around her shoulders and face. …We both did. Tegan envies her sister’s non-committal temperament. April is so good as shutting out the world. Tegan can only recount a handful of times when April really seemed to care about something or someone – their mother being one of the few.
Tegan snuggles into her mother’s skirts, sleepy from the boat’s gentle motion. April, on the other hand, fearlessly stands at the bow, her tiny arms outstretched, welcoming the landscape around her. Mira doesn’t use oars. Instead, she has one of her hands submerged in the water. The boat slides peacefully across the water with barely a ripple.
Fish and other lake animals curiously follow the vessel, occasionally poking their heads to the water’s surface to get a good look at the passengers. When the boat nears the center of the lake, Mira retrieves her hand so she can offer a hand to both April and Tegan. ”Darlings, give me your hands.”
Mira softly holds her daughters’ hands and sticks both into the water. A white fish with an orange splotch on its back swims against April and Mira’s clasped hands. Hello. You have food? April respond aloud to the fish, ”Yes. Sandwiches.” Tegan turns to her sister confused, ”What?” Tegan hadn’t heard the fish ask a question. Mira smiles at her older daughter, pleased.
The five-year-old Tegan grows concerned, upset about being left out of the conversation. ”What about sandwiches?” She insists. Feeling ignored, Tegan squeezes on her mother’s hand in annoyance. ”Momma!” Pay attention to me! A miniature hurricane swirls around Tegan and Mira’s fastened hands. Suddenly, the water surrounding the boat heaves the boat forward, splashing water on the visiting fish. Mira pulls her daughters back in surprise as the boat lurches forward by a surge of water.
”Tegan,” her sister accuses, ”you scared away the fish!” Tegan pouts, ”What were you saying?” The five-year-old and seven-year-old clench their tiny fists and glare at one another in stereotypical sibling rivalry. Pleased by her daughters’ abilities, Mira throws her head back and laughs, her enchanting voice garnering the attention of both her daughters.
Just then, the same white and orange fish reappears next to the boat, Food? the fish persists again at Mira and April. The wave of water had gotten the attention of more fish, and soon the small rowboat was swarmed by about thirty inquisitive animals.
Tegan knows their mother would probably be upset to know the extent of her daughters’ quarrel. Tegan feels like April has always been trying to make her life more difficult by stealing her clothes, her first love, even her charter. Tegan believes her sister would even steal her own name if she could. Tegan knows her sister resents the fact their father got to name his eldest daughter. April would have preferred to have been given a name by their mother like Tegan was granted. April was a normal, plainly human name. The plainly human name, April, lacks any ties to the water - their mother’s heritage. Why their mother would even decide to marry their father, the two sister’s couldn’t explain.
”I don’t know why you’re here,” Tegan shakes her head in earnest, ”But all my life, I’ve looked after the shop and taken care of you and father.” Well, father at least, Tegan admits to herself. Her sister would have been fine without her. ”This is my chance to live for myself,” Tegan explains to her sister. ”Please, don’t ruin this opportunity for me.” Tegan stares into her sister’s eyes, blinking a few times, ”Why are you here anyway? You aren’t the type of person who’d want to get their dress dirty.” Tegan pushes herself off of the palisade wall to stand staring at her sister.
While out by the newly dug graves, Vik can hear a woman's voice from the parapet above him. He tries not to listen, but as the voice rises in volume and ..anger?..he cannot help but recognize Tegan's voice. He turns away from the argument and settles back into his own thoughts.
Djebelle is nearly as awkward in receiving the unexpected pat on the shoulder as the dwarf is in offering it, but it was well-meaning and she nods gratefully.
She takes another gulp of the ale. It seems to be tasting better the more of it she drinks; she tests this idea out some more.
Rendyl's arrival is greeted by a huge smile: "Hey! Rendyl! Have you met... our dwarf friend here?" She can't for the life of her remember his name right now. "This is Rendyl, our ranger and deadeye shot - saved Vik's life, did he tell you that? No? See, modest as well... Vik had run ahead, you see, got cut down and this bandit was just about to cut his throat when...zoom! Rendyl fires this arrow right across the clearing and into the bandit. And he just gets on with it, doesn't worry about it afterwards, does he? No nightmares for him! Cos he's not naïve, he's not a, a, a liability, he's a valued member of the team..."
She stumbles, and puts an arm round him for support. "C'mon then. Let's go integorat- integr- question this Kressle person. Bye... Thordrak." She looks relieved as she finally remembers his name. "Um, thanks for the ale."
Wincing in the harsh light that shines in the small confines of the room holding Kressle, Djebelle stands quietly at the back and listens to the answers as best she can. Her trained ear tries to spot any falsehoods.
Rendyl nodded at the priestess' question, giving the dwarf another awkward wave. "Hello again..." The ranger can't help but wince slightly as she mentions the shot that saved Vik...granted she was correct, he hadn't thought about it at the time. In the aftermath he had seen the devastation his arrow had wrought, though. He cocks his head in confusion as she continues, his look turning to one of understanding as she starts verbally self-flagellating. Sympathy fills him to see her so distraught...he understood all too well.
Rendyl's eyes widen as Djebelle nearly trips, thankful that the darkness hides the heat rising to his face. Thankfully they were both still in their scale, or it would have been worse. He smiles down at her, nodding. "A wise idea, as always," he says in his quiet, gruff voice. He offers another wave to the dwarf, calling out, "Thanks for the company, friend."
As the ranger walks with the young woman, ready to assist if necessary but letting her determine how much to lean on him, if any, he is quiet for a few moments before stopping, gently pulling her to face him. "Being able to kill without mercy or remorse does not make one more valuable out here. Don't you see? This wild land already has that in plenty...what it needs is mercy, justice, and compassion."
The young man smiled, standing there awkwardly a moment, staring at the ground, before continuing. "You've acquitted yourself well in battle. Your healing powers have turned wounds into mere inconveniences. You are a very valued member of our charter, Djebelle. And if you feel remorse for killing these bandits, that means that life still holds value to you." Not really sure what to do, the ranger turns back towards their destination, putting his arm companionably across her shoulders.
"Now let's get to the integorating." Rendyl chuckles quietly as they make their way to Kressle.
April listened.
Not a word refuted, nor did she offer any explanation. Her deep amber eyes like swirling pools that could hide the universe itself. Tegan had always been powerless when dealing with her sister. She could not fathom what April was thinking, even growing together, living in the same house, even since their mother left; it was as if April had become someone else entirely. Someone that was impossible for Tegan to comprehend or understand.
Of course, April could easily see what was going on Tegan’s mind. Different from her younger sister, April had a natural knack to understand people. That was what made her so good at manipulating them. She always knew what was on their mind, and knew their thoughts, she knew a lot. Maybe, she even knew Tegan better than Tegan knew herself. Tegan believed that April was out to get to her, that April envied her. However, wasn’t it the exact opposite?
It always been Tegan that envied April carefree attitude, envied that her sister didn’t had a care in the world. Tegan resented the fact she had to tend to her father, but she never considered that their father could live his drunk life because Tegan took upon herself to ‘provide’ for the family. That poor, coward excuse of a father. Not that April was innocent either. She had intentionally made things difficult for Tegan, but hoping her sister would learn the rules of the world.
However, Tegan never learned. She only got more jealousy of April. She only resented her father, more and more. She blamed everyone for things she had brought upon herself.
However, by the end of Tegan’s rant, April is unable to hide her expressions. Rolling her eyes in disbelief, she finally says. ”When will you actually grown up? You are still that same pitiful little girl from years ago.”
”I refused to believe before, but you do really think the world turns around you? Gods, how can you be so clueless?”
”What are you expecting from me? Want me to hug you, sing you soft songs, tell you everything is going to be all right?” by the end of the phrase, all irritation had disappeared from April’s face, her voice changed from the impatient tone to the caring and loving tone your mother always used for both of you. She’d also opened her arms, in a welcoming manner, inviting you for a hug that was so filled with love and caring, that it couldn’t help but makes you think of your mother, and how you missed her.
The drunken dwarf looks at the drunk priestess, and the other one that had just arrived. ”Aye lass. There’s plenty more if yer need.” he says in an inviting manner.
"How many men are stationed there?"
”How the hell would I know? You think I stopped to count?” she gruffs in disgust of having to answer such question.
"Are there any other outposts such as yours?"
”I wish. But the Stag Lord never pay too much attention to the north.”
"Is there a secret phrase you need to utter to gain entry, should you possess a stag medallion?"
”By the bloody bones of Butcher Jones, who goes there?” she says the same words that Vicar had already uttered before, then with a hiss she adds ”and one should answer ‘Blood, bones and ashes’.”
Your alcohol-muddled brain takes some time to register everything. You are sure she’s talking the truth, but her eagerness to give you this information makes you feel like there’s something wrong with all of this.
Djebelle's heart almost stops when Rendyl gently pulls her round to face him: is he going to...?
No, apparently he's not - and that's a good thing, she tells herself firmly. They're battlefield companions, they're going to have to work together, and it's obvious that he sees her simply as an ally, and that's what she really needs right now.
Besides, with Tegan - and now April! - prancing around, she may as well be a boy underneath all this armour.
She gives a small smile as he finishes his pep talk. "Thank you. They say that 'a good friend is a god-send' and I'm blessed to have friends like you here."
Standing up on tiptoe, she gives him a small kiss on the cheek. "Right. Let's go and see what this Kressle has to say."
Djebelle frowns as the interrogation continues. It's too easy, Kressle is just telling them everything, they haven't even had to threaten her.
"Why are you just telling us everything? Aren't you going to try and bargain information for your life, or something?"
April looks so much like their mother with her arms open in invitation. Tegan suddenly needs that love and affection – more than anything else she’s ever needed before. ”Mother,” Tegan chokes out, ”Mother abandoned us!” Tegan sobs and perfect tears stream down both sides of her cheeks. As tears threaten to drip from her chin, the droplets solidify to ice and plink harmlessly to the ground. Tegan remains as lovely as ever when she cries - a picturesque picture of pain and sorrow. Tegan wails into April’s neck, clinging tightly to her older sibling. Tegan feels love-starved and is desperate to feel emotionally validated.
Tegan cries harder at hearing her sister’s whispered suggestion.
Tegan continues to cry until her sorrow tapers off into softer feminine weeps. ”Do- do- do you really think I’m pitiful?” Tegan pulls her head from the crook of her sister’s neck, the rims of her eyes pink and glistening from a hardy cry. Tegan peers confused into her sister’s own lovely face, why do I even want your support? Tegan is failing to regain her composure. She’s aware she loses control over her powers when she’s emotional, but she can’t help it. The crystalized tears that fell to the ground expand to frost the grass at their feet.
The frost feeds off of Tegan’s emotional energy, so Tegan takes a step back from the icy ground. Tegan swipes at her remaining tears with the palm of her hand. She focuses on her breathing, holding in air for five seconds, then slowly exhaling. Tegan stares at her sister as she composes herself. How humiliating, Tegan blames herself for showing weakness in front of her sister.
Tegan recalls, confused, as to how she could have gotten so off topic and cried. Her sister hadn’t bothered to answer any of her questions. Tegan searches her sister’s face for answers, ”Are you actually going to help stop banditry here?” Tegan looks guarded, resuming her normal demeanor towards her sister.
”Crying can help, you know.” she smiles to you ignoring once more your questions ”After crying, and by the way, you look absolutely terrible when crying, don’t ever let anyone else see it.” she pluck small pieces of ice from her clothes, hair, neck and face. ”Anyway, after crying, the mind works better, and you need it, you still do. Now sister, ignore that gut feeling that always tells you need to hate me.” she seems unfazed by admitting you hate her ”Really think about it. Would you be suffering like this, if you didn’t want to suffer?” before you can answer she raises her hand saying you should wait and listen ”And I’m not even talking about life style. What if I want to live my own life enjoying the company of men, having fun at parties all night long, or even letting them do the things I need done? That’s my own choice and you have no right to say anything about it.”
She finishes removing the ice, tidying things and making sure, she doesn’t look like a hurricane had hugged her. ”So yes, you are pitiful, but just because you choose to be, and about the bandits, making them work for me would be better, but that’s too much trouble, even for me.” she stops for a moment walking towards the door and she turns one last time to her young sister. ”But really think about it. Doesn’t this whole affair smells fishy to you? You ought to have learned from experience by now. Something is wrong about this whole deal.” she walks away then, leaving Tegan alone with her thoughts, and more questions than answers.
The ranger's eyes narrowed at the bound woman as she mockingly answers his first question, otherwise he maintained his calm. Best to remember that they were the ones in charge here. This one was all bluster, but was probably scared senseless.
The lanky man crosses his arms, looking thoughtfully at Kressle as she answers the other questions. Not that he figured they would attempt subterfuge to gain entry to the Stag Lord's lair, but it was worth knowing.
As the priestess questions the bandit woman's motives, Rendyl glances first at Djebelle, then at Kressle, curious as to her reaction. One would think she'd be bargaining at this point, especially since she knew surely that her life was on the line. She seemed strangely confident, or perhaps resigned. The ranger waited on the woman's response, glancing around the room to see if anyone else had any questions for the bandit leader.
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"Why are you just telling us everything? Aren't you going to try and bargain information for your life, or something?"
”Because you are already dead! You just don’t know it yet.” she starts to laugh hysterically at this point ”You’re all dead!” she shrieks again. ”Dead! Dead!” bulging black veins pops into her neck and face as the woman starts to contort in pain and madness ”We’re all dead…” her voice trails off, a vacant expression on her crazy, disheveled face, as black thick nauseous blood pour out of her eyes, nose, ear and mouth.
Thus, the banditry life of Kressle ended.
”Lieutenant, with your experiences, what do you think should happen to Kressel and her bandit crew?”
”Seem to me it’s the end of the hope for them.” the man says again but then he coughs lightly and adds ”Maybe I should’ve said end of the rope.” he then mentions to his neck, and pretend he has a hangman noose around his neck, and his hand is pulling it.
Tegan folds her arms over her chest. ”Lieutenant,” Tegan sighs, ”this may not be appropriate for me to say – as you don’t know me very well - but please be careful around my sister. She’s probably the most beautiful woman you've ever seen, but don’t let her charm you and your soldiers into neglecting your duties here.”
He looks you head to toes ”Aye.” and says no more.
”I hope we can work together and make the Stolen Lands safe… Why did you decide to come here, Lieutenant? I came here to escape my family, but you see I’ve failed.”
”Been ordered to.” he adds simply, as if that would explain everything. He also doesn’t seems particularly interested in knowing why you ran away from your family.
"Out the way! Out the way!" The mellowed out feeling disappears as if it never was as Djebelle sees Kressle die so dramatically.
Rushing forward, she tries to do what she can, to assess the cause, but it's hopeless: Kressle is dead. "Damn!"
Djebelle rarely swears, but this seems like a suitable moment.
The cause of death, you are pretty sure it’s the black rotten blood. Few moments later and Kressle looks nothing more than a puddle of black smelly rotting carcass. However, you have no idea what could’ve cause such transformation in such small period of time.
--
The sudden death of the woman cast a shadow of doubt on everyone. What the hell is happening to this place? Since when bandits die when being interrogated?
The night, when the party finally settles down, will pass without much inconvenience, except for the fact that there’s too many people, and not enough bed’s for them.
Rendyl's eyes widened in surprise at the sudden demise of Kressle, the ranger at first quickly stepping forward, then sidestepping out of Djebelle's way. At the priestess' expletive the young man assumes the bandit lieutenant has met a gory end. Rendyl looks at the corpse with horror, wondering what could have caused the strange malady. Nothing to do about it now, he supposed.
-------------------
After troubled sleep involving corpses filled with thick, black blood slowly encircling him, the ranger finally decides to give up on going back to sleep and rises, settling in to eat some of Svetlana's fine cooking. After breakfast, when the group has gathered and has started tossing out ideas, the ranger speaks, "We've done good work against the bandits of the region. The Stag Lord lies far to the south...let us check out some closer areas to make sure none of our opportunistic friends are lingering about. And we can possibly gather some of the other bounties, as well."
As it quiets down, Vik keeps his silent vigil out by the burial mound. He dozes every now and then, but the cold and his own shame keep him awake until the sun begins to brush the horizon with its ruby blush.
Tegan takes a step back as dark blood oozes out of all Kressle’s orifices. Crazy lady, Tegan looks over to her bandit followers to see how they took their leader’s death.
Tegan remains outside the Trading Post for another ten minutes. She wants to make sure any traces of her tears have dissipated before returning inside. The more Tegan thinks about her talk with her sister, the stranger she feels. Something was off about their encounter. Tegan can’t help but feel as if she was somehow manipulated by her older sister, which bothers her.
Tegan doesn’t go immediately to bed after her talk with April. Instead, she heads to the stables to spend time with her mule, Milo. ”Milo, did you miss me?” The mule doesn’t respond or show any eagerness. Tegan approaches closer so she can rub the animal’s snout. She snuggles her face into Milo’s short mane. He smells like a barn. Tegan lifts her face and pets Milo for a few more minutes, cooing at the animal ”You’re a good mule. Such a good Milo.” Milo sniffs Tegan, as if searching for food, but doesn’t seem particularly interested in pets. After some pet therapy, Tegan checks on the horses (to make sure they’re still there), then exits the stables to sleep.
Tegan doesn’t take a bed. Instead, she stakes out a corner in the sleeping quarters – as far from her sister as she can manage - and unfurls her bedroll and blanket. Tegan stores her backpack in the same corner under her blanket.
Tegan sleeps better than she did the night before, perhaps because of her hardy cry or perhaps because the party is safely back at Oleg’s Trading Post. Tegan sleeps past what would be her morning watch because there are now guards protecting the building.
Tegan wakes up feeling refreshed. It feels nice to be clean and safely behind protected walls. Tegan folds and neatly fastens her bedroll and blanket while eagerly thinking about what Svetlana’s prepared for breakfast.
Tegan looks beautiful even in bedhead, still, she takes the extra time to brush out her hair and fix her appearance in her small handheld mirror. With her blue dress dry, Tegan finds a place to privately change out of Svetlana’s dress. Tegan’s quick whipstitch to the torn area isn’t perfect, but her dress is presentable. She smooths the cotton fabric in a downward motion with her palms before pulling her apron overtop. I’m glad I got the blood out before it had time to set.
Tegan enters into the main area with Svetlana’s borrowed dress draped over her arm. She searches out their hostess, wanting to return the dress. ”Thank you so much, Svetlana,” Tegan hands over the brown dress. ”After breakfast, I’d like to put in an order for a few bolts of fabric.” Tegan smiles encouragingly at Svetlana, liking conversation with the other woman.
Tegan picks out an apple and sits at the table with her companions. ”Morning,” Tegan greets her companions in her usual cool tone. Her face is expressionless as she bites into her apple. In reality, Tegan is in a good mood, but she isn’t going show it. Looks like some of us didn’t sleep too well.
Tegan glances over to her sister, curious as to what she’s doing. She lifts one corner of her mouth as she stares. We’re going to settle the Stolen Lands faster and better than they will. Tegan turns back to her companions, determined to not waste the day. ”Perhaps we should go and complete that task we were talking about yesterday?” Tegan remains vague for Svetlana’s sake. Tegan tilts her head, curious as to how her companions wish to progress.
After finishing breakfast, Tegan pulls out her bundle of parchment, an ink pen, and her bottle of ink. She swipes at any remaining crumbs on the table, not wanting to dirty her letter to the Mayor. Tegan writes whatever comes to mind, her lettering consistently neat and elegant. The wet ink is formed into crisp letters on the page with flourishes on the hanging letters like ‘g’ and ‘y.’ Thanks to years of practiced penmanship with ledger keeping, Tegan’s writing looks like it belongs on the parchment it’s been written on.
A small smile of satisfaction plays on Tegan’s pink lips as she fans the page with her hand. I feel like we’ve already accomplished so much and it’s barely been a week since we left the Mayor’s office! She blows on the ink for good measure before passing the letter to her companions if they wish to read or add anything. (She hasn’t signed it at this point.)
Dear Lord Mayor Ioseph Sellemius,
We have eradicated the bandit leader known as Kressle, who was responsible for leading raids on Oleg’s Trading Post. Kressle had bandit crew of no less than twenty thieving scum. We emptied her base of operations and her followers are either dead or hiding due to our hand.
Lieutenant Kesten Garess and his men arrived shortly before we returned to Oleg’s Trading Post. With the guards stationed at the Trading Post, I’ve already noticed an influx of travelers. I have no doubt that with a firm iron fist, the trade route will thrive.
Today we travel on behalf of Oleg and his lovely wife Svetlana. I believe if we make Oleg’s Trading Post into a stronghold of comforts and iron, people will flock to the area, generating commerce. Please let me know if we can be of any additional service to you.
My regards,
Tegan Ryker
Tegan lifts the edge of her sealing wax to the fire before pressing the warm glob against the open of the fold. With the letter sealed, Tegan approaches Kresten Garess: ”Lieutenant, I’m wish to send a letter to the Lord Mayor. Do you mind posting it with your letters?” Tegan assumes the Lieutenant will be sending a letter detailing his arrival to the Mayor. Assuming he doesn’t refuse, Tegan thanks him and prepares to leave Oleg’s Post with her companions.
First, she approaches Oleg (or Svetlana) to discuss a purchase order of fabric so she can make a new dress Second, Tegan enters to the stables to check on Milo, her mule, and the horses – which, in Tegan’s opinion, are all entirely too big. Tegan wishes they’d found a riding pony at the bandits’ lair. Some riding animal that wasn’t so tall. Milo stands a bit shorter than Tegan, compared to the average horse height of about six feet. Milo’s legs are more stout and he has a rounder tummy – evidence of his predisposition to overeat. He defiantly can’t gallop as quickly as a horse. And he isn’t as tall… Tegan wonders if others will take her seriously on a mule but decides it’s the least of her worries.
Knowing nothing about riding or riding animals, Tegan asks: ”Er- Do you all think I could ride a mule instead of one of the horses?” Tegan glances back at Milo before returning her gaze to her companions. Milo doesn’t seem interested in the people standing around inside the stables. Tegan watches the others load their things into the horses, feeling awkward. When she thinks nobody is looking, Tegan clumsily mounts her animal of transportation. Perhaps it’s something about her hand positioning or her long skirts, but she’s anything but graceful. Tegan grunts as she tries to maneuver her elbow over a place her elbow has no place being. She fumbles looking for the left stirrup, accidentally nudging the animal forward a couple steps. Finally after some struggle, Tegan is properly seated and ready to travel.
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Having never been drunk before, Djebelle is utterly unprepared for how awful she feels the next morning. At first she wonders if she's caught whatever it was that killed Kressle, but after some minutes it's clear that she is - unfortunately - going to live.
She cuts a subdued figure at breakfast, hollow eyed and silent, shuddering whenever the noise level gets too high. She meekly nods in agreement with whatever the plan is. Hopefully it doesn't involve noise. Or haste. Or sunlight.
Wincing, she takes another sip of water.
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Coming down from the tower after an hour or so, and fully refreshed, Damiel sees that Kressle is dead. "Did she tell you anything useful before she died?" he queries the ones still there, pointedly not asking how she died.
Damiel just nods at what Kressle final words were, and ponders it thru out the rest of the night.
At the breakfast table, scowl firmly in place after thinking about what Kressle said, Damiel nods at Rendyl as he speaks about searching closer. "Not only is the Stag Lord further south, but if Kressle and her men were just an outpost and we barely survived, then I don't want to take on this Stag Lord at his main abode just yet. There are several other tasks that we can be doing before tackling him." Looking around to make sure that Oleg is not within earshot, "the radishes for example, or just searching and mapping the Greenbelt."
Preparing, packing, resupplying and the charters move away in search of the radishes as asked by Svetlana. When they left, the opposition was still at the trading post, and they didn’t seem in any hurry to leave.
Hours, days, nights go by, while the charters explore the region around Oleg’s and the surrounding forest. It takes considerably more time to explore the forest of Narlmarches than the plains of Kamelands. It’s soon apparent that bringing food for all days of exploration is not something viable, and hunting for food is a must, while exploring the wilds.
It’s during the second day of exploration of the Narlmarches, the fourth day after they’ve left the trading post that they stumble across the patch of Radishes. A large patch of delicious moon radishes grows in an arrowhead-shaped clearing in the area. You also they find four moaning kobolds lying on their backs in the center of the patch, bellies full of the spicy roots and three overfilled baskets of the same lying nearby. The kobolds ate too many radishes as they gathered them and are now sickened, but not so sick that they don’t shriek and clamber to their feet when they see you people approaching.
Rendyl looks at the small, scaly humanoids with contempt and hatred. Only his admonition of Tegan several days before keeps him from nocking an arrow and firing at the little beasts. He speaks quietly to the others, "Here are the radishes we seek. These kobolds are vermin upon any land they encounter, murderous little bastards. I say we take them out and see if there are any more about. They will only be a thorn in the side of any settler out this way."
The young man's eyes burn with passion and anger, his jaw gritted shut as he waits for the others to reply.
”Radishes, mines! Longshanks go ‘way!” they wave their crude spears and slings in a threatening manner. ”Radishes mines! Out, go. Kill if try to take!” they once more wave their weapons indicating that they will defend their spoil.