Garborn shakes his head slowly.
"Most, when becoming werewolf, frightened. This one, made himself, by himself.
...
Silly man.
Have heard it said, "respect life, but be not afraid to remove some from it if they prove too stupid to deserve it". Seems right, no?"
Marisol wipes down her cutlass - more so that it doesn't stink up the scabbard, because the mithral is largely impervious to rust and corrosion - and says, "This does mean that now these communities will need new leadership. We have to find out who's still alive, who can be trusted, who knew about this."
Garborn shrugs a little, it wasn't really something he was that good at, though he did know people well enough.
"Not difficult, this crisis, in crisis, natural leaders emerge.
Already met one, kept people safe, admirable.
If not him as leader, probably know who is leader material."
Garborn then looks at the Worg, interested to see if it is going to keep to it's end of the bargain, especially since it could possibly argue that the skull is too damaged for the bargain to fulfilled.
The worg returns Garborn's gaze, then looks past him. He slowly pads into the chapel.
"Now the reviled have been killed, our elder's remains must be returned."
Durielle picks up the skull, and carries it toward the chapel entrance.
She pauses by Vladimir and Marisol...
"The visions of my destiny have come into focus. I must do this. The rippling effect will come to greatly benefit our kingdom in the future." She pulls up her hood, and lowers her head as she turns away. "I hope to see you again."
She then stands before the worg. "I will ride with your pack, and return your leader's remains to your lair. I have seen your pack recover and grow in number.. enough to take to battle against your true enemy."
The worg eyes her for a moment, then nods. "Come. We leave now."
"True enemy"? Garborn is intrigued!
"Aw, pretty elf lady go away? Garborn will miss her, hope she returns soon."
Nico turns his head sharply, clearly shocked at the elf's words. "Durielle...Are you sure you have to do this alone?"
"Durielle, I know well by now there is nothing to be done to dissuade you, once your visions have cleared enough to give you a clear direction." Vladimir reluctantly says.
"Be safe, my friend." he says, as much of a warning to the worg as a well wish to his departing friend.
Turning his attention back to Marisol's comment. "Good call, my love. Once we know what is left, perhaps we can work out something with Chafwinth Crossing - maybe between the Crossing and our resources at Hope's Haven we can provide some sort of protection, guidance, and leadership for the survivors of here and the Twigjack Tower."
Marisol steps forward to grab Durielle from behind, then leans her head against the elf. "I wish you could stay, but I understand," she says sorrowfully. "I hope that our paths cross again." She stays pressed against Durielle for a few moments and manages to keep herself from crying, though her eyes are clearly moist as she finally lets go.
"Now, no more grieving over parting ways," she says, as much for herself as everyone else. "Come. Let's see to putting some order to this place at last."
"Town lost leadership, also lost many people to attacks.
We come, help, save them, they likely want to turn to us for protection and leadership.
Build road, claim land, enfold town into realm.
Garborn only guess, but suspect he is right."
"I think that's a good guess, Garborn."
Garborn grins at Nico.
"Of course, garborn is very, here he begins to flex his biceps, grinning and nodding meaningfully at them, smart, yes?"
As Durielle mounts up, and rides out with the pack, people begin peeking out from their barricaded windows. A few tentatively step out, and then rush toward the nearby well.
A balding man in miltia armor matching Hegald's with haggard sandy beard like an old broom hustles up toward the chapel.
"Is it over? What's happened?"
"It is over. Please come out, it is safe." Vladimir says in an as gentle and reassuring tone as he can muster. "I am of Vladimir Ducheski of Hope's Haven. My companions are Marisol Surtova, Garborn Herwonkir, and Nico Tegustus. We are here to help."
"Woelder Hague had made an unfortunate alliance with Dovan of the Twigjack Tower. In that process, the pair drew the ire of the worgs who had attacked the village. The worgs are gone and Dovan and Woelder Hague dead." the swordsman says in explanation.
"Please, gather the survivors so that we know the numbers that are left and what we can do to get you back on your feet."
"Hmm, pity pretty elf lady left so quickly, Garborn is no healer in comparison.
Ah well, good food keeps body healthy, healthy body heals anyway."
He nods solemnly "Thank you for taking care of the situation."
He gestures to catch the attention to another of his number now arriving to the scene.
"Let's gather everyone here... Once word is out, we'll get to work gathering the fallen."
Garborn gives Vladimir a gentle elbow to the side.
"Now big leader man get to give nice speech, warm up lungs now, Garborn will give you some warm honey and lemon after to soothe vocal cords, gyahahahahaha!"
Vladimir shakes his head. "No, I am afraid there will be no grandiose speeches today, Garborn. These people have been through too much as it is. I suspect that all they want to know is what happened and that help is available if they need it."
Trying to lighten his mood he adds with a wink, "Now, if they choose to come an live in Hope's Haven, that might be a different story."
Garborn taps his large nose knowingly.
"Ah, but because having had such hard time, would appreciate some charismatic words of comfort.
Will look to you, might lift spirits.
No need for grandiose though, heartfelt much better."
After roughly thirty minutes of villagers making their way to the small square in front of the chapel, Hegald and the other of Dovan's militia address the timid crowd. Others of the militia gather and deliver water and rations to those gathered as the pair speak.
"I am Aiden. I'm not one for words, I'll give it to you straight. Your leader Hague, and ours Dovan are dead. These folks dealt with the wolves. So we're out of danger. We.. the militia will remain for a few days to assist, but we have our own to return to after that. We will build a base camp here in the square, give medical aid, assist with clean up, and set out patrols.... thank you." He nods and steps back.
The crowd is barely responsive to his words... all but a few in some stage of shock.
Aiden turns back to you and Hegald.
"So.. Staying for the night?"
Vladimir nods in the affirmative to Aiden's question before addressing the survivors.
"I am Vladimir Ducheski of Hope's Haven. My companions and I will stay here for a while to help you get back on your feet. Those of you who wish to leave Elmere behind are welcome to return to Hope's Haven with us when we leave for home. Before returning home, we will journey to Chafwinth's Crossing to see what aid Olbrent Dover and the fine people of that village may be able to do to help you through this difficult time as well."
Having said his peace, Vladimir turns back to Aiden. "What of the Twigjack Tower and those who live nearby. With Dovan no longer alive, who will lead that settlement?"
Garborn grins a little at the question of Twigjack Tower, then leans over and pokes Vladimir with a large finger before winking in a very unsubtle way.
A good portion of the crowd seems to take notice of Vladimir and his words. There are a few mouthed and spoken words of appreciation.
Hegald nods "Good. Once the people here have recovered, opening trade with Chafwinth would be helpful."
Aiden responds to Vladimir with a somber look. "That remains to be seen."
"We would offer our aid to your people too, if needed. One of my council members, Marlbeck Sneeg, is quite familiar with the area. I am sure we could be of aid." Vladimir offers.
Nico clears his throat and says, "Word of this will get back to Twigjack Tower fairly quickly. If Dovan has...er, had, more, uh, loyalists there it could pose a problem."
"I suppose it could." Vladimir concedes.
"We need to take care of these people first, then we will worry about any additional problems at the Twigjack Tower. I would propose that after a quick trip back to Hope's Haven, with any from here that wish to come, we collect Marlbeck and head for the Tower. His familiarity with the people of the town and the Tower itself will likely be a boon to us."
Turning back to Aiden and Hegald, he adds, "Unless of course you feel that the situation at the Tower would require more immediate attention."
Aiden shakes his head, and Hegald responds "No no... the people are self-sufficient... rugged folk." with a proud smile.
You spend a few days in Elmere. A stash of dry goods and other foodstuffs is soon found in Hague's residence.. as well as about four or five thousand in gold, gems, jewelry.
The militia from Twigjack prepare to leave after having been of assistance in clean up, and tending to the wounded.
Though no natural leaders emerge from the villagers of Elmere, the people seem to be faring much better. It will take a while to recover (their farmlands are in good shape, but most livestock were killed by the wolves), but they seem to be on the right path now.
"Haha! These people, true frontier spirit!
Will be fine now, will recover, one day tell stories of mighty Garborn!
Oh, and other fine lords and ladies with him of course."
Grinning widely, Garborn nudges Vladimir with an elbow to the side.
"So, now mischief sorted, we look for more? Garborn feel the call of road again."
After distributing Hauge's stockpile and likely ill-gotten treasure horde to the survivors, the party will prepare to head out.
Marisol helps with distribution of supplies and checking the team's current supply chain to make sure there's enough food for more traveling.
"So, my dear, it might be prudent to see if these settlements can form some kind of messenger network," she suggests to Vlad. "They'll need to work together to survive - trade food and supplies, make sure more bandits and ne'er-do-wells don't show up to give them trouble. Perhaps we can find someone local who's good enough on horse that they might be able to do such a job... or we could take it up ourselves."
"Not a bad idea at all, my love." Vladimir admits, nodding approvingly. "Olbrent may have someone, if not I am sure Aiden would have someone to fit the bill."
During your time in Elmere, you discover the East Watch building is vacant. There are a few wolf corpses, and after you spot tracks and other signs of battle, Garborn is able to determine three humanoids fled to the bank, and across the river - in the general direction toward Twigjack Tower.
Further inspection of the watch building and area, suggests they've been away for roughly a week.
Very few of the villagers of Elmere seem to have much interest in relocating to Hope's Haven at the moment. Though they've faced troubles beyond what they could handle alone, they still have their homes here.. and the danger seems to have lessened.
Over the next week, you (the rulers of Hope's Haven) facilitate coordinated trade, and the beginnings of other forms of alliance. Though the leaders and vocal locals of the three settlements show their appreciation, they stress their desire to maintain complete independence from your authority.
After brooding through a difficult decision, Brother Aster decides to step down as your Councilor, and serve as a leader in the growing community.
A month later, a large group of folks arrive looking for a new home - many of which happen to be from the three communities to the east. Among them is a man they'd come to see as a leader.. a man accompanied by a golden lion. You hear from time to time about him in the next few days while you are busy with other ruling matters.
Days after, you return to exploration directly to the north and to the southeast. Compared to what you've run into in past exploration, there is little of note in these areas.
Then, Durielle returns. Three months have passed since she left. It is now midsummer, and your kingdom has grown.
Garborn takes a deep breath, inhaling the fragrance of the breeze, making his poor clothing creak in protest as his massive chest expands.
"Smell that? Smell of life!
And now midsummer, height of liveliness in all things.
We should celebrate!
In summer, everything full of vitality, needs healthy outlet."
Vladimir is very concessional speaking with the leaders of the three settlements. "By all means, we have no intentions of trying to take over. We are simply here to help and to be your allies and friends."
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After returning from the group's most recent explorations, Vladimir begins inquiring more about the assumed leader of the latest group of settlers to make Hope's Haven their home, offering an invitation to Wildhome for a conversation with the council, or if this Malylev fellow would prefer meeting at a local inn would suffice as well.
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"A celebration very well might be in order, Garborn." Vladimir responds to the boisterous druid.
Just before Vladimir is to further entertain the idea of a celebration he catches a glimpse of an old friend returning home. "Is that? It is!" he says, rushing to gather the other councilor to welcome their wayward oracle home.
"Durielle, you are back! I trust everything went well, or at least as well as can be, with the worgs?"
"Ah! Pretty elf lady! Welcome back!
Come, come, give Garborn big hug!"
"No good food in wilderness? No worry, Garborn will cook good meal tonight!
Have been fishing and experimenting, you see, Garborn make the best fresh water food you ever had!"
Garborn then grins at Vladimir and winks.
"Old friends return, even bigger reason for celebration, no?"
"Durielle! Welcome back!" says Marisol joyfully. "It's wonderful to see you again. I hope you can stay with us for a while. Please, you must join us for supper and tell us all about what brings you back to us."
That evening a small banquet is held among the rulers and other notables of Hope's Haven. High Priest Kavken had seen to the details, so the added displays of bunting, table decor, and plattered meat are decidedly rustic.
The soiree is attributed to Durielle's return, a chance to get to know Malylev - High Priest Kavken's suggestion to replace Councilor Aster, holding a Midsummer festival two weeks from now, as well as to hear from a few of note from the community.
In attendance... High Priest Jhod Kavken, Warden Marlbeck Sneeg, General Kesten Garess, Treasurer Oleg Leveton, and yourselves. The head of construction Brarim Broadhammer is there... chatting at the far end of the table with citizens bearing requests: Blacksmith Svainer, Leifa Valvont the widowed fishery heiress, and Hattie the naturalist arcane adept.
"Garborn think that BroadHammer clan will be very busy, building things everywhere.
Ah, but forget that, more important thing now, look, freshwater clams! Garborn picked these himself, and prepared them as well.
Eat, eat!"
Vladimir makes his way through the room, taking time to chat with the High Council members that are not typically part of the exploration party before making his way to the far end of the table to greet Master Broadhammer and the other notable citizens.
"Good evening, we are glad you could all attend this evening's festivities."
On his way to the end of the table, Vladimir hears Kesten (not one for small talk) voice concern over the lack of authority within the walls when the exploration party is away. "We will need to have that discussion soon."
Oleg is in good spirits, but does remind the rest of the court, he still plans to leave for home after this month.
Brarim nods, then bows "My Lord." "Your guests here each have things to propose-" "- when it pleases, M'Lord." Leifa interrupts, then continues. "The crux of it all is the desire to form a merchants' guild. All other matters could be discussed through that relationship in the coming months and beyond."
Nico beams when he sees Durielle. "Durielle! It is a pleasure to see you again. I am sure we, uh, would all like to hear about your time in...with...um, these past few months."
The swordsman stops when Kesten addresses him. Vladimir matter of factly states, "While the exploration party is away, I had always assumed that the remaining council members acted with full authority, yourself and Marlbeck in particular given your roles. We can certain discuss it further after this little gathering." while placing a friendly hand on the general's shoulder.
"Madame Valvont, a merchants guild seems like a splendid idea. In return," he says to Leifa, Svainer, and Hattie, "We find ourselves in need of a new Treasurer. Master Leveton has more than fulfilled his promise, so it is only right that we honor his desires to return home to his business - and his lovely bride. Are there any among you who are willing to take up to the task?"
"Merchant guild?
Good idea, slow going at first, shipping cheap food stuff, minerals, wood.
Eventually, ship finished good for more profit.
And merchants, sometimes willing to invest in realms, to help with growth too..." The last is said with a grin and a wink.
Malylev, the Little Lion, has left his namesake back at the place he is sharing with the folk he came in with. Tall and thin, with naturally pale skin tanned leather brown by constant exposure to the elements. He has dark brown eyes that seem incredibly wise and knowing. His wavy blonde hair and beard are very long, looking like they haven't been cut for years. With his sandy coloring and shaggy appearance he even looks a little like his namesake, the lion.
His clothes are well maintained but have clearly seen hard use. Strangely, he has a small constellation of tiny glowing gems orbiting his head, one blue, one red, and one a brilliant white that shines like a torch.
At the idea of a merchants' guild, he speaks up. "A merchants' guild is all well and good, but I'd like to hear what protections their workers might have from exploitation. I don't have much experience with merchants in town, for sure, but I do know the man who owns the plow doesn't always think much about the ox who pulls it."
Vladimir regards the newest member of the High Council with a half-smile and a nod, waiting to hear the response from the business folk of Hope's Haven.
Svainer grimaces at the thought, and Hattie shrugs... Leifa responds. "A Treasurer, My Lord? Perhaps... I will give it some thought, and ask around."
To Malylev she replies.. "I don't expect that to be a problem, but we can certainly discuss that going forward."
"Hopefully a merchant's guild will note that they have no goods to trade without the workers who produce them," says Marisol. "If there is need for laws to enforce such protections, we can consider drafting some - though it might seem overbearing to come to these settlements that have recently banded together with us for mutual aid and bring a list of new demands and regulations."
Leifa - who'd seemed to somewhat caught offguard - relaxes with Marisol's words. "Yes, of course My Lady.... The primary reason for the guild, is to have its leader come to you as required in proper meetings.. rather than have every cobbler and peddler seek audience in court."
She turns to more clearly face Malylev "And likewise, Councilor, should you or the court as a whole have concerns regarding treatment of workers or other matters, I.. or whomever the guild selects, would serve as a liaison... and see to it your wish is enacted."
Nico listens to the conversation with interest, especially when it turns towards worker exploitation. "And who will guarantee that the guild is, um, speaking for the cobbler and the peddler? Maylev, it's not that they don't think of the ox, it's that they, uh, view the ox as replaceable, especially when it chooses to exert its own will."
In an attempt to defuse what may be becoming a combustible situation, Vladimir says, "Maylev, Nico, your concerns have been heard. I think this would be a greater concern in a larger city, such as Restov - but here, our resources and people are limited and should be treated as such. I would suggest that whomever is chosen to be the head of this guild, at least temporarily, take the role Oleg is vacating. In order to belay some of Maylev's and Nico's and concerns, I would ask that Maylev, in his role of Councilor, be allowed to sit in on guild meetings as he desires and the High Council be granted oversight rights into the activities of this nascent guild."
Is that agreeable to all parties?" he asks, looking around the room.