"Seraphina is right. It was inevitable that our success would attract those who seek to profit from it. Smaller groups we can more easily manage, but to deal with a kingdom such as Pitax will require a stronger kingdom of our own, and more defenses than we currently have. We must look to attract new settlers and form a militia as soon as possible."
Hearing that Seraphina is leaving to spend time with the kobolds, he adds "Too close of a relationship with those creatures is likely to scare away new settlers, but we also do not wish to antagonize them or disregard the benefits our alliance can bring us. While you have been an invaluable adventuring companion, your unique talents will be an undeniable asset in impressing the kobolds and maintaining our relationship with them. We wish you all the best!"
When he has a moment to speak to Andreas alone, he says, ""I understand that we have a forge in the town, and I have the tools needed to forge high-quality weapons and armor. I cannot do this on a large scale, of course, but you especially would benefit from some better armor. I may even be able to add some magic to the process, depending on your needs."
Rillka listens while the Tall Folk speak, waiting for an opportunity to jump in before the group splinters off.
While Grigori is a troublemaker, he is still free to spread his opinions, that is until we prove he has intentions to bring harm. But like any citizen here, he has a right to speak out, even against us, until he speaks provable lies or instigates violence. He has already proven himself a bully and a coward. And you all know how I feel about bullies.
While I had... misgivings... about forging an alliance with the kobolds, they have proven to be peaceful and reliable allies. As all who wish to live in these lands peacefully are welcome. I believe having a stronger allegiance and guiding hand would benefit the Sootscales, which in turn benefits us all. With greater dangers in the wilds, we will need some additional support... Rillka turns to Veronica, We could use someone wise and strong. and looking at Moondancer and I have a feeling your enemies don't find you so adorably cute do they?
You two in?
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Vinni feels a bit out of place being in the circle of people discussing the politics of the region. He thinks he hasn't earned a place at this table yet. Unfortunately, he cannot add much to the conversation, since he hasn't had many encounters with kobolds. The only thing he can remember is helping one that was hurt on the road. He was still very scared and promptly ran away as soon as he could. All he knows about kobolds is that they love dragons and fancy themselves as distant cousins.
He does have an opinion about bullies and his fist tightens when Rillka mentions them. Still, he doesn't want to speak about someone else's experience.
He sees the halfling inviting a hunter and her wolf to deal with dangers in the wilds, and doesn't interject. He thinks "the time to prove myself will come, but for now, I'll focus on my wise face" He looks awkwardly towards the horizon.
Seraphina smiles warmly at Saorise. "I'm not going far, you'll see me again. Especially if you wish to." She adds with a wink.
As Saorise speaks of the local powers, Seraphina chimes in. "And don't forget the other chartered expeditions the Swordlords sent out. If they had less luck with their targeted regions, your successes here might inspire jealousy."
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Lily Teskerin is not difficult to find. She confirms the rumors overheard. "Aye, that Grigori fellow bought me some drinks and chatted some. Bit full of himself, if ye ask me. Wanted some warm company, I expect. He's a way with pretty words, but not much in his purse if ye know what I mean. Right proud of his fancy Academy, he was. Pretty funny when he gets in his cups. A woman can forgive a man a lot if he can make her laugh." She opines on the subject.
Veronica says to Rillka, "Well, I am happy to help out around the town, as I can. This girl," she says, patting Moondancer, "likes to lounge around in the sun and chase bottle-flies, but she is helpful in a pinch when nasty folks come nosing around."
"If I can be of service, I am glad to do so."
"Welcome, Veronica," Albert says. He looks quizzically at the wolf. "And I am . . . happy to join with any creature willing to lend a hand in battle."
He is surprised to hear that the Swordlords sent out other expeditions. "What do we know of these other groups? Could they be working with Pitax? Or might they be potential allies against King Irovetti?"
"Thanks," says Veronica to Albert with a pleasant grin. She ruffles Moondancer's coat a bit and the wolf whines, lies down, and puts her paws over her muzzle.
"She'll do a lot for treats. I guess that's most folks, though."