The Society’s finest have dealt a great blow to the demonic generals.
The host of Demons seems to have lost coordination as they engage along the battle lines, with the Generals mostly cut down and the siege engines still firing, the horde starts falling apart.
The demons go into retreat or are cut down by the crusaders and Pathfinders who swarm those foolish enough to stay. With the host in retreat, the defenders also start recovering the injured and slain.
The dust settles as surviving Pathfinders find their way back to the Starrise Citadel. Dozens lie wounded, some bearing injuries that may prove fatal. Smoke chokes the air as crusaders continue to douse still-burning buildings whose flames are now mercifully under control.
Venture-Captain Jorsal silently walks up and down the lines of Pathfinders. He rarely speaks, only giving an understanding nod or a comforting smile. The arrival of a squad of battered crusaders from the center of the city breaks the grim moment. At their head rides a stern woman bedecked in shining full plate engraved with intricate gold filigree. Her weapon is coated in what must be demonic ichor, and several of her helmet’s once beautiful blue plumes are charred. This can only be Queen Galfrey, crusader queen of Mendev and leader of Nerosyan.
She brings her entourage to a halt and addresses the assembled Pathfinders. “Words cannot express the gratitude of Mendev. What your Society has done here today goes well beyond what duty required. I have learned that this attack was just one of many in a coordinated assault against all of Mendev, and that our wardstones have failed us, disabled by some demonic treachery. Our city only stands thanks to the efforts of those such as yourselves. I have spoken with Venture- Captain Jorsal, and Mendev shall do whatever it can to aid you in reaching the Sky Citadel of Jormurdun—so long as doing so does not interfere with the new war".
“Now, I must depart for the city of Kenabres to inspect the damage done there. Woefully, it did not have the benefit of the Pathfinder Society’s assistance when it was assaulted, and all reports indicate the city is now completely ruined.” She pauses, worry visible on her face before concluding, “Thank you, all of you for your efforts here today.” Without another word, Queen Galfrey and her entourage turn and leave. The remaining Pathfinder survivors stand united, under the still-brilliant light of the Starrise Spire.
Unable to breach the walls of the city with their primary army, the demons have broken into a full retreat. The crusaders are ready to strike back against the demons. Congratulations Pathfinders on your overwhelming victory!
|
As the queen passes your group she pulls up short, giving Lybram a keen glance.
"Would you be Lybram? Priest of Erastil? Word of your deeds today has reached me. Know that you have my thanks, and that of the people of the city. If you could leave word of how to contact you, my functionaries will be in touch later for a debrief."
|
Argus turns to his companions. "G... great job, everyon-ne. I'm gonna h-help with the w... wounded." He gives a painfully awkward tusked grin and wanders off to see where he can lend a hand.
After the adrenaline of extensive battle has died down, Argus is utterly, bone-deep exhausted. But as he walks, he sees the wounded and dying all around; he wordlessly goes about aiding the healers in any way he can. He has no healing prowess of his own, but gladly performs any menial tasks the medics require, from fetching bandages to swapping out buckets of bloody water for fresh ones, to aiding in last rites--that one he ends up doing far too often.
As the hours pass and the damage has been fully assessed, he finds a cot wherever one is open, and drops into a fitful sleep devoid of much rest. His first battle against demons was , he suspects, not his last.
|
Lybram turns beet red when the queen addresses him.
"It was an honor to help, your Majesty." "Twas my team mates who were wonderful." "I just did my part and must have been at the right place at the right time to be noticed." "Thank you for your very kind words."
Afterwards, "I, too, am very happy to call you all my comrades. I will fight with any of you anytime. Just say 'remember Nerosyan', and I will come running."
Argus, I will miss your steady, calm approach. You put the 'pal' in Paladin.
Xuxius, my niece will be so impressed I met a real elven wizard. We don't get them much in Hobcart, Isgar. She will ask to hear about your colorful spell over and over."
Gromther, the mightly, they should call you, first to battle and last to quit. You are a true inspiration."
"Kinosis, thank you for saving my life. I am still finding pieces of that crusaders guts in my armor. I will stay out of the way or your glaive."
"Shaeri, your skill with the bow was quite something. I think you are favored by Erastil himself. Keep safe.
"May Erastil line your paths with safety and protect those you love while you are away."
Lybram heads to the hospital to help as best he can with the healing.