Brandt agrees, Oh I don't think its an immediate thing, but somethng worth checking on definitely... and soon. I'll see what I can do about bringing down a deer or something like that for the outpost.
In the hour before dawn Brandt and Fenrir set out to hunt up some game to help the refugees.
"I can go whenever," Syretia says, gazing down at one of the befuddled lizards. "I've always had excellent nightvision."
"You got a bit of dwarf blood in you?" Orlog winks at Syretia as he laughs at his own joke. Getting more serious, he turns to the rest of the group. "I rather take the first or last guard duty. It take a while to get into one of those." He points at his armour with his thumb.
When it comes time for sleep, Booker meticulously cleans himself with magic after his hard day of laboring in the radish fields. Trusting his allies to sort out some sort of schedule, he falls to sleep until someone's pointy boot rouses him.
After attuning his eyes to the darkness with arcane aid, he places a hand to his brow as if shielding the sun from it as he vigilantly peers out into the night.
"I'm nearly short enough for it," Syretia replies to Orlog, laughing. Her expression turns pensive at the mention of a "stone elk." "If I was a kobold who knew very little of human deities, that might be how I'd describe a statue of Erastil. What does everyone think?"
"I'm nearly short enough for it," Syretia replies to Orlog, laughing. Her expression turns pensive at the mention of a "stone elk." "If I was a kobold who knew very little of human deities, that might be how I'd describe a statue of Erastil. What does everyone think?"
Bydar nods, as he had mentioned that very thought himself earlier "It sounds very possible. If so.. well, I find that good news. More good folk as neighbors? Most welcome."
Brandt picks out a peculiar sound echoing off the trees. Trusting a hunch, he leads the hunting party towards the source where he finds, as he suspected, a small herd of male elk clashing antlers. Five of the majestic creatures, standing as tall as a man at their shoulders, are locked in a contest for dominance.
Christian and Fenrir's mobility ensures that the hunting party is able to cut off their retreat once the time comes to strike. You are able to bring down two of the five elk, their many-tipped rack of antlers hitting the ground. The creatures are so large, their meat could feed perhaps a dozen people.
Christian remains silent for a moment as he waits to make sure the animals are dead. He does not appear to be in a hurry and looks around the area to make sure they have not drawn some unwanted attention. After a few moments have passed, he walks towards the creatures with a look of reverence on his face. The young lord turns to brand.
Your god has been kind to us...These will help feed a lot of refugees. We will make sure nothing goes to waste.
Christian kneels by the elk and closes his eyes for a few moments...and just as quick opens them up again. His demeanor changes to one of concern.
Is the elk held in high regards to your god? You do not think???
The mercenary helps to get the animals back to the camp.
After returning to the clearing where they slept the night before, Christian bids farewell to the Kobolds and sees them on their way.
Collecting a fair amount of radishes he goes about equally distributing the weight among the horses.
I think we makes for the edge of the woods and then ride as fast as we can for the outpost.
Christian remains silent for a moment as he waits to make sure the animals are dead. He does not appear to be in a hurry and looks around the area to make sure they have not drawn some unwanted attention. After a few moments have passed, he walks towards the creatures with a look of reverence on his face. The young lord turns to brand.
Your god has been kind to us...These will help feed a lot of refugees. We will make sure nothing goes to waste.Christian kneels by the elk and closes his eyes for a few moments...and just as quick opens them up again. His demeanor changes to one of concern.
Is the elk held in high regards to your god? You do not think???The mercenary helps to get the animals back to the camp.
After returning to the clearing where they slept the night before, Christian bids farewell to the Kobolds and sees them on their way.
Collecting a fair amount of radishes he goes about equally distributing the weight among the horses.
I think we makes for the edge of the woods and then ride as fast as we can for the outpost.
Aye, thanks Christian, but Ol' Deadeye would rather see happy full bellies rather than than starving refugees. I do think we need to investigate the former temple to Erastil and ensure that no one is using it for ill gain. Maybe this is a sign we need to do that from Erastil. Brandt finishes cleaning and loading the carcasses on the spare horse. I think we're ready, should be able to get there today, provided we don't run into obstacles.
Summoning a horse for herself, Syretia quickly makes ready to depart and hurry the rest of the way to Nivakta's Crossing. "Hopefully, we'll be a welcome sight after what they've endured."
Summoning a horse for herself, Syretia quickly makes ready to depart and hurry the rest of the way to Nivakta's Crossing. "Hopefully, we'll be a welcome sight after what they've endured."
Bydar smiles, "Such a fine bounty brought by our hunters? I am sure we will be." and he readies to go when the time comes, indeed, he is eager.
Booker conjures his own mount and saddles up. "I'll take one ah those on my mighty steed too, eh?" he offers, slapping the pony's rump. "But, uh, maybe one ah tha smaller ones. Yuh know, cause ah all tha radishes I'm already packin'."
________
After breaking camp and parting ways with the errant kobolds, who depart southwards to rejoin the Sootscale tribe, you press northward towards Oleg's Trading Post. Your destination comes into sight shortly before the sun reaches its peak in the sky.
When you first approached the trading post from the east, traveling along the road from Rostland, you found it thronged by about two dozen people. In the wake of Nivakta's Crossing, you see perhaps three times that number crowded around the wooden palisade.
Christian pulls up short and looks to the crowd that is waiting outside of the outpost.
I knew there would be many refugees but now that I see them firsthand...that is a lot of people to feed.
He starts to mumble a bit to himself and then turns to look at all his companions.
I highly suggest we keep the horses with provisions on them in the middle of us. Fenris should herd us towards the gates..keeping those in need away until we are inside. In their current predicament, they are liable to rush us for food. We do not want to hurt them, we just need to make sure they are understanding of the situation.
He looks to Bydar
Once inside you can tend to the wounded. You know what to do and how best to proceed. I trust in your judgment.
He then looks to Orlog.
Because of the nature of the situation. I would like to have a guard with him. Do you think you can tend to that?
The young nobleman looks to Syretia and Booker.
I think that the two of you should stick together and listen to what they have to say...find the answers...and...
He looks at Booker
...listen to what is not being said. I would like to know all there is to know.
He turns to Brand
You and I will tend to the animals...and I think after that you should take to the palisades to lend a birds eye view of the situation. Send protection from afar if the need arises.
He looks back to the outpost.
I will talk to Oleg to find out what is going on from his point of view. Then I will come back to find all of you. Once we have done what we can for these people, we will figure out our next step and address them of our intentions.
That is what I think we should do but each of you have a different view of things and I would like to hear your opinions.
He starts to mumble a bit to himself and then turns to look at all his companions.
I highly suggest we keep the horses with provisions on them in the middle of us. Fenris should herd us towards the gates..keeping those in need away until we are inside. In their current predicament, they are liable to rush us for food. We do not want to hurt them, we just need to make sure they are understanding of the situation.He looks to Bydar
Once inside you can tend to the wounded. You know what to do and how best to proceed. I trust in your judgment.He then looks to Orlog.
Because of the nature of the situation. I would like to have a guard with him. Do you think you can tend to that?
"Well said, these poor people have every right to be shaken to the core and we don't know how jumpy they are. I'll see to the healing right away and I'd be glad to have my fellow priest Orlog along." Respect for a fellow holymann and he nods to the dwarf "Between the two of us we should be able to make sure everyone gets at least basic care."
Then a look back to Lord Christian, "If the crowd insists on speaking to us all as we move in, you may have to give a speech before all the information you wanted is collected. You're a natural speaker, and I know you will set them at ease as much as they can be. Mostly they need to know they are not abandoned and their lives are not over. I'd be cautious about mentioning our new lady friend until you do get their stories. I suspect you know this, but you did ask our opinions" a smile at that.
Then he looks over the crowd for the most obvious wounded as best he can from here until they get inside the gates.
Syretia hesitates for a moment at Christian's instructions, nervously tugging on her braid as she looks out at the crowd of refugees. They must be so frightened, she thinks. And desperate.
With a shake of her head to clear her mind, she nods and smiles back at Lord D'Elagante. "Don't worry, Master Booker has a natural talent for crowds, I feel. And I'll keep him out of trouble."
Listening to Christian's quickly improvsed battle plan, Brandt grunts, Agreed, get us and the supplies in, then I'll go up as high as I can and see what there is to see. Whistling to Fenrir, he indicates for the wolf hound to lead the party into Oleg's.
Once inside Brandt will secure the horses and the meat in the stables, and then find a height, either on the stables roof, or the palisade, depending on what's available. He'll look nonthreatening, or at least as non-threatening as an Ulfen on a roof with a bow can look...
I means, if ya need me tah start hawkin' some goods, lighten a few pockets, I'm yer guy. But I know tha good Lord Christian ain't talkin' about that sorta thing. Booker pockets his suddenly twitchy fingers. "He he, what're ye tryin' tah say, eh?" he asks, playfully nudging Syretia's thigh with his elbow, almost concealing the slight nervousness in his voice.
"We might as well vamoose an' let 'em take our steeds in while we start talkin', eh? I gotta hunch this'll take ah long time, see?"
"Well, you're a salesman, aren't you?" she replies, smiling down at him. Turning to the others, Syretia says "I'm not sure how much longer our mounts will stick around, you may want to unload them first before their cargo finds itself in midair, unattached to anything."
With that, she strides forward, a look of concentration of her face. The white streak in her hair darkens to black, and her cloudy eye changes appearance to match its twin. No sense feeding in to rural superstitions, she thinks.
Once the party draws nearer, you become the focus of attention of the refugees crowded around the trading post. Raised voices can be heard, even if the conversations blend together into an indistinct hum.
You are still a furlong from the gates when the first of the refugees begin charging forth to meet you. Rather than outstretched hands, though, they make offer of service - asking whether you have need of porters, firewood, squires, or other hands. Of course, once you are in the lee of the post's walls, you do find yourselves beset by desperate hands begging for alms.
For their part, the refugees from Nivakta's Crossing pay no mind to the magically disguised Syretia, the imposing Brandt, or any of the party's other quirks.
ah f*&# me.
As the crowd comes rushing forward...Christian addresses his companions.
Get the food inside and make ready. I will try to calm these folks down a bit.
Riding out towards the crowd in an effort to draw them closer to him and away from the rest of the group, proves to make things harder to hear. The requests for food and aid is all understandable, given the situation.
Make way please so that aid can come through. We are here to help and we need to get inside so that we may grant that aid to all of you.
The crowd get restless and more desperate. His horse, not used to so many people this close rears in fright. Christian holds on for dear life as the horse voices it's displeasure.
OK big fella calm now...that is it...there you go.
After he gets control over the animal, Christian looks to the crowd. Seeing that the horse has brought him a barrier between him and the crowd albeit a small one, Christian speaks again with a louder and more direct voice.
Stand aside!!!I beg of you...please. We are here to help and will do so as soon as you back off. Let us do that which we came here for. To help all those of Nivakta's Crossing. We bring food, healing...we bring hope. The sooner we are able to get inside the sooner we can have food prepared for all of you...our healers tending to your wounded. The sooner you can tell us what happened and what we can do to help you.
He tries to ride his horse slowly towards the gates. Giving encouraging words to those around him. Keeping them focused on him as much as possible.
This is a big crowd. They are desperate....I need to try something else...
I have heard the stories of those that live in the Crossing. Tradesman, hunters, trappers, fisherman...all noble professions. The citizens...a sturdy and proud people. Very much down to earth...I know that I am not wrong in what I have heard.
Please let us help you...
Brandt, hearing Christian's struggles with the crowd and his role in calming them keeps driving his horse into the trading post, and once he's in stands in his stirrups, Ay lad, Addressing the technical Baron of their lands, Calm yerself lad, talk to them as you do. Me and Booker'll get the mess started, and once you got their attention, that'll let Bydar and Orlogg work the crowd with their tender ministries. Syretia can keep an eye on everything, since now both hers seem to be workin' Brandt winks at Syretia with a grin at the last.
Christian, these folk need someone to take charge and calm 'em down. You are as much their leader now, as any of our folk back home. I'd blow a horn to announce you, or wave a banner, but we've naught of those things, so I guess you have to use your voice and solve this right now. Brandt surveys the crowd, and seeing no threat continues to stand astride his horse awaiting Christian's distraction to allow him to start cooking.
Turning to Booker, the Ulfen asks, Booker, can you get a fire going? We need to get this food a-cooking for these folks. They seem like honest, hard workers.
Brandt looks over to Syretia, Lass, can you find Olegg, and ask him what passes here, and get an update on the situation from what Svetlana told us? I'm not much use in talking to folk who aren't preparing for war, so I'll start cooking, and feed whatever you get from Oleg to Christian, since he's got to calm the darn crowd.
With that Brandt dismount Hrimfaxi finally, pulling the elk carcasses off Skinfaxi and Christian's mounts, and hopefully spitting them on the fire Booker has built to feed the refugee masses.
Orlog place himself as best as he can between the horde of refugees and Bydar. "Easy people, once we have stabled our mounts and get our supplies ready, we will see to each and everyone of you. But right now, we need you to make a path." Once they are able to safely make it inside, Orlog turns toward the people. "Thank you for your cooperation, now give us a minute and we will be there."
He gets his boar settled in then walks over to Bydar. "So, where you want to start? Want to set yourself up a medic station while I start triage of the injured, or you walk to walk right into the mist of them and channel a few time?"
Bydar nods as Lord Christian speaks to the crowd. The priest tries to radiate a sense of calm and benevolence.
It helps when you have an armored dwarf body guarding you to be sure.
Orlog place himself as best as he can between the horde of refugees and Bydar. "Easy people, once we have stabled our mounts and get our supplies ready, we will see to each and everyone of you. But right now, we need you to make a path." Once they are able to safely make it inside, Orlog turns toward the people. "Thank you for your cooperation, now give us a minute and we will be there."
"Thank you, Orlog, Triage and station first, I think" He says "As much as I would love to be showy with the power of Shelyn I don't want to miss anyone. We take them in small groups of wounded, but if anyone is too injured to come to us, we go to them. We need to keep eyes out for not just injury, but infection and any illness that might have arisen. If fortune be kind, there will be none diseased, but it's always possible" He nods "Looks like they're eager for jobs and coin respectively. Let's ask if any of them have experience tending the injured- midwives, herbalists, that sort of thing. If one of them is skilled at it, we might recruit them to assist. What do you think?"
Syretia nods at Brandt's suggestion and slips into the crowd, looking to get past it and find Oleg. Not before casting message on the rest of the party, of course. Just in case.
"Master Leveton," she says upon finding the man, "I've arrived with Lord D'Elegante and his entourage, with food and supplies for the refugees. Have there been any other developments? Has the dragon be spotted again?"
Booker nods at the change of plans. "Righto, lighting one up on tha double!" Gathering some flint, steel, sticks, and tinder, he gets to lighting up a fire and setting up a spit. Let's hope things don't get all cookey now!
Oleg stands within the palisade of his home and business, keeping the gate closed against the rabble, lest they loot his livelihood. He will open the gate and admit the party but quickly closes it behind you. This potentially divides the party between those tending the refugees and those meeting with Oleg.
"I'd hoped Svetlana would be with you," he snorts in frustration, clearly dismayed by his wife's absence. Despite his gruff exterior, it's plain to see that he misses and worries about her.
"I've seen no sign of any dragons. Frankly, I'm not convinced these aren't just more freeloaders who've heard of your generosity and come to take advantage. 'Course, I'd rather not be caught unprepared, so I got some items ready," he says, gesturing towards the unstrung longbow propped against his house, alongside two bundles of arrows atop a sealed rain barrel.
.....
Outside the trading post, the survivors of the rampage upon Nivakta's Crossing quickly prove utterly grateful for the aid rendered upon them. They readily recount their harrowing tale.
"The beast flew out of the south, coming down from the mountains. It melted homes and pastures with its breath like they was made of wax. Folks started to flee for their lives. It seemed to only hunt families, folks with children! It was surely a demon dragon!"
Most residents fled eastward, towards Restov. The dragon focused on pursuing this larger group before they reached the sanctuary of the city. This swarm of survivors are those who fled in the opposite direction, taking the much longer road towards the trading post and the Stolen Lands.
Brandt takes stock of Oleg's arrows and unstrung bow, nodding in appreciation. Aye good thinking lad, likely we won't need those this day. Christian's going to have the crowd eating from his hand and nice and calm within a few minutes.
Unslinging the elk from his horse, Brandt begins the process of butchering it to be cooked as Booker gets a fire going.
He tries to catch Syretia's eye, and nods surreptitiously to Oleg, as if to say Um, can you keep him calm?
"Svetlana is in good health, Master Leveton. We encountered her on the journey here, and she traveled onward to Charis to spread further warning of the dragon attack. With the circuitous route we took to get here, she may already be on her way back."
Syretia glances at the bow and arrows. With a herculean effort, she manages to refrain from pointing out the miniscule chance he would have of hurting a dragon with such an arsenal. Her eye is, in fact, caught by Brandt's efforts, and after a moment puzzling out his meaning, she smiles and gives a quick nod. I'll be fine, she mouths, just before the sound of the words arrive in his ears.
Returning her attention to Oleg, she speaks up again. "The rest of our entourage is attending to the refugees, but I'd still like to be useful. Is there anything I can do to assist you?"
"Anything you can do?" he huffs quizzically. "You can tell me there ain't no dragon. You can tell me that I'm right, and that those are just a lot of freeloaders with wild tales out there," he says, waving a thick, hairy arm towards the gate.
He sighs.
"I know I'm wrong, though. I don't like ever admitting that. If you start admitting that you're wrong, then that's just another step towards inviting folks to walk all over you. 'Course, I'm not about to let my home and business get razed to the ground by some flying lizard, neither.
"I can sort out a brawl between rowdy trappers, but this is outside my experience. You're the lords and ladies. You're the experts. You tell me: What's to be done about a dragon?"
Syretia listens attentively, then nods. "As it happens, I do know a thing or two about dragons. This dragon, in particular, we know has suffered a grievous injury to one eye, and has a weakness for drink that we can exploit. Once we have rendered aid to the throng outside your gate, and hopefully thereby relieved you of that particular stressor, we will continue on our way. Gods willing, when next you see us there will be one less dragon rampaging across the countryside."
"Master Leveton, if I might ask: what drew you and your wife to this area? Up until quite recently, I'd lived my whole life in cities, and even life in a frontier town is nothing compared to setting up your own trading post. You must be a very capable pair."
Christian makes his way towards the gates but just before the he reaches the opening, he turns to the crowd.
You all have been threw a terrible ordeal. Please keep the peace and be patient while we prepare food. It will take some time for us to cook but in the mean time our healers will be out to tend to your wounded.
He pauses and looks across the faces in a purposeful motion.
I would welcome your council on what the people of the Crossing would like to do next. If you have a leader..or leaders that you wish to speak on your behalf...I asked that you send them forward as soon as possible.
Her turns his mount and continues towards the gate.
Once inside he dismounts and tends to his steed. The mercenary leader joins the others in preparing the meal for the refugees. He moves to were ever he is directed to be in order to help as best he can.
When he finally see Oleg...
Master Oleg if I could beg some of your time please.
Christian keeps a smile on his face as he goes about helping with the meals.
Once again Oleg's Trading Post is a shinning beacon of hope for those seeking refuge and help. You have done well and you have my thanks for handling this situation with such decorum. I have asked that representatives from the refugees come forward to discuss what next we should do after they are fed and healed.
His face remains pleasant but has a serious tone to it.
I would ask of you...a room were all of us can discuss what has transpired and what we can do from here moving forward...in private would be best.
"The city?" Oleg muses with a harrumph when Syretia asks about his motivations. "Too much sin and skulduggery in the city. I was tired of living at the whims of them Swordlords and the crown toadies and all their schemings. I wanted to get away from all that. That's why I took the charter to fix up this old border fort and turn it into a trading post."
Though he tries to hide it, Syretia's praise stokes the embers of pride in the gruff man.
When Christian joins the conversation, Oleg invites the party into his office inside his house. The office holds his shelves of ledgers, as well as a simple wooden desk and trio of chairs.
.....
Whilst establishing cookfires and a triage, the rest of the party has time to take stock of the refugees. About twelve families have escaped from Mefcifax's rampage on their village: one gnomish, two dwarven, and the rest human.
A human woman steps forward to serve as spokesperson for the survivors. She appears to be but an aging farmer, clad in a heavy earthen dress suitable for fieldwork. However, she introduces herself as Abbot Kara Ilarenika, a priestess of Pharasma.
"Sheriff Kaven died fighting the dragon," she states with grim finality. "Lord Mayor Revanisu fled with the others towards Restov. We presume him to be dead. I fear that I am the closest to a leader that our pitiful few have left."
The Triage set up, the two priests work together to tend to as many of the wounded as possible. Those closest to death are tended to first but everyone who needs it is looked over. Skill as well as magic will be use and Bydar is careful to look for signs of infection or illness amidst the injuries.
And it is not just bodies that recieve tending as they work. Bydar, for his part, comforts with words and soft assurances, "It will be all right. You have all been so brave but you are not alone. My name is Bydar, I'm a cleric of Shelyn the Eternal Rose, she who finds beauty in the darkest of times and fuels us with Love's strength. My companion here is Orlog Brightshield, Forgepriest of Torag, God of smiths and protectors. Our healing magics will tend. Our prayers go up on behalf of those you have lost, and to ask that the gods grant better days to you and yours. "
And he will spread his healing light like an illuminated mist through a group of them organized before them via triage.
The news the dragon targeted families with children especially breaks his heart Such madness , I do not know if we can save the poor wretch but he has done so much should we lead him to sanity he will know sorrow for his actions for all his days. Still , better regret than to fall to hatred completely.
Should he find someone diesased, he will take steps, including his most powerful miracle if need be, to remove it.
Whilst establishing cookfires and a triage, the rest of the party has time to take stock of the refugees. About twelve families have escaped from Mefcifax's rampage on their village: one gnomish, two dwarven, and the rest human.
He knows many of them are eager for work, others for coin, and some for food.
"There is no charge for the healing. The food will be split so all have a share and everyone will be seen in turn as established by Master Brightshield."And he asks questions of the families, of what they do, and of their kin. He listens for the name Redshields, though the odds of one of them being here is slim, or any true noble family (Though those odds even thinner) not to give them preferential treatment but to make a note of it later. It maybe such folks can send more aid down here to assist the refugees further still.
More importantly, he soon picks out two folks to assist in caretaking. He chooses those most suited, say if one knows herbs or how to splint limbs, but barring that, he takes pity on those that look most in need but healthy and kind enough to act as assistants. Bydar will slip them a few coins discretely for their aid,, not wanting to cause a fuss, but if they work, they deserve some coins for the trouble.
Magic flows liberally. Water is created for purposes of baths and drink (not the same location for both, obviously) and he places light spells about the place for them to see by if need be, or at the ends of sticks for children to wave about.
A human woman steps forward to serve as spokesperson for the survivors. She appears to be but an aging farmer, clad in a heavy earthen dress suitable for fieldwork. However, she introduces herself as Abbot Kara Ilarenika, a priestess of Pharasma.
"Sheriff Kaven died fighting the dragon," she states with grim finality. "Lord Mayor Revanisu fled with the others towards Restov. We presume him to be dead. I fear that I am the closest to a leader that our pitiful few have left."[/B]
When he sees this woman, he inclines his head respectfully and if need be reintroduces himself. Another cleric, if she chooses to settle in our lands, that will be useful. Mind you, the gray gods are not always friendly, but Pharasma is inescapable more or less. And it will be good to have one who can intercede to her, as much as anyone can.
A human woman steps forward to serve as spokesperson for the survivors. She appears to be but an aging farmer, clad in a heavy earthen dress suitable for fieldwork. However, she introduces herself as Abbot Kara Ilarenika, a priestess of Pharasma."Sheriff Kaven died fighting the dragon," she states with grim finality. "Lord Mayor Revanisu fled with the others towards Restov. We presume him to be dead. I fear that I am the closest to a leader that our pitiful few have left."
Christian stands and greets the women when she introduces herself...
Abbot Ilarenika, I wish our first meeting would have been under more pleasant times. Please sit and join us in trying to figure out what is best for your....for the people of the Crossing.When she sits down he looks at the group as a whole and then sits down with a heavy sigh.
Times are not good right now but we will move forward and do the best we can to overcome these harsh obstacles. I am going to share with you some information that we have gleamed and what we know for certain about the attack.
His demeanor is rigid and strong as he reports what he knows.
We know that a dragon attacked your village. That much we can confirm with multiple accounts..and more. I have heard that the attacker came from the mountains in the south. It attacked those fleeing towards Restov and concentrated its attacks on families. These details fall in line with what we found out just a few days ago.
Squaring his shoulders, Christian continues.
Several days ago we were investigating an old silver mine south of here. It was in these mines that we encountered the remnants of a Kobold tribe. They had suffered greatly at the hands of the Whitehollow fugitives and their companions. The Kobolds sat down with us in good faith to negotiate a treaty, it was then that they divulged the tribe's greatest treasure....
Christian looks to the group and then back to the woman.
...a dragon egg. To be more specific, a Copper dragon egg. I do not doubt at all the truthfulness of the Kobolds and their story of how they came in possession of the egg. The cult of Lamashtu was responsible for the theft in the first place. The kobolds were able to steal the egg from them and whisked it away to safety. They had plans to venerate the dragon after it hatched as a protector for their now decimated tribe. We felt it was best for the egg to be returned to the parents and were able to negotiate for the egg to be turned over to us.
The young lord keeps his spirits up and moves forward with divulging information.
With no way of finding the parents on our own, we were going to enlist the aid of some Fey creature that live in the woods to the west of here. It was our hope that they would be able to help us locate the parents.
He pauses to take a drink of wine.
It was shortly after we started our journey that we ran into Mistress Svetlana with details of what happened to your village. It was decided to travel here as fast we could to lend aid to the refugees...
Christian stops for a moment as if pondering what next to say.
...Abbot Ilarenika...What I am about to tell you next is...delicate. I will not ask you to hide this or any of these details. I will rely on your wisdom of how you will proceed.
The nobleman looks to the others for support and then continues.
...On our way here we lent aid to a female dragon. She was hurt and in bad shape. She is the mate of the dragon that attacked your village. This dragon did everything in her power to stop her mate from attacking but in the end was not able to stop him. These dragons are the parents of the egg that was in our possession. It would appear that the cult of Lamashtu had stolen the egg several weeks ago and the parents searched with no luck. The stress was too much for the father and he convinced himself that humans...your village it would seem...had stolen their egg.
Christian stops for a second or two as that news settles in...
It would appear that the father lost all hope and let his despair take hold of his heart. We reunited the mother and her egg. Now we are hoping to bring the father back to his senses...but...we will destroy him if it is needed.
Christian sits back.
Those are the details that we know of. We know the time line and why the attack happened. We know who is at fault for this...and I want that cult found. I want all of them. Their actions are the direct result of this tragedy. What we do not know is what to do now.
Christian looks directly at Abbot Ilarenika.
There is a chance that someone made it to Restov to pass along the story. Which would mean that Rostland will send aid to the village. We are willing to help as best we can. The village is within the realm of Brevoy and that in of itself limits what we can do. If you wish to return to your village to rebuild...we will help you. Ultimately the choice is up to you. What would you like to do?
Damn, Lord Christian is really gung-ho about all this honesty business. Jeepers. If it woyks out fer us again, I might even 'ave tah start givin' it ah try! Booker keeps his hands busy while the others talk, stirring a pot of stew, stabilizing a limb to be bandaged, anything that would be useful to the work of his allies.
________
Outside the palisade, the refugees crowd around the holy men, seeking an ease for their weary limbs, blistered feet, throbbing heads, and innumerable other injuries inflicted by two days' worth of flight. Nevertheless, they restrain themselves and do not overwhelm Bydar and Orlog.
Inside Oleg's office, the Pharasmin priestess listens to Christian's explication with a blank expression upon her haggard face. However, she nods solemnly when the cause for her peoples' plight is laid bare.
"My flock holds onto their superstitions alongside the wisdom of Pharasma. Many will consign the grave of their former home to be cursed, and thus will refuse to return. Where they might choose to go instead...I cannot be sure.
"Unfortunately, I do know one thing for certain. The people out there will not rest easy until the beast responsible is slain. They will brook no forgiveness for him, regardless of his motivation."
"That's good people, keep it calm and disciplined, and we will get to everyone." Knowing that his magic his limited, Orlog tries to keep it only for the most serious case of injuries. Hopefully, we will get to rest before heading back out so that I can my spells back. He does his best to have a pleasant bedside manner, but that wasn't really his strong point during his training as an acolyte.
"We will do whatever is necessary to protect your people," Syretia says, her voice firm. "This cycle of tragedy must be ended."
Sitting back to listen to the women, Christian nods slightly.
The people of the crossing have that right and we will do what is necessary as it comes to that dragon.
He pulls forth a the map that the party has been using as a means to navigate the lands and places it on the table in front of the group.
He starts pointing to several locations on the map.
We are here at Oleg's Outpost and over here is...or was Nivakta's Crossing. Restov and down here is where we have set up our settlement...The city of Charis....Seeing that we are a newly settled city, we do not have much pull when comes to other governments. What we can do is make a few suggestions and lend you our aid. I know all of us here have some form of idea as to what is best and I will hear all of them. As for me I have several suggestions.
He looks to the group and speaks with purpose.
There is the City of Restov that you could return to...
Taking his eyes off of the group to return them to the map, he points to a structure about a days ride north west of the Crossing.
The fort would be a strong point and a solid defensible position to secure the east. If they do not take it I think we may have to look into it.
Your people could moved into the abandoned Fort Serenko. It will give you a solid structure from which to expand and build a new settlement. It has been abandoned by Brevoy but I can not see a problem with them allowing you to resettle it. We would be willing to hire some guards to help secure the location. This location has pretty much the same terrain as what you were used to. The river and surrounding hills will provide food, materials for building. A new bridge could be build here to allow access to the Dunsward. The only problem I can see is if Brevoy objects to our involvement. I mean it technically is their land and I would have to respect that.
Christian lets his finger slide all the way down to his capital.
We have plenty of land for your people to resettle down near Charis. I can not see any problems at all. We would escort you there and set you up. It is a long walk to get all the way there but it is an option.
His face shows signs of understand as he continues.
I understand that your flock would feel that the land that the Crossing sat on is now cursed but it would be easiest to rebuild the old village. Then again this is your choice and we will let you make the decision.
Letting his eyes roam the group, Christian points to the location of the Outpost.
Master Leveton has been a beacon of hope in the Stolen Lands and I respect his desires to keep his out post as just that...an outpost.
He looks to Oleg with a slight smile.
If you ever had any desires to expand your property beyond it's current arrangement...let me know and we will work something out.
No matter what you decide to do we will respect your voice. The same goes for you Abbot Ilarenika.
He stand to get a better view of the map.
No matter what those decisions are...the crossing needs to be investigated. We will need as many able bodies as can be spared. Horses, wagons, sacks, bags, baskets and any other container that can be spared. We will remove anything of value from the remains of the crossing and bring it back to the survivors. It should then be split equally by those families that are here right now. The buildings can be dismantled and the resources repurposed into new structures.
Anyone else have any suggestions...?
Once the meat is cooking Brandt will pitch in to aid Bydar and Orlogg, bandaging and checking sore feet for blisters.
Listening to what Christian has to say, Brandt pipes in We can ride hard there in the morning, and make a recovery effort. Certainly me father's lessons will come in handy on quickly recovering items of use. It'd be a hard day's ride there and another back again by my maps, but it is all roadway, so we'd move faster. Say plan on three days??
Abbot, we certainly would welcome your folk to Charis if that's what they want, Christian's not wrong at all. He's sometimes too honest, in fact. Our little settlement has much promise, and is open to all of honest intent. Eh, we'll even take a few scoundrels to keep our wits sharpened. the ranger grins at the last.
Brandt pulls an arrow from his quiver, sighting down the length of it, An' if we run into the Dragon, we'll either prevail or we won't, but either he'll quit marauding and pay for the disturbance, or he'll be someone else's problem.
Bydar thanks Brandt for his aid and introduces the fellow to some of the families "This is Brandt, a fine guide, and if he will allow me to say so, a wise and good friend."
When he hears of Lord Christians ideas and Brandt's ideas, he has a suggestion "If these good folk wish to move into Charis with us, well, it's clear they look for work. Cavan could certainly use any who are carpenters, masons and the like at a fair wage. This would increase the speed at which new homes are built. I'll put down a hundred gold to pay for artisians or crafter tools that Oleg has to sell them if he has any in stock to make it easier for them to do so. In fact, I'll put it down whether they choose Charis or not. They need new homes, I'd like to give them the power to help build it."
"Cavan. I remember him. I told him that it was not Pharasma's will for his affliction to be cured. He reacted...poorly," Abbot Ilarenika states flatly. "Nevertheless, if you have taken him into your fold, I am glad for him."
When the matter of resettlement is presented to the refugees, they quickly become split in opinion. Some immediately gravitate towards the notion of settling in Charis, especially with the incentive of investment from Bydar. On the whole, this segment of the refugees are quite taken with the promise of a new start. This group includes the gnomish family and one of the dwarven families.
Another group is less keen to continue traveling far and do not wish to entirely abandon "their land." The plan to claim the abandoned Fort Serenko appeals to this faction, especially since it offers the chance to reclaim possessions from their former homes, now razed and "cursed."
Only a lone pair of families dissent from these two groups. One human family wants to move to Restov once the way is safe, while one of the dwarven families scoffs at the idea of Nivakta's Crossing being now cursed and simply wants to reclaim their old home.
Christian listens to the grumblings of the refugees as they talk about what each wants to do for themselves. The young lord looks on as they chatter about going here or going there but nothing about what they as a whole should do.
Turning slowly to address Abbot Ilarenika with a look a of concern, he speaks in a low reassuring tone.
You are their leader. What would you have them do? They are scattered in thought and will be scattered in action soon enough unless someone does something to bring them together. Whatever your choice, I will respect and honor it.
Christian stops and waits for her to respond but interjects some final advice.
Abbot Ilarenika...if you wish...I will speak to them. I will do my best to bring them together. I am willing to do this for that is what is best for your people...to be together.
Christian makes his way to an old wagon and climbs on top so that all can see him. He listens as the different groups push their own ideas for what is best. Letting them talk as he scans the crowd looking for those that seem to be the most verbal about their individual ideas.
Those are the leaders of the different sects...I should concentrate on them
He waits quietly until they notice him. As they turn towards him, he smiles and remains patient. When he feels the time is correct he clears his throat to get the attention of the few remaining refugees.
Now that you are healed...and fed. My name is Lord Christian Del`Agante of Charis. You have met my companions.
...you see I had the audacity to beg Abbot Ilarenika to let me talk to the people of the Crossing. I was so insistence and such is the graciousness of the Abbot that she reluctantly gave her permission for me to address all of you. When we arrived here at this Outpost I watched as the people of the Crossing where disheveled and dismayed. Hungry, tired and wounded...yet...you did not yield to despair. The dragon did terrible things and brought each and everyone of you to the brink of oblivion. Yet you did not falter, you did not break...you kept moving forward. You never lost that power that is in each of you...hope.
The pause for dramatic effect is short. His eyes roam the group, making contact with each of the individual leaders.
Some time ago...I ran with a group of mercenaries known as Argent Lupe. They had a saying that helped to keep them united...The strength of the pack is the wolf...and the strength of the wolf is the pack. As I was younger back then, it took me some time to understand that phrase. Once I did it embolden my vision and gave me purpose. Loyalty and friendship are paramount in life.
His voice remains strong and dedicated but has hints of caring and respect in it.
There are many different ideas as to what is best to do next. We have listened and agreed with you on some of the topics. You are welcomed to go where you like. I can not stop any of you and will not force you into a certain path. I only ask that you listen to my words and think long and hard about what next you wish to do.
He takes a deep breath and let it out slowly...
Settle in at the abandon fort. Make it your own and it will grow as more and more people come to the green belt looking for a new start. When the time is right...those that wish to move to Charis are welcome to do so. Those that wish to move back to Restov may do so when we have remove the threat of that dragon. Those that wish to return to the Crossing may do so. I am asking you to remain together and rebuild as a family. To remain loyal to each other.
We will leave first thing in the morning for the ruins of the Crossing. We will investigate and retrieve anything of value. Those items will be brought to the fort. It is there that Abbot Ilarenika will divide the items fairly between the families. We will send guards and we will send supplies as well. I recommend that Abbot Ilarenika remains as a spoke person of your new home until you decide to have an official governing body.
Christian's face slowly moves from one side of the group to the other.
The...Kingdom of Charis is here to help you. We do not forget about our family. We are here for you.
"I worry that it remains an exaggeration to call me their leader. However, I believe..." she closes her eyes and pauses to search her thoughts. Although perhaps meant to resemble a mystical trance, it only creates an appearance like that of holding back a sneeze.
"...I believe the turn of fate and the will of Pharasma would have the people of the Crossing follow you into the south."
Thus, with the abbot's blessing, Lord Christian makes his impassioned plea to the refugees.
The reception is very positive. Rare glimmers of hope appear in their eyes.
"Cavan. I remember him. I told him that it was not Pharasma's will for his affliction to be cured. He reacted...poorly," Abbot Ilarenika states flatly. "Nevertheless, if you have taken him into your fold, I am glad for him."
"Even a Shelynite such as myself respects that the Lady of Omens has her reasons. And, yes, he strives to be a better man now with this second chance and I have grown to respect him not just for his skills but his efforts to build himself up from within. It can be a hard journey as you know. My respect to you and your goddess for the efforts you have put forward for the refugees. I imagine they'd be in far more need of healing than they were if not for you." And he means it.
...........
When their leader gives his speech, well...
Bydar hears this, and sees what Lord Christian is doing, and risks an effort to help, a nod of respect to him as he is introduced (Possibly as a Lord as he is a noble but he also is happy for a theological honorific), then he listens to the speech nodding a great deal.
When Lord D'Elagante finishes Bydar adds his support "There is no pretense that any path you take will be completely safe. Few places in this world are moved from all harm, but Lord D'Elanante speaks true in the strength of cooperation, in harmony. Each and every person among us is like a new note of music, together, each helps the others be heard. I can tell you that Lord Christian has spoken of his dreams for our lands to us. He has spoken of rising towers, strong walls, and fruit laden gardens, a place of culture and beauty. Perhaps not soon, but for our children, and our children's children. I can imagine it as well. I can see what he describes, and I can see some of my dreams in the vision as well. What are your dreams? For you, for your loved ones? for your heirs? Hoping is not enough some will say, but oh hope supported by Faith, faith in the dream being possible, and a lot of hard work... oh that can bring dreams to life, it can give your dreams strength. I hope many of you join us. I see so much in each face here- I see the strength Lord Chirstian speaks of. Whatever you decide, it's an honor to have met you."
Christian lets his gaze float across the gathered refugees.
These are no longer refugees...they are more...much much more...they are citizens...they are a future...they are hope.
Then it is settled...a new beginning awaits all of you.
He looks back at the Abbot and then looks back to the crowd.
All are welcomed to come and help but I would like to have at least one person from each family to accompany us when we leave tomorrow for the ruins of the Crossing. If you do not wish to go yourself...then please ask one of those that is coming to look in on your property. I will make sure that each family recovers that which is theirs and a share of what is recovered from the ruins as a whole. Any help will be greatly needed as this is going to be a huge task. The sooner we get done the sooner we are on our way..to your new home. Now please relax and get some rest for tomorrow is a big day.
Christian steps away from his make shift soap box and joins the others.
Smiling at the Abbot.
I think your flock is whole again...and I thank Pharasma for watching over them in their time of need. Your guidance had a lot to do with their survival. Thank you.
His visage turns serious but friendly.
I foresee many new generations coming to our fair land and as time passes so will all of us. It is only fitting that we have someone to guide us to what lies beyond this realm. Abbot Ilarenika, there is room for you and Pharasma as well. That is if it is...fated.
The Mercenary Lord looks to the group.
We have a lot of work to do over the next few days. Let us get supplies and come morning as Brand said we ride hard for the crossing.
He pauses and looks to each of his companions
...and I thank all of you for your dedication, work and faith. Thank you for your companionship.
"Am I to...lead the others southward?" the abbot asks.
Your conversation with her thus far suggests that Ilarenika is much more of a contemplative priestess than a practical spiritual leader. With the sheriff dead and lord mayor presumed dead, she chafes under the responsibility of real leadership.
However, although nervous, the gray-haired Pharasmin is not outright afraid of the prospect of guiding the other survivors towards Charis. Perhaps Lord Christian and Bydar's rhetoric have left even her feeling inspired.
Representatives of the twelve families are soon chosen to accompany the party back towards the razed Nivakta's Crossing. In most cases, this is the patriarch or eldest son of each family, but there are exceptions. One human and one dwarf family each send their eldest daughter, while the gnomish family sends "Granny Thimbles."
"Am I to...lead the others southward?"
Christian quickly responds to the Abbots question.
Although I am positive that you are more than capable of leading them to their new home, I would not advised it. The trip will be very long. The numbers and lack of supplies will make the trip very dangerous. The two elks should provide food long enough for us to get back here with supplies from the Crossing. To be safe I would not splurge just yet. It is best to have extra food to stretch another day or two then to go with out.When everyone is ready...
Let us move out...Brand would you please pick the best path.
He turns to the Oupost and to those that are left behind.
We shall return soon.
Brand nods when Christian gives the order, and swings himself onto the saddle, leading the party and the refugees onto the road. Hrimfaxi following close behind, and Fenrir ranging out to the sides of the larger group.