Lord Christian's question elicits an exchange of nervous glances among the riders.
"We're no dragon slayers," the leader replies. "We're merely tasked with keeping watch for looters or, gods forbid, the dragon's return. A bounty has already been placed on the damnable beast's head. I've heard that the sum is as much as four thousand crowns and rights to the carcass."
This could be an attempt to avoid ceding rights to the dragon's horde to would-be dragon slayers. Alternatively, it could also be a slight against King-Regent Noleski Surtova, implying that despite sitting upon the Dragonscale Throne, he does not possess the same rights as the true king of Brevoy.
Christian's hand slips down to his side to feel the steel that rides there.
They very well may be nasty to us. We let them have their say and ignore any and all bait they throw out. We do not want to start a political war with our neighbors...but...if it comes to a fight...we will defend ourselves. They may be of Rostland but flying their house colors speaks volumes. They hold loyalty to their house first and foremost.He looks to Bydar.
No offense...
"None taken, it's often just so. though sometimes it's about the resources a House can bring or the reputation to one's advantage. I am curious as you to the way on this."
"We're no dragon slayers," the leader replies. "We're merely tasked with keeping watch for looters or, gods forbid, the dragon's return. A bounty has already been placed on the damnable beast's head. I've heard that the sum is as much as four thousand crowns and rights to the carcass."
"A most..curious departure. Greetings, perhaps introductions are in order if we have not met already. I am Bydar Lebeda, Cleric of Shelyn. This is Lord Christian D'Elagante, leader of our group and the community we call home. "
Christian listens politely and looks to his companions.
...rights to the carcass...interesting.
He looks back to the leader of the riders.
So you are tasked with keeping watch over a destroyed village for looters...and a dragon. How many survived the road to bring word to Restov?
The mercenary leader's eyes roam over the heraldry.
How strict were your orders. We could use a few more swords on our way to Oleg's outpost. You would be escorting citizens that were of the crossing. Either way come and join us for the night, we can share some stories and enjoy a relaxing night.
"I'm no Pharasmin census keeper. I saw a lot of folks streaming through the city gates. I guess...I guess maybe there was three or four dozen of them? Most came from the Crossing, but others were from farms between there and and the city."
Lord Christian easily convinces the riders that your wards are, indeed, survivors from the Crossing. At first they offer the counter-proposal of leading them back towards Restov, but Christian and the survivors soon make it abundantly clear that such is not the choice they would make.
Thus, you gain an entire squad of extra sword arms to cover your return to the trading post.
On the ride back, Syretia comes up alongside Christian's horse, a broad smile on her face. "Lord D'Elegante, I do believe your way with words is a rival to any enchantment I know of. Are you sure you're not a mage?"
...three or four dozen...that leaves still some unaccounted for. We have done all that we can and perhaps we will find others in due time.The human mercenary sighs slightly...
On the slow march to the outpost Christian continues to ask questions about the current situation on Restov. He even asked about the individual houses and their take on the events that are unfolding in the region.
He smiles and nods.
I thank you my lady...I had some excellent teachers over the years, failure being the most attentive one. Alas I am no mage...spells and such are talents way beyond my expertise.
From possible threat to back up through the sheer power of Lord Chrisitan's presence. Such leadership comes through but once in a generation. And he smiles as Syretia is already ahead of him.
He looks to Brandt, "Is it just me, or does the road seem nicer with yet more armed men assisting us?"
As Christian deescalate the situation with words again, Orlog can't help but make a comment. "Aw, he made some new friends. And here I was hoping to knock some people around."
During the ride to the outpost, he keeps to one of the flank, making sure nothing can get to the civilian without going through him first. When not moving, he spends his time moving about, listening to the people. He especially keep an ear out for concern or complains so that they may be address before becoming a problem.
I'd prefer he make friends now, we've not got so much blood to spill as we're chasing a dragon Dwarf-friend. Brandt smiles at Orlogg and swings himself back up on his horse.
Christian, what say you, ride these folk back to Oleg's and then begin our hunt in earnest? the Ulfen looks surprisingly excited to go dragonhunting.
Well met, I am Brandt, son of Oluff the Tall. he omits any mention of his rank, as a commander of one isn't impressive to soliders.
Booker deftly slides off the horse as Brandt gets back on. "Ain't no more ridin' fer me," he explains. "It ain't through no doubt of our Lord, but I'll be keepin' ah bit of an eye on our newest friends, see?"
Using the common people as cover, the Halfling does his best to remain discrete about eyeballing the riders as they continue back to Oleg's. Nobody is gonna be pullin' a fast one on us! Not on my watch.
"You said you're from House Lebeda? Your name and face don't look familiar. Are you some forlorn fourth-born son, or are you one of the house's little 'embarrassments?'" he asks tactlessly, his face curled in the smile of a gossip.
"Do you hail from the Tors, too? My Ma and Pa mentioned that, before we moved to the Crossing, I was born within a hold of our kin in the mountains. All my life, they've only ever mentioned the bad things that drove them down to the lowlands. I've always wondered what it was like to be around others like me."
"You Ulfen?" he asks dully. "You ever sail the Lake of Mists and Veils?"
"That reward is chicken feed compared to what they're all hoping to get from its horde. They're hoping it'll be enough to buy their way to importance. The movers and shakers in the noble houses, though, want the heaps of gold to buy the allies and swordarms they need to make a move against their rivals. Pro'lly won't be enough to cut off even one of the dragon's heads, much less both."
You recognize that this last sentiment is a veiled way of saying that this will not give the nobles the means to directly act against the ruling House Surtova, but it will at least bring them slightly closer to this ultimate goal.
One of the riders, one who bears the swan emblem of your family, sidles his horse closer to you. He leans in close and speaks with you.
"You said you're from House Lebeda? Your name and face don't look familiar. Are you some forlorn fourth-born son, or are you one of the house's little 'embarrassments?'" he asks tactlessly, his face curled in the smile of a gossip.
"If you mean am I bastard by birth, no. Though better bastard by birth than bastard by nature. I like some bastards by birth. Some are good folk," Bydar answers but allows a smile even as he knows he's got one at least truly bastardly action under him "I'm a priest first and and noble second but since you asked, I'm son of Brayton the Elder, one of three sons of a lower branch of the House to be blunt."
"What about you? How'd you come to serve the House? I'm not sure I caught your name.I get that I'm relatively unimpressive in the Lebeda rankings but any news you have of how it fares in Brevoy would be welcome."
Christian smiles and nods at Booker.
I appreciate that...
Restov is a hotbed of political unrest. This could turn out to be a civil war if the wrong person gets their hands on a dragon's hoard, I do not need that on my eastern doorstep...enough problems just trying to get everything organized.
He looks at Brand and then around at everyone that is present.
We will make that decision when we get to Oleg's. Better to have more information before we decide what our next step is. Plus we can get supplies that will better fit whatever our decision is.
Christian glances slightly towards the soldiers from Restov before continuing.
We need to make sure those that were displaced get to a safe place so that they can rebuild. We also need to take into account that we have been away a long time already...but again all this can wait till we get to Oleg's
"Shhh...shhh," Syretia whispers to the horse in a soothing tone. She hops down from the horse, trying to stop it from trampling the hedgehog or the gnome.
"Granny Thimbles, do you need any help?"
He idly chatters trying to pass the time...
"Of course, it all hit a snag when the house's Lord Lander went and ruined his older sister's chance at marrying the King-Regent."
"Naw. Get seasick. Don't wanna run into any sea witches, neither."
You return to Oleg's on the afternoon of the second day after recovering what you could from the ruins of Nivakta's Crossing.
Thankfully, you arrive to find that it isn't swarmed with refugees for once.
"Lord Christian, just fer yer knowledge, ya know, their head guy ain't so good in tha eyes. I was gonna mess with 'im, but I figured we didn't want some sorta international incident or nuthin', so I'm tellin' yous instead, ok?" Booker confesses, patting the man on the leg to suggest he needs no repayment for the great sacrifice he just made before wandering back into the crowd.
Christian nods at Booker and looks to the leader.
Thank you
He then looks to the others in this new group.
Who is pulling extra weight to cover for the leader...if any?
Getting all the refugees back together brings a smile to the mercenary leader's face.
Dismounting and returning his horse to the stables, Christian stretches and then proceeds to the others.
Let us get everyone settled in and then we will have an early dinner to talk about our future. I will talk with Oleg about some form of accommodations for our new friends. We have much to discuss.
"My name's Rogvar. I signed up with the last Mendevian Crusade when it was clear that it could actually be won. After the Worldwound was closed, I heard a lot of the other soldiers talk about how they were moving to Brevoy to work for the Great Houses or join the Aldori schools. When I heard that their shipping routes were about to become more profitable with the demons gone, I joined up with House Lebeda.
"Of course, it all hit a snag when the house's Lord Lander went and ruined his older sister's chance at marrying the King-Regent."
"An honor, Rogvar. I'm aware of the accusation leveled against Lord Lander," He nods "Yes. I'm here for my goddess, not my family House but if we make a go of this place they're definitely going to get curious. then again," A look at all of them, "It seems more than one party is. The Redshields? Any actual family members among them?" It occurs to him Rogvar might know.
Once everyone has been tended to and all is well, Christian ask Oleg for a room to discuss matters privately.
Svetlana and you should attend as well.
The human lord turned ruler wonders around looking for Booker and when he finds him....
Booker, would you do me a favor and check on our new friends. I want to make sure they do not wonder into our meeting. Discreetly please. Just make sure where they are.
When all are in attendance.
First things first. Master Oleg, I am afraid that the current situation has some unforeseen ripples that will affect you. With Nivakta's Crossing, Fort Serenko and the Kiravoy Bridge all destroyed...that leaves your outpost the only civilized landmark near Restov. That is until something gets repaired or rebuilt.
He sits back a little.
This is your home and I can not force you do anything at all. You have an opportunity to be prepared for all that traffic that will come your way. You could very well hire some people and a wagon to go to the ruins and repurposed those material for new construction here. If this is your wish I can reach out to Restov to smooth any feathers that may be ruffled when you take those items. Ultimately this is your decision.
Looking to Booker.
Are our guests still where they should be?
While he waits for booker to look in on them, Christian stands and recovers their maps of the region. Laying them out before everyone and using varies mugs to hold it in place.
When the halfling returns..
As all of you are away...we are located down here by the Tuskwater Lake. Here is the Outpost. This is where the Crossing used to be and this would be the location of the Kiravoy bridge. Varnhold is somewhere southwest of there. That is the only way to connect Restov to Varnhold. I would Imagine that they will want to rebuild that right away.
He pauses after pointing to all of these locations. Looking at each person in attendance.
Sighing slightly.
...and over here is the nation of Brevoy. Issia and Rostland are on the brink of open hostilities between each other. Civil war is never good and we are too close for comfort if that should happen. This dragon situation has a lot of people anxious to recover it's hoard in hopes of tipping the scales one way or another. I feel that it will be used to help finance a war within the boarders of Brevoy. Several problems we face right now. We have the refugees that need to be escorted to Charis. We may be able to hire our new guest to do that but I am not sure of that. It has been brought to my attention that their leader has some issues with his eyes. Meaning that he is a politically placed leader, at least that is my view on the subject.
He rubs his face and closes his eyes for a few moments.
We have been away for some time now from Charis and will need to return soon. So time is not on our side in that regard.
and finally we have a dragon to deal with. We know roughly where he is but as you can see on the map. The Kiravoy bridge was the easiest way to cross the Kiravoy River, which in turn would get us quickly to the location of the dragon and maybe even it's hoard. With it destroyed we are in need of an alternate way to get there.
I value each of your voices and would welcome your views on these subjects and more. Thoughts?
Christian rubs his eyes and yawns.
alright...can not be helped now. Just make sure they are not within war shot of us.
As all of you are away...we are located down here by the Tuskwater Lake. Here is the Outpost. This is where the Crossing used to be and this would be the location of the Kiravoy bridge. Varnhold is somewhere southwest of there. That is the only way to connect Restov to Varnhold. I would Imagine that they will want to rebuild that right away.
He pauses after pointing to all of these locations. Looking at each person in attendance.
Sighing slightly.
...and over here is the nation of Brevoy. Issia and Rostland are on the brink of open hostilities between each other. Civil war is never good and we are too close for comfort if that should happen. This dragon situation has a lot of people anxious to recover it's hoard in hopes of tipping the scales one way or another. I feel that it will be used to help finance a war within the boarders of Brevoy. Several problems we face right now. We have the refugees that need to be escorted to Charis. We may be able to hire our new guest to do that but I am not sure of that. It has been brought to my attention that their leader has some issues with his eyes. Meaning that he is a politically placed leader, at least that is my view on the subject.
He rubs his face and closes his eyes for a few moments.
We have been away for some time now from Charis and will need to return soon. So time is not on our side in that regard.
and finally we have a dragon to deal with. We know roughly where he is but as you can see on the map. The Kiravoy bridge was the easiest way to cross the Kiravoy River, which in turn would get us quickly to the location of the dragon and maybe even it's hoard. With it destroyed we are in need of an alternate way to get there.
I value each of your voices and would welcome your views on these subjects and more. Thoughts?
Brandt nods at Christian's words, We do need to get these people somewhere safe. Staying here at Oleg's really isn't ideal for them; although I suspect they could make do for a few days- but I don't know if we can find the dragon, deal with the dragon and return to them safely. We may have to move the people, then return into the mountains to deal with Mercifax; however that shakes out.
Pausing for a moment, he continues, I think the safety of these refugees is paramount, and we should keep that in our minds. Travelling to Charis with them may uncover whatever's been happening there while we're helping them, and it doesn't help us with any of the other dozen or so things we have to deal with eventually. But I say we go home, and then return north as quickly as we can to settle Mercifax.
Looking down at the map, I think we can make our way into the mountains where we saw him and try to find his lair that way, without crossing the bridge. I'd rather not go into Varnhold without their permission, and that may be tricky, as the bridge is out. If we can stay north of the river, we should be within our rights to do as we please?
"Must be doing something right, though, since I've heard a lot of blokes talk them up like a safe fall-back option. You know, if things go sour with the Lebedas or the Garesses or whomever, the Redshields will take you and pay well. Of course, it sounds like a one-way trip. I've also heard that the noble houses won't take no one who's worked for the Redshields. So if they mess up - which is possible, seeing how they got a lot of enemies of the Surtovas hiding in their ranks - there's nowhere to run to."
Oleg's welcome is...less gruff than before, perhaps owing to the sight of Svetlana in the trading post yard, having returned from Charis in your absence. When Lord Christian speaks of the post's new prominence, Oleg replies with snorts of varying tones. Nevertheless, without audible complaint, he ushers you into his office in the post's main building.
The twelve family representatives do not bother you during this meeting. They are quite trail worn and simply happy to sit down for an indefinite period. As for the riders, they are kept away from the building by Svetlana who, in her own home, is as formidable as any Rostlandic man-at-arms.
"Nah, I hail from Brunderton. It is a small place, but many that live there are kin." He pauses for a second, looking over the horizon. "This is actually the second time I come in these parts. The first time didn't end so well. We weren't prepare for the bandits that roam those woods." He gesture to the rest of the group. "This time however, I rather more optimistic about our chance. We aren't many, but our fighting strength is quite effective and will only get stronger."
"I feel we should head back to Charis. We do in fact have been away for longer than I like and there is probably things waiting for us to do there. Also, since our dragon friend is reunited with her egg and knows that it is safe, maybe she can help with the scouting for her ex-mate. I feel that on foot, we have almost no chance to catch up on a flying quarry."
"I doubt Mercifax will be mollified by melting one village and some farms," Syretia says, frowning down at the map. "I have no objection to returning home, but we'll need to deal with this dragon sooner rather than later. Besides, if the hoard is to go to anyone, it should be to our barony. It is Charis that has taken on the responsibility of sheltering and resettling the survivors, not Issia and not Rostland. It will also be Charis that ends Mercifax's threat to the region."
"I feel we should head back to Charis. We do in fact have been away for longer than I like and there is probably things waiting for us to do there. Also, since our dragon friend is reunited with her egg and knows that it is safe, maybe she can help with the scouting for her ex-mate. I feel that on foot, we have almost no chance to catch up on a flying quarry."
"Orlog and I are of a similar mind on this. I feel like we've deserted Charis, not the case because this is for their benefit in the long run, but still, it's been awhile."
"However, Shelyn may have some blessings that can assist us. I can take a look at eyes and see if it's in the power she's granted me to restore them. If later we need to cross a river, provided I am prepared, I can either walk five people across the river with a spell, though depending on how fast the river is going those five might end up having to step lively or go down river fast. And, it's in her power to allow me to shape stone. That might help with a bridge. I'm hoping it will help with a lot of things, but that's neither here nor there."
"And while she might be reluctant to leave her young one for long, it's possible time on the hunt later could be saved if a certain dragoness were willing to give us a lift over land, obstacles. and so on. Obviously not on the way. She will have a child to raise. Of course I'm not sure she could carry us all, and she might find it demeaning, but it's an idea."
"You got it boss!" Booker says, snapping off another one of his not-even-close-to-the-real-deal salutes and scampering off. Alright what 're ya little goons up to, eh? Bet the Captain's strugglin' with his shoelaces again!
Once he's done his reconnaissance, he reports back as truthfully as he can.
No way my voice is tha same as tha othahs, but tha Lord asked for it an' what he says goes! "I think a li'l trip home wouldn' be so bad. I'm of a mind like Brandy-boy: if we're traipsin' these people 'round, we gotta keep 'em safe an' jus' can't do that if we're also huntin' a Dragon."
________
Christian sits back and steeples his fingers in front of him. He remains silent for a short time, contemplation etched on his face.
Agreed...We head back first light to Charis with the refugees.
Christian looks around at each member of his council.
Brandt I would like you to be out front scouting our way. This large of a group will not be easy to hide and I would like to know something is going to happen before it happens. I also would like to ask those soldiers to see if they are willing to tag along. Extra out riders would be helpful.
Orlog has a point...we all have seen how beneficial it has been to have some small feathered friends keeping an eye out from above. A dragons eye sight could be a boon. I am want to reach out to Apothyl and strike an agreement...She did mention that she would meet us in the north when we went looking for Mercifax.
Christian nods at Syretia.
I am of like mind. His anger will not be satisfied anytime soon. I just pray that Apsu sees fit to grant Mercifax some wisdom and comes back to his senses.
Bydar, I would ask that you prepared for every way possible to cross that river and back again. I would also recommend that you talk to your friend about the eyes before approaching the leader, he may not take it well. Your friend seems to be his back up eyes as it where.
His eyes stop on Booker.
You did not sign up for this and when we get back if you decide this is not for you...no harm no foul...But I think I can speak for all here that we would welcome you into our company for as long as you want.
I believe that Brand's plan of travel is the best. We try to cross the river as close to our quarry as possible. We will have to leave the horses picketed somewhere around there. We will need some climbing gear, ropes pitons and such. I will raid my person supplies to see what Elven wines I have, if any.
Christian looks at the map for a moment.
We get home, tend to matters there and then resupply for dealing with this dragon. Any one have questions or thoughts on these matters?
Booker does his best to play it cool. "Wells, I gotta check back inta tha family, ya know, but I'll sees what I can do, eh?"
Too bad he's blushing like a schoolgirl in front of her crush and grinning like a bloody clown.
"Uh, yeah, I's got one: when 're we leavin', anyways?"
Brandt nods at Lord Christian's suggestions, Aye, makes the most sense to me. You want to ask the soldiers if they'd like to tag along, or shall I? I think with Fenrir and I out on point we should be able to skirt any disturbances we come across heading home, and we know the lands pretty well south of here, so that will help.
He looks around the room, Of course, cultists of the demon mother might cause problems, or any number of other things we haven't thought of, but we can scare non serious threats away pretty easily I think.
Bydar, I would ask that you prepared for every way possible to cross that river and back again. I would also recommend that you talk to your friend about the eyes before approaching the leader, he may not take it well. Your friend seems to be his back up eyes as it where.
"I wouldn't say we are friends yet, Rogvar and I, but first guess, he seems a practical sort who speaks his mind. Still, Good advice, Lord Christian, yes, I don't want my offer of aid to offend." He grows thoughtful.
You did not sign up for this and when we get back if you decide this is not for you...no harm no foul...But I think I can speak for all here that we would welcome you into our company for as long as you want.
"Hear, hear!" Bydar nods to Booker to show his support. The man has kept them from being wounded by trap (or worse) or the like more than once.
Christian looks at the map for a moment.
"We get home, tend to matters there and then resupply for dealing with this dragon. Any one have questions or thoughts on these matters?"
"I too hope that we can bring Mercifax to his senses but even if he finds Apsu's path again, there will be a call for his head. I'm not sure how persuasive even you can be in stopping those demands given what happened. Do you think if it comes to that you can sway them?"
"If anyone's capable of it, it's the two of you," Syretia says, indicating Bydar and Christian. "But I fear you're right."
Christian nods graciously.
I am afraid time will tell.
Laying a hand on Booker's shoulder.
We leave for Charis first thing come morning.
Smiling slightly at Brand
Thank you for the offer. Let me feel them out and see what I can do.
Christian grabs some wine and heads to the section where the riders have holed up.
Hail to the group. Evening my lords. The escort was much appreciated. I wanted to personally come by and thank you for the aid. I also would like to discuss the some future business.
He hold up the wine.
He looks around at the group and lets his eyes settle in on the leader.
It may not be the best of wines but it is still good. Would you be interested in extending that escort just a bit longer. Our destination is several days away yet and you can see that we have a very large group to escort. I could use a few more out riders such as yourselves. Would you be interested?
Regardless of vintage, the bottle of wine kindles a spark in the men-at-arms' eyes just as well as any pile of gems or gold. Nevertheless, the men are reluctant to range yet farther afield from Restov, lest they be punished for negligence or desertion upon their return.
Christian, though, manages to persuade them that this continued escort would be part of their assigned duty. Aiding not just refugees of Nivakta's Crossing but also the leaders of Charis, allies of Rostland. Even provided with such a charge, though, the riders also none-to-subtly angle for some manner of payment - "to appease the Lord Mayor," Rogvar clarifies.
Bydar looks to Christian, and then looks at Rogvar, "Perhaps one of your company or more might need a spell or two to alleviate any past injuries or existing ailments? While I cannot regrow limbs, there is much thanks to Shelyn's blessing I can do and would do so gladly in partial payment for your aid. A day's prayer and I can bring ask for the power for such at a more private time to suit preferences."
Rogvar is the one who most reacts to Bydar's offer. He gestures for the holy man to speak with him in private, although the Lebedan-allied soldier does not object if other members of the party listen in.
"You're probably talking about my friend, Volkmar, over there," he nods his head towards the near-sighted leader of the squad.
"I served alongside him in the final weeks of the final Mendevian Crusade. In our last battle, he took a nasty blow to the head from a demon's mace. It diminished more than just his eyes, if you catch my meaning.
"He's a dedicated soldier and still as strong as ever, but his brain's a bit addled. I convinced him to follow me into Brevoy so we could get work with one of the Great Houses. He saved my hide more than once, so I try to look out for him now. The Lord Mayor trusts him to lead patrols because he's not sharp enough to scheme on behalf of the nobles, even if we swore allegiance to House Lebeda together."
Bydar moves over and speaks quietly "I see, or rather I think I do." And he admires the grit of the man, and the loyalty, "Friendship is a powerful form of love. I think I grow to respect you more and more." Sincere "The eyes I should be able to help. the addling.. there are things I can try, but that's much less certain. It depends on if a lesser restoration would be enough, or if it requires regenerative magicks, those latter are beyond me. Mmm a demon you say? If this was a curse. I could possibly assist there to. I'd have to look over Volkmar, but I will try to help." An admission "With the dragon and these people needing us, I am not sure how quickly I'll be able to tend but I would try."
"to appease the Lord Mayor," Rogvar clarifies.
Christian smiles.
Of course you would be compensated for such a long journey. I will personally speak to the right person to make sure you get something for your troubles.
With the riders' continued presence secured, the party is able to press onto its return journey to Charis. Even after several intervening days, it is not hard to observe the trail left before you by the larger group of refugees from the Crossing. Every mile where it is clear that they passed unmolested is a comfort. Any dangers that yet lurk in the Greenbelt seem to be wise enough not to accost such a large, well-armed band.
After two and a half days of travel across the kames brings you back to your village. Although still little more than a handful of cottages arranged around the inn, with the mill a bit closer to the water, the settlement looks much swollen with the newly arrived folk from the Crossing.
Notably, you do not see Apothyl. Of course, it is unsurprising that she would know better than to linger around the village in her full glory.
"Well, I suppose it's no surprise the town has a growth spurt given the refugees. I hope everyone is getting along." He waves to the villagers ,and greets those who attend shelyn services by name. if someone needs something he will make time for htem, But mostly, he wants to see Sapphira and when he has stabled his steed, he goes to check on her. He doubts he will be the only one wanting to do.
The matter of the egg is on everyone's mind.
Once they enter the edge of Charis, Christian dismounts and sees to the last refugees.
He moves about them each to reassure them that they are safe here and all is going to be better now.
After the Crossing survivors are reunited , he goes about locating some land for them to start their new lives. The mercenary leader introduces them to Cavan.
A talented carpenter and he can help you find materials if you are in need. Ask any of us and we will do our best to help you out.
Walking up to the riders that had joined them.
I appreciate the assistance in getting all these people here. Please stay the night and relax. I will make arrangements for a gift of gratitude over breakfast tomorrow. I think there should be room at the inn but if not...we will make some accommodations for you.
Christian approaches the others...
It has been a long and hard couple of days...go and relax for a hours at least. Later tonight over dinner we can discuss business. I plan to meet with the riders over breakfast and reward them for their aid. I would welcome each of you to be there. Soon we will have news of what has happened while we were away. I am thinking that we may want to bring to light what happened at the Crossing and our intentions. The news has most assuredly made its way here and it would do us good to keep the people informed on what we are doing about this situation.
Orlog smiles as he finally gets to see Charis. "The place just keep getting better every time we come back from the wild. Soon, it will be a real town full of merchants, artisans and families."
He listens to Christian suggestions as he tries to clean the dust of the road off. "Yes, a few hours would be good, but first I want to take a look at how the building is going and what ressource we still have in the stores. Wouldn't be good if we run out of necessities." He turns his mount toward the mills and makes his way there. "See you later for the meal."
After nearly two weeks on the road, Syretia all but weeps with joy at the sight of Charis, and its promise of a night spent in a warm, soft bed. First things first, though, and once Christian has released them she rushes off to the tavern to see Sapphira, dismissing her magical steed and hurrying inside to check in with the medusa.
As she gallops off, though, she points a finger at Booker and whispers him a message. "Come see me when you have some time, I have a project I'd like to work on with you."
The ulfen sits impassively astride his horse listening to Christian's words... Agreed then, rally back at dinnertime to devise a plan. He rides off, Fenrir in tow around the crowds of refugees.
Seeking Lira, he'll dismount and speak with her...
Brandt appears clean and in fresh clothes, So what happened while we were gone, and do we need to deal with anything to keep our people safe?
Booker gives Syretia a wink and scampers off to the Marmilade House. *THWACK!*
his mother yells, the red and raised imprint of a wooden cooking spoon angrily simmering on his face.
Once the negligent son has had his talking to, he's stuffed to the gills with a fresh batch of food, along with a heaping side order of guilt laced with town gossip. When he finally manages to pull himself away from his mother, and then all his siblings, for his fancy dinner with a Lord (but not just any Lord, the Lord of the town!), he wanders off in search of the mysterious Changeling.
When everyone arrives for dinner that night...
Before we get into what has been happening in town while we were away, maybe we should make our thoughts known on what we would like to be built when next we have idle workers. I am thinking that we should continue to build the road towards Oleg's Outpost. The destruction of the Crossing and the fort, Oleg will be very busy soon enough. A road the connects our two locations will also connect us to Brevoy as a whole. With all these new citizens here we may have to concentrate our efforts on food and shelter. I also think claiming the area that our kobold allies live in would be beneficial.
He looks to Orlog.
Which brings me to an idea for our newly located gold vein. As far as we know this area is uninhibited. This vein is going to need lots of work to get it up and running. I want the best in place to accomplish such a task. Dwarves are well known for their abilities with stone, gems and precious metals. A reputation well earned in my opinion. Master Orlog would you be able to reach out to some of your kin or those that you can trust to start this vein up properly? Maybe even see if Engrid's family would be interested in helping? There may even be a way to connect the mines to the catacombs under the city. An underground trade route of sorts. I know that it is a very long distance...just a thought.
He sits back and pauses for a moment.
Dealing with Mercifax is our primary goal. When we are done with him we can stop by the Temple of the elk to investigate the area.
He gets a rather disgusted look on his face for a quick second or two.
The Cult of Lamashtu is ultimately responsible for the destruction of the Crossing. We need to find them and put an end to their influence in the area.
Christian looks around the room at each of the members.
We might have someone in town that will be able to help us with the Sycamore tree. Repairing the damage that it has sustained would be a nice thing to do for such a landmark. I am not sure if this tree is unique for its size but we may be able to plant it's seeds in key locations around the area. It may even be a good idea to plant them where we cut lumber. A way of replenishing so that we do not clear the area of trees.
Nodding his head...
[b]Since we have a member here...it may be a good idea to pay a visit to this house Red Shields. We have something of theirs and it could prove useful to us.
[b]If anyone has any information on the Whitehallows...please pass it along. They have yet to show their faces...but it will happen sometime.
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"Shall I have the birdman pour you a drink?" the hooded medusa asks any of the party who visit her at the Scale and Feather. "I know I sure needed one after your new friend stopped by to pick up her egg.
"And before you ask: no, she's not still around. She scarcely spared ten minutes for the exchange before running off. I guess her human guise wasn't going to last long and she didn't want to cause a panic. Of course, she promised she would be watching and ready to help when you need her. I suppose I'm awfully paranoid to find the thought less than comforting."
"I'd forgotten just how dull the frontier can be," she says before you can get out a single word. "Even when some of the trappers and hunters got into moonshine-fueled arguments, they managed to make it uninteresting. I should've gone along with you and the lord, if only to catch a glimpse of the dragon I've been hearing about."
Thus, she invites your explanation of the situation to the north. As she listens, though, her mood sours.
"I take it back. I'm glad I didn't see the beast. Did it really rip the roofs clear off the houses?"
She pauses and looks at the bow in her hands with uncertainty.
"I'm guessing a simple thing like this wouldn't do a thing against such a menace?"
"Well," Syretia says, tilting her head from side to side in thought, "at least it means we don't have to worry about how to raise a baby dragon. I don't know about you, but I am not ready to be a mother." Syretia takes a seat at the counter, rubs a hand over her face, and sighs, before restoring her smile. "A drink would be lovely, thank you."
"Other than all that, though, how have things been during our absence? Has business picked up any? Any interesting, non-dragon related news?"
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When Booker arrives, Syretia loudly calls his name and waves him over to sit with her. "Thanks for joining me, Booker. I had a couple ideas cooking in my head while we traveled, and while one I'm not quite ready to unveil yet, the other one we can begin immediately."
"You're pretty good at magical writing, right? I wanted to see if we could collaborate on some of those. You'd get to learn some of the spells that I know, and I'd get to learn more about how that whole process works."
Brandt then launches into the meeting of Apothyl, and how he got bagged in the open in front of a dragon lairing in a cave; he'll leave out the alliance part, but will share the story of how one dragon was so enraged by the cult of Lamashtu, that he went mad, and the other agreed to hunt the guilty parties...
Brandt listens to Christian's words, I agree we need to check the temple of the Elk and see what's happening there - if that is where the cult of Lamashtu has laired we need to drive them out with sword, spear, and fire....