"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."
A relieved look passes through Bydar, "She has her child. Wonderful, thank you Sapphira. I realize that that drink was probably a double and for good reason. But Apothyl has her child.. then wonderful. Human form eh? How amazing. Well she was given means to prove herself. I wonder if she'll keep the same form when next she visits? "
He gets a description if he can and then asks "Is there anything else we can do for you? I feel so behind intending to the people I best remember not to just say 'hi' and rush off"Then seeing Syretia has said yes to a drink he blushes and remembers he was asked "Maybe just one drink for me too, thank you. Something light."
........
At Dinner...
Bydar nods at the road to Oleg
At the mention of the gold mine and more dwarves, he actually delights. Dwarven craftsmanship is often art in and of itself.
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.
"I think perhaps making sure the tree is not illa nd using healing magics to remove any such thing might aid it. Restore it to to health." He considers "But supporting it is wise. I need to start coordinating with other priests to see if we can work about spreading the divine aid from our various gods."
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....
Bydar is a gentle soul, but he nods "If needs must. I Confess, I find Lamashtu offensive on evey level. As Lord Christian has pointed out, they are the cause of the dragon's madness. They have earned a harsh justice."
A thought "I wonder if proof of the end of the cult who stole the egg would help in bringing the sire of the egg to sanity?"
"Yeeeeah, yeeeeah, I'd say I'm pretty good at that sorta thing," Booker admits to Syretia. And written less-than-legal documents ta start businesses, but who's askin' eh? "I could go fer that! Tha way I sees it though, unless yer gonna start doin' this writtin' yerself, my leg ah tha deal ain't ever gonna be ovah, while yers is gonna be up eventually. So 'ere's yer countah offah: Yer in good with Sapphira, right? What says yous ta puttin' in a good word fer me an' mah family's product, eh? Jus' a one time word to Her Scaliness that I'm a good sorta guy from a good sorta family, and we's square."
He offers his hand to seal the deal.
"Jus' some water fer me, thanks," he responds. "What was it like, anyways? Tha exchange."
"Tha cult gots ta go, but I dunno if we could justify that order ah events to ah... inquisitive public, if ya get my meanin'... How could we explain ta ah grievin' mob ah refugees that we got aftah ah cult before chasin' tha dragon that destroyed their homes, on tha off-chance we can get chummy wit' it, see?" he points out.
At dinner, held privately within the temporarily closed Scale and Feather, Sapphira reiterates what she told Syretia and Bydar when they visited earlier.
"I was deeply unnerved when she quietly announced her identity and asked for her egg," Sapphira says about Apothyl. "I couldn't tell she was anything unusual when she walked in. I don't like being taken by surprise like that.
"She explained the situation, but I didn't truly believe her until she provided some details that I knew could only have come from you. I swaddled the egg in a cloak one of the hunters left behind, and when I offered it to her, she snatched it and ran like an urchin stealing a loaf of bread.
"Everything else has been painfully dull in your absence, otherwise. The arrival of those peasants from Nivakta's Crossing was the only other highlight, which is even more depressing now that I say it out loud.
"Regarding that Temple of the Elk though...I've been questioning quite a few of the woodsmen who ply the Narlmarches. They say that a priest of Erastil by the name of Kavken has been tending it, restoring it. Without actually meeting him, I'd consider him highly suspect."
Thank you Sapphira for keeping an ear out while we were away.
Christian listens to the reports and the news of the citizens.
Dragons have a way of things that is way beyond the understanding of most in this world. The child and mother are reunited and that is a good thing.
Leaning back in his chair.
Kavken...a priest of Erastil...When we are done with the dragon mess up by the Crossing, we plan to put a face to that name soon enough.
He looks towards Sapphira.
Come breakfast, we will be meeting with some riders from Restov. They were willing to help us protect the last of the refugees on the road to Charis.
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.
"Yes, it would be wise to hire dwarves for that job." He strikes his beard for a moment. "I will send a letter to my old master, he might be able to refer us a few name. And as you suggest, I will breach the subject with Engrid, but from the little that I know, I don't think she has a lot of contacts of the sort."
"Pshh," Syretia says in response to Booker's counter offer. "When I figure out how to get into her good graces, I'll help teach you. My first suggestion is to not call her 'Her Scaliness.' Even my magic has limits."
-------------
"Sorry we couldn't give you more warning, Sapphira," Syretia says, chagrined. "Things moved very quickly."
"Yes, it would be wise to hire dwarves for that job." He strikes his beard for a moment. "I will send a letter to my old master, he might be able to refer us a few name. And as you suggest, I will breach the subject with Engrid, but from the little that I know, I don't think she has a lot of contacts of the sort."
Thank you and please do so at your earliest convenience.
Christian pauses as he contemplates his next words.
After tomorrow morning, I plan to be about with the populace. Helping where I can and trying to make things easier for the refugees. I will try to alleviate any concerns about this dragon business. If asked about him, I will tell them what we know. That is that a dragon attacked and destroyed the Crossing and Fort Serenko. I will also let them know that we are planning on dealing with this dragon one way or another. I will try to avoid mentioning anything to do with the egg. In time we will need to tell them as I doubt our allies the kobolds will keep that quiet for long. I just wanted to make sure we are all on the same page when in comes to the dragon.
***Just after dinner***
Christian approaches Orlog.
I would like to know how much we have in the coffers as I need to pull some funds to pay for the Restov riders that came down with us from the crossing.
After some brief back and forth about the money and how much to give, Christian approves and sits down at the bar to think about what he will say tomorrow.
***Early morning***
Christian makes his way to the rooms where the riders are being house and knocks lightly. When an answer comes, the mercenary leader smiles slightly.
Good morning my lords. When you are prepared would you care to meet in the common room to discuss reimbursement for your travels so far from Restov. When you are ready I will be waiting down stairs.
He bows slightly and states...
My lords
...in a way of farewell.
Christian waits down stairs for the riders.
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"While I would be more comfortable with a bigger reserve of ressource, we aren't doing too bad thing considered. I have no idea how much you want to pay the riders, but our biggest asset is in building supplies. We do have a long list of magical items and others equipment that weren't claimed by anyone of the group." Orlog thinks for a moment, how much would the minimum gift would be before it is more taken as an insult?"[/b]
Orlog approach the woman the next morning. "Greetings! How do you fare today?" Speaking dwarvish, he hopes that the sounds of the words will bring her a bit of joy is those darks days. "I was wondering if I could have a word with you."
Greetings Master.
First, some news of this expedition. So far, everything is going well. We were able to a nice location, easily defendable with an impressive advantage. The group is quite something. Each seem to be born destined to accomplish the task they are now doing. While the lord is a bit on the young side, I believe he will be able to achieve what we couldn't.
This bring me to the main reason for this letter. During our exploration of the region, we came upon an opportunity that we just can't ignore. There is the chance to establish a mine here. I'd rather not tell the details of where and what the mineral, but if you would be so kind to travel to the newly establish state of Charis, I would be more than pleased to explain in more details.
Orlog BrightShield
"I accept!" Booker says, shaking Syretia's hand and tossing his bag onto the table. "We're startin' now!"
Pulling a few items from his bag, he dives into a basic but thorough explanation of scroll writing and the arcane powers that allow mere parchment to hold universe-bending powers.
The riders of Restov are milling about, clearly enjoying this downtime in their unexpectedly extended "patrol." Most are clearly intrigued by the work going on throughout this frontier settlement.
She heaves a sigh. There might be a smile upon her face, but it is hard to spot among the dirt and sweat upon her face. When you approach, she is in the midst of hauling logs alongside her fellow immigrants from Nivakta's Crossing. They are in the process of stacking and lashing the freshly felled logs to construct communal cabins for temporary shelter against the wind, sun, and rain.
"Truth be told, I could use the breather. I'm no stranger to chopping wood, but I've never had to muck about with whole tree trunks. I'm going to be sore for days," she groans whilst stretching her back, "or I would be, if there was any time to rest and actually feel the ache."
.....
During a quiet moment, perhaps on the following day, Booker approaches Sapphira about a business partnership with his family. Beneath her hood, the medusa's expression is impossible to read.
"So, whaddayah say, eh?" Booker presses. Popping the top of a fresh jar of marmalade, he offers it to her. "Floats right up tha nose, sits real good on bread an' buttah, an' everyone loves tha stuff!"
"Alrigh' what'll it take, eh? Maybe there's sumthin' I can get fer yous while we're out galavantin' across tha countryside? Everyone wants sumthin, amiright?" he continues nervously, wringing his hands a little.
________
At the mention of the words lord, Orlog quickly look over his shoulder to see if Christian his behind him. Realising that the word was probably meant for him, he looks back at Engrid. "Hehe. While I am indeed a founding member of this place, I still see myself as just a simple blacksmith. Please, you can just call me Orlog." He invites her to sit down on the fell tree so that they can talk more comfortably. "During our initial exploration of the region, we discovered a interesting site that might make for an good mine. The Lord Christian recognize the value of a dwarven run operation there would make the mine even more profitable. To that end, we were wondering if you knew anyone that would be interested to partake in such enterprise?"
Bydar attends the meetings Lord Christian asks. Eager to help.
But with limited time, he also sees to Shelyn's followers here to help them. And tries to see if the other priests of other faiths who are here would have time to coordinate.
Also He will try to get a test of remove blindness, lesser restoration upon Rogvar's superior if Rogvar and he allow.
And, he'll try to learn more about the Redshields, though he figures Lord Christian wants to be in on the return of the ring, the evaluation, and consideration of trade deals with them
Sapphira listens to Booker's sales pitch as impassively as a statue.
His offer of bringing back something from the party's travels, however, elicits a pleased smile upon the visible portion of her face.
"You see, this is why I always thought my sisters and foremothers were foolish," she muses. "Why antagonize the adventurers, explorers, and would-be heroes when you can befriend them and earn your heart's desire that way?"
She draws the proffered jar of marmalade closer and signals to Mr. Pink to bring some bread.
"Since it seems our boss, Lord Christian, will soon be leading you and the rest of our mutual friends in a bit of dragonslaying, it's safe to assume that a literal hoard of wealth will likely be passing into our humble home here. Now, I wouldn't dream of expecting to have first pick of the spoils," she quips whilst spreading some marmalade upon a slice of rye.
"Even though we are very much on the frontier, I still pride myself on being a woman of culture and taste. If there is a piece of clothing or jewelry among the dragon's hoard that particularly stands out, I would ask you to bring it back for me."
A thoughtful look crosses the young dwarven woman's face.
"Although...he or Ma might know some families from back when we lived in the Tors that could help. I could ask them for you, Orlog."
"Yous got yerself a DEAL, lady!" Booker exclaims, taking her hand in both of his and shaking it heartily. Now I just gotta swing it by the othahs when the time comes.
As the days draw on and their work is complete for now. The time to leave is soon here and Christian has prepared.
When the others gather for departure...
Everyone, make sure you have what you need.
Christian looks out towards east.
We got many ways to do this. One way is to head directly to the Crossing and come in towards the dragon from the ruins. We can take the wagon with us to the Outpost. Leave it there to use for hauling anything that we may find with the dragon. There is traveling into the region between the mountains and Lake Silverstep. Make for Varnhold and travel on towards the dragon from there.
I feel the first is the fastest but limits us if we have a hoard of treasure to remove.
Brandt looks up from the map he was studying, We can always bury it if we need to? Or can Bydar use that stone shape spell to hide it away if needed? I could get some shovels for us in case we need them? might be handy to have around anyway. I'm for bringing the wagon to the Trading Post and then we work after Mercifax from there.
"Certainly quicker to run back to the wagon for anything we need than having to haul ourselves all the way back to Charis if we forget something," Syretia adds.
As you make your preparations, you are approached by your enforcer.
"Evidently I now serve as your postmaster, as well, for this message arrived for you," she says, offering a folded piece of parchment. Once someone accepts the letter, she adds, "This was also left with it."
Sapphira holds up a single, roughly diamond-shaped scale. It is a dull copper color, the size of your palm.
"I continue to dislike how your new friend is able to slip past me. She's making me look incompetent at my job," Sapphira glowers.
I've observed that you are making preparations to set out. Your timing is fortuitous.
I've seen Mercifax fly back towards his lair in the mountains. Despite how he's tarnished, his behaviors remain familiar to me. From his flight posture, I recognize that he returns home to sulk. There he will likely remain for several days.
There are two route towards his lair.
One approaches from the east, from the direction of the Dunsward. This route is safer, but it will take you some time to arrive. In the meantime, he may depart or, worse still, notice your approach.
The other is by way of Lake Silverstep. While this is a more direct route, it is much more dangerous.
I will meet you soon, once you depart your village, and provide more information.
"Thank you my dear. If they can give me a list of a few names, I will bring it to the others and decide who we will put in charge of project we are looking into."
Orlog laugh at Sapphira. "Don't worry my friend, she probably has some decades more of experience if not century. I didn't ask her age of course, that would have been improper, but when it come to longevity, dragons got us all beat and then some." He takes the parchment and start reading. "Well, for better or worst, we now have a destination for the quarry of our hunt." He passes the note to Christian.
"Thank you, Sapphira. You're clearly a woman of many talents."
"My vote is for the Silverstep route," Syretia says, examining the scale. "Speed is of the utmost important, and if whatever makes it more dangerous is enough to get us into trouble, then we have no business going after a dragon."
"I ahgree wit' Syretia, speed is whats we need!" Booker adds. "Fightin' a Dragon in a hole's gotta be a lot easier than fightin' one in tha sky."
Brandt nods, Sounds like we may need a boat...It is preferable to fight a dragon on the ground, certainly rather than in the air. Of course, that assumes Christian and Bydar can't talk us out of the fighting part.
Brandt examines his small map, nods at Syretia's suggestion, and takes a long drink of ale. Apologies Sapphira, I wish I could explain how that happens, but I suppose it is for the best?
A look of concern crosses the young lord's face as he looks to his royal enforcer.
I am concerned as well. I do not like the thought of waking up in the middle of the night with a dragon standing over me...and to think we are about to go after the dragon the beat her up. I would like for you to investigate this matter further. Find out what you can about this breach. We have enough on our plates to deal with right now...do not want the population to flip out if a dragon is seen inside our walls. I will do what I can when we next we talk with her...but she is a dragon after all.
Christian takes the letter and reads it himself. Moving his horse over towards Brand, the handsome man looks to the map.
May I?
Once the map is in his hands, his eyes roam all over the map.
Brand is correct we will need a boat to cross the Shrike...Unless our dragon friend is going to fly us across. We can ford across the Thorn but not the Shrike.
He looks off towards the east
There are two crossings, one being Nivakta's Crossing and the other is Nettle's Crossing....which we have no knowledge of what is there.
He looks to Bydar.
Do you think your spells will be able to get us across the shrike?
He then lets his eyes fall on the Orlog as he points the mountain range that surrounds Varnhold on three sides.
Do you know anything about these mountains?
Looking back at the map, Christian again scans the features.
I like Silverstep route as well but no wagon then. Extra bags and an extra horse or two.
He pauses for a moment as he thinks.
We ride for the river crossing and up along the Shrike until we come to an area we can cross. Either by fording or by spell. We then ride for the Varnhold pass. This will take us directly into Varnhold from the northwest side. Problem being that the Crooked River is between us and the pass. We will have to cross it somehow. That or we travel down to the north side of Lake Silverstep and cross over the mountains to reach Varnhold from the southside.
The lord looks from the map to the east.
We can stop off at the Kolbolds to check in on them as well.
Looking to the others...
Thoughts?
Bydar tells Saphira "We did ask her to not alarm the citizenry, so perhaps the blame for her stealth is on us. I can't say I blame her."
His vote is for Silverstep as well. "We owe our people haste in solving the dragon problem one way or another, and in returning to them when we can. Also.. lovely name. Wonder if it's apretty a spot there as it sounds?"
Or can Bydar use that stone shape spell to hide it away if needed?
"With time. We should be able to seal it for later recovery."[/B] Cautious. He's rather proud of the work he used to help with the Brewery. It's forming rather lovely and smooth with little symbols of barely and hops that..well, the point is pride goes before the fall and he doesn't want to overestimate his abilities but it should work.
He looks to Bydar.
Do you think your spells will be able to get us across the shrike?
"I have my concerns" He admits, "I can prepare water walking, but it may alarm the horses assuming I can affect all of them. If something attacks us while we're in the water we could easily lose a horse. If a broken span is under 12 feet or so, I might be able to connect it with stoneshape. But the problem there is it's one of the goddesses most potent spells. If we run into dragon before I could pray again after that, spells that would help us resist it's breath would not be available in such strong amounts."
"Fortunately, the investment in our infrastructure is paying off already," Syretia says, pointing to a bridge near the capital that spanned the river. "It might have seemed silly at the time, with nothing over there just yet, but I daresay it may have been a prescient decision. It still leaves the question of going across or around Lake Silverstep itself, but at least we won't be stalled by the Shrike."
"I've heard the name 'Nettles' mentioned more than once around the tables in my establishment, so I made a point of investigating," Sapphira offers.
"Davik Nettles. He was an engineer who retired from Brevoy and built a bridge across a narrow span of the Shrike. Apparently, he made a handsome living charging tolls to cross the bridge - at least until the bandits who previously dominated this area paid him a visit. I've been told that the bandits killed him, burned his house down, and tossed his body in the river.
"It seems there used to be numerous sightings of Nettle's undead remains patrolling the river and guarding his bridge. However, ever since the bandits were put down, those sightings have tailed off. I suspect that with his killers slain, his bones now rest. Of course, I can't promise that he won't make an appearance if you cross his bridge."
He then lets his eyes fall on the Orlog as he points the mountain range that surrounds Varnhold on three sides.
Do you know anything about these mountains?
"I would like to say yes, but sadly, I've never really took the time to learn more about the region."
Hearing Saphira's report about the possible undead. "Well, we can only hope that he is now resting in peace. Awful what this world can do to a good soul."
Thank you Sapphira. Saves us a trip up the shrike then.
Laughing slightly, Christian nods in the direction of the new bridge.
Remind me to give Cavan and his crew a raise. I never expected to have a bridge finished in such a short span of time.
Nodding at Syretia.
I think the best route is going around the lake and cross the mountains.
Orlog, maybe one day if you are inclined. You could do some research on the area. If you wish to that is.
"I think it would be worth the visit on the way back to stop by Davik's place. Maybe Bydar can help send him on?"
"I think it would be worth the visit on the way back to stop by Davik's place. Maybe Bydar can help send him on?"
Bydar has looked concerned at this And he nods "Definitely worthwhile. It's possible the Staglord's demise was enough, that would explain no further sighting, but even then it's the decent thing to do."
You pack your saddlebags are secure your gear for the journey, confident that your officers will carry out your instructions for the coming days even in your absence. Your vassals also pack a pair of carts with the first load of supplies to aid the Sootscales as they rebuild their tribe and mine.
A crowd gathers to see you off, the bulk of which comprises the immigrants from Nivakta's Crossing. They offer what little food they have to offer, tucked into cloth bundles, as well as small tokens of good fortune to expedite you as you sally forth to avenge them against the dragon - or so they assume.
Your land's newly plowed roads hasten your travel north to the bridge that now spans the shallow stretch of the Thorn and conveys you into the claimed hill country beyond. The road winds through the hills, now dotted with fieldstones denoting the land claimed by homesteaders that have flocked to your banner.
By afternoon, you reach the home of your kobold allies. Simple banners of leather and scavenged cloth have been planted upon the stocky hill, emblazoned with both the emblem of the Sootscale Tribe as well as rough approximations of your own heraldry.
Looking over the banners and back to the supplies, Brandt grins, Well, they approximate liege men well, credit to the sootscales for trying to show their allegiance! he lets out a hearty laugh at the last.
Christian, it is good that you decided to make allies here, it benefits them and us both. I do think we’ve done well with this idea. We won’t tarry long will we? Mercifax needs our attention before long.
Syretia can hardly contain her delight at the sight of the kobolds' display of Charis's heraldry. "Are they still the Sootscales? Maybe we should ask Chief Kip if they've adopted a new name yet. But I agree, we can't afford any unnecessary delays, much as I would love to interrogate our scaly citizens about their new lives."
You pack your saddlebags are secure your gear for the journey, confident that your officers will carry out your instructions for the coming days even in your absence. Your vassals also pack a pair of carts with the first load of supplies to aid the Sootscales as they rebuild their tribe and mine.
A crowd gathers to see you off, the bulk of which comprises the immigrants from Nivakta's Crossing. They offer what little food they have to offer, tucked into cloth bundles, as well as small tokens of good fortune to expedite you as you sally forth to avenge them against the dragon - or so they assume.
Christian nods his thanks to those that came out to see them off. Not wanted to overshadow their gifts, he keeps his words very simple.
Thank you. We will do all we can to end this threat.
Your land's newly plowed roads hasten your travel north to the bridge that now spans the shallow stretch of the Thorn and conveys you into the claimed hill country beyond. The road winds through the hills, now dotted with fieldstones denoting the land claimed by homesteaders that have flocked to your banner.
Sometime in the future we should look into distance markers and signs. Just a thought.
By afternoon, you reach the home of your kobold allies. Simple banners of leather and scavenged cloth have been planted upon the stocky hill, emblazoned with both the emblem of the Sootscale Tribe as well as rough approximations of your own heraldry.
Christian nods his approval and smiles.
They have been busy. I think our next visit should include an official banner.
Christian, it is good that you decided to make allies here, it benefits them and us both. I do think we’ve done well with this idea. We won’t tarry long will we? Mercifax needs our attention before long.
Thank you...it is hard to correctly read each situation but I think we read this one just right. A chance to live in piece is all they wanted.
He looks to the east for a moment.
We will be here only as long is necessary. Too much damage can be done by Mercifax if left unattended for too long.
Syretia can hardly contain her delight at the sight of the kobolds' display of Charis's heraldry. "Are they still the Sootscales? Maybe we should ask Chief Kip if they've adopted a new name yet. But I agree, we can't afford any unnecessary delays, much as I would love to interrogate our scaly citizens about their new lives."
We will find out soon enough what name they have chosen.
Christian leads the group towards the Kobold's home with a sense of hope for the future. Announcing their arrival.
"Wowzers! Who'dah thunk a buncha Kobolds coulda done all this?" Booker says in amazement. "Are we doin' any checks 're jus' deliverin' tha goods? I'd be 'appy tah give their defenses a quick looksie if we've tha time!"
________
Bydar notices the hard work , and the touches of beauty Cavan and the other hard workers have slipped in, little touches here and there, artful or builidng he foundation for some.
The Bridge pleases him even more. So much potential being built up. "I'm proud." He confesses.
Then come they to the kobolds. And a new rush of delight and he also waves in Greeting "The Blessings of Apsu and Shelyn upon you"
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A previously hidden sentry emerges and returns your greeting with a wave and shrill greeting. He quickly retreats inside, and in short order practically the entire remnant of the tribe has disgorged from the caverns.
Whilst the majority of the kobolds eagerly throng your steeds and carts, already reaching out to "help" unload the supplies you've brought, Chief Kip provides an update on their progress.
With the mites, both living and undead, eliminated, there has been little danger for them to fear as of late. Thus, they have been able to focus on replanting their root and mushroom gardens, securing the mine shafts that lead to the shallower veins of ore and minerals, and contemplating their new religious direction.
Although they have not yet painted a new emblem for themselves, they have decided upon a new name for the tribe: drawing inspiration from both Apsu and Lord Christian's draconic heraldry, as well as the wealth of silver that they have been given stewardship over, they now call themselves the Silverfang Tribe.
Looking around, Orlog is somewhat impress with how things are coming along with the kobolds. "Little buggers are quite industrious when they aren't busy ripping the flesh off your bones." If giving the chance and the time, he inspects any work done to the tunnels.
Chuckling slightly at Orlog.
True...very true.
Christian dismounts and lends a hand to the Kobolds as they unload the supplies. He is very pleased with the situation that is unfolding before him. His mind wonders back to that not so long ago day...The kobolds almost decimated by the Whitehallows, scared but determined to protect themselves to the last.
Just to think that encounter turned us to this. Helping Kip and his people helped us to figure out what was going on with Mercifax. If we killed them and took the egg for ourselves...would our people be the ones seeking refuge at the Crossing instead?
The mercenary lord breaks form his contemplation to look at the kobolds with a huge smile. They are truly happy right now...amazing what a little hope can do a person.
His words are proper and his tone is one of respect.
Chief Kip, You have done much since we first met. I hope these supplies will help you to continue your recovery. The new name is one that shows exactly who you are. If you do not mind I will be happy to have an official banner made for your tribe. Our way of saying thank you for all that your tribe has done for us. Just tell us what you want and we will do our best to make it happen.
His eyes float to Bydar with a knowing nod.
When all the supplies are unloaded and things are starting to settle down...
Chief Kip, unfortunately we can not stay for long. We have some business to attend to in the east that needs to be dealt with right away. On our way back we may be able to stop in but if not...we will see you on a few weeks with more supplies.
A nod back to Lord Christian, and the cleric is clearly pleased, then says to the kobolds " the Silverfang Tribe is a wonderful name. Very evocative."
He looks over the kobolds greeting them, but also getting to see to their health and who might need quick healing.
"They're very clever," Syretia says, in response to Orlog's comment. She comes up beside Lord D'Elegante as he speaks to Chief Kip. "Your tribe should be very proud, Chief Kip," she tells the diminutive leader, when there's a break in the conversation.
Bydar's examination is slightly stymied by the kobolds' almost constant movement. They descend upon the casks, sacks, and tools provided and scurry along to stow them in their underground home. Nevertheless, the Shelynite cleric does not identify any signs of injury or illness among them.
They do not seem terribly dismayed that you cannot stay too long. It's simply enough that you made good on your promise to return with these supplies. They value deeds rather than words. Of course, they're also probably just excited to receive these "offerings."
Leaving the carts with the Silverfangs hastens your pace once you excuse yourselves from your kobold allies. Thus, you are able to make it several miles further along the Shrike before you must stop for the night. Casting your eyes upriver, you can spot the bridge known as Nettle's Crossing in the distance to the northeast, nestled in the steep valley that the river carves through the hills of the Kamelands.
Looking up the river at their goal, Christian wonders what awaits them.
There it is...Nettle's Crossing. I am hopeful that it still stands.
Blocking the sun's glare with a hand, Syretia peers upriver to try and get a better look at it. "It still seems to be there, though without poor Davik to maintain the bridge, we're left to depend on his workmanship."
"I wonder if there's a troll living underneath it now?" she wonders.
Brandt stands in his stirrups, gazing ahead at the bridge, Ah we're still too far away to see anything useful up there. Camp here tonight, and then explore the crossing in the morning? Brandt looks at Christian to see what his thoughts on that are....
Syretia, really? a Troll? Now there will be one since you cursed us with your optimism! Brandt laughs at the Sorceress, Hopefully Davik's work was sturdy enough to keep that bridge standing unattended for a few years. But we'll have to find out the hard way I suppose.
Booker plops down, tuckered out from at the traveling they did after a few days rest. Pulling a squishy marshmallow from a secret compartment in his bag, he uses a metal, telescoping rod to roast it over the fire before eating it. He moans a little. By all that's holy, if this ain't THE stuff, I dunno what is!
"I'll take tha last watch if it's all the same to yous," he offers wearily. He manages to stay awake just long enough for Lord Christian's response before passing on to sleep.