Fine town, bah. I'm no noble, an this ain't no town. But we Nivaktan's are proud all the same. We knews ta look for folks from Restov. Be you those folks?
"Indeed we are. Open your gates, and I shall show your captain the charter"
Ya're early. Can ya come back tomorrow when we're ready ta receive ya? The guard disappears behind the wall, the light fading away. You look around at one another, slightly hesitant or confused as what to do next.
A few moments later you hear the bar and braces of the wooden gateway being withdrawn, the doorway slowly creaking open.
The same sergeant approaches, lantern in hand. He limps slowly as you recognize he bears a wooden stump below his left knee. A white scar runs along his left ear to chin, partially hidden in a short, scruffy white beard. He takes the charter, reivews it in less time than it took to take it from you, then hands it back. Ya can meet the Captain an Mayor in tha morning. We can barracks ya in tha patrol barracks, won't be back til tomorrow evening. Park tha wagon there, corral tha horses over there, then ya can bed down in tha shack back yonder. Don't get into trouble an ya won't find any.
Three other guardsmen stand at unsteady attention nearby, clearly roused from a nap, but trying hard not to show it. Nivakta's Crossing, last posting of Brevoy.
Keiran bows, "The shack will be plenty hospitable for most of my companions and I, for it I thank you. However, we also travel in the presence of a lady. Surely, you can make for some better accomodations for her and her servant" Keiran jestures to Bisimone and Xan.
Flynn can't hold back. He snorts and snickers at Kerian's comment and quickly ducks in anticipation of Bisimone's clubbing to the back of his head. Flynn tries to regain his composure quickly, but still has a big grin on his face.
Ya can meet the Captain an Mayor in tha morning.
Let's test if this piece of cloth draped on me actually holds weight, thought Adreccam.
The lanky warrior vaults from the wagon and strides up to the sergeant in the blink of an eye, placing his beaked nose directly against the Nivaktan's. No, we cannot meet the Captain and Mayor in the morning, Sergeant. He gestures to his sash of office while placing one hand on his sword. "My name is Lord Adreccam Surtova, of the ruling house of Brevoy, Swordlord of Restov, and I and my companions are the personally selected emissaries of the King-Regent, on His Majesty's business."
Adreccam bears down further on the man, towering over him. The sergeant hears muscles and tendons crack and stretch. "We are to be treated with respect and honor by any and all who claim allegiance to Brevoy. So, this is how things are going to be done:" He begins to tick off his points with his fingers, held directly in the sergeant's face. "First, you will send one of your men to wake the Captain and Mayor and inform them that we wish to speak to both of them immediately. Second, you will see to our immediate refreshment and accommodation in your finest establishment. Lastly, you will get out of my sight."
Ya can meet the Captain an Mayor in tha morning.Let's test if this piece of cloth draped on me actually holds weight, thought Adreccam.
The lanky warrior vaults from the wagon and strides up to the sergeant in the blink of an eye, placing his beaked nose directly against the Nivaktan's. No, we cannot meet the Captain and Mayor in the morning, Sergeant. He gestures to his sash of office while placing one hand on his sword. "My name is Lord Adreccam Surtova, of the ruling house of Brevoy, Swordlord of Restov, and I and my companions are the personally selected emissaries of the King-Regent, on His Majesty's business."
Adreccam bears down further on the man, towering over him. The sergeant hears muscles and tendons crack and stretch. "We are to be treated with respect and honor by any and all who claim allegiance to Brevoy. So, this is how things are going to be done:" He begins to tick off his points with his fingers, held directly in the sergeant's face. "First, you will send one of your men to wake the Captain and Mayor and inform them that we wish to speak to both of them immediately. Second, you will see to our immediate refreshment and accommodation in your finest establishment. Lastly, you will get out of my sight."
Xan chuckles for a moment at the "servant" statement with a muttered you'll pay for that one Keiran before Addrecam speaks. Xan looks on impressed at the tone of command. Xan decides to keep his mouth shut for now lest he ruin Addrecam's excellent handling of the jumped up guard.
The sergeant stares Adreccam square in the eye. He sucks his tongue to his teeth for a moment, looks across the assembled visitors, then returns his gaze to Adreccam.
Tha mayor's youngest has been gravely ill recently, an I shan't bother tha family for anyone, even a Surtovan with more metal than manners. Tha Captain is night patrollin' across tha river an will be back at dawn.
The sergeant gives Bisimone a quick look before continuing. Tha finest rooms are over a tavern tha no good lady would want ta sit down in, let alone be bedded. But, maybe I'm mistaken. From yer manner ya boys know her more intimately than me.
Taking a halfstep back, to ease his weight onto his wooden stump, For refreshment, ya can duck yar head inta tha Broken Wheel, take what we offer in tha barrack shack back yonder, tha lady takin tha captain's office, or ya can dunk yerselves in tha Shrike outside tha southern gate. I care not which. This is Nivakta's Crossing, not Surtova's Chamberpot. Manners or metal, I'm too old ta be impressed by either.
Well, so much for bluster, Adreccam thinks. He attempts to maintain his dignity as he steps back from the sergeant. Another lesson learned...
"Ah, rural charm. How it sings in my heart when I hear its melodious tones. Very well, sergeant, it appears we are at your disposal. Your advanced age and your town's rugged yet charming isolationism have unmanned me."
He whips a hand over his head. "To the shacks, and... adventure!" The young street fighter has rarely looked more like an idiot. Par for the course, really.
The sergeant grins at Adreccam and slaps the lad on the shoulder. Good on ya, ya can take what ya give. I like that. We can raise tha fool Mayor Revanisu, if ya feel tha need, though dandy is as dandy does. How's ta Sherriff Kaven instead, fer tha Captain is truly on patrol. He may have what ya truly need anyways.
The sergeant gestures and one of the troopers approachs, weary and bleary-eyed. Bopps, go and fetch Lorin, tell him tha first group's early.
The sergeant turns and offers his hand, first to Adreccam, then to Keiran. I'm Sergeant Back, Jessup ta ma friends, of which I have none tha come ta mind. Thumbing over his shoulder towards the barracks, The barracks are clean and quiet. Really better for folks not staying long. Tha larder is stocked ta take respite. Tha cap won't mind tha Lady taking ta his bed, an his wife will appreciate him not being in it when she does.
Giving Simondale a critical eye, Sgt. Back says We got word from Swordlord Dunkrint tha three groups of explorers would be passing through headin cross tha Shrike an inta tha Stolen Lands. He dropped parcels with tha Sheriff fer each band. What they are, don't know, can't say. Reckon' Lorin'll sort it out.
Well once your good Sheriff comes I'm sure my "mistress" Xan gives Keiran a glare at this point would love to rest from our journey south. Perhaps we could wait inside the gates or better yet out of the night air?
Bisimone jumps down from the wagon with a flourish.
She gathers her composure and walks towards the others. Coldly, detached, her voice audible but soft and deliberate, she says Yes Xanthan, I would prefer to get under shelter before much more of the night passes. Matters should not be discussed in the open where just anyone may be listening.
She walks over to the sergeant, draping one arm over her shoulder, the other her fingers softly playing over his chest and jerkin. She leans in and whispers something to him, something the group cannot hear.
The group sees Sgt. Back's face go ashen and him visibly gulp as the half-elf finishes whispering in his ear, then his eyes widen at the flash of fire. Apologies my lady, I meant no disrespect nor ta besmirch your name. Pointing to Xanthan, Joves, Cordell, assist her servant there with tha bags. Waving to Flynn while pointing to the corral, Sir, please lead tha wagon this way, I'll have someone tend tha horses for ya. He then rushes through the gate, beckoning the others to do the same, Follow me good sirs, ma'am. I'll show ya ta tha barrack shack. Then I'll have one of tha others fetch what can be had from tha Broken Wheel. It may be a road house, but tha food is good. Reaching the shack, he hastily fumbles with the lock, dropping the keys only once, before swinging wide the door. He stands aside, and motions for you to enter the dark chambers beyond. Ladies first of course, he says, trying to smile and shake off the images of a few moments ago.
Xanthan takes the bags with a little bit more force than is absolutely necessary, not damaging anything but not being gentle either. Once we are inside he will drop the bags unceremoniously on the floor of Bisimone's chamber.
If there is nothing else my lady I will join the others. He gives a bow for the benefit of any others that may be there.
Finding the barracks only has one private room, the captain's, he then settles for laying out his gear in the sergeant's bunk. It is seperated from the main room by a mid-chest partition, so he has some level of privacy. Soon he is fast asleep.
The rest of the group unwinds from the days events, awaiting the meal Bisimone ordered from the guards. They don't wait long, for a short knock rattles the door minutes after Simondale begins to lightly snore.
The sergeant opens the door, allowing Joves and Bopps to bring in a tray of bowls, mugs, a stewpot and tall pitcher. Tawny Ale an venison in barley stock. Light fare ta keep ya full an not harm tha restin. The men lay out the food and turn to leave, as an imposing man enters the room. He wears a Brevic cloak pin of some worth upon his chest. His short cut dark hair is slightly mussed, his ruddy features slightly darkened with the effort of his rush. A 6'3" mass of muscle and sinew, hastened by your arrival in his humble burg. He hands a waterproof leather satchel to Keiran, and addresses the assembled.
Sheriff Lorin Kaven, lawful agent of Brevoy here in Nivakta's Crossing. Jessup says you've be given the task of clearing the Greenbelt. Is this all of you? Well, who am I to question the decisions of the Throne? This packet is for you. I'll answer what I can, if you have questions, or I'll leave you to your meal and rest.
Inside the satchel, you find several sheets of parchment. Many bear a crude charcoal portrait on one side with some basic descriptive features. The other side is a royal decree discussing the nature of the individual and the outcome desired by the Throne. These are warrants and bounties issued against individuals believed to be operating or hiding within the area known as the Greenbelt. In all, you find over 40 writs, including general writs against the crimes listed below, but unnamed. The named individuals and their documented crimes follow:
Arson (Death or imprisonment) Breeg Orlivanch, Yoshiri,
Banditry (Death or hard labor) Aalric Deeds, Cragger Kench, Deudermont, Falgrim Sneeg, Gehen Tarr, Jeb Megesen, Norry "Fatty" Dunn, Wesley Wheaton, Topper Red,
Brigandry (Death) Auchs, Brann Duguide, Darobi D'winn, Garkem Leeth, Happs Bydon, Jubi Nelosh, Kressle, Ogrich, Valindra Ruez,
Consorting With Dark Powers (Death) Alyes Megesen, Eirikk Emad, Hermi Wepps,
Forgery (Death or disfigurement) Lanthan Steene, Maimun Greene,
High Treason (Death) Grigori Danmers, Jex Tarlow, The Stag Lord, Viktoli Drake,
Murder (Death or hard labor) Akiros Ismart, Dovan of Nisroch, Kundal Greypelt, Maria Thorne, Owlin Creed, Rasme the Butcher,
Rape (Death or disfigurement) Isep, Pratte, Tarel Brama,
Vagrancy (Death or imprisonment) Nugrah, Ulvin,
The composition of the writs are as follows, generally:
Be it so known that named condemned, charged with the crime of as indicted, having been tried in absentia, and having been found guilty by evidence provided testimonial and/or divine, is hereby sentenced to the punishment of death, as dictated by the the statutes of the Regency of Brevoy, for said crimes committed against the sovereign citizenry of the nation of Brevoy, its allies and allegiances, or by memberships associated therewith.
Forthwith, whosoever, whilst in service to the Regency of Lord Noleski Surtova and the nation of Brevoy, comes upon named condemned, shall forthwith carry out the judgement and punishment for indicted, as it shall be so deemed necessary in accordance with the laws of Brevoy and the edicts of the Dragonscale Throne.
So witnessed on this the 20th day of Calistril, under the watchful eye of the Lordship of Restov and the authority granted by His Lordship Noleski Surtova, Regent of the Dragonscale Throne.
Keiran accepts the satchel in both hands, with a curt bow. He reads over the writs and commits as many names to memory as he can. He hands the stack of parchment to Xan, "Looks like we have our work cut out for us. I didn't know there were this many people in all of Restov.. Does anyone on this list ring a bell?"
I'm not sure how to take that you look at a list of criminals and then immediately ask me if I know any of them. He gives a laugh to show he took no offense. But no I do not believe I know any of them although a few names are familiar but I cannot place if I actually know them or have only heard of them. Anyone else? Xan then reads the list of names aloud to see if anyone knows any of them.
Flynn listens carefully to the list. I may have heard of a couple of them.
Flynn has heard of the following condemned, with the basic info provided.
Arson - Breeg Orlivanch, burned his inn to avoid bad debts owed to House Lebeda.
Brigandry - Happs Bydon, an archer and former retainer of House Surtova.
Brigandry - Valindra Ruez, highway woman from the River Kingdoms, robbed and beat an Medvyed nobleman.
Forgery - Maimun Greene, offered fake treasure maps to unwitting adventurers heading into the Golushkin Mtns and Numeria.
High Treason - Viktoli Drake, sought to depose Nikoleski Surtova claiming to be the illegitimate son of a Rogarvian Duke.
Murder - Maria Thorne, a midwife that poisoned two mothers and stole their newborns.
Murder - Rasme the Butcher, - murdered passing merchants and served them to his shop customers.
Rape - Pratte, raped three serving wenches at taverns across New Stetven.
Should also have mentioned the general bounties listed for each crime.
Arson - reward 30 gold
Banditry - reward 60 gold
Brigandry - reward 120 gold
Consorting With Dark Powers - reward 150 gold
Forgery - rewardd 30 gold
High Treason - reward 600 gold
Murder - reward 120 gold
Rape - reward 90 gold
Vagrancy - rewared 30 gold
Rewards are paid to the group as a whole, not each of you. Bonus rewards and bounties may become available as time progresses.
Adreccam punches a finger at the name "Stag Lord" under "High Treason".
"That's the bloke we're after right there. The muckety-mucks mentioned him as the source o' trouble down at Oleg's Trading Post. He can't even give hisself a proper godly name, so I already hate his filthy guts."
Cleaning his teeth with a dirt-caked fingernail, Adreccam looks up at Sheriff Laven. "What can you tell us about the situation around Oleg's Trading Post? Is the man besieged by brigands? We aim to relieve him, but we need to know the approaches afore we march in and start taking off heads."
Oleg's a gruff sort. Lost his taste for life in the nation, so he packed up his life and moved out to the post maybe three years ago. Makes a decent life trading with the hunters and trappers that roam these lands, and used to shelter the odd caravan that made its way up from Pitax or the River Kingdoms. Just take his coarseness and bluster with a grain or three, and he's not a bad sort. His word is good, and his deals fair.
Leaning against the doorjamb, he continues His wife Svetlana has a sister here in town. Nicest of folk, and darn fine cooks to boot. Saintly woman to put up with Oleg, though some say she brings out the better nature in him, so to speak.
Striking a twig to light his pipe, he puffs a moment, then Fort Serenko has been abandoned, per order of the Throne at winter's passing; may be why the bandits have grown bold. Captain Decembre and his troops try to sweep Oleg's and the Fort from time to time, but it's getting to rough to stray far from here abouts. Too many farms need protection. But, I suppose the Regent knows what he's doing.
Flynn finishes his meal, but does not touch his ale. At the sherrif's words of Svetlana and her sister Flynn shows a little more interest. If I may be so bold Sheriff, would you mind telling me where this sister to Svetlana lives? I would like to talk to her in the morning. Perhaps she can give us some insight to the area around Oleg's and maybe even a little more information about what is happening with her sister and Oleg. Plus it wouldn't hurt to taste how good of a cook she is...if she is willing. Even though he has just eaten, Flynn licks his lips at the thought of a homemade meal. I am more than willing to pay for the food of course, Flynn adds as an after thought.
Tamira is Svetlana's oldest sister, and she lives close here. Not sure how her husband would take to unexpected guests over to the morning meal. He's our town blacksmith and works up quite an appetite before he heads home for breakfast. Don't know that she's ever visited out Oleg's way, and don't recall Svetti ever getting back after they headed out to take the place. Still, just follow the ringing of the anvil, and you'll find the Garns' shop and home.
Thank you sheriff. I will make sure to meet with the blacksmith first before going to his home. I would not want to offend him, nor give him the wrong impression as to why I am there. A home cooked meal big enough for a blacksmith sure sounds tasty though.
Keiran listens carefully, eyeing flynn, silently hoping Xan wasn't being a bad influence on the kid. "When was the last missive you got from Oleg? How is he faring? with the bandits? What is the military complement there?
Keiran listens carefully, eyeing flynn, silently hoping Xan wasn't being a bad influence on the kid. "When was the last missive you got from Oleg? How is he faring? with the bandits? What is the military complement there?
Well, we heard from Oleg bought this time last month, an we passed his call for aid on to Restov, along with the Captain's sightings of ne'er do wells along the track-ways to the south. He was being extorted by bandits of the Stag Lord, taxing him for 'protection'. The Sheriff snorts and spits at that, a curse muttered under his breath.
Oleg has what equipment the outpost was left with, but no troops, no garrison, nothing but what he and any visiting hunters have to defend the place. He said they'd be back same time next month, which I guess is maybe three, four days yet. We are one day out of Fort Serenko, two days more good long ride from Oleg, but I don't know however timely these bandits and thugs truly be.
Well son, that depends on each case. It is the duty of enforcing the law to pass final judgement. Some crimes indicate lesser penalties are possible. Of course, a duly appointed representative of the Throne can, if desired, levy a different judgement or penalty against the accussed. Be aware such actions would need defended should they be called into question. I leave that to you and your group. Master Keiran looks to be the final authority, by the writ, but I imagine he will seek his allies guidance in such matters.
"Seems to me this Fort Serenko would make an ideal hidey-hole for the Stag Lord and his nobby friends. Bein' that it's abandoned and the like."
Adreccam yawns copiously and stretches his arms over his head. "Tha's for the future, though, I suppose. Oleg seems like a right sort of fella, but I guess it can't hurt to get the down low from the ol' sister-in-law. So, Tamira tomorrow, Oleg three days hence, and the Stag Lord's head bouncing off my horse's withers in four." He clapped his hands together as if getting rid of dust. "Clean, simple, and foolproof. I like it."
Don't rightly know about all that young lord, but I do know Fort Serenko is empty. The captain and his troopers make sure to keep an eye on the place, even if the Regency abandoned it. Word is some lord up north, someone close to King Noleski or more rightly his sister, Queen Natala, is looking to take ownership of the Fort by summer's end.
Tapping out his pipe, and noticing the last of the meal has been consumed during the conversation, he takes the door in hand. From word outta the Greenbelt, the Stag Lord's 'head' is a Stag's skull, so be careful. That beast isn't a normal man. Looks I should leave you to the night. I pray by Erastil you reach Oleg before the bandits. His last missive said he'll pay no more.
Sheriff Kaven waits a moment longer, should you have any other questions.
Though my stomach tells me that we should stop and talk to Tamira, perhaps the prudent thing to do would be to ride quickly to Oleg's. I would not want to show up only to find a widow. I don not need that on my conscience. Flynn finds a spot for sleeping and makes his bed and quickly falls asleep.
Keiran nods and thanks the Sheriff for his hospitality
"I am in agreement with Flynn. I say we ride hard at first light to Oleg's. Empty forts and bandit eradication aside, our first order of business is to ensure the safety of our people.
Simon, you are also correct. However, "main option" is a matter of opinion. If we can take them alive, I say we do. But their salvation is in their own hands, and since you seem to be the one out of all of us that possesses the most level head, I say we defer to your judgement as to whether or not each case can be redeemed. But keep in mind that the safety of your friends and the innocent, honest people of the land are paramount, and if we had to choose between the safety of those people and having mercy on a hardened criminal, then I should hope that the choice would be obvious to all of us."
As am I in agreement. Keiran you go that way. Xan points in a random direction to the north. Scout ahead and we will catch up. He starts to laugh heavily as ale snorts out of his nose. Though I would like to sleep in a nice bed, I do not believe we should tempt fate by delaying. Xan then, without another word starts packing up his things, which are usually pretty quickly to hand. When he is finished he will help anyone else that needs it. I suggest we sleep in shifts on the wagon so that we can get at least a little rest on the way. It will not be ideal but it is better than nothing. Once we reach Oleg's hopefully because we pressed may have a bit of downtime before the bandits come to rest and plan.
I suggest we sleep in shifts on the wagon so that we can get at least a little rest on the way.
It might be good to mention you pressed the mounts to get here as you did. Continuing through the night may not be best, and a village this size may well not have sufficient replacement mounts they'd wish to part with.
The sheriff, sensing your group's issues, says You might be able to trade the wagon and heavy horses there for a light horse and three pack mules, redistribute your load, and try your luck that way. May save you a little time if you manage the ride properly.
He begins to pull the door closed, Then again, you might leave the road and head cross country to try for even better time, though you may get twist turned around if your not careful. We'll speak more with the dawn, if your still here.
He closes the door behind him, leaving you to yourselves.
Sleep, definitely sleep. Let us see what the morning, and clearer heads, brings. Flynn shakes his blanket and lays down. Still would like a hardy meal before heading out.
Adreccam, unless in immediate danger of being attacked, is not the sort of man who likes to sleep in discomfort. Thus, he takes off his armor before bedding down. It should also be noted that "wise" is not the first adjective that springs to mind when describing Adreccam.
The others note curiously that Adreccam sleeps in a fetal position, and one foot tends to twitch at odd intervals. It could almost be deemed adorable, were it not for the incessant snoring.
Earlt the following morning, as the sun peaked over the horizon, the sheriff and sergeant awaken you with a warm, quick breakfast. Had Tamira whip something up for you. winking at Flynn. Your mounts are ready and waiting to carry you across the Shrike and unto the borderlands with the Greenbelt.
The meal is good and filling, if somewhwt rustic. Fried eggs in an oat porridge, bits of meat baked in biscuit rolls, and a slightly chilled mush mix of various fruits, all served along with a pitcher of hot grey rose tea or mulled spice cider, fermented from the winter prior.
The gathered see you safely to the gate and across the bridge before turning back to home. May Erastil and the goodly gods see you quickly and safely to Oleg's
The first day out of Nivakta's Crossing passes uneventfully. Mid-morning you pass the Captain and his troopers returning to the town. The greet you cautiously, relaxing once you identify yourselves.
See to Oleg and his wife, please. They have always been good to me and my men when we've stopped to their place. We would go ourselves, but my requests for leave or more troops have been repeatedly denied. The Castellan says that Rostland is in danger, and must be guarded from other concerns. What they are, we have not seen. The bandits have nary ever strayed this close to the borders, preferring to hit caravans further out. Leaning in close, so his men cannot hear, If not for Svetlana, I fear Oleg would be long dead, having fought a losing effort against those bastards than pay one red skint in 'protection'.
The remainder of the day passes amiably. The weather remains springlike and pretty, if slightly chilled. Clouds pass, birds sing, everything seems a normal day of travel.
By nightfall you reach the abandoned fort. The outer gates have been removed from their hinges, and laid tall to the wall on either side of the entrance, lashed in place with rope and leather strapping. The barracks and halls are empty of personal items, or things of value, though the rope beds and floor chests remain. You find space to either bunk together, with room to spare, or three of you may take private quarters in the officer dorms. Atop the towers you find partially dismantled seige weapons, light catapults and ballistae.
The night passes uneventfully, with your guards taking turns at watch. With the morning you reload the wagon and mounts, then resume your journey.
The next day, you pack up and head out, pushing a little harder in hopes of making Oleg's in time. You rest atop the wagon, or alongside the walking mounts, suffering through the cold, dry rations you brought along for the journey, and allow less time than normal for the horses to graze, allotting more oats and corn in place of the lost feed. With a little luck and divine blessing, you should arrive at Oleg's near to the supper meal. Hopefully all will be well.
Through the day, you watch as stormclouds gather along the southern skyline, well off from your planned track. The spring looks to be a wet one, and from the distant rumblings or flashes of light, a violent one to boot.
About nightfall, you find a secluded grove off the caravan track to rest till dawn. You can make room for two to sleep atop the wagon, maybe three under the wagon, with another taking watch. The horses seem skittish, but do not break as the storm unleashes upon the Greenbelt. Sleep comes fitfully, but it does come.
The next morning, you repack and resume quickly, hoping to take advantage of every moment to reach Oleg's. A small herd of elk passes you mid-morning, the beasts slightly larger than those ranging across Brevoy, more wild and beastly. They seem to have little regard for you or the danger you would present other game animals.
The horses grow tired and drained as the day wears on, the early signs of froth and foam forming on their coats. They are not yet in danger, but you do know Oleg's won't come soon enough for your faithful four-legged companions.
As you crest a rolling rise, you spy a plume of smoke in the distance. Sharp eyes, peering, staring intently, determine a small walled outpost in the distance. Oleg's is but a rough hour ahead, as the first signs of sundown approach the western forests of Brevoy behind you.
Xanthan has been enjoying the ride south. This is where he belongs, on the road in the fresh air, with a new land ahead of him and friends at his side. Sometime in the ride south when we stopped for a while, Xanthan would have sneaked itchweed into Keirans small clothes for the servant remark. Having redressed the score of their little game for the time being, Xanthan would have contented himself with flirting with Bisimone and going out scouting to make sure the group wasn't being followed and to check for any creatures to be aware of. When they came across the herd of elk, Xanthan would have marked the area on his map making kit for future reference. It is always good to know where reliable sources of food and pelts are. During the rest of the trip he will make small talk with the group, spar with Keiran, Adeccam and anyone else who is interested. He is also very interested in learning about the backgrounds and cultures that everyone is from and will ask any who are willing to talk while sharing his own story freely enough, though he will leave out the part about his father wanting him dead. After all that is definitely not an uplifting way to continue a conversation.
Flynn appreciates the breakfast, though is disappointed politics continue even this far out away from the throne. Make sure to give my thanks and appreciation to Tamira for the wonderful breakfast.
During the travels, Flynn listens to everyone make small talk. In particular he listens to what each member of this newly formed group thinks of the noble houses and tries to discern where their loyalties lay. Flynn doesn't say much about himself. He's had a short life, just reaching the age of maturity a couple of months before. He is excited to test his skills against the bandits and whatever else may be out there in the wilds of the Stolen Lands.
Flynn switches between leading the wagon and riding/walking his new horse, trying to keep the animals as fresh as possible. Flynn will brush down the horses each night before going to bed.