Menu
News
All News
Dungeons & Dragons
Level Up: Advanced 5th Edition
Pathfinder
Starfinder
Warhammer
2d20 System
Year Zero Engine
Industry News
Reviews
Dragon Reflections
Columns
Weekly Digests
Weekly News Digest
Freebies, Sales & Bundles
RPG Print News
RPG Crowdfunding News
Game Content
ENterplanetary DimENsions
Mythological Figures
Opinion
Worlds of Design
Peregrine's Next
RPG Evolution
Other Columns
From the Freelancing Frontline
Monster ENcyclopedia
WotC/TSR Alumni Look Back
4 Hours w/RSD (Ryan Dancey)
The Road to 3E (Jonathan Tweet)
Greenwood's Realms (Ed Greenwood)
Drawmij's TSR (Jim Ward)
Community
Forums & Topics
Forum List
Latest Posts
Forum list
*Dungeons & Dragons
Level Up: Advanced 5th Edition
D&D Older Editions
*TTRPGs General
*Pathfinder & Starfinder
EN Publishing
*Geek Talk & Media
Search forums
Chat/Discord
Resources
Wiki
Pages
Latest activity
Media
New media
New comments
Search media
Downloads
Latest reviews
Search resources
EN Publishing
Store
EN5ider
Adventures in ZEITGEIST
Awfully Cheerful Engine
What's OLD is NEW
Judge Dredd & The Worlds Of 2000AD
War of the Burning Sky
Level Up: Advanced 5E
Events & Releases
Upcoming Events
Private Events
Featured Events
Socials!
Twitch
YouTube
Facebook (EN Publishing)
Facebook (EN World)
Twitter
Instagram
TikTok
Podcast
Features
Top 5 RPGs Compiled Charts 2004-Present
Adventure Game Industry Market Research Summary (RPGs) V1.0
Ryan Dancey: Acquiring TSR
Q&A With Gary Gygax
D&D Rules FAQs
TSR, WotC, & Paizo: A Comparative History
D&D Pronunciation Guide
Million Dollar TTRPG Kickstarters
Tabletop RPG Podcast Hall of Fame
Eric Noah's Unofficial D&D 3rd Edition News
D&D in the Mainstream
D&D & RPG History
About Morrus
Log in
Register
What's new
Search
Search
Search titles only
By:
Forums & Topics
Forum List
Latest Posts
Forum list
*Dungeons & Dragons
Level Up: Advanced 5th Edition
D&D Older Editions
*TTRPGs General
*Pathfinder & Starfinder
EN Publishing
*Geek Talk & Media
Search forums
Chat/Discord
Menu
Log in
Register
Install the app
Install
Community
Playing the Game
Story Hour
Steel Dragon's "Tales of Orea"
JavaScript is disabled. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding.
You are using an out of date browser. It may not display this or other websites correctly.
You should upgrade or use an
alternative browser
.
Reply to thread
Message
<blockquote data-quote="steeldragons" data-source="post: 5693176" data-attributes="member: 92511"><p><strong>Captain Rynthis</strong></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Alaria sat on one of the brightly-colored pillows that lined the oaken benches against the wall in the ‘waiting room’ for the office of Captain Rynthis. It was little more than a widened section of hallway at the end of the curving corridor that circled the perimeter of the tower. Still, the pillow-lined benches and small corner table, on which sat a silver decanter, pitcher of water and bowl of fruit (apples mostly), and the natural light from two narrow arrow-slit windows made the “chamber” more than comfortable.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">The satyr, Festus stood across from where Alaria sat. He whistled a jaunty tune, arms folded. Occasionally one of his hooves clipped a brief beat on the stone floor. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Alaria had caught him looking at her, more than once, in the passing minutes. Sometimes he wore an innocent grin to rival Haelan’s and sometimes there was something a bit more ‘carnal’, she thought, for lack of a better word. He certainly was an intriguing creature.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Satyrs were not such an unusual species in the mage-lands of R’Hath. They were a common enough sight at festivals as performers or footmen and messengers in the service of the grand villas and manors outside of Abildon. Though to find them roaming the streets or strongholds of more populated areas was certainly not commonplace from what Alaria could recall.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Alaria rose and moved to stare out of one of the windows.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“Won’t be long now, milady. The captain is just finishing up with his lieutenants.” Festus offered with a smile.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Alaria returned the smile and nodded. He’d told her the same thing twice in the passed ten minutes. She did not mind the wait, actually. She had much on her mind.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Looking out the window and down at the broad seemingly impossibly long expanse of the bridge spanning the wide section of the D’Evand. The bridge of Bridgetower was wide enough to allow four men on horseback to ride side by side with room to spare for a footman on either side. The water sparkled and the silvery grey and white stones of the bridge (built back in the Selurian days, Festus had told her the first time she’d looked out the slit in the stone wall) gleamed in the midday sun.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">The two-towered gatehouse at the other side of the river was common-enough looking, built of the grey stone to be found just about anywhere.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">She watched a moment as horses pulled wagons, groups of soldiers in blue tabbards going to or coming from their appointed posts and commonfolk in plain clothes of brown and grey toted bundles and baskets across the bridge from the gatehouse to the tower.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Alaria turned at the sound of the large iron-banded oak door heaving open.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Out came three men in armor and jackets of blue with blue and grey cloaks, helms tucked under their arms. Two of the men sported beard while one wore the droopy-styled moustache like Sergeant Goren. All three nodded and grumbled greetings to “milady” as they passed by and disappeared around the bending hallway.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“Come!” boomed a gravely baritone voice from inside the chamber.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Festus waited a breath and then stuck his head into the office. “My lord, the Magess Alaria is here for her appointment.” The satyr said, sounding most deferential.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“Yes, yes. Show her in, Festus.” Commanded the voice.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">As Alaria entered the doorway, Festus began a lengthy and formal introduction.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“My lord, may I present the lady, Magess Alaria Staver of Ablidon. Lady Magess, may I present his Lordship, Rynthis Thesunder, Senechal of Bridgetower and Captain of the South March to his most exalted luminousity, Arganor, Lordmage of…”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“Yes. Yes. Thank you, Festus. You may go.” Captain Rynthis said, his voice and face softening.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">He was, Alaria had to admit to herself, quite a handsome man of middling age. A full head of charcoal black hair and neatly trimmed beard both bore distinguished-looking strips of silver white. He wore a thigh-length sleeveless jacket of deep indigo leather worked at the shoulders and trimmed with golden scroll work. A swordbelt hung at his waist, but instead of scabbard, Alaria was surprised to see a rather large, finely woven, grey sack, and other pouches and pockets of varying size. It was then that Alaria became aware that in amongst the scrolling pattern of his jerkin were mystic symbols, though she could not discern their precise purpose.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">The Captain extended an arm in greeting, sleeved in chainmail, ending in a thick gloved hand of matching indigo leather.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“<em>It is a pleasure and honor, my lady Magess. I must first ask to your lady’s health? Feeling better I trust.”</em> <<em>translated from R’Hathi, formal courtly language of the Mage-lands</em>> Rynthis began.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Alaria’s mind balked at hearing the High Tongue of R’Hath spoken to her. She new a bit of the language of the courts, but had never expected to hear it spoken, so perfectly, this (what she considered) “far” from her homeland. She extended a gentile hand which he gripped and bowed to kiss, leaning over his desk.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“<em>Much better, my lord Captain. Thanks to the generosity and charity of your lordship and his, er…</em> Revered Daughters.” Alaria responded as best she could in the High Tongue before taking the captain’s unspoken offer to sit. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“Ah yes, well,” he began, also switching to the Common tongue, “Old Midge is a wonder. I have been fortunate to have Gilea grant she be in my service for so long. She’s been seeing to Bridgetower’s well-being since before I arrived.” He smiled lightly.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“May I offer you some refreshment?” the captain asked as he moved to a side table set with array of polished silver and crystal decanters and goblets. “Midge tells me you have had little to eat or drink these passed days.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">When Alaria declined with a thankful smile and polite hand, Rynthis poured himself a deep golden colored fluid from one of the decanters and took a deep swig before returning to his high-backed seat behind the desk.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“I must also thank you for your company’s defense of our humble outpost. I trust you have been informed that you and your companions are to be honored tomorrow eve with a feast. My wife, the lady Elhianne, is most anxious to meet you and wished me to covey her sincerest relief and thanks at hearing of your recovery.” The captain continued.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“Uh, yes. My thanks again Captain Rynthis. I would hardly call Bridgetower an outpost, my lord. This is as impressive a keep as any I have seen...outside of R"Hath, of course. Your lady is most gracious to go to the trouble.” Alaria responded…but had more she wanted to ask.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">The captain laughed. “Tis no trouble at all, Magess. My lady would throw a party when the sun set or the moons rose, if I would allow it. I am afraid there are few distractions for her ladyship in such a place as this. But in the face of such bravery and loss, a celebration is most welcome and deserved.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“Loss, my lord?” Alaria began before understanding that he’d meant the loss of his soldiers an, perhaps, her ‘soldiers’ as well. “Ah, yes. Of course.” Her gaze went to the hands folded in her lap.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“Magess Alaria, forgive me. I meant not to cause you pain. The battlefield is a cruel place for even the most stalwart of veterans…” The captain began apologetically. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“No. No. It is quite all right.” She forced her mind to the task at hand and lifted her eyes to meet the captain’s concerned look. “Your lordship is quite right. Now, I understand you wished to speak with me? I would surely have sought you out, in my own time, to offer the thanks of my people for the exceptional hospitality of your house.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Rynthis took another swig of his goblet and lifted a waving hand. “Not at all, Magess Alaria. It is the least we can do. Especially in this countryside and the uncertain times we find ourselves. Goblins so near Daenfrii…I never thought I’d see the day.” His glance wandered to the wall above the side table and decanters. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“Um, my lord? If I may before you begin, your name…” Alaria tentatively began to ask.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Rynthis’ grey eyes returned to the magess and he smiled light-heartedly again. “You are correct, Magess Alaria...of Ablidon. I am, indeed, of the High-family Thesunder. Primagus Gorem is my cousin.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Alaria could hardly believe her ears. The Primagus of Ablidon, Gorem Thesunder was the cousin of this captain<em>. Here</em>, in Daenfrii? Her eyes betrayed more surprise than she intended. “Um, well…my lord…I must, definitely..um..” Her mind swam. What <em>was</em> she supposed to do? What could she possibly offer for one of the highest royal families in R’Hath!? “How did you…” she stumbled before Rynthis gracefully interrupted her.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“You’ve done quite enough for now, I am sure. As to how I came here, I renounced my position in my cousin's army as Battlemage to do even as you, I suspect. See the world." He smiled broadly.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">"In my travels, I found myself here, in Daenfrii, where my heart was stolen by my lady love. My skills brought me into the distinguished service of our most beneficent Lordmage.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Alaria nodded politely.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“But, now, yes to the business at hand. Our thanks and generosity aside, I am afraid I have a few items to discuss with you.” Rynthis began, setting the heavy goblet down on the desk.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“It seems, Magess, that your Hilltender’s ferret got into the chicken coop yesterday morning. We have, of course, compensated the farmer for the loss of…” He rifled through the disarray of letters on his desk before pulling one out and looking at it. “..six chickens. We had to give him double before he stopped ranting for the animal’s head. But I must please ask you to have the daelvar keep the creature tethered or otherwise penned so as to not have a repeat of the incident.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">The Hilltender’s ferret? Alaria was not sure what to say. She would have to discuss the matter with Haelan. “I will offer recompense, of course, your lordship. It will, of course, be as you say. I cannot apologize enough. Um, where is Butter..er, the ferret, now?”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">"We had the Hilltender take it to one of the dungeons, not really having any other way to cage the thing. The daelvar was quite upset, at first, but said today that the creature seems to be enjoying itself…and helping the ‘Tower in its own way,” Rynthis almost chuckled, “cleaning up the rats.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“Well, my lord, I can assure you…” Alaria began.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“I’ve also received a complaint from the chamberlain about the dwarf.” Rynthis continued.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Alaria’s eyes went to the ceiling. By the Blue Star, Duor, what have you done now?!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“It seems, the chamberlain claims, he is running the servants ragged with his requests for food and drink at all hours of the day and night…” Rynthis looked to another sheet of paper, “and, ‘accosted’ more than one of the serving girls.” One of the captain’s eyebrows arched a bit, “According to the chamberlain, quote ‘in a manner less than respectable for a defender of the tower’, end quote. Now, I don’t know what that means. Mistress Angtha is rather proper about these things and I am not one to deny a hero his fair, er, ‘spoils’ if you would. But I must address the complaint, you understand.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Alaria did not doubt her face flushed to nearly the shade of her gown. She would ring the dwarf’s neck for such an embarrassment. “Of course, Captain Rynthis. You need have no further concern on that matter. I will turn him into a toad if he continues behaving in the slightest unsavory manner.” Alaria responded in all seriousness. She knew she didn’t have the power to turn him into a toad, yet, but she’d figure out something.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">The captain guffawed. “Well, let us hope that won’t be necessary. But I will leave it to your obviously capable hands.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Alaria was glad at the appearance that these ‘transgressions’ did not sully her or her company’s reputation with the Battlemage captain. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Rynthis’ face then became quite solemn. He spoke softly, gingerly. “Now, there is the lamentable question of your fallen companion.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“The Shaalir have made it clear they wish to return to their own halls on the morrow.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“We’ve been informed by the Lordmage’s diviners, and our own scouts have confirmed, that the bulk of the goblin army is passing us by. Heading straight for the elves, from what it seems. So, gods willing, we would have no further need of their services. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“I know you have been through quite an ordeal of your own, the spell sleep is no simple thing, but I really must ask that you make a decision on the burial arrangements and proper rites for your swordman. I understand from speaking with the Hilltender and Redstar that he hailed from Grinlia? I must confess, I am not familiar with their funerary practices.” </span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Alaria nodded in understanding. Her face took on a shroud of solemnity itself. She didn’t know what Grinlians did for funerals either. She fought to hold back the tears she felt welling up in her eyes. She could not, <em>would</em> not, cry in front of one of the Thesunders. Such an emotional display must be unforgivable in the ranks of such a house in their homeland. He’s related to the Primagus, for Manat’s sake!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“However,” Rynthis continued, his voice filled with comforting concern, “if my lady would prefer, I will see to the arrangements myself. He was a warrior, after all, and I do know how to do honor a fellow warrior.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Alaria steeled her nerve and forced the tears to return to the back of her eyes. “My thanks, Captain Rynthis. But you and your house have done quite enough for us, already.” Or had they, Alaria wondered.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“As you wish.” Rynthis answered calmly. “But I must, again, insist that you make your wishes known to the Shaalir by day’s end.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“My lord,” Alaria started, surprising herself with what she was about to suggest, “you have done so much for us already, I fear to ask anything more of your generosity…”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Rynthis leaned back in his high-backed chair, a brow arched.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Alaria noticed, for the first time since she’d entered, the great tapestry hanging on the wall above and behind the chair. The golden dragon with outstretched wing, grasping the blue diamond looked down over the captain.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Alaria gulped and continued. “Would it be within the power of the Shaalir or the sacred Daughters, perhaps, to return Braddok to the living?” There! She’d said it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Now both of Rynthis’ eyebrows rose in obvious surprise. He paused a moment and let out a lengthy exhale. “I am afraid, I cannot say, Magess Alaria. Whether it is within the power of the Shaalir or not, or within the power or inclination for Midge or any of our Daughters of Gilea, I simply do not know. This is no small thing you request.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Alaria nodded, her shoulders slumped. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“Of course, it is only natural that we want our loved ones returned to us.” Rynthis offered in condolence.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“He was not my loved one! He was an honored and trusted comrade and my protector. He…” Alaria replied with a bit too much defense and force. She regretted the obvious admission as soon as the words left her. “He deserves to be returned to us. His…His fate cannot be concluded in such a manner.” Alaria’s will gave under the emotional weight and despite her mental chastising, the tears began to flow.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Alaira again looked defeated and looked to the folded hands in her lap. Tears leaked down her cheek and dropped onto her hands. Quietly, she finished, “He was my friend.” </span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">The captain offered Alaria a handkerchief from somewhere in his desk. He nodded and remained silent for a moment as the magess collected herself.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“You must forgive me, Captain. It has been a trying day.” Alaria offered, attempting to explain away her outburst.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“No forgiveness is necessary, Magess.” Rynthis said calmly. “Manat grant that I have such a friend as you at my passing.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Alaria thanked the captain and rose to leave.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“Magess Alaria.” Rynthis finally said as Alaria reached for the door. "I can not say whether it might be possible or not, but I will say, if this is the will of you and your company, go speak with the Shaalir…and the Daughters...and find out what might be possible. But I do not wish to give you false hope. It has been a week since the battle. It is very likely possible Braddok’s spirit has received Desri’s judgement and been ferried to its deserved rest.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Alaria nodded a bow. “My thanks, Captain. I will look forward to speaking more with you at tomorrow’s celebration. Good day.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Rynthis rose from his desk and returned the bow. “The pleasure will be mine, Magess. Good morrow to you.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"></span> <span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Alaria made her way back to the stairs and began descending. She walked with singular purpose. Finally, where the stairs ended, on the bottom floor of the tower, Alaria stopped a serving boy and asked where she could find the Shaalir priest, Dolorn.</span></p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="steeldragons, post: 5693176, member: 92511"] [b]Captain Rynthis[/b] [FONT=Verdana]Alaria sat on one of the brightly-colored pillows that lined the oaken benches against the wall in the ‘waiting room’ for the office of Captain Rynthis. It was little more than a widened section of hallway at the end of the curving corridor that circled the perimeter of the tower. Still, the pillow-lined benches and small corner table, on which sat a silver decanter, pitcher of water and bowl of fruit (apples mostly), and the natural light from two narrow arrow-slit windows made the “chamber” more than comfortable. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]The satyr, Festus stood across from where Alaria sat. He whistled a jaunty tune, arms folded. Occasionally one of his hooves clipped a brief beat on the stone floor. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Alaria had caught him looking at her, more than once, in the passing minutes. Sometimes he wore an innocent grin to rival Haelan’s and sometimes there was something a bit more ‘carnal’, she thought, for lack of a better word. He certainly was an intriguing creature. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Satyrs were not such an unusual species in the mage-lands of R’Hath. They were a common enough sight at festivals as performers or footmen and messengers in the service of the grand villas and manors outside of Abildon. Though to find them roaming the streets or strongholds of more populated areas was certainly not commonplace from what Alaria could recall. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Alaria rose and moved to stare out of one of the windows. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“Won’t be long now, milady. The captain is just finishing up with his lieutenants.” Festus offered with a smile. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Alaria returned the smile and nodded. He’d told her the same thing twice in the passed ten minutes. She did not mind the wait, actually. She had much on her mind. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Looking out the window and down at the broad seemingly impossibly long expanse of the bridge spanning the wide section of the D’Evand. The bridge of Bridgetower was wide enough to allow four men on horseback to ride side by side with room to spare for a footman on either side. The water sparkled and the silvery grey and white stones of the bridge (built back in the Selurian days, Festus had told her the first time she’d looked out the slit in the stone wall) gleamed in the midday sun. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]The two-towered gatehouse at the other side of the river was common-enough looking, built of the grey stone to be found just about anywhere. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]She watched a moment as horses pulled wagons, groups of soldiers in blue tabbards going to or coming from their appointed posts and commonfolk in plain clothes of brown and grey toted bundles and baskets across the bridge from the gatehouse to the tower. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Alaria turned at the sound of the large iron-banded oak door heaving open. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Out came three men in armor and jackets of blue with blue and grey cloaks, helms tucked under their arms. Two of the men sported beard while one wore the droopy-styled moustache like Sergeant Goren. All three nodded and grumbled greetings to “milady” as they passed by and disappeared around the bending hallway. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“Come!” boomed a gravely baritone voice from inside the chamber. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Festus waited a breath and then stuck his head into the office. “My lord, the Magess Alaria is here for her appointment.” The satyr said, sounding most deferential. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“Yes, yes. Show her in, Festus.” Commanded the voice. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]As Alaria entered the doorway, Festus began a lengthy and formal introduction. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“My lord, may I present the lady, Magess Alaria Staver of Ablidon. Lady Magess, may I present his Lordship, Rynthis Thesunder, Senechal of Bridgetower and Captain of the South March to his most exalted luminousity, Arganor, Lordmage of…” [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“Yes. Yes. Thank you, Festus. You may go.” Captain Rynthis said, his voice and face softening. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]He was, Alaria had to admit to herself, quite a handsome man of middling age. A full head of charcoal black hair and neatly trimmed beard both bore distinguished-looking strips of silver white. He wore a thigh-length sleeveless jacket of deep indigo leather worked at the shoulders and trimmed with golden scroll work. A swordbelt hung at his waist, but instead of scabbard, Alaria was surprised to see a rather large, finely woven, grey sack, and other pouches and pockets of varying size. It was then that Alaria became aware that in amongst the scrolling pattern of his jerkin were mystic symbols, though she could not discern their precise purpose. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]The Captain extended an arm in greeting, sleeved in chainmail, ending in a thick gloved hand of matching indigo leather. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“[I]It is a pleasure and honor, my lady Magess. I must first ask to your lady’s health? Feeling better I trust.”[/I] <[I]translated from R’Hathi, formal courtly language of the Mage-lands[/I]> Rynthis began. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Alaria’s mind balked at hearing the High Tongue of R’Hath spoken to her. She new a bit of the language of the courts, but had never expected to hear it spoken, so perfectly, this (what she considered) “far” from her homeland. She extended a gentile hand which he gripped and bowed to kiss, leaning over his desk. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“[I]Much better, my lord Captain. Thanks to the generosity and charity of your lordship and his, er…[/I] Revered Daughters.” Alaria responded as best she could in the High Tongue before taking the captain’s unspoken offer to sit. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“Ah yes, well,” he began, also switching to the Common tongue, “Old Midge is a wonder. I have been fortunate to have Gilea grant she be in my service for so long. She’s been seeing to Bridgetower’s well-being since before I arrived.” He smiled lightly. “May I offer you some refreshment?” the captain asked as he moved to a side table set with array of polished silver and crystal decanters and goblets. “Midge tells me you have had little to eat or drink these passed days.” [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]When Alaria declined with a thankful smile and polite hand, Rynthis poured himself a deep golden colored fluid from one of the decanters and took a deep swig before returning to his high-backed seat behind the desk. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“I must also thank you for your company’s defense of our humble outpost. I trust you have been informed that you and your companions are to be honored tomorrow eve with a feast. My wife, the lady Elhianne, is most anxious to meet you and wished me to covey her sincerest relief and thanks at hearing of your recovery.” The captain continued. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“Uh, yes. My thanks again Captain Rynthis. I would hardly call Bridgetower an outpost, my lord. This is as impressive a keep as any I have seen...outside of R"Hath, of course. Your lady is most gracious to go to the trouble.” Alaria responded…but had more she wanted to ask. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]The captain laughed. “Tis no trouble at all, Magess. My lady would throw a party when the sun set or the moons rose, if I would allow it. I am afraid there are few distractions for her ladyship in such a place as this. But in the face of such bravery and loss, a celebration is most welcome and deserved.” [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“Loss, my lord?” Alaria began before understanding that he’d meant the loss of his soldiers an, perhaps, her ‘soldiers’ as well. “Ah, yes. Of course.” Her gaze went to the hands folded in her lap. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“Magess Alaria, forgive me. I meant not to cause you pain. The battlefield is a cruel place for even the most stalwart of veterans…” The captain began apologetically. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“No. No. It is quite all right.” She forced her mind to the task at hand and lifted her eyes to meet the captain’s concerned look. “Your lordship is quite right. Now, I understand you wished to speak with me? I would surely have sought you out, in my own time, to offer the thanks of my people for the exceptional hospitality of your house.” [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Rynthis took another swig of his goblet and lifted a waving hand. “Not at all, Magess Alaria. It is the least we can do. Especially in this countryside and the uncertain times we find ourselves. Goblins so near Daenfrii…I never thought I’d see the day.” His glance wandered to the wall above the side table and decanters. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“Um, my lord? If I may before you begin, your name…” Alaria tentatively began to ask. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Rynthis’ grey eyes returned to the magess and he smiled light-heartedly again. “You are correct, Magess Alaria...of Ablidon. I am, indeed, of the High-family Thesunder. Primagus Gorem is my cousin.” [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Alaria could hardly believe her ears. The Primagus of Ablidon, Gorem Thesunder was the cousin of this captain[I]. Here[/I], in Daenfrii? Her eyes betrayed more surprise than she intended. “Um, well…my lord…I must, definitely..um..” Her mind swam. What [I]was[/I] she supposed to do? What could she possibly offer for one of the highest royal families in R’Hath!? “How did you…” she stumbled before Rynthis gracefully interrupted her. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“You’ve done quite enough for now, I am sure. As to how I came here, I renounced my position in my cousin's army as Battlemage to do even as you, I suspect. See the world." He smiled broadly. "In my travels, I found myself here, in Daenfrii, where my heart was stolen by my lady love. My skills brought me into the distinguished service of our most beneficent Lordmage.” [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Alaria nodded politely. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“But, now, yes to the business at hand. Our thanks and generosity aside, I am afraid I have a few items to discuss with you.” Rynthis began, setting the heavy goblet down on the desk. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“It seems, Magess, that your Hilltender’s ferret got into the chicken coop yesterday morning. We have, of course, compensated the farmer for the loss of…” He rifled through the disarray of letters on his desk before pulling one out and looking at it. “..six chickens. We had to give him double before he stopped ranting for the animal’s head. But I must please ask you to have the daelvar keep the creature tethered or otherwise penned so as to not have a repeat of the incident.” [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]The Hilltender’s ferret? Alaria was not sure what to say. She would have to discuss the matter with Haelan. “I will offer recompense, of course, your lordship. It will, of course, be as you say. I cannot apologize enough. Um, where is Butter..er, the ferret, now?” [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]"We had the Hilltender take it to one of the dungeons, not really having any other way to cage the thing. The daelvar was quite upset, at first, but said today that the creature seems to be enjoying itself…and helping the ‘Tower in its own way,” Rynthis almost chuckled, “cleaning up the rats.” [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“Well, my lord, I can assure you…” Alaria began. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“I’ve also received a complaint from the chamberlain about the dwarf.” Rynthis continued. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Alaria’s eyes went to the ceiling. By the Blue Star, Duor, what have you done now?! [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“It seems, the chamberlain claims, he is running the servants ragged with his requests for food and drink at all hours of the day and night…” Rynthis looked to another sheet of paper, “and, ‘accosted’ more than one of the serving girls.” One of the captain’s eyebrows arched a bit, “According to the chamberlain, quote ‘in a manner less than respectable for a defender of the tower’, end quote. Now, I don’t know what that means. Mistress Angtha is rather proper about these things and I am not one to deny a hero his fair, er, ‘spoils’ if you would. But I must address the complaint, you understand.” [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Alaria did not doubt her face flushed to nearly the shade of her gown. She would ring the dwarf’s neck for such an embarrassment. “Of course, Captain Rynthis. You need have no further concern on that matter. I will turn him into a toad if he continues behaving in the slightest unsavory manner.” Alaria responded in all seriousness. She knew she didn’t have the power to turn him into a toad, yet, but she’d figure out something. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]The captain guffawed. “Well, let us hope that won’t be necessary. But I will leave it to your obviously capable hands.” [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Alaria was glad at the appearance that these ‘transgressions’ did not sully her or her company’s reputation with the Battlemage captain. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Rynthis’ face then became quite solemn. He spoke softly, gingerly. “Now, there is the lamentable question of your fallen companion. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“The Shaalir have made it clear they wish to return to their own halls on the morrow. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“We’ve been informed by the Lordmage’s diviners, and our own scouts have confirmed, that the bulk of the goblin army is passing us by. Heading straight for the elves, from what it seems. So, gods willing, we would have no further need of their services. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“I know you have been through quite an ordeal of your own, the spell sleep is no simple thing, but I really must ask that you make a decision on the burial arrangements and proper rites for your swordman. I understand from speaking with the Hilltender and Redstar that he hailed from Grinlia? I must confess, I am not familiar with their funerary practices.” [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Alaria nodded in understanding. Her face took on a shroud of solemnity itself. She didn’t know what Grinlians did for funerals either. She fought to hold back the tears she felt welling up in her eyes. She could not, [I]would[/I] not, cry in front of one of the Thesunders. Such an emotional display must be unforgivable in the ranks of such a house in their homeland. He’s related to the Primagus, for Manat’s sake! [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“However,” Rynthis continued, his voice filled with comforting concern, “if my lady would prefer, I will see to the arrangements myself. He was a warrior, after all, and I do know how to do honor a fellow warrior.” [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Alaria steeled her nerve and forced the tears to return to the back of her eyes. “My thanks, Captain Rynthis. But you and your house have done quite enough for us, already.” Or had they, Alaria wondered. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“As you wish.” Rynthis answered calmly. “But I must, again, insist that you make your wishes known to the Shaalir by day’s end.” [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“My lord,” Alaria started, surprising herself with what she was about to suggest, “you have done so much for us already, I fear to ask anything more of your generosity…” [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Rynthis leaned back in his high-backed chair, a brow arched. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Alaria noticed, for the first time since she’d entered, the great tapestry hanging on the wall above and behind the chair. The golden dragon with outstretched wing, grasping the blue diamond looked down over the captain. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Alaria gulped and continued. “Would it be within the power of the Shaalir or the sacred Daughters, perhaps, to return Braddok to the living?” There! She’d said it. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Now both of Rynthis’ eyebrows rose in obvious surprise. He paused a moment and let out a lengthy exhale. “I am afraid, I cannot say, Magess Alaria. Whether it is within the power of the Shaalir or not, or within the power or inclination for Midge or any of our Daughters of Gilea, I simply do not know. This is no small thing you request.” [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Alaria nodded, her shoulders slumped. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“Of course, it is only natural that we want our loved ones returned to us.” Rynthis offered in condolence. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“He was not my loved one! He was an honored and trusted comrade and my protector. He…” Alaria replied with a bit too much defense and force. She regretted the obvious admission as soon as the words left her. “He deserves to be returned to us. His…His fate cannot be concluded in such a manner.” Alaria’s will gave under the emotional weight and despite her mental chastising, the tears began to flow. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Alaira again looked defeated and looked to the folded hands in her lap. Tears leaked down her cheek and dropped onto her hands. Quietly, she finished, “He was my friend.” [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]The captain offered Alaria a handkerchief from somewhere in his desk. He nodded and remained silent for a moment as the magess collected herself. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“You must forgive me, Captain. It has been a trying day.” Alaria offered, attempting to explain away her outburst. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“No forgiveness is necessary, Magess.” Rynthis said calmly. “Manat grant that I have such a friend as you at my passing.” [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Alaria thanked the captain and rose to leave. [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]“Magess Alaria.” Rynthis finally said as Alaria reached for the door. "I can not say whether it might be possible or not, but I will say, if this is the will of you and your company, go speak with the Shaalir…and the Daughters...and find out what might be possible. But I do not wish to give you false hope. It has been a week since the battle. It is very likely possible Braddok’s spirit has received Desri’s judgement and been ferried to its deserved rest.” [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Alaria nodded a bow. “My thanks, Captain. I will look forward to speaking more with you at tomorrow’s celebration. Good day.” [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Rynthis rose from his desk and returned the bow. “The pleasure will be mine, Magess. Good morrow to you.” [/FONT] [FONT=Verdana]Alaria made her way back to the stairs and began descending. She walked with singular purpose. Finally, where the stairs ended, on the bottom floor of the tower, Alaria stopped a serving boy and asked where she could find the Shaalir priest, Dolorn.[/FONT] [/QUOTE]
Insert quotes…
Verification
Post reply
Community
Playing the Game
Story Hour
Steel Dragon's "Tales of Orea"
Top