The end is the beginning
The loremaster listens intently to your descpriptions of the beast-men that were met in the manor, the manor itself, surrounding areas and, most intently, the descriptions of what was seen through the far-seeing crystal. After many long moments of this, he nods and briefly consults a heavy-bound tome that he pulls from somewhere within his robes.
"The creatures you met were of the variety orchavious viscovia, commonly referred to as monkey-men, crazen, terroza or orcen, depending on the area you are in. They are mostly as you described; about the size and strength of men, typically with a love for killing and destruction. They are also typically dirty, smelly and have no regard for other creatures at all. The average orcen is a fairly even match for a common soldier. You are lucky to have escaped with your lives.
"As for this Varg you talk of, he seem much less the typical Orcen. He is far more intelligent and cunning than we have been led to believe an orcen is capable of. This makes his kind even more dangerous.
"Also, your typical orcen band or tribe is 20 to 50 individuals. More than that and they begin to fight amongst themselves. This is what keeps their numbers in check and keeps them from making raids into more civilised lands. This leader of theirs must be truly charismatic to braw so many to his banner.
"Perhaps the most troubling aspect of all is the Giants. They and the orcen are typically bitter enemies. The giants use the orcen as slaves, war fodder and, occasionally, dinner. The Giants you describe are most likely ice-giants, lesser cousins to the truly formidable frost giants. Make no mistake, though. ANY giant is a force to be reckoned with."
Lenric sits and takes all this in, absorbing as much as he can. "Thank you loremaster, please prepare a formal report as soon as possible."
"Of course, your majesty."
Turning to the group again, Lenric speaks "This group has performed the service requested as fully as was possible. Furthermore, you have brought word of a very serious threat on or northern borders, their composition, numbers, and their leader. I have no words for the service you have given. You all have my thanks and are welcome to stay in my guest wing for as long as you require.
"Furthermore I direct the Warder to replace any goods, foodstuffs and supplies that were consumed in the commision of this task. I also direct the exchequer to release the sum of 100 gold Crowns to each of you.
"I thank you for this most valuable service to us."
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Well, here we are a year later and this chapter is finally closed. I hope that those of you who made it to the end found the journey enjoyable and had a good adventure. I am still working on the second chapter, loosely entitled "honor among thieves".
Please take the time to make notes here or in the OOC thread (Which should still be there...) as to things that you liked and didn't like, things that worked and didn't work and, most importantly, anthing you feel that could have made the game better or more fun for you.
I, too, wish to givve a huge thank you to the players, both here and gone, for having taken time out from friends, family and work to spend it in my world.
Be safe, be happy and, above all, Game On!
