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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Guilt Puppy" data-source="post: 1143371" data-attributes="member: 6521">"Bravery we have, Sir Holderhek, and power we draw from the conviction of our cause. I believe we have encountered this High Priestess already -- she proved to be a difficult adversary, although her retreat may indicate our advantage. We will have to confer, of course, but speaking for myself, yes, I am willing to try this approach.""I have two requests, however, to help insure our victory, and I appeal to your honor that you should understand. First, and perhaps most easy for you to oblige, I ask if we may receive your wisdom, Venerable Durvial, in the art of battle against these foes -- to train under your guidance, that through your insight we may attain some part of the great prowess which brought you and your company victory so long ago.""Beyond that, I have a request which may be more difficult for you to accept. I have heard many a story of the glorious and formidable fighting folk of the Hold, and since my arrival I have witnessed that it is indeed no exaggeration, for I have seen it in the eyes of every man in these halls: The sense of history and tradition which breeds determination and strength through the generations. I do not doubt myself or my companions, for our will is righteous and strong, but I know there are risks to our assault which lie beyond our control.""We have tried our best to encourage the people of Sevastopol to stay in or near their secured garrison, but since witnessing the numbers of the Wendol, we have begun to worry that it might not be so "secure" after all. If, as you say, they retreat North when we have slain their Priestess, there should be no problem: But if they do not, if perhaps she manages to deliver some last infernal mandate, the people of Sevastopol may not have the strength to defend themselves. With a supplement of your forces, not an army, but perhaps a small brigade, I would feel better about their chances, and take more comfort in bringing a confrontation to these wicked beast-men.""Finally, it goes against my nature to suppose that we should fail at our task, for such thoughts breed the cowardice which turns mens' hearts from Good. But with so many lives at stake, it would be irresponsible not to consider the possibility, and account for it. Given that, of any fighting force you are willing to lend, I pray to your honor and theirs that, if we fail to return, the strongest and most determined contingent among them should follow in our footsteps, to be sure the job is done. I am willing to stake my life that they will not need to take this risk, understand; but if I should fall, I want to fall knowing I have made arrangements to carry out the cause I have staked my life on.""I know these are great requests: The Hold must look after its own interests, first and foremost, as that is the sovereign responsibility of even the most generous nation. But I appeal to you that we are part of a yet greater nation, the sum of all people who believe that Good is real and precious, that it is worth a cost in life to protect it, wherever it is found.""But I leave it to your wisdom to judge the worthiness of this cause, and I will bow to your decision either way. It is a gift worthy of praise itself that you have given us audience, and I thank your souls with mine."Nathaniel bows his head respectfully, eyes down, but listening intently for any subtle responses he might receive -- a contemptuous cough, a moved sigh, what have you.</blockquote>

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