--- THE BAINLUNDER HILLS ---
- ooc -
A little hasty on the goodbyes; the party is still a couple of days from the base of the hills. Mikal was just pointing out that if the party wants to visit Kinthriver, they would need to take a different direction from here. But that being said, we can move ahead to said moment.
Mikal heads off once more, but this time the route he takes is more circumspect, and a little more difficult, He sticks to the valleys and the low areas to keep from being seen, ass well as taking the party through a number of small woodland regions. It seems to work however, and two days later, the land has become more hilly, and the mountains of Stonepike have grown to dominate the landscape.
It is a little after noon when Mikal pullls up.
"The path to Duvik is about a mile or so down that way," he says, pointing down the valley you have just entered. The path follows a river up into the Duvik valley, so it should be easy enough to pick up. I don't know of any other paths around here."
"I'm going to leave you now. With luckthere are still a few miles left in the day before night falls. The Hoose farm lies south of here. A soft bed and a hot meal would be a nice change."
After all the goodbyes are said, Mikal turns to leave. But he stops and turns back.
"The Brothers of Stone call the Stonepike mountains home. They are good people, generous and kind. But the mountains are full of dangers and the Brothers tend to be wary and cautious around strangers.
"There are no clan holds near Duvik, the Brothers tend to keep their distance from humans. So I don't expect that you will run across any. But remember, they have been fighting the orcs for centuries," he adds carefully, "So do not be too offended if they are a little cool towards you if you do meet. Tell them that Mikal of Bainlunder lodge has brought you across the Hills, and that he wishes you the best. And show them this."
Mikal pulls a medalion from around his neck and hands it to Eternity with a small smile.
"Hopefully it will allay their concerns."