Sera watched as the second bushy-mustached dwarf gave the guard a quick nod, signaling them to be let inside. She met his gaze and gave him an approving nod in return.
"Thank you… that was kind," she said, her voice sincere. Then, after a brief pause, she added, "I wonder if I could ask one more favor. Since it’s our turn to get some help… could you find Verhnna, the councilwoman? And maybe…"
Her words faltered as her gaze swept over the settlement.
Hunger. Sickness. Despair.
The air reeked of unwashed bodies, stale sweat, and sickness. A child, thin as a reed, clung to his mother’s tattered skirt, his hollow eyes staring at nothing. Nearby, an old man sat slumped against a broken cart, his skin drawn tight over his bones, muttering prayers to gods who no longer seemed to listen. A woman knelt by a bundle of rags—no, a body—whispering soft, broken words as she smoothed down the lifeless hair of someone she had loved.
Sera swallowed hard.
She knew Handar had brought a large load of supplies with the caravan—enough to restock Glynnis’s Dancing Hall tavern and restart the mead-making—but looking at this? It wasn’t enough. Not even close.
She hadn’t expected to be faced with this much pain, not again. Yet here it was, raw and relentless, pulling her back to the beggar streets of Palanthas, where she'd once struggled to survive. Where the dying lay forgotten in the alleys, and those who still breathed had to fight for every scrap.
Her parents had always told her: Help those in need, Sera.
A tear slipped down her cheek before she even realized it. She hurried to wipe it away, forcing herself to stand straighter, to look stronger. Like the heroic knight she was not… and probably never would be.
But she wasn’t fooling anyone.
Not her friends, who had seen her struggle to keep calm. Not the ones who had fought beside her and knew the weight she carried. They saw her face, her sadness, the way her hands curled into fists as if trying to hold herself together.
Taking a shaky breath, she squared her shoulders and forced herself to move.
“Geetings great dwarf” *Merkas waves to Sharn energetically* “Well it’s sure kind of you to speak up for us friend but what makes you think we’re worth sticking your neck out for? We are of course but you barely got a chance to see us walk up to the gate and you still said nice things about us”
*The azure kender starts making a lap around the dwarf as he’s talking, looking over the newcomer*
“You been sitting beside the road long? You got lotsa dust in your clothes”
Finishing his lap around the dwarf as he’s spots Seras reaction, Merkas bounds over next to her and reaches up to hold her hand or at least help it unclench
Hastos throws his bag over his shoulder. As he passes the dwarf guard he says “I’ll behave myself.” He doesn’t wait to the the guards reaction. Hastos leans over to Merkas with a smirk. “I don’t think he liked me.”
After a moment, Hastos’ face grows solemn and he turns to Merkas and Sera. “Thank you both for speaking on my behalf.” Hastos says warmly. He had spent many years in the wild, alone. This concept of people he didn’t know that well vouching for him seemed new, unfamiliar. Odd. He took this job as a means of making a little coin. He liked these people. He certainly hadn’t expected… attachments.
His thoughts are quickly interrupted by the sights of despair and hardship, the destitute and despairing were everywhere. He had seen first hand the destruction the Dragon armies brought with them, the utter destruction they left in their wake. But nothing like this.
He says quietly to Sera and Merkas “This is bad.”
As Hastos surveys the calamity surrounding them, he notices the grievous look on Sera’s face. This is hitting her hard he thought. It was hitting all of them, it something about this ran deeper for her.
He watched Merkas take her hand and gently uncurl it from the clenched fist it had been. Merkas has. Even one of the most genuinely kind souls he’s encountered since he was very young. He had seen him overcome his own pain earlier. And now, push through his own trauma to give comfort to Sera. Something about that touched Hastos
Hastos reaches over and squeezes Sera’s shoulder.”Merkas is right. We can help here.”
"I'm glad you realize that you can do good here. You mentioned Verhnna, I'm sure if we meet her together, she'll see you without much wait. You had places you wanted to go to here, right? I'll be your guide, so long as you let me accompany you until the next sunrise."
Sharn guides you through the dismal scene and past the residential district that is currently being built until you get to the headquarters at the back. He stops at a building on the farthest left, which has a sign with Verhanna's name on it and a small inscription below:
This office is not open to travelers. If you wish to speak with Verhanna, please make an appointment at the next council meeting. Registered merchants, fellow council members, and mercenaries seeking or fulfilling contracts are welcome to come in during regular business hours.
Since you count as a mercenary fulfilling a contract, you qualify to enter. Inside, the structure is small, but well-maintained. It's the cleanest place you've seen since arriving. The furniture is polished to a shine and every bookshelf is neatly organized with bound ledgers and small, tasteful decorations. The only dust you find is what you bring with you. Even the air is perfumed with a light incense that reminds Hastos of his childhood home. Sitting at her large wooden desk is an elf woman with long, soft hair held back by an ebony headband interwoven with red flowers. Her jewelry is simple, but elegant gold, draping down her neckline. Her clothes are modest in design, but made of a soft fabric. She sets her quill down and turns her eyes up toward you when you enter. Her face is a stark contrast to her soft elegance... her eyes stern and unblinking, her lips permanently stuck in a frown.
"I should hope you read the sign before entering, and therefore are here on authorized business. Or shall I call the guards to have you thrown out?"
Sera felt a small but comforting hand slip into hers—Merkas, ever the cheerful kender, offering silent support. A moment later, Hastos gave her a firm pat on the shoulder, his way of showing gratitude. She could feel the tension ease from him now that the guard had let him through, despite the suspicion over his dragon officer armor.
With that settled, another dwarf led them through the outpost, winding past makeshift barricades and wary-eyed refugees. Sera took it all in—the dust-filled air, the exhaustion etched into every face, the smell of desperation mingling with sweat and mule dung. The people here had nowhere else to go. It made her chest tighten.
When they arrived at their destination, Councilwoman Verhenna barely spared them a glance before speaking, her tone edged with impatience. "I should hope you read the sign before entering, and therefore are here on authorized business. Or shall I call the guards to have you thrown out?"
Sera arched a brow but held back a smirk. She could only imagine how frustrating this job must be—trying to keep order in a place teetering on the edge of collapse. If Verhenna wanted to cling to her sharp attitude, Sera wouldn’t blame her.
Still, as Sera looked down at her own travel-worn state—dust coating her armor, sweat clinging to her skin, and the faint, unholy stench of mule riding clinging to her clothes—she let out a quiet sigh. "Paladine, next time, perhaps a cleaning spell?" she muttered under her breath, fingers brushing over the silver triangle of her holy symbol before straightening her posture.
Clearing her throat, she stepped forward, placing a fist over her heart in a crisp Solamnic salute. Her voice was steady, polite, but firm. "Ehem... yes, I read the sign. Sorry to disturb."
She lifted her chin slightly, meeting Verhenna’s gaze with quiet confidence. "We are the guards who protected the caravan that just arrived, my lady. Caravan leader Handor mentioned there was some form of payment owed for our service, and we were instructed to contact you."
She gestured smoothly toward her companions, introducing them in turn. "This is Hastos, a warrior from Silvanesti. And this is Merkas Flinttassle—a bringer of smiles and good moods." She gave the kender an amused glance, knowing his knack for mischief.
Then, her gaze landed on the mustached dwarf, Sharn. She gave a slight nod in his direction, assuming Verhenna already knew him.
Finally, Sera took a single step forward before sinking to one knee, resting one hand lightly on the pommel of her sword. The posture of a knight before a noble—not because she owed Verhenna fealty, but because her father had taught her to show respect where it was due.
"And I am Sera uth Darnon, a Cleric of Paladine, from Solamnia." She lifted her head, her expression steady, unwavering. "I speak only for myself, my lady, but I offer my services in this time of great need. I have sworn an oath to battle Takhisis and her forces in any way I can."
Her voice carried the weight of conviction as she continued. "If I may serve by defending with my sword and shield, healing with my god’s gifts, or building with my carpentry skills, I will gladly do so. Simply tell me where I am needed."
Her words hung in the air for a moment before she fell silent, allowing the others to speak.
“Don’t worry if the guard don’t like you, Haz, we do!”
Following the Sharn through the town, Merkas chats away while he's looking over the fortifications (Nat 1 Perception, looking for traps/hidden defenses).
"Yeah, Great Dwarf, You haven't said your name so gotta say something to be sure you know I was talking to you. Stay with us 'until the sun' comes up tomorrow? Not sure I want you sleeping in my bed, and Sera and Haz, well, they may have an extra if they ever fall in step and move past the jokes. This place is pretty run down, amazing that so many people can work and live in a place that really isn't that good for a population to grow in."
The Kender is nearly running laps around his companions as he's trying to see everything all at once. He comes to a stop next to Sera as they come to Verhanna's door
"Ooh that's a lot of requirements, we sure we can go in, oh yeah we're kinda mercenary types right now so I guess so..."
His speech stops instantly at the sight of Verhanna. He moves to the edge of her desk as Sera give introductions. His 2'7" height making it so he has to place his hands on the front and pull his eyes up over the edge to peer at the elf woman like a child watching a parent make their favorite treat. As Sera makes her declaration Merkas whispers, not so quietly.
Verhannas focuses her gaze on Sera. She is hard to read beyond the perpetual frown, but she does seem a bit flattered by the knightly display. "There's no need to kneel, Sera Uth Darnon of Solamnia. There are no nobles... not anymore. Those of us who enjoyed the privileges of nobility have renounced that role in favor of service to the people who live here. I am but a member of the council, and you may address me as Councilor Verhannas."
She thinks for a moment, absently chewing her hair until she notices Merkas peering over the table at her whispering praise of her appearance. "Uhm... thank you. Would you mind taking your hands of my desk?"
Considering that matter settled, she turns back to the woman she perceives to be in charge. "Sera Uth Darnon, you have my thanks for delivering the refugees safely. By my understanding, the Hachakee have already explained what kind of place this truly is. I trust you'll keep that information discreet. As a trade outpost, we are not a target... yet. And it's in our best interest to keep it that way for as long as possible."
She places her hands on her desk and you can see the ring Duncan was referring to. It's a gorgeous purple ring with runic inscriptions on it. Under a different light, it shines indigo. Pressing against the table, she rises to a stand. You can see she's a bit tall for an elf, and she uses that stature well as she looms over your party for a moment.
"I have a document to sign, and then you may receive your pay." She glides over to a safe, and slides a key into the lock. Upon opening it, you can see that the safe isn't just empty, it's pitch black as if a darkness spell had been cast on it. She reaches in and says something in Elvish. Then, she pulls a rolled up bit of parchment and then four bags of coin, which she carefully places on the desk in a neat order. She rolls out the parchment and reads the contents:
To the mercenary troupe who shall be recognized as [blank], 100 steel each shall be paid upon successfully and safely delivering 100 refugees from Pashin. Furthermore, they are to be granted one night of room and board at The Laughing Dwarf Dance Hall, and may remain here, granted temporary resident privileges to perform further services and bounties as needed by the Council of Santekh. As such, [blank] agrees to submit to the laws and customs of Santekh and understand that any crimes committed within her walls will be subject to appropriate punishment as befitting the crime committed.
"If you agree to these terms, please sign your names at the bottom and fill in the black with the name of your troupe to receive your pay. If you unable to sign your name, an inkwell can be provided for you to place your thumbprint." She places an inkwell and quill next to the parchment and slides the collection to your side of the desk.
"The Laughing Dwarf." Sharn muttered. "A fine place to follow the stars to slumber, perhaps the finest Santekh."
He turned to look at the newcomers. "We seem to be acquainted with your names and you seem to be a good troupe indeed. I wonder what name shall you chose, if any."
Rising up, Sera gave a small smile at Merkas’ curiosity as he peeked over the desk, his kender instincts unable to resist. Councilwoman Verhenna, unfazed, and even suggested he withdraw his dirty fingers. So serious. Verhenna then goes over toa magical protected safe. Get out a contract and their payment. Then slid a contract across the desk along with a payment pouches. She reads up the content.
Sera listento her carefully. To her surprise, it wasn’t much of a contract at all—just a formal recognition of their efforts, referencing laws and rules they’d have to follow anyway. A token of bureaucracy more than anything binding. Maybe she miss her old life Sera wonders, glancing at the councilwoman.
She nodded to herself. They had never really discussed what came after this job, but Sera knew where she stood. If Hastos, Merkas, or even the new dwarf who had taken an interest in their group wanted to continue alongside her, she would welcome them. But they all had their own paths, their own choices to make.
Without any more hesitation, she signed her name on the paper. When she reached the space for a troupe name, she hesitated only a moment before turning to the others with a thoughtful smile.
"How about... The Dawnbound?" she suggested. "A hopeful name, signifying a fight against the darkness of Takhisis. But it’s no big deal to me if any of you have childhood dreams of something more... glorious." Her lips curved slightly, teasing. "Or if you even want to be a troupe at all? I’d love to have you join me, but you may be destined for other great deeds."
She glanced at Hastos for a moment, thinking she’d certainly miss sneaking peeks at that fine elven butt if he chose to part ways.
Then, she took the heavy pouch of coins—100 gold pieces. Her fingers tightened around it for a moment, stunned. That was a fortune in her eyes. Nearly twenty cows’ worth of wealth. More than she had ever dreamed of having at once. Her upbringing as farmer made her value things in livestock. The weight of it made her uneasy.
Without a word, she simply turned and placed the pouch back in Verhenna’s hands, stepping back with a respectful nod. "give it to the ones who needs it most" She had no need for such riches—there were others here who needed it far more than she did.
Hastos raises his eyebrows at the thought of being a “group”. His face turns introspective as he ponders this idea. “I like the ‘Dawnbound’.” He says finally.
As Verhenna reaches into the safe, Hastos notices that she says something in Elvish.
Hastos walks over to Verhenna‘s desk and signs the document, and takes his bag of coin and places it in his pouch.
I don’t know if I need to roll to see if I understood her, but just in case: Perception: 10
Without a word, she simply turned and placed the pouch back in Verhenna’s hands, stepping back with a respectful nod. "give it to the ones who needs it most" She had no need for such riches—there were others here who needed it far more than she did.
Verhannas accepts the bag and raises her eyebrow. It's hard to read if the expression is suspicion or sympathy. "Sera Uth Darnon, that's your choice, and I will re-appropriate the funds. But you should know... wealth is not what is in short supply. Many of the people here came with vast sums of it, with plans to invest in this settlement. Thousands of my own steel have been poured into building projects and restoration projects. What we truly need is food, water, weapons, and armor. And though I appreciate the sentiment, I struggle to understand how to motivate a mercenary who won't accept payments."
Hastos raises his eyebrows at the thought of being a “group”. His face turns introspective as he ponders this idea. “I like the ‘Dawnbound’.” He says finally.
As Verhenna reaches into the safe, Hastos notices that she says something in Elvish.
Hastos walks over to Verhenna‘s desk and signs the document, and takes his bag of coin and places it in his pouch.
Verhannas nods. "So your troupe is Dawnbound? A fitting name in a land that sees so much of the sun. Very well, I'll keep a book of your records under that name. If you wish to apply for permanent residency status, you may also purchase a building in the merchant district as a guild center, so that interested patrons can offer you bounties. Applying for residency status can be done at formal Council meetings. The merchant district is still being restored, so many of the structures are not yet safe enough to occupy, and all of our resources are being applied towards building housing first. Yet, I remain hopeful that in a few weeks, we'll be able to re-focus our efforts on restoring the merchant district further."
She looks to Merkas. "You may approach the desk and sign." She walks around the desk and presents a stool for him to stand on, then quickly returns to her spot behind the desk, as if not wanting to risk being touched.
"Sharn, you have been saying that you are waiting for someone. I take your presence here is indication that you've finally met them. Should I add your name to the Dawnbound account as a contact for further bounties?"
She thinks for a moment, absently chewing her hair until she notices Merkas peering over the table at her whispering praise of her appearance. "Uhm... thank you. Would you mind taking your hands of my desk?"
She places her hands on her desk and you can see the ring Duncan was referring to. It's a gorgeous purple ring with runic inscriptions on it. Under a different light, it shines indigo. Pressing against the table, she rises to a stand. You can see she's a bit tall for an elf, and she uses that stature well as she looms over your party for a moment.
"If you agree to these terms, please sign your names at the bottom and fill in the black with the name of your troupe to receive your pay. If you unable to sign your name, an inkwell can be provided for you to place your thumbprint." She places an inkwell and quill next to the parchment and slides the collection to your side of the desk.
Removing his hands and hurriedly pulling a kerchief out to wipe off any fingerprints he may have left behind.
"Dawnbound is nice, that may be weird though if our dwarf friend only stays with us until the sunrises, maybe we need to keep running from the sun so as to make the day last as long as possible so we can keep him with us as long as possible, I wonder if that would work?"
Watching as Verhanna stands, Merkas is taking in every detail of this woman that has captivated his heart. (Nat 20 = 20 total perception check for the inscription on the ring and memorizing details of Verhanna)
As the others start to sign the contract he moves to the side of Verhanna and kneels in a posture of apology
"Viscountess Verhanna; I vouch for you to absolve me of my verve for viewing your veneer so vacantly as to vex you with this vile volunt of vagabonds. Your very visage has voodooed this vessel into your valiant vassal vowed to vigilance in all valour and volition to validate all ventures volunteered"
After his declaration of fealty to Verhanna, Merkas moves over to sign the document.
"I am glad you remember, Council member Verhannas. Though I would appreciate joining the Dawnbound, I don't yet if they would have me. I will gladly confirm once the new day comes, for now, consider me a local guide."
He looked at Merkas to address the little kender with a grandfatherly smile.
"Though I would appreciate staying under the stars for longer, trying to outrun the sun feels unwise, not to mention exhausting. Even the heroes of old knew to keep their strength until it was needed."
She thinks for a moment, absently chewing her hair until she notices Merkas peering over the table at her whispering praise of her appearance. "Uhm... thank you. Would you mind taking your hands of my desk?"
She places her hands on her desk and you can see the ring Duncan was referring to. It's a gorgeous purple ring with runic inscriptions on it. Under a different light, it shines indigo. Pressing against the table, she rises to a stand. You can see she's a bit tall for an elf, and she uses that stature well as she looms over your party for a moment.
"If you agree to these terms, please sign your names at the bottom and fill in the black with the name of your troupe to receive your pay. If you unable to sign your name, an inkwell can be provided for you to place your thumbprint." She places an inkwell and quill next to the parchment and slides the collection to your side of the desk.
Removing his hands and hurriedly pulling a kerchief out to wipe off any fingerprints he may have left behind.
"Dawnbound is nice, that may be weird though if our dwarf friend only stays with us until the sunrises, maybe we need to keep running from the sun so as to make the day last as long as possible so we can keep him with us as long as possible, I wonder if that would work?"
Watching as Verhanna stands, Merkas is taking in every detail of this woman that has captivated his heart. (Nat 20 = 20 total perception check for the inscription on the ring and memorizing details of Verhanna)
As the others start to sign the contract he moves to the side of Verhanna and kneels in a posture of apology
"Viscountess Verhanna; I vouch for you to absolve me of my verve for viewing your veneer so vacantly as to vex you with this vile volunt of vagabonds. Your very visage has voodooed this vessel into your valiant vassal vowed to vigilance in all valour and volition to validate all ventures volunteered"
After his declaration of fealty to Verhanna, Merkas moves over to sign the document.
Verhannas seems shocked by you alliterative announcement of amour, and stares at you, speechless while you sign the document and take your payment. Once you have returned to your place with the group, she fidgets with her ring and stammers, "Um... of course." She nods stiffly and absently chews her hair again.
"So, if Dawnbound seeks more work, I have several bounties available. There are always threats to protect us from. I have them ranked by difficulty, and can produce one based on your capabilities. If you wish, I can retrieve one for you now, or you can... go and freshenup first. My office closes in a few hours. So, if you're not back by then, you may check in here at dawn."
Hrothbert_Neruca Merkas has an astute sense of observation, and understands that Verhannas, though standoffish, is a woman of principle and conviction. She's fiercely loyal to those she deems worthy of it, and a generally peace-loving person. She's also a bit of a germaphobe, and clearly more comfortable around women and other elves. She touches her ring a lot, and you notice that (to the customs of the region) it seems to be on the correct finger to denote marriage.
cheapjoke123 This may be amusing to Sharn, because he definitely knows that Verhannas has only one love above numbers... and that's her devoted wife, Rhyanna (Santekh's Assayer and fellow councilmember). Their ceremony was modest but elegant, and it was a big event to the people of Santekh. Rhyanna is definitely the extravert of the two, and can often be found working with the Hachakee to stabilize their failing agricultural endeavors. You'll also find Rhyanna tending to the people of the tent community in her spare time. She's famously kind and optimistic, in spite of the dire circumstances the settlement is under. And her disposition often serves as a beacon of hope amongst the community. But she does tend to be very vocal of her hatred towards draconic species, and barely tolerates Kasi, the town's only kobold resident. Rhyanna isn't the official leader of the council, because they are all equals, but when Rhyanna backs something, the rest of the council usually defers to her judgement.
Hastos clears his throat. “Perhaps we can take one now and use the time this evening and in the morning to deliberate on a plan, Edhil.” Hastos bows his head slightly with the word.
The others signed on as well, and they agreed upon the name Dawnbound for their group. Sera liked the sound of it—hopeful, forward-moving, a promise of light in dark times. She rolled the name over in her mind, letting it settle like a firm step forward on an uncertain path.
As they finalized their decision, Sharn, the bushy-mustached dwarf, stepped forward and pledged himself to their cause. Sera turned to him with a grateful smile, offering her hand in a firm clasp. "Thank you, Sharn. I look forward to fighting alongside you—and getting to know you better." She gave him an approving nod, acknowledging the strength and experience he brought to their group.
Meanwhile, Merkas, the ever-spirited kender, seemed utterly smitten with Councilwoman Verhenna. Sera bit back a smile, pressing her lips together and clearing her throat to keep her expression neutral. Focus.
Verhenna wasted no time, taken little aback at the kenders admiration she immediately offering them tasks. However, she acknowledged they should rest first. Hastos, ever the strategist, seemed eager to begin planning right away.
Sera shifted her weight, dusting off the worst of the travel grime from her tunic before nodding in agreement. "Yes, please. We’d only wonder about it anyway, so we might as well hear what needs to be done." She adjusted the strap of her shield across her back, standing tall despite the exhaustion tugging at her limbs. If their work was to begin soon, she wanted to be ready.
Racking his brain as to the significance of the draconic writing on Verhannas ring (Arcana check 5), Merkas realized the significance of the finger it is on and blushes at the implication of his advances. He regains his composure as talk turns to another task to perform.
“Yeah, it’s best we keep our hands occupied so as not to cause trouble, y’know idle hands are devils playground”
As he speaks he rummages through his pack looking for something he had stored there. Then says absently as he thinks about it.
”Ah, Great Dwarf! Your name is Sharn, is that like yarn or Shorn? Huh both those examples have to do with sheep, you weren’t a shepherd were you? Also you have any fighting experience? Myself I am more on the subtle side too little to hit too hard, y’know?”
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Loyalty Begets Honour
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Sera watched as the second bushy-mustached dwarf gave the guard a quick nod, signaling them to be let inside. She met his gaze and gave him an approving nod in return.
"Thank you… that was kind," she said, her voice sincere. Then, after a brief pause, she added, "I wonder if I could ask one more favor. Since it’s our turn to get some help… could you find Verhnna, the councilwoman? And maybe…"
Her words faltered as her gaze swept over the settlement.
Hunger. Sickness. Despair.
The air reeked of unwashed bodies, stale sweat, and sickness. A child, thin as a reed, clung to his mother’s tattered skirt, his hollow eyes staring at nothing. Nearby, an old man sat slumped against a broken cart, his skin drawn tight over his bones, muttering prayers to gods who no longer seemed to listen. A woman knelt by a bundle of rags—no, a body—whispering soft, broken words as she smoothed down the lifeless hair of someone she had loved.
Sera swallowed hard.
She knew Handar had brought a large load of supplies with the caravan—enough to restock Glynnis’s Dancing Hall tavern and restart the mead-making—but looking at this? It wasn’t enough. Not even close.
She hadn’t expected to be faced with this much pain, not again. Yet here it was, raw and relentless, pulling her back to the beggar streets of Palanthas, where she'd once struggled to survive. Where the dying lay forgotten in the alleys, and those who still breathed had to fight for every scrap.
Her parents had always told her: Help those in need, Sera.
A tear slipped down her cheek before she even realized it. She hurried to wipe it away, forcing herself to stand straighter, to look stronger. Like the heroic knight she was not… and probably never would be.
But she wasn’t fooling anyone.
Not her friends, who had seen her struggle to keep calm. Not the ones who had fought beside her and knew the weight she carried. They saw her face, her sadness, the way her hands curled into fists as if trying to hold herself together.
Taking a shaky breath, she squared her shoulders and forced herself to move.
She had to find a way to end this suffering.
“Geetings great dwarf” *Merkas waves to Sharn energetically* “Well it’s sure kind of you to speak up for us friend but what makes you think we’re worth sticking your neck out for? We are of course but you barely got a chance to see us walk up to the gate and you still said nice things about us”
*The azure kender starts making a lap around the dwarf as he’s talking, looking over the newcomer*
“You been sitting beside the road long? You got lotsa dust in your clothes”
Finishing his lap around the dwarf as he’s spots Seras reaction, Merkas bounds over next to her and reaches up to hold her hand or at least help it unclench
”Woah there, we came with help so that’s a start”
Loyalty Begets Honour
Hastos throws his bag over his shoulder. As he passes the dwarf guard he says “I’ll behave myself.” He doesn’t wait to the the guards reaction. Hastos leans over to Merkas with a smirk. “I don’t think he liked me.”
After a moment, Hastos’ face grows solemn and he turns to Merkas and Sera. “Thank you both for speaking on my behalf.” Hastos says warmly. He had spent many years in the wild, alone. This concept of people he didn’t know that well vouching for him seemed new, unfamiliar. Odd. He took this job as a means of making a little coin. He liked these people. He certainly hadn’t expected… attachments.
His thoughts are quickly interrupted by the sights of despair and hardship, the destitute and despairing were everywhere. He had seen first hand the destruction the Dragon armies brought with them, the utter destruction they left in their wake. But nothing like this.
He says quietly to Sera and Merkas “This is bad.”
As Hastos surveys the calamity surrounding them, he notices the grievous look on Sera’s face. This is hitting her hard he thought. It was hitting all of them, it something about this ran deeper for her.
He watched Merkas take her hand and gently uncurl it from the clenched fist it had been. Merkas has. Even one of the most genuinely kind souls he’s encountered since he was very young. He had seen him overcome his own pain earlier. And now, push through his own trauma to give comfort to Sera. Something about that touched Hastos
Hastos reaches over and squeezes Sera’s shoulder.”Merkas is right. We can help here.”
Character: Hastos, Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread
"Great dwarf?" Sharn chuckled.
"I'm glad you realize that you can do good here. You mentioned Verhnna, I'm sure if we meet her together, she'll see you without much wait. You had places you wanted to go to here, right? I'll be your guide, so long as you let me accompany you until the next sunrise."
Sharn guides you through the dismal scene and past the residential district that is currently being built until you get to the headquarters at the back. He stops at a building on the farthest left, which has a sign with Verhanna's name on it and a small inscription below:
Since you count as a mercenary fulfilling a contract, you qualify to enter. Inside, the structure is small, but well-maintained. It's the cleanest place you've seen since arriving. The furniture is polished to a shine and every bookshelf is neatly organized with bound ledgers and small, tasteful decorations. The only dust you find is what you bring with you. Even the air is perfumed with a light incense that reminds Hastos of his childhood home. Sitting at her large wooden desk is an elf woman with long, soft hair held back by an ebony headband interwoven with red flowers. Her jewelry is simple, but elegant gold, draping down her neckline. Her clothes are modest in design, but made of a soft fabric. She sets her quill down and turns her eyes up toward you when you enter. Her face is a stark contrast to her soft elegance... her eyes stern and unblinking, her lips permanently stuck in a frown.
"I should hope you read the sign before entering, and therefore are here on authorized business. Or shall I call the guards to have you thrown out?"
My DM Registry
My Campaigns:
Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread (PbP); Secrets of the Island (On Discord); Lost Mine of Phendelver (tabletop)
My Characters:
Krik-tul, Thri-kreen monk; Mme Cragmaw, Goblin Artificer; River Kuthraeann, Wood Elf Paladin
Hastos looks at Sera as if to ask if she would speak for them.
Character: Hastos, Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread
Sera felt a small but comforting hand slip into hers—Merkas, ever the cheerful kender, offering silent support. A moment later, Hastos gave her a firm pat on the shoulder, his way of showing gratitude. She could feel the tension ease from him now that the guard had let him through, despite the suspicion over his dragon officer armor.
With that settled, another dwarf led them through the outpost, winding past makeshift barricades and wary-eyed refugees. Sera took it all in—the dust-filled air, the exhaustion etched into every face, the smell of desperation mingling with sweat and mule dung. The people here had nowhere else to go. It made her chest tighten.
When they arrived at their destination, Councilwoman Verhenna barely spared them a glance before speaking, her tone edged with impatience. "I should hope you read the sign before entering, and therefore are here on authorized business. Or shall I call the guards to have you thrown out?"
Sera arched a brow but held back a smirk. She could only imagine how frustrating this job must be—trying to keep order in a place teetering on the edge of collapse. If Verhenna wanted to cling to her sharp attitude, Sera wouldn’t blame her.
Still, as Sera looked down at her own travel-worn state—dust coating her armor, sweat clinging to her skin, and the faint, unholy stench of mule riding clinging to her clothes—she let out a quiet sigh. "Paladine, next time, perhaps a cleaning spell?" she muttered under her breath, fingers brushing over the silver triangle of her holy symbol before straightening her posture.
Clearing her throat, she stepped forward, placing a fist over her heart in a crisp Solamnic salute. Her voice was steady, polite, but firm. "Ehem... yes, I read the sign. Sorry to disturb."
She lifted her chin slightly, meeting Verhenna’s gaze with quiet confidence. "We are the guards who protected the caravan that just arrived, my lady. Caravan leader Handor mentioned there was some form of payment owed for our service, and we were instructed to contact you."
She gestured smoothly toward her companions, introducing them in turn. "This is Hastos, a warrior from Silvanesti. And this is Merkas Flinttassle—a bringer of smiles and good moods." She gave the kender an amused glance, knowing his knack for mischief.
Then, her gaze landed on the mustached dwarf, Sharn. She gave a slight nod in his direction, assuming Verhenna already knew him.
Finally, Sera took a single step forward before sinking to one knee, resting one hand lightly on the pommel of her sword. The posture of a knight before a noble—not because she owed Verhenna fealty, but because her father had taught her to show respect where it was due.
"And I am Sera uth Darnon, a Cleric of Paladine, from Solamnia." She lifted her head, her expression steady, unwavering. "I speak only for myself, my lady, but I offer my services in this time of great need. I have sworn an oath to battle Takhisis and her forces in any way I can."
Her voice carried the weight of conviction as she continued. "If I may serve by defending with my sword and shield, healing with my god’s gifts, or building with my carpentry skills, I will gladly do so. Simply tell me where I am needed."
Her words hung in the air for a moment before she fell silent, allowing the others to speak.
“Don’t worry if the guard don’t like you, Haz, we do!”
Following the Sharn through the town, Merkas chats away while he's looking over the fortifications (Nat 1 Perception, looking for traps/hidden defenses).
"Yeah, Great Dwarf, You haven't said your name so gotta say something to be sure you know I was talking to you. Stay with us 'until the sun' comes up tomorrow? Not sure I want you sleeping in my bed, and Sera and Haz, well, they may have an extra if they ever fall in step and move past the jokes. This place is pretty run down, amazing that so many people can work and live in a place that really isn't that good for a population to grow in."
The Kender is nearly running laps around his companions as he's trying to see everything all at once. He comes to a stop next to Sera as they come to Verhanna's door
"Ooh that's a lot of requirements, we sure we can go in, oh yeah we're kinda mercenary types right now so I guess so..."
His speech stops instantly at the sight of Verhanna. He moves to the edge of her desk as Sera give introductions. His 2'7" height making it so he has to place his hands on the front and pull his eyes up over the edge to peer at the elf woman like a child watching a parent make their favorite treat. As Sera makes her declaration Merkas whispers, not so quietly.
"So Pretty"
Loyalty Begets Honour
Verhannas focuses her gaze on Sera. She is hard to read beyond the perpetual frown, but she does seem a bit flattered by the knightly display. "There's no need to kneel, Sera Uth Darnon of Solamnia. There are no nobles... not anymore. Those of us who enjoyed the privileges of nobility have renounced that role in favor of service to the people who live here. I am but a member of the council, and you may address me as Councilor Verhannas."
She thinks for a moment, absently chewing her hair until she notices Merkas peering over the table at her whispering praise of her appearance. "Uhm... thank you. Would you mind taking your hands of my desk?"
Considering that matter settled, she turns back to the woman she perceives to be in charge. "Sera Uth Darnon, you have my thanks for delivering the refugees safely. By my understanding, the Hachakee have already explained what kind of place this truly is. I trust you'll keep that information discreet. As a trade outpost, we are not a target... yet. And it's in our best interest to keep it that way for as long as possible."
She places her hands on her desk and you can see the ring Duncan was referring to. It's a gorgeous purple ring with runic inscriptions on it. Under a different light, it shines indigo. Pressing against the table, she rises to a stand. You can see she's a bit tall for an elf, and she uses that stature well as she looms over your party for a moment.
"I have a document to sign, and then you may receive your pay." She glides over to a safe, and slides a key into the lock. Upon opening it, you can see that the safe isn't just empty, it's pitch black as if a darkness spell had been cast on it. She reaches in and says something in Elvish. Then, she pulls a rolled up bit of parchment and then four bags of coin, which she carefully places on the desk in a neat order. She rolls out the parchment and reads the contents:
"If you agree to these terms, please sign your names at the bottom and fill in the black with the name of your troupe to receive your pay. If you unable to sign your name, an inkwell can be provided for you to place your thumbprint." She places an inkwell and quill next to the parchment and slides the collection to your side of the desk.
My DM Registry
My Campaigns:
Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread (PbP); Secrets of the Island (On Discord); Lost Mine of Phendelver (tabletop)
My Characters:
Krik-tul, Thri-kreen monk; Mme Cragmaw, Goblin Artificer; River Kuthraeann, Wood Elf Paladin
"The Laughing Dwarf." Sharn muttered. "A fine place to follow the stars to slumber, perhaps the finest Santekh."
He turned to look at the newcomers. "We seem to be acquainted with your names and you seem to be a good troupe indeed. I wonder what name shall you chose, if any."
Rising up, Sera gave a small smile at Merkas’ curiosity as he peeked over the desk, his kender instincts unable to resist. Councilwoman Verhenna, unfazed, and even suggested he withdraw his dirty fingers. So serious. Verhenna then goes over toa magical protected safe. Get out a contract and their payment. Then slid a contract across the desk along with a payment pouches. She reads up the content.
Sera listento her carefully. To her surprise, it wasn’t much of a contract at all—just a formal recognition of their efforts, referencing laws and rules they’d have to follow anyway. A token of bureaucracy more than anything binding. Maybe she miss her old life Sera wonders, glancing at the councilwoman.
She nodded to herself. They had never really discussed what came after this job, but Sera knew where she stood. If Hastos, Merkas, or even the new dwarf who had taken an interest in their group wanted to continue alongside her, she would welcome them. But they all had their own paths, their own choices to make.
Without any more hesitation, she signed her name on the paper. When she reached the space for a troupe name, she hesitated only a moment before turning to the others with a thoughtful smile.
"How about... The Dawnbound?" she suggested. "A hopeful name, signifying a fight against the darkness of Takhisis. But it’s no big deal to me if any of you have childhood dreams of something more... glorious." Her lips curved slightly, teasing. "Or if you even want to be a troupe at all? I’d love to have you join me, but you may be destined for other great deeds."
She glanced at Hastos for a moment, thinking she’d certainly miss sneaking peeks at that fine elven butt if he chose to part ways.
Then, she took the heavy pouch of coins—100 gold pieces. Her fingers tightened around it for a moment, stunned. That was a fortune in her eyes. Nearly twenty cows’ worth of wealth. More than she had ever dreamed of having at once. Her upbringing as farmer made her value things in livestock. The weight of it made her uneasy.
Without a word, she simply turned and placed the pouch back in Verhenna’s hands, stepping back with a respectful nod. "give it to the ones who needs it most" She had no need for such riches—there were others here who needed it far more than she did.
Hastos raises his eyebrows at the thought of being a “group”. His face turns introspective as he ponders this idea. “I like the ‘Dawnbound’.” He says finally.
As Verhenna reaches into the safe, Hastos notices that she says something in Elvish.
Hastos walks over to Verhenna‘s desk and signs the document, and takes his bag of coin and places it in his pouch.
I don’t know if I need to roll to see if I understood her, but just in case: Perception: 10
Character: Hastos, Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread
Verhannas accepts the bag and raises her eyebrow. It's hard to read if the expression is suspicion or sympathy. "Sera Uth Darnon, that's your choice, and I will re-appropriate the funds. But you should know... wealth is not what is in short supply. Many of the people here came with vast sums of it, with plans to invest in this settlement. Thousands of my own steel have been poured into building projects and restoration projects. What we truly need is food, water, weapons, and armor. And though I appreciate the sentiment, I struggle to understand how to motivate a mercenary who won't accept payments."
Verhannas nods. "So your troupe is Dawnbound? A fitting name in a land that sees so much of the sun. Very well, I'll keep a book of your records under that name. If you wish to apply for permanent residency status, you may also purchase a building in the merchant district as a guild center, so that interested patrons can offer you bounties. Applying for residency status can be done at formal Council meetings. The merchant district is still being restored, so many of the structures are not yet safe enough to occupy, and all of our resources are being applied towards building housing first. Yet, I remain hopeful that in a few weeks, we'll be able to re-focus our efforts on restoring the merchant district further."
She looks to Merkas. "You may approach the desk and sign." She walks around the desk and presents a stool for him to stand on, then quickly returns to her spot behind the desk, as if not wanting to risk being touched.
"Sharn, you have been saying that you are waiting for someone. I take your presence here is indication that you've finally met them. Should I add your name to the Dawnbound account as a contact for further bounties?"
My DM Registry
My Campaigns:
Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread (PbP); Secrets of the Island (On Discord); Lost Mine of Phendelver (tabletop)
My Characters:
Krik-tul, Thri-kreen monk; Mme Cragmaw, Goblin Artificer; River Kuthraeann, Wood Elf Paladin
Removing his hands and hurriedly pulling a kerchief out to wipe off any fingerprints he may have left behind.
"Dawnbound is nice, that may be weird though if our dwarf friend only stays with us until the sunrises, maybe we need to keep running from the sun so as to make the day last as long as possible so we can keep him with us as long as possible, I wonder if that would work?"
Watching as Verhanna stands, Merkas is taking in every detail of this woman that has captivated his heart. (Nat 20 = 20 total perception check for the inscription on the ring and memorizing details of Verhanna)
As the others start to sign the contract he moves to the side of Verhanna and kneels in a posture of apology
"Viscountess Verhanna; I vouch for you to absolve me of my verve for viewing your veneer so vacantly as to vex you with this vile volunt of vagabonds. Your very visage has voodooed this vessel into your valiant vassal vowed to vigilance in all valour and volition to validate all ventures volunteered"
After his declaration of fealty to Verhanna, Merkas moves over to sign the document.
Loyalty Begets Honour
Sharn smiled, holding back a chuckle.
"I am glad you remember, Council member Verhannas. Though I would appreciate joining the Dawnbound, I don't yet if they would have me. I will gladly confirm once the new day comes, for now, consider me a local guide."
He looked at Merkas to address the little kender with a grandfatherly smile.
"Though I would appreciate staying under the stars for longer, trying to outrun the sun feels unwise, not to mention exhausting. Even the heroes of old knew to keep their strength until it was needed."
Verhannas seems shocked by you alliterative announcement of amour, and stares at you, speechless while you sign the document and take your payment. Once you have returned to your place with the group, she fidgets with her ring and stammers, "Um... of course." She nods stiffly and absently chews her hair again.
"So, if Dawnbound seeks more work, I have several bounties available. There are always threats to protect us from. I have them ranked by difficulty, and can produce one based on your capabilities. If you wish, I can retrieve one for you now, or you can... go and freshen up first. My office closes in a few hours. So, if you're not back by then, you may check in here at dawn."
My DM Registry
My Campaigns:
Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread (PbP); Secrets of the Island (On Discord); Lost Mine of Phendelver (tabletop)
My Characters:
Krik-tul, Thri-kreen monk; Mme Cragmaw, Goblin Artificer; River Kuthraeann, Wood Elf Paladin
Hrothbert_Neruca Merkas has an astute sense of observation, and understands that Verhannas, though standoffish, is a woman of principle and conviction. She's fiercely loyal to those she deems worthy of it, and a generally peace-loving person. She's also a bit of a germaphobe, and clearly more comfortable around women and other elves. She touches her ring a lot, and you notice that (to the customs of the region) it seems to be on the correct finger to denote marriage.
cheapjoke123 This may be amusing to Sharn, because he definitely knows that Verhannas has only one love above numbers... and that's her devoted wife, Rhyanna (Santekh's Assayer and fellow councilmember). Their ceremony was modest but elegant, and it was a big event to the people of Santekh. Rhyanna is definitely the extravert of the two, and can often be found working with the Hachakee to stabilize their failing agricultural endeavors. You'll also find Rhyanna tending to the people of the tent community in her spare time. She's famously kind and optimistic, in spite of the dire circumstances the settlement is under. And her disposition often serves as a beacon of hope amongst the community. But she does tend to be very vocal of her hatred towards draconic species, and barely tolerates Kasi, the town's only kobold resident. Rhyanna isn't the official leader of the council, because they are all equals, but when Rhyanna backs something, the rest of the council usually defers to her judgement.
My DM Registry
My Campaigns:
Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread (PbP); Secrets of the Island (On Discord); Lost Mine of Phendelver (tabletop)
My Characters:
Krik-tul, Thri-kreen monk; Mme Cragmaw, Goblin Artificer; River Kuthraeann, Wood Elf Paladin
Hastos clears his throat. “Perhaps we can take one now and use the time this evening and in the morning to deliberate on a plan, Edhil.” Hastos bows his head slightly with the word.
Character: Hastos, Ibahalii Vriwhulth, the Reaper of Glory v2: IC Thread
The others signed on as well, and they agreed upon the name Dawnbound for their group. Sera liked the sound of it—hopeful, forward-moving, a promise of light in dark times. She rolled the name over in her mind, letting it settle like a firm step forward on an uncertain path.
As they finalized their decision, Sharn, the bushy-mustached dwarf, stepped forward and pledged himself to their cause. Sera turned to him with a grateful smile, offering her hand in a firm clasp. "Thank you, Sharn. I look forward to fighting alongside you—and getting to know you better." She gave him an approving nod, acknowledging the strength and experience he brought to their group.
Meanwhile, Merkas, the ever-spirited kender, seemed utterly smitten with Councilwoman Verhenna. Sera bit back a smile, pressing her lips together and clearing her throat to keep her expression neutral. Focus.
Verhenna wasted no time, taken little aback at the kenders admiration she immediately offering them tasks. However, she acknowledged they should rest first. Hastos, ever the strategist, seemed eager to begin planning right away.
Sera shifted her weight, dusting off the worst of the travel grime from her tunic before nodding in agreement. "Yes, please. We’d only wonder about it anyway, so we might as well hear what needs to be done." She adjusted the strap of her shield across her back, standing tall despite the exhaustion tugging at her limbs. If their work was to begin soon, she wanted to be ready.
Racking his brain as to the significance of the draconic writing on Verhannas ring (Arcana check 5), Merkas realized the significance of the finger it is on and blushes at the implication of his advances. He regains his composure as talk turns to another task to perform.
“Yeah, it’s best we keep our hands occupied so as not to cause trouble, y’know idle hands are devils playground”
As he speaks he rummages through his pack looking for something he had stored there. Then says absently as he thinks about it.
”Ah, Great Dwarf! Your name is Sharn, is that like yarn or Shorn? Huh both those examples have to do with sheep, you weren’t a shepherd were you? Also you have any fighting experience? Myself I am more on the subtle side too little to hit too hard, y’know?”
Loyalty Begets Honour