Xymox (lacing fingers together as he reclines just enough to provoke suspicion, voice smooth and theatrical):
"Ah, high sun in Monstordrink—where the ale is murky, the armor is cracked, and the politics... well, they’re as tangled as a Feywine hangover.
But truly, this gathering warms my heart. A brewer with his paddle no longer brandished, a mayor with barely a tremor in his voice, and Sister Mera, piously disappointed as ever. It's good to see the town rising to its feet, if not quite standing tall yet.
As for the matter of our armor—most of it salvageable with time and patience, two commodities the dead no longer need and we seldom have. Hoid’s mithral, alas, requires more delicate fingers and hotter flame than this charming village can offer. Waterdeep calls, and I daresay she always charges for the privilege.
Now, on the matter of evil thwarted and futures protected… yes, Chadwick and our dear Kragen have shed blood, sweat, and a few too many oaths to keep this town safe. But what is mended can break again—unless we bind it with more than good intentions."
He stands now, addressing the room with measured poise.
"I would suggest three things. First: a formal acknowledgment of the pact that has been renewed between Monstordrink and the fey—perhaps a monument near the wellspring, a written record, so history does not fade with the next brewer's generation.
Second: a rotational watch or spiritual stewardship led by Sister Mera’s temple. Not merely for show, but as a living bond between the townsfolk and the land they profit from.
And third… accountability. Let those who profited while the spirits festered beneath their feet—yes, even Yanthin—contribute to the reconstruction. Coin is good. Sacrifice is better. A clean conscience? Rarest of all, but let’s try."
He turns to Chadwick with a half-smile, then looks to Kragen.
"You’ve bled for this town, my friends. Perhaps now it’s time it offers something back, in more than praise and awkward parades."
With a final, polite bow to the assembled officials:
"Now then, let the civil discussion commence. Do try to keep it civil, Mayor Brassbeard. You wouldn’t want to disappoint the gods—or the Company."
Trolkarl rises with posture straight and tone measured.
This is Chadwick’s home, and his to speak for—but as we were asked to speak directly and civilly, I shall do just that.”
He gives a courteous nod toward the mayor and bows to others present.
What was uncovered beneath the brewery was not a mere oversight. It was rot—oldn and dangerous. That it was allowed to fester speaks to failure in oversight, not just by one man,or one family- but also by the systems meant to protect this town.
He glances to Sister Mera and the others.
Further, I seek counsel from those I trust, those who follow Tyr. Isn’t it true that justice is not satisfied simply because the bodies are buried and the building is cleaned? If the previous brewer is still alive, let his knowledge be tested under the light of truth and the law. There can be no closure without his accountability.
Then, with a slight shift in tone—still calm, still polite—he continues.
And while I trust all present seek to do right by this town, I must ask—has Monstordrink outgrown its current stewards? The people have endured much. Perhaps it is time not only for repair, not only new vows, but perhaps also stewardship.
He offers a faint, diplomatic smile.
Should such change be desired, I would see it supported—with counsel, commitment, and of course... coin.
Chadwick responding to sister Maria's admonishments (visibly embarrassed)." Sister I am sorry and apologize, it was a terribly rude and thoughtless of me. Between worry for my family and once again encountering the Fey my head was all turned around. (Looking boyishly sheepish as if he was caught sneaking treats before dinner.)
I guess we have gotten so used to charging into one conflict to another that I lost sight of all the folks around us that are there to guide and support us."
When the mayor comments about what they have to say Chadwick looks at him incredulously, then waves vaguely in the direction on where the dias was. "Did you not hear what I said yesterday? Then does a passive aggressive mutter that's loud enough for all to hear "The rest of the town certainly did."
Let's assume this is where the rest of the party jumps in.
After a withering look from his dad Chadwick collects himself. While listening to the others he'll reach out with Divine sense and see if he can pick up anything.
When there is a pause after the rest party's comments he continues more politely than before (assuming nothing foul detected).
Addressing the room.
"First off (deep breath) I apologize how I charged into town with a head of of worry and suspicion, my comrades simply followed my lead. I haven't been away that long that I should have thrust aside our ways of helping and supporting each other. Whether it's field work or protecting the folks from predators we are there for each other.
He glances back at sister Mera and places his hand on his holy symbol while he nods towards her.
"It's easy to come in after the fact and point fingers what should have been done and assigning blame. I think we know now what went wrong and how, do to address the mayors question; how do we go forward?
First we need to finish the physical and spiritual cleansing of the dungeon/ basement area. Kragen and I (looks and nods towards him making sure he isn't speaking out of turn) are happy to assist with that however we may. We do have some experience in this matters, but we different to Sister Mera to plan and oversee the operation.
Second, we need to restore the flow of the water to how it was and make sure all is right with the Fey's glade (ooc I think this already happened?). We are happy to work with whoever you think is best to lead it and support with labor or planning.
Third, we need to make sure this doesn't happen again. The oath shouldn't be secretive, it should be celebrated we have such fantastic neighbors who have blessed us for so many generations. Perhaps a small festival each year celebrating our friendship and remembering the importance of living together in harmony?
That would be in addition to a memorial stone near the well so nobody forgets how water binds is all. I believe Hoid has some experience in stone cutting, so I'm sure he could assist whoever you wanted to head that project. I'll cover the cost of the materials and labor as I feel like this is more of a personal ask."
"There had been mention of compensate for our efforts (he looks at Starker while he says the next bit) we don't do what we do for coin or fame, it's just the right way to make the world a better place. I don't want to speak for all my fellows here, so they can address it on their own. My personal ask ties into my plan of building a bastion nearby. There is plenty of good unused land and I would like to work it and in my own on little way help grow our town. We are isolated and on our own, so hopefully it's presence will give brigands and other villains pause.
So I ask for permission to build and work the land nearby. I haven't picked a spot yet, but I would like to work with your office to find a suitable spot that can offer protection if need be, but not so close to be a distraction or encroaching on anybody else's property or the towns."
He then turns to his dad "I haven't told ma yet, and I'm sure she'll like the idea of me spending more time around here.
Plus she can hire the steward to run the place when I'm gone. Anyone good enough for her will be a fine fit (chuckles to himself)."
The mayor sits and listens to all that each of you have to say. Hap seems to be a bit uncomfortable as more and more words are said, particularly those of blame. The Select Men and Woman along with Sister Mera and Yanthin all look on as spectators to a contest.
A moment of silence passes. "Well," Mayor Brassbeard says, "there are a lot of accusations there about laziness, negligence and a general lack of caring about the community that brought about this tragic series of events. Lives have been lost. Families are without their kin." He turns to Hap, "How is your brother's boy doing by the way?" Hap gives a smile and replies, "Better. With Sister Mera's and the help of the other priests he is recovering. Thank you."
The Mayor now looks more intently to Hap, "Good. I am glad to hear that your family has been spared that loss. Perhaps you can explain to the rest of us who are all just learning about this ancient pact your family undertook and did not tell us about? The pact that led all of this happening for us to try to bumble through the dark and figure out how to stop?"
Hap makes a thin-lipped, straight line 'smile' for a moment, looks to Chadwick, and then answers, "Mayor, it's true that my forebears entered into this pact. My Pa was the last to know of it, apparently. We have an heirloom that skips generations, a silver chalice. Chadwick is next to receive it. But, after his accident, Dad has been addled to some extent. Some days better than others, but never himself again. Somewhere in there he lost that he was supposed to pass this along to Chadwick." He looks to Chadwick, "We must shoulder the responsibility for that which is ours. Chadwick and his friends seem to have made things right again with this fey spirit 'Caellia' again. It seems a good idea to spread the idea of this partnership around, rather than keep it only in one of the founding families."
As Hap talks, the mayor is noticeably giving Kragen and Trolkarl a dwarven stink-eye. He seems to be very accomplished at it as well.
Once Hap and the Mayor are concluded, Kragen looks thoughtfully at him and then back to Brassbeard.
”Master Jenkins, knowledge of the pact between your Kin and the Fey would have been helpful for both the Mayor and The Company. Had we known this was only family knowledge, our interaction and assumptions likely would have changed. In the future, I would recommend sharing key information to those you trust” gestures broadly to the council and Chadwick.
Then looks to Brassbeard “Mayor, the evil that festered below has been vanquished. We were able to save some of the townsfolk, however I expect you will mourn lost loved ones. Our services are offered in returning the town to some semblance of normalcy.” Nods to hi and the Priestess
“My Apologies if we implied that town stewards were negligent in their duties. We can see that the council cares deeply for its residents.” Then looking thoughtful “The Company has a history of successful campaigns against evil. It’s not often we encounter a lack of interest in our support, that lead some of us to question if there was genuine concern.”
Comes back into focus, looking straight into the Mayors eyes “This humble Cleric of Tyr is here to serve” nods to the Mayor
Starker:”I did what I did solely as a favor to my good friend Sir Chadwick.
”That being said, if it would comfort you to feel relieved of whatever debt you assess you owe me, I will accept offered land and or money. Or one of your brighter youths as a servant and an apprentice. Or land or money. Whatever would salve your consciences.”
Much of the tension in the room seems to have dissolved after the initial discussion. A plan is made for cleansing the basement of the brewery, physically and spiritually. Sister Mera will lead the spiritual efforts and welcomes the assistance of Chadwick and Kragen. Yanthin is quite happy to work with the town to do what must be done about the water supply. He is somewhat intrigued by the prospect of a basement at the brewery. That will allow for better aging conditions for certain brews. Hoid points out that he is a Smith, not a stonecutter. Mayor Brassbeard's kin do have stonecutters among them and a graven monument seems to be easy to arrange with that connection. The Select Men and Woman are all satisfied with the arrangements as well.
Mayor Brassbeard gets everyone's attention, "This is all well and good that we have plans for the future and how to make it all better. But, there is one very important person not a part of this discussion. The Lady of the Spring." He looks to The Company, "How do we make sure she is happy with all of this?"
Trolkarl listens quietly, eyes never leaving the mayor as Hap speaks. When there’s a pause, he rises with deliberate calm and addresses the room, voice measured and clear.
On the matter of ‘bumbling,’ Mayor—there is no dispute. We all found ourselves stumbling through the dark. Some chose to light torches.
Still, the safety of Monstordrink now rests in the hands of its people. Its future is theirs to shape. But I will offer a recommendation, not for myself, but for the citizens of this town.
He gestures slightly toward Chadwick.
This man—your son, your neighbor, your kin—has stood between your homes and ruin. He now asks for land nearby to live near the place he loves and to protect it. Chadwick has given of himself, body and blood, not for glory, but for duty. And he has done so while holding no title, and under no obligation save the love of family and for this town.
I suggest that be remedied. Let Chadwick be formally recognized—as Sir Chadwick, Protector of Monstordrink. Give him not only the land but also the rights and standing his actions have earned. Let no mayor or clerk ever again suggest that a man who rides into fire for this town would be better used as a messenger.
Allyna, the Select Woman, stands in response to Trolkarl, "While it is clear you still bear blame towards the mayor, we, the Select Men and Women agree with the mayor that much was kept from him and he did the best as any could expect in that situation. You and your compatriots have been most helpful and we appreciate all you did in clearing this blight from our wonderful town. Perhaps there will be time for you to look into the mirror about how your actions could have been more helpful from the start, rather than casting blame first and asking questions later." She then turns to the mayor, "Mayor Brassbeard, there is a place for a land grant to work well. Old Cerric's Hill has a fresh spring and pool near the peak. It is wooded land. Farming would be a challenge there," she looks to Chadwick. "But, it has a good view of the surrounding area. What if that were to be offered to him along with a Knighthood?"
Mayor Brassbeard smiles at Allyna's comments, for more than one reason. "Yes, Allyna. That is a splendid suggestion. How wonderful of you to suggest it." He turns to Chadwick, "What do you say, SIR Chadwick?"
Chadwick senses a trap, but also can figure no way taking the gift horse for a trial run before accepting it.
"That is very generous of you, you humble me with your graciousness. I wasn't expecting so much. Thank you." He bows formally.
"I'm looking forward to working with you all and the local craftsmen to help make this vision bear fruit.
I also hope that with some of the friends and contacts we've made during these last few years we might be able to leverage that to help give a boost to our trade."
"In response to your question about how do we make sure the lady of the spring is happy with this; same as any neighbor you share a fence line with, talk with them. The Fey may be distant and strange, but they still have the same emotions and feeling as us. (He pauses and chuckles) Well mostly.
If you think it would be prudent I could discuss with her and see about arranging a meeting every few months as a check in. Make sure everyone is happy with how things are progressing. While not necessary, a small gift such as a bottle of nice mead from the brewery would probably be appreciated.
I'm sure you all know some folks around here that would make a good envoy. Those that seem to have a bit of the Few about themselves (he grins thinking back to the lass on the dais)"
Addressing the company..."When things have been sorted and cleaned up here in town perhaps we could all go for a ride and check out Cerric's hill?"
"Smiling and addressing the others. "You are all welcome as well of course! We could bring a nice lunch with us and break bread where the bastion will eventually be."
Chadwick watches Allyna's expression as he says this.
"Oh, when we are cleansing the basement Mr. Staker I would appreciate it if you could accompany us. There is still the matter of those barrels with the ominous sigils we need to sort out."
Xymox, who had remained an elegant shadow at the edge of the chamber, finally stepped forward. His voice—honeyed with grace, edged like a whispering blade—cut the air with velvet precision.
"What a splendid day of revelations. Land! Titles! Festivities! It seems nothing stirs a sleepy council like the kiss of calamity. But then, isn’t that the way of things?"
"Still—credit where it is due. Mayor, your steady hand amid uncertainty has not gone unnoticed. And Sister Mera, your calm counsel speaks to a wisdom far deeper than most dare admit aloud. Let us, then, make stone of memory, not dust. Let the pact be living, not lore."
"Sir Chadwick—yes, the title fits like old steel and fresh polish. Let us hope Cerric’s Hill proves less eventful than the brewery… though if it does not, know that The Company is but a letter—and a bit of coin—away."
He offers a subtle bow to the room, more art than formality.
"May your town’s future be penned in peace and poetry, not blood and fear. But if fate demands a reprise…"
The townspeople all listen to Xymox and have mildly apprehensive looks as he speaks.
"Yes! Well. Right then. It is settled," Mayor Brassbeard stands. He moves to shake Chadwick's hand vigorously. "Indeed, Sir Chadwick. I will have the necessary letters off to Everlund with haste. Your title rightly passes through them since we are under their liegeship. All a formality I assure you," he shakes everyone's hands in turn. There is a brief lingering of his handshake with Hap, then he is off to 'more business.' "The mayor is never idle for too long," he says on his way down the hall.
Work is then undertaken in clearing out the basement. Mostly, it is elbow grease and strong backs needed to scrub down the walls, ceilings and floors of the place. The befouled equipment is removed as well. Wooden items are burned and metal is sent for scrap to the blacksmith. The pipes, valves and fittings covering the ceilings are now all gone, without trace of their being there. The worrisome barrels described by Chadwick are also not present when the workers enter to start cleaning. Sister Mera is appreciative of Chadwick and Kragen's assistance in blessing the place to drive off any vestiges of necrotic energy. She is most impressed with Chadwick's abilities and achievement as he was a student of hers in his youth.
A stone marker is commissioned bearing Chadwick's oath to place near the well house at the spring. Caellia agrees to meet with a small group from the town and introductions are made with Allyna, Mayor Brassbeard and Sister Mera. It is agreed that a yearly festival will be held in honor of the Lady of the Waters to keep memory alive of the agreement to maintain the lands and the waters for the benefit of all.
A tour of Cerric's Hill is carried out. It is a foothill of the mountain range growing hardwoods and pine. The top of the hill is relatively flat in an oval measuring 1/2 mile x 1/3 mile. All told, about 80 acres of flattish land there. A natural spring arises from one side of this with a pool of cool, spring water that is roughly 30' x 50' that empties via a small waterfall to feed a stream running down the hillside. A good bit of tree clearing will be needed to build anything up there, but the trees will be good building material.
Kragen looks aghast at Starker and then shakes his head!
fuming at this lazy dwarfs insinuation at not being civil, thinking that he is quite lucky I responded and not Hoid!
Looks to Chadwick to determine how he wants to approach the council.
Xymox (lacing fingers together as he reclines just enough to provoke suspicion, voice smooth and theatrical):
"Ah, high sun in Monstordrink—where the ale is murky, the armor is cracked, and the politics... well, they’re as tangled as a Feywine hangover.
But truly, this gathering warms my heart. A brewer with his paddle no longer brandished, a mayor with barely a tremor in his voice, and Sister Mera, piously disappointed as ever. It's good to see the town rising to its feet, if not quite standing tall yet.
As for the matter of our armor—most of it salvageable with time and patience, two commodities the dead no longer need and we seldom have. Hoid’s mithral, alas, requires more delicate fingers and hotter flame than this charming village can offer. Waterdeep calls, and I daresay she always charges for the privilege.
Now, on the matter of evil thwarted and futures protected… yes, Chadwick and our dear Kragen have shed blood, sweat, and a few too many oaths to keep this town safe. But what is mended can break again—unless we bind it with more than good intentions."
He stands now, addressing the room with measured poise.
"I would suggest three things. First: a formal acknowledgment of the pact that has been renewed between Monstordrink and the fey—perhaps a monument near the wellspring, a written record, so history does not fade with the next brewer's generation.
Second: a rotational watch or spiritual stewardship led by Sister Mera’s temple. Not merely for show, but as a living bond between the townsfolk and the land they profit from.
And third… accountability. Let those who profited while the spirits festered beneath their feet—yes, even Yanthin—contribute to the reconstruction. Coin is good. Sacrifice is better. A clean conscience? Rarest of all, but let’s try."
He turns to Chadwick with a half-smile, then looks to Kragen.
"You’ve bled for this town, my friends. Perhaps now it’s time it offers something back, in more than praise and awkward parades."
With a final, polite bow to the assembled officials:
"Now then, let the civil discussion commence. Do try to keep it civil, Mayor Brassbeard. You wouldn’t want to disappoint the gods—or the Company."
That is pretty much exactly what that comment was driven by…..
The facts, as we know them, speak volumes.
let Us see what further information, if any, changes the accusations?
Trolkarl rises with posture straight and tone measured.
This is Chadwick’s home, and his to speak for—but as we were asked to speak directly and civilly, I shall do just that.”
He gives a courteous nod toward the mayor and bows to others present.
What was uncovered beneath the brewery was not a mere oversight. It was rot—oldn and dangerous. That it was allowed to fester speaks to failure in oversight, not just by one man,or one family- but also by the systems meant to protect this town.
He glances to Sister Mera and the others.
Further, I seek counsel from those I trust, those who follow Tyr. Isn’t it true that justice is not satisfied simply because the bodies are buried and the building is cleaned? If the previous brewer is still alive, let his knowledge be tested under the light of truth and the law. There can be no closure without his accountability.
Then, with a slight shift in tone—still calm, still polite—he continues.
And while I trust all present seek to do right by this town, I must ask—has Monstordrink outgrown its current stewards? The people have endured much. Perhaps it is time not only for repair, not only new vows, but perhaps also stewardship.
He offers a faint, diplomatic smile.
Should such change be desired, I would see it supported—with counsel, commitment, and of course... coin.
(( Chadwick? ))
Edit - Updated
Chadwick responding to sister Maria's admonishments (visibly embarrassed)." Sister I am sorry and apologize, it was a terribly rude and thoughtless of me. Between worry for my family and once again encountering the Fey my head was all turned around. (Looking boyishly sheepish as if he was caught sneaking treats before dinner.)
I guess we have gotten so used to charging into one conflict to another that I lost sight of all the folks around us that are there to guide and support us."
He follows up with a formal bow.
When the mayor comments about what they have to say Chadwick looks at him incredulously, then waves vaguely in the direction on where the dias was. "Did you not hear what I said yesterday? Then does a passive aggressive mutter that's loud enough for all to hear "The rest of the town certainly did."
Let's assume this is where the rest of the party jumps in.
After a withering look from his dad Chadwick collects himself. While listening to the others he'll reach out with Divine sense and see if he can pick up anything.
When there is a pause after the rest party's comments he continues more politely than before (assuming nothing foul detected).
Addressing the room.
"First off (deep breath) I apologize how I charged into town with a head of of worry and suspicion, my comrades simply followed my lead. I haven't been away that long that I should have thrust aside our ways of helping and supporting each other. Whether it's field work or protecting the folks from predators we are there for each other.
He glances back at sister Mera and places his hand on his holy symbol while he nods towards her.
"It's easy to come in after the fact and point fingers what should have been done and assigning blame. I think we know now what went wrong and how, do to address the mayors question; how do we go forward?
First we need to finish the physical and spiritual cleansing of the dungeon/ basement area. Kragen and I (looks and nods towards him making sure he isn't speaking out of turn) are happy to assist with that however we may. We do have some experience in this matters, but we different to Sister Mera to plan and oversee the operation.
Second, we need to restore the flow of the water to how it was and make sure all is right with the Fey's glade (ooc I think this already happened?). We are happy to work with whoever you think is best to lead it and support with labor or planning.
Third, we need to make sure this doesn't happen again. The oath shouldn't be secretive, it should be celebrated we have such fantastic neighbors who have blessed us for so many generations. Perhaps a small festival each year celebrating our friendship and remembering the importance of living together in harmony?
That would be in addition to a memorial stone near the well so nobody forgets how water binds is all. I believe Hoid has some experience in stone cutting, so I'm sure he could assist whoever you wanted to head that project. I'll cover the cost of the materials and labor as I feel like this is more of a personal ask."
"There had been mention of compensate for our efforts (he looks at Starker while he says the next bit) we don't do what we do for coin or fame, it's just the right way to make the world a better place. I don't want to speak for all my fellows here, so they can address it on their own. My personal ask ties into my plan of building a bastion nearby. There is plenty of good unused land and I would like to work it and in my own on little way help grow our town. We are isolated and on our own, so hopefully it's presence will give brigands and other villains pause.
So I ask for permission to build and work the land nearby. I haven't picked a spot yet, but I would like to work with your office to find a suitable spot that can offer protection if need be, but not so close to be a distraction or encroaching on anybody else's property or the towns."
He then turns to his dad "I haven't told ma yet, and I'm sure she'll like the idea of me spending more time around here.
Plus she can hire the steward to run the place when I'm gone. Anyone good enough for her will be a fine fit (chuckles to himself)."
The mayor sits and listens to all that each of you have to say. Hap seems to be a bit uncomfortable as more and more words are said, particularly those of blame. The Select Men and Woman along with Sister Mera and Yanthin all look on as spectators to a contest.
A moment of silence passes. "Well," Mayor Brassbeard says, "there are a lot of accusations there about laziness, negligence and a general lack of caring about the community that brought about this tragic series of events. Lives have been lost. Families are without their kin." He turns to Hap, "How is your brother's boy doing by the way?" Hap gives a smile and replies, "Better. With Sister Mera's and the help of the other priests he is recovering. Thank you."
The Mayor now looks more intently to Hap, "Good. I am glad to hear that your family has been spared that loss. Perhaps you can explain to the rest of us who are all just learning about this ancient pact your family undertook and did not tell us about? The pact that led all of this happening for us to try to bumble through the dark and figure out how to stop?"
Hap makes a thin-lipped, straight line 'smile' for a moment, looks to Chadwick, and then answers, "Mayor, it's true that my forebears entered into this pact. My Pa was the last to know of it, apparently. We have an heirloom that skips generations, a silver chalice. Chadwick is next to receive it. But, after his accident, Dad has been addled to some extent. Some days better than others, but never himself again. Somewhere in there he lost that he was supposed to pass this along to Chadwick." He looks to Chadwick, "We must shoulder the responsibility for that which is ours. Chadwick and his friends seem to have made things right again with this fey spirit 'Caellia' again. It seems a good idea to spread the idea of this partnership around, rather than keep it only in one of the founding families."
As Hap talks, the mayor is noticeably giving Kragen and Trolkarl a dwarven stink-eye. He seems to be very accomplished at it as well.
Once Hap and the Mayor are concluded, Kragen looks thoughtfully at him and then back to Brassbeard.
”Master Jenkins, knowledge of the pact between your Kin and the Fey would have been helpful for both the Mayor and The Company. Had we known this was only family knowledge, our interaction and assumptions likely would have changed. In the future, I would recommend sharing key information to those you trust” gestures broadly to the council and Chadwick.
Then looks to Brassbeard “Mayor, the evil that festered below has been vanquished. We were able to save some of the townsfolk, however I expect you will mourn lost loved ones. Our services are offered in returning the town to some semblance of normalcy.” Nods to hi and the Priestess
“My Apologies if we implied that town stewards were negligent in their duties. We can see that the council cares deeply for its residents.” Then looking thoughtful “The Company has a history of successful campaigns against evil. It’s not often we encounter a lack of interest in our support, that lead some of us to question if there was genuine concern.”
Comes back into focus, looking straight into the Mayors eyes “This humble Cleric of Tyr is here to serve” nods to the Mayor
Starker:”I did what I did solely as a favor to my good friend Sir Chadwick.
”That being said, if it would comfort you to feel relieved of whatever debt you assess you owe me, I will accept offered land and or money. Or one of your brighter youths as a servant and an apprentice. Or land or money. Whatever would salve your consciences.”
Much of the tension in the room seems to have dissolved after the initial discussion. A plan is made for cleansing the basement of the brewery, physically and spiritually. Sister Mera will lead the spiritual efforts and welcomes the assistance of Chadwick and Kragen. Yanthin is quite happy to work with the town to do what must be done about the water supply. He is somewhat intrigued by the prospect of a basement at the brewery. That will allow for better aging conditions for certain brews. Hoid points out that he is a Smith, not a stonecutter. Mayor Brassbeard's kin do have stonecutters among them and a graven monument seems to be easy to arrange with that connection. The Select Men and Woman are all satisfied with the arrangements as well.
Mayor Brassbeard gets everyone's attention, "This is all well and good that we have plans for the future and how to make it all better. But, there is one very important person not a part of this discussion. The Lady of the Spring." He looks to The Company, "How do we make sure she is happy with all of this?"
Trolkarl listens quietly, eyes never leaving the mayor as Hap speaks. When there’s a pause, he rises with deliberate calm and addresses the room, voice measured and clear.
On the matter of ‘bumbling,’ Mayor—there is no dispute. We all found ourselves stumbling through the dark. Some chose to light torches.
Still, the safety of Monstordrink now rests in the hands of its people. Its future is theirs to shape. But I will offer a recommendation, not for myself, but for the citizens of this town.
He gestures slightly toward Chadwick.
This man—your son, your neighbor, your kin—has stood between your homes and ruin. He now asks for land nearby to live near the place he loves and to protect it. Chadwick has given of himself, body and blood, not for glory, but for duty. And he has done so while holding no title, and under no obligation save the love of family and for this town.
I suggest that be remedied. Let Chadwick be formally recognized—as Sir Chadwick, Protector of Monstordrink. Give him not only the land but also the rights and standing his actions have earned. Let no mayor or clerk ever again suggest that a man who rides into fire for this town would be better used as a messenger.
Allyna, the Select Woman, stands in response to Trolkarl, "While it is clear you still bear blame towards the mayor, we, the Select Men and Women agree with the mayor that much was kept from him and he did the best as any could expect in that situation. You and your compatriots have been most helpful and we appreciate all you did in clearing this blight from our wonderful town. Perhaps there will be time for you to look into the mirror about how your actions could have been more helpful from the start, rather than casting blame first and asking questions later." She then turns to the mayor, "Mayor Brassbeard, there is a place for a land grant to work well. Old Cerric's Hill has a fresh spring and pool near the peak. It is wooded land. Farming would be a challenge there," she looks to Chadwick. "But, it has a good view of the surrounding area. What if that were to be offered to him along with a Knighthood?"
Mayor Brassbeard smiles at Allyna's comments, for more than one reason. "Yes, Allyna. That is a splendid suggestion. How wonderful of you to suggest it." He turns to Chadwick, "What do you say, SIR Chadwick?"
Chadwick senses a trap, but also can figure no way taking the gift horse for a trial run before accepting it.
"That is very generous of you, you humble me with your graciousness. I wasn't expecting so much. Thank you." He bows formally.
"I'm looking forward to working with you all and the local craftsmen to help make this vision bear fruit.
I also hope that with some of the friends and contacts we've made during these last few years we might be able to leverage that to help give a boost to our trade."
"In response to your question about how do we make sure the lady of the spring is happy with this; same as any neighbor you share a fence line with, talk with them. The Fey may be distant and strange, but they still have the same emotions and feeling as us. (He pauses and chuckles) Well mostly.
If you think it would be prudent I could discuss with her and see about arranging a meeting every few months as a check in. Make sure everyone is happy with how things are progressing. While not necessary, a small gift such as a bottle of nice mead from the brewery would probably be appreciated.
I'm sure you all know some folks around here that would make a good envoy. Those that seem to have a bit of the Few about themselves (he grins thinking back to the lass on the dais)"
Addressing the company..."When things have been sorted and cleaned up here in town perhaps we could all go for a ride and check out Cerric's hill?"
"Smiling and addressing the others. "You are all welcome as well of course! We could bring a nice lunch with us and break bread where the bastion will eventually be."
Chadwick watches Allyna's expression as he says this.
"Oh, when we are cleansing the basement Mr. Staker I would appreciate it if you could accompany us. There is still the matter of those barrels with the ominous sigils we need to sort out."
Xymox, who had remained an elegant shadow at the edge of the chamber, finally stepped forward. His voice—honeyed with grace, edged like a whispering blade—cut the air with velvet precision.
"What a splendid day of revelations. Land! Titles! Festivities! It seems nothing stirs a sleepy council like the kiss of calamity. But then, isn’t that the way of things?"
"Still—credit where it is due. Mayor, your steady hand amid uncertainty has not gone unnoticed. And Sister Mera, your calm counsel speaks to a wisdom far deeper than most dare admit aloud. Let us, then, make stone of memory, not dust. Let the pact be living, not lore."
"Sir Chadwick—yes, the title fits like old steel and fresh polish. Let us hope Cerric’s Hill proves less eventful than the brewery… though if it does not, know that The Company is but a letter—and a bit of coin—away."
He offers a subtle bow to the room, more art than formality.
"May your town’s future be penned in peace and poetry, not blood and fear. But if fate demands a reprise…"
He smiles faintly, eyes gleaming.
"Well. We do enjoy a good encore."
The townspeople all listen to Xymox and have mildly apprehensive looks as he speaks.
"Yes! Well. Right then. It is settled," Mayor Brassbeard stands. He moves to shake Chadwick's hand vigorously. "Indeed, Sir Chadwick. I will have the necessary letters off to Everlund with haste. Your title rightly passes through them since we are under their liegeship. All a formality I assure you," he shakes everyone's hands in turn. There is a brief lingering of his handshake with Hap, then he is off to 'more business.' "The mayor is never idle for too long," he says on his way down the hall.
Work is then undertaken in clearing out the basement. Mostly, it is elbow grease and strong backs needed to scrub down the walls, ceilings and floors of the place. The befouled equipment is removed as well. Wooden items are burned and metal is sent for scrap to the blacksmith. The pipes, valves and fittings covering the ceilings are now all gone, without trace of their being there. The worrisome barrels described by Chadwick are also not present when the workers enter to start cleaning. Sister Mera is appreciative of Chadwick and Kragen's assistance in blessing the place to drive off any vestiges of necrotic energy. She is most impressed with Chadwick's abilities and achievement as he was a student of hers in his youth.
A stone marker is commissioned bearing Chadwick's oath to place near the well house at the spring. Caellia agrees to meet with a small group from the town and introductions are made with Allyna, Mayor Brassbeard and Sister Mera. It is agreed that a yearly festival will be held in honor of the Lady of the Waters to keep memory alive of the agreement to maintain the lands and the waters for the benefit of all.
A tour of Cerric's Hill is carried out. It is a foothill of the mountain range growing hardwoods and pine. The top of the hill is relatively flat in an oval measuring 1/2 mile x 1/3 mile. All told, about 80 acres of flattish land there. A natural spring arises from one side of this with a pool of cool, spring water that is roughly 30' x 50' that empties via a small waterfall to feed a stream running down the hillside. A good bit of tree clearing will be needed to build anything up there, but the trees will be good building material.