Corti was happy to spend time with Thia and watch both their patients and the artificer recover.
Before heading to dinner, Corti freshens up, straps her lute to her back, and sets out. She spots Arc on his way out of his tent, "Arc! We haven't gotten to catch up yet, I feel like so much has happened." She jogs over to him and keeps pace as they walk to the mill, "What happened here while we were gone?"
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Corti- Warforged bard of lore (Union!); Jean CamGaret - Half-elven draconic sorcerer (Acjots' Rise of Tiamat); Chretien deMarie - High-elven Cleric of Lliira (Owlbear's Phandalin Adventures)
“The others managed to decode what remained of Hadrari‘s letter. They retrieved enough information for us to make some educated guesses on what was needed for an antidote and how to prepare it. We took the risk and set out on the journey to retrieve ingredients. I was already inflicted, but by then the poison had taken its toll. Corti, Tarian and Giselle harvested and prepared everything. I tested it.” The redhead would explain. “And here we are.”
"Shit. Glad to see that you're doing better though. Spent the last few days chasing Hadrari with some of Arcineaux's boys. Couldn't get much out of him though. His mind was wiped when I found him, some kind of spell I guess, but I'm no good with magic."
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Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
"Yeah. Thanks." Thia would sigh. "I heard you and Tarian really tried... Wiped and blank... I guess I just needed to hear it from one of you myself." She'd inhale a breath. "Alright. Well. Best be heading to dinner." The artificer would flip up her hood and head that way.
Arriving within a few minutes of each other, you are all led into the commander's tent. The setting is still primarily functional, if not to say spartanic, but compared to how you encountered the Marshal, things seem to look up for her and the remnants of her corps. In the middle of the large canvas tent, a long wooden table covered with simple white linens and lit by four candles spaced evenly along the middle, await. Judging by the laid-out cutlery, the Marshal is treating you to a three--course meal. Once you're all ready to be seated, the Marshal enters. She wears a simply cut black tunic, with her rank insignia in gold braid on her cuffs and her pauldrons with the gold fringes on her shoulders. She appears relaxed, though a hint of sadness or melancholy plays on her face.
"Thanks for your presence, please take a seat." As you're all getting comfortable, the first course, a hearty soup of local vegetables and grains along with freshly baked bread, is served, and some red wine is poured for each of you, although the lancer serving Corti does give an unsure look to the Marshal before being signaled to proceed. Once you're all served, the Marshal rises for a toast.
"This is the last night of my life as a Garronian general. Tomorrow, I'll surrender my troops to Magistrate Corsyr and the Council. Yet, I'm glad to have met you all. I was like a wounded fox, boxed in a corner and ready to lash out in desperation. You helped me avoid further bloodshed and suffering for my troops. For that, they and I will forever be in your debt. Gyselle, you have always provided for my troops, but you were among the first to trust these strangers and were instrumental in helping them help us. Corti, you have shown us all, that warforged are more than mere killing machines and I hope that your example will help my own men and women make the transition to their new roles as gracefully as you do every day. Tarian, your mind and your willingness to do the right thing, even when it's hard has helped me to see the right path and prevent Hadrari from doing any more harm than he already did. Brandt, through your skills, Hadrari was found and will be brought to justice. Thia, your tireless search for a cure has given many of my men and women a new dawn to look forward to. And Arc, without your diplomatic words, my people would have had to coninue on, hungry and desperate, and it is thanks to you we can enjoy this pleasant meal before us today. You all have given us so much. Even if the next chapter in our lives won't be an easy one, know that I will hold you in my heart as friends, always."
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Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
Thia was uncomfortable in such a formal setting, but would make the effort to present herself respectfully. She’d take a seat next to Corti, budding up a little close to her as a personal comfort, allowing herself to relax comfortably. The artificer would listen to the Marshal’s toast quietly and found herself not as moved as she’d thought she should be. Her head would dip in a humble thanks when her name was mentioned, only having shown a twitch of a smile at the corner of her lips when Corti and Tarian were addressed shortly before.
Corti settles into her seat and smiles as Thia sits next to her. When the artificer moves closer, Corti takes one of her hands under the table. Her eyes flicker at the Marshal's warforged remark, making a note to say something later. She beams at her friends as they are addressed, then sits in thought after the toast.
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Corti- Warforged bard of lore (Union!); Jean CamGaret - Half-elven draconic sorcerer (Acjots' Rise of Tiamat); Chretien deMarie - High-elven Cleric of Lliira (Owlbear's Phandalin Adventures)
Arc is similarly melancholy throughout the speech, but keeps his thoughts to himself and puts on a polite smile as he raises his toast in return, "To good friends, good company, and better tomorrows for those we care for." He meets eyes with the Marsha-...with Phoenix Arcineaux, and offered a true smile towards her, "May this dusk give a rise to a new dawn."
The dinner continues in a similarly melancholy fashion, with the Marshal trying to show you each, how much she appreciates your efforts for her, while also recognising that for many of them life in a prisoner of war camp might await them for as long as the peace negotiations and any forthcoming pardons would take.
Is there anything any of you wish to discuss with each other or the Marshal before the next day?
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Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
Feeling Corti reach for her hand, Thia immediately felt warmth from the gesture. Without even knowing it, the artificer would exhale a breath she was holding and would give Corti’s hand a gentle squeeze of appreciation. Another one would follow to match the small smile of pride when she’d catch Corti’s expression from the recognition. And when the formalities were complete and the group would be able to mingle, Thia would encourage Corti to go speak to Phoenix, offering to accompany her if she’d like.
Thia wasn’t without looking for Tarian though. The longer she went in silence, the more pangs of guilt that’d eat away at the artificer. She still felt awful for her attitude when Tarian had approached her and asked for help with something personal. She had not handled it professionally. Now she wondered if she wedged doubt in the confident woman and whatever respect she may have had for Thia. Catching herself pursing her lips, she’d exhale a breath.
Brandt remains silent as the Marshal thanks him and the others for their assistance during the dinner. He doesn't figure that it would go over well if he piped up and said out loud that it's not like the gang had a ton of choice when it came to helping Arcineaux and her men.
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Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
Corti had been planning when to speak with the Marshal, and at Thia's urging, she gives the artificer a pat on the shoulder, promising to come find her when she's done talking, and approaches the Marshal, steeling herself.
"Marshal!" She says, intentionally sounding cheery, "Quite the party tonight! It feels like it's been a long time since we all got to celebrate something." She pauses, gauging the Marshal's reaction before continuing, "I'm sure the rest of our time together is going to be packed, so I wanted to discuss something with you now, if you have a moment." She waits for the Marshal's response before continuing.
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The Marshal gives Corti a surprised smile: "I suspect now might be best, I doubt I'll be in a position to decide my own schedule, come tomorrow. What's on your mind?"
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Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
Tarian chuffed quietly when Arceneaux said her piece. Sure, sure. The threat of death would make anyone willing to ‘do the right thing.’ She supped in silence. Were it up to me alone, Hadrari would still be your right hand and your lot would still be suffering from Pale Tincture. Though, come to think of it, why didn’t the Marshal suffer the effects? As her right hand, Hadrari would’ve had plenty of opportunity… And his mind was wiped, yet he was found alive… Maybe someone wanted—expected—him to be retrieved…
Lost in her thoughts, Tarian forgot her manners at the table and sopped the last of her soup with her bread. Absently she thumbed away breadcrumbs and soup from the corner of her mouth. She gave a quiet thanks and excused herself. “I’ve a report to prepare, so I’ll need to get to it.”
After the meal Tarian intends to write a letter to the magistrate, ask Arc to check the telelith again to make sure it’s still not bugged, and send the letter. After the letter is sent, she intends to burn the note so it can’t be read afterward.
Magistrate Corsyr:
Due to circumstances the telelith was left without guard after the first message marked ‘TR.’ Any communications you may have received from Corphyran Rail Company between then and now may be considered to be compromised.
Poisoner Hadrari has been captured, but we are unable to interrogate. Poison has been identified as Pale Tincture and antidote has been developed. Soldiers in recovery.
Arceneaux claims she intends to march toward Duskrock tomorrow for the purpose of surrendering troops.
Rhydderch
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"On the other side of the screen, it all looks so easy." --Kevin Flynn, Tron (1982)
Out of context, also applicable to Dungeons & Dragons.
Corti takes a moment to get her thoughts in order, and then speaks quietly, "Marshal, I'm happy that you don't see my people as — what was it? 'Mere killing machines?' — but every single one of us has to work to prove that daily. We all fought the same war, Marshal, but it was your people who chose to fight it." She pauses again, watching the Marshal closely, "I hope you'll remember that the next time you meet one of us." Corti walks away then, wanting to find Thia and uninterested in having a discussion.
Tarian getting up to excuse herself to write her report, Thia would hope to catch her before she completely stepped away. She wouldn't keep her long if so.
"Tarian," She'd pause, realizing she didn't prepare anything to say. "I'm sorry for my unprofessionalism when you asked for help." Exhaling, Thia would absentmindedly rub her arm. "I was wrong." She'd admit her haunting error. "Should you still be willing to have my input, I would like to assist you with your ask, or with anything else in the future... And I hope to be able to continue come to you for yours."
Otherwise, Thia could be found with her notebook in hand. She'd be reviewing and jotting down the thoughts running wild in her head so that they'd stick somewhere. The medic would think about what Brandt/Tarian said then begin sifting through what she did know, what she didn't know, and what was peculiar about Hidrari's condition before eventually moving on to her notes about the organization he worked for: Shard. Some of this was beyond her, but not the others, that she knew.
(Tarian will take the time to respond to Thia on the way out. Her task isn't super time-sensitive.)
It took only a moment for Tarian to recognize what Thia was talking about. It must be that. It was the reason Tarian had reverted to calling her “Miss” Thia again. In her defense, me asking for her help in a personal matter isn’t exactly professional, either. Tarian had begun to lose the sense of professional distance and was at risk of trying to make friends during a job.
Be ‘professional,’ Tarian. Be all the ‘professional’ you can, whatever that means. The leadership role was given to you, so you need to be a leader, not a friend.
Tarian’s hand went to her coin purse, and she massaged the mysterious locket she received back in Duskrock. “Very well. I can’t say what I was asking for was entirely professional either, so if you would, let’s both let the whole thing be water under the bridge. While we’re contracted for Corphyran Rail, you can expect my full support. I hope I’ve shown that so far. Thank you, Miss Thia, for coming to me with your concern.”
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"On the other side of the screen, it all looks so easy." --Kevin Flynn, Tron (1982)
Out of context, also applicable to Dungeons & Dragons.
The next day is a blur of events and emotions, leapfrogging each other. Shortly after dawn, the troops gather up their gear and break down their camp. Once everything is stored on Arc's ATCs (all-terrain carts), the troops line up, as if for a parade. You notice, that almost all of the sick have recovered enough to be standing in amongst their fellow troopers as well. The Marshal holds a brief, yet emotional speech, talking about the end of a chapter and the chance to write their own story from here on out. Corti, your words seem to have found an echo, as the Marshal urges her troops to do better than their forefathers and choose peace instead. The soldiers don't cheer, but most seem glad that their arduous trek is nearing an end. Shouldering their gear or stowing it on their carts, the marching column gets going pretty soon after.
You all ride in your Corphyrean Rail Cart, a bit to the side of the marching column. Since the evening, Tarian has received a short new missive via the telelith:
"Great work- the surrender is prepared. See you shortly for debriefing.
Commander"
You're all still trying to make sense of the whole thing, when, upon cresting the next hill, you look out over a stunning display:
To the right about a mile off, you see a long and thin bank of heaped earth, with thousands of workers surrounding it. Another half mile or so back, you see a vast tent city emerge out of the mud, with some ramshackle buildings in between to provide the workers with their daily necessities. The glint of the morning sun off of the two silver tracks winding their way off to the horizon and the hulking beast of a machine standing upon them with many flatbeds piled high with lumber and steel tracks running to the tent city and back to the horizon confirm it- Sparks and the Commander have successfully launched their project and the railway construction is underway.
The the left meanwhile, you see a similar tent city, but well structured and surrounded by a palisade wall and topped with bright flags that leave no doubt: An entire regiment of the Duskrock Dragoons are out here, either to protect the railway, to accept the surrender of the Marshal's troops, or both.
It's not long, before you're greeted by the commander personally, wearing the naval uniform of Duskrock's commander. The official surrender of Marshal Arcineaux and her corps is a rather quick affair, as she steps before him, takes off her sabre and coat and hands them over. The remainder of the column is then quickly led to the waiting dragoons, who accept the weapons and gear of the surrendering Garronians and accompany them to magistrates of the Corphyrean Council, who register each and every one of the prisoners of war. While the Garronians are being processed, the commander approaches your cart.
"Apologies that I couldn't be more forthcoming with information over the telelith. We suspected our communications might be compromised after a bit, but we wanted to let you know things were under control. Thanks to your efforts, a lot of nastiness has been avoided and the marshal and her troops will have the chance to show that they are willing to fight for the Corphyrean future as much as they did for their own Garronian cause. Now, to a slightly more pressing matter though: I take it, that you were not alone in discovering this antidote and as I am sure you know, we need the same medicines back in the city. Do you know how to create it, or will you require the help of the medical staff of the Garronians? Because if so, I can ensure that they won't be arrested and processed with the rest of them and can be on a train back to Duskrock with us in an hour..."
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Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
Thia appreciated the conversation with Tarian, and with a nod, she'd offer her a firm hand to shake before parting ways for the evening.
During the parade and speech, Thia would exchange looks of humble pride with each member of the team. She'd also make note of Phoenix urging her troops to do better, more so out of curiosity.
From there it was easy to fall in line with the rest of the group for travel. Though, at the sight of the vast tent city, Thia couldn't hide the expression of awe in her eyes when they'd land on the railway construction already underway.
When the group would be addressed in the cart by the commander, Thia would wait silently for any one else to speak up. She'd look to a couple of the others before looking back ahead at the person speaking to them. After wondering if they were waiting on her, she'd clear her throat. "No. I was not alone in the discovery of this antidote." She'd admit, gesturing to Tarian, Corti and Gyselle, then also Leech, Arc and Brandt. "We all had a part in putting pieces of this puzzle together." Pausing to take a breath, the medic would pause to chew her lip giving any one a chance to jump in and interrupt her if she would be about to speak out of place.
Having not spoken collectively as a group, Thia would start cautiously. "Speaking for myself," her hand would raise a bit before she'd place it to her chest. "Having the knowledge at hand to make the medicines, my belief is to have it patented, then completely accessible for medical use and study." With the note that if there were any profits ever made based on the intellectual property, that they were to be recycled back into the medical field*. "At least for the individuals we worked with, I could vouch that the Gorronian staff's experience could be a resourceful asset in a step towards patient recovery, medical training and future advancements."
Apologies in advance, thinking out loud here:
*(To build upon and perhaps cyclically fund some of her earlier demands at council was it? re medical care system etc.?
ie. supplies, care, training, scholarships, research, infrastructure sustainability etc.
Note for above: Specifics of up to even including certain allocations for Warforged opportunities? Something she'd want to consult with Corti for example. And of course include any specifics related to odes Gyselle, Tarian, Arc, Leech and Brandt.
'Garronian Staff': I'm assuming Gyselle and Leech? All medical staff? Thia would vouch for those she's worked with directly, and would extend that to who Gyselle and Leech would vouch for.)
Corti was happy to spend time with Thia and watch both their patients and the artificer recover.
Before heading to dinner, Corti freshens up, straps her lute to her back, and sets out. She spots Arc on his way out of his tent, "Arc! We haven't gotten to catch up yet, I feel like so much has happened." She jogs over to him and keeps pace as they walk to the mill, "What happened here while we were gone?"
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Corti- Warforged bard of lore (Union!); Jean CamGaret - Half-elven draconic sorcerer (Acjots' Rise of Tiamat); Chretien deMarie - High-elven Cleric of Lliira (Owlbear's Phandalin Adventures)
“The others managed to decode what remained of Hadrari‘s letter. They retrieved enough information for us to make some educated guesses on what was needed for an antidote and how to prepare it. We took the risk and set out on the journey to retrieve ingredients. I was already inflicted, but by then the poison had taken its toll. Corti, Tarian and Giselle harvested and prepared everything. I tested it.” The redhead would explain. “And here we are.”
just an unstable unicorn.
"Shit. Glad to see that you're doing better though. Spent the last few days chasing Hadrari with some of Arcineaux's boys. Couldn't get much out of him though. His mind was wiped when I found him, some kind of spell I guess, but I'm no good with magic."
Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
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"Yeah. Thanks." Thia would sigh. "I heard you and Tarian really tried... Wiped and blank... I guess I just needed to hear it from one of you myself." She'd inhale a breath. "Alright. Well. Best be heading to dinner." The artificer would flip up her hood and head that way.
just an unstable unicorn.
Arriving within a few minutes of each other, you are all led into the commander's tent. The setting is still primarily functional, if not to say spartanic, but compared to how you encountered the Marshal, things seem to look up for her and the remnants of her corps. In the middle of the large canvas tent, a long wooden table covered with simple white linens and lit by four candles spaced evenly along the middle, await. Judging by the laid-out cutlery, the Marshal is treating you to a three--course meal. Once you're all ready to be seated, the Marshal enters. She wears a simply cut black tunic, with her rank insignia in gold braid on her cuffs and her pauldrons with the gold fringes on her shoulders. She appears relaxed, though a hint of sadness or melancholy plays on her face.
"Thanks for your presence, please take a seat." As you're all getting comfortable, the first course, a hearty soup of local vegetables and grains along with freshly baked bread, is served, and some red wine is poured for each of you, although the lancer serving Corti does give an unsure look to the Marshal before being signaled to proceed. Once you're all served, the Marshal rises for a toast.
"This is the last night of my life as a Garronian general. Tomorrow, I'll surrender my troops to Magistrate Corsyr and the Council. Yet, I'm glad to have met you all. I was like a wounded fox, boxed in a corner and ready to lash out in desperation. You helped me avoid further bloodshed and suffering for my troops. For that, they and I will forever be in your debt. Gyselle, you have always provided for my troops, but you were among the first to trust these strangers and were instrumental in helping them help us. Corti, you have shown us all, that warforged are more than mere killing machines and I hope that your example will help my own men and women make the transition to their new roles as gracefully as you do every day. Tarian, your mind and your willingness to do the right thing, even when it's hard has helped me to see the right path and prevent Hadrari from doing any more harm than he already did. Brandt, through your skills, Hadrari was found and will be brought to justice. Thia, your tireless search for a cure has given many of my men and women a new dawn to look forward to. And Arc, without your diplomatic words, my people would have had to coninue on, hungry and desperate, and it is thanks to you we can enjoy this pleasant meal before us today. You all have given us so much. Even if the next chapter in our lives won't be an easy one, know that I will hold you in my heart as friends, always."
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms
Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms
Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
Gyselle blushes as her name is mentioned with praise from the Marshall she smiles weakly but doesn’t interrupt the speech.
Thia was uncomfortable in such a formal setting, but would make the effort to present herself respectfully. She’d take a seat next to Corti, budding up a little close to her as a personal comfort, allowing herself to relax comfortably. The artificer would listen to the Marshal’s toast quietly and found herself not as moved as she’d thought she should be. Her head would dip in a humble thanks when her name was mentioned, only having shown a twitch of a smile at the corner of her lips when Corti and Tarian were addressed shortly before.
just an unstable unicorn.
Corti settles into her seat and smiles as Thia sits next to her. When the artificer moves closer, Corti takes one of her hands under the table. Her eyes flicker at the Marshal's warforged remark, making a note to say something later. She beams at her friends as they are addressed, then sits in thought after the toast.
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Corti- Warforged bard of lore (Union!); Jean CamGaret - Half-elven draconic sorcerer (Acjots' Rise of Tiamat); Chretien deMarie - High-elven Cleric of Lliira (Owlbear's Phandalin Adventures)
Arc is similarly melancholy throughout the speech, but keeps his thoughts to himself and puts on a polite smile as he raises his toast in return, "To good friends, good company, and better tomorrows for those we care for." He meets eyes with the Marsha-...with Phoenix Arcineaux, and offered a true smile towards her, "May this dusk give a rise to a new dawn."
The dinner continues in a similarly melancholy fashion, with the Marshal trying to show you each, how much she appreciates your efforts for her, while also recognising that for many of them life in a prisoner of war camp might await them for as long as the peace negotiations and any forthcoming pardons would take.
Is there anything any of you wish to discuss with each other or the Marshal before the next day?
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms
Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms
Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
Feeling Corti reach for her hand, Thia immediately felt warmth from the gesture. Without even knowing it, the artificer would exhale a breath she was holding and would give Corti’s hand a gentle squeeze of appreciation. Another one would follow to match the small smile of pride when she’d catch Corti’s expression from the recognition. And when the formalities were complete and the group would be able to mingle, Thia would encourage Corti to go speak to Phoenix, offering to accompany her if she’d like.
Thia wasn’t without looking for Tarian though. The longer she went in silence, the more pangs of guilt that’d eat away at the artificer. She still felt awful for her attitude when Tarian had approached her and asked for help with something personal. She had not handled it professionally. Now she wondered if she wedged doubt in the confident woman and whatever respect she may have had for Thia. Catching herself pursing her lips, she’d exhale a breath.
just an unstable unicorn.
Brandt remains silent as the Marshal thanks him and the others for their assistance during the dinner. He doesn't figure that it would go over well if he piped up and said out loud that it's not like the gang had a ton of choice when it came to helping Arcineaux and her men.
Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
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Corti had been planning when to speak with the Marshal, and at Thia's urging, she gives the artificer a pat on the shoulder, promising to come find her when she's done talking, and approaches the Marshal, steeling herself.
"Marshal!" She says, intentionally sounding cheery, "Quite the party tonight! It feels like it's been a long time since we all got to celebrate something." She pauses, gauging the Marshal's reaction before continuing, "I'm sure the rest of our time together is going to be packed, so I wanted to discuss something with you now, if you have a moment." She waits for the Marshal's response before continuing.
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Corti- Warforged bard of lore (Union!); Jean CamGaret - Half-elven draconic sorcerer (Acjots' Rise of Tiamat); Chretien deMarie - High-elven Cleric of Lliira (Owlbear's Phandalin Adventures)
The Marshal gives Corti a surprised smile: "I suspect now might be best, I doubt I'll be in a position to decide my own schedule, come tomorrow. What's on your mind?"
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms
Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms
Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
Tarian chuffed quietly when Arceneaux said her piece. Sure, sure. The threat of death would make anyone willing to ‘do the right thing.’ She supped in silence. Were it up to me alone, Hadrari would still be your right hand and your lot would still be suffering from Pale Tincture. Though, come to think of it, why didn’t the Marshal suffer the effects? As her right hand, Hadrari would’ve had plenty of opportunity… And his mind was wiped, yet he was found alive… Maybe someone wanted—expected—him to be retrieved…
Lost in her thoughts, Tarian forgot her manners at the table and sopped the last of her soup with her bread. Absently she thumbed away breadcrumbs and soup from the corner of her mouth. She gave a quiet thanks and excused herself. “I’ve a report to prepare, so I’ll need to get to it.”
After the meal Tarian intends to write a letter to the magistrate, ask Arc to check the telelith again to make sure it’s still not bugged, and send the letter. After the letter is sent, she intends to burn the note so it can’t be read afterward.
"On the other side of the screen, it all looks so easy." --Kevin Flynn, Tron (1982)
Out of context, also applicable to Dungeons & Dragons.
Corti takes a moment to get her thoughts in order, and then speaks quietly, "Marshal, I'm happy that you don't see my people as — what was it? 'Mere killing machines?' — but every single one of us has to work to prove that daily. We all fought the same war, Marshal, but it was your people who chose to fight it." She pauses again, watching the Marshal closely, "I hope you'll remember that the next time you meet one of us." Corti walks away then, wanting to find Thia and uninterested in having a discussion.
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Corti- Warforged bard of lore (Union!); Jean CamGaret - Half-elven draconic sorcerer (Acjots' Rise of Tiamat); Chretien deMarie - High-elven Cleric of Lliira (Owlbear's Phandalin Adventures)
Tarian getting up to excuse herself to write her report, Thia would hope to catch her before she completely stepped away. She wouldn't keep her long if so.
"Tarian," She'd pause, realizing she didn't prepare anything to say. "I'm sorry for my unprofessionalism when you asked for help." Exhaling, Thia would absentmindedly rub her arm. "I was wrong." She'd admit her haunting error. "Should you still be willing to have my input, I would like to assist you with your ask, or with anything else in the future... And I hope to be able to continue come to you for yours."
Otherwise, Thia could be found with her notebook in hand. She'd be reviewing and jotting down the thoughts running wild in her head so that they'd stick somewhere. The medic would think about what Brandt/Tarian said then begin sifting through what she did know, what she didn't know, and what was peculiar about Hidrari's condition before eventually moving on to her notes about the organization he worked for: Shard. Some of this was beyond her, but not the others, that she knew.
just an unstable unicorn.
(Tarian will take the time to respond to Thia on the way out. Her task isn't super time-sensitive.)
It took only a moment for Tarian to recognize what Thia was talking about. It must be that. It was the reason Tarian had reverted to calling her “Miss” Thia again. In her defense, me asking for her help in a personal matter isn’t exactly professional, either. Tarian had begun to lose the sense of professional distance and was at risk of trying to make friends during a job.
Be ‘professional,’ Tarian. Be all the ‘professional’ you can, whatever that means. The leadership role was given to you, so you need to be a leader, not a friend.
Tarian’s hand went to her coin purse, and she massaged the mysterious locket she received back in Duskrock. “Very well. I can’t say what I was asking for was entirely professional either, so if you would, let’s both let the whole thing be water under the bridge. While we’re contracted for Corphyran Rail, you can expect my full support. I hope I’ve shown that so far. Thank you, Miss Thia, for coming to me with your concern.”
"On the other side of the screen, it all looks so easy." --Kevin Flynn, Tron (1982)
Out of context, also applicable to Dungeons & Dragons.
The next day is a blur of events and emotions, leapfrogging each other. Shortly after dawn, the troops gather up their gear and break down their camp. Once everything is stored on Arc's ATCs (all-terrain carts), the troops line up, as if for a parade. You notice, that almost all of the sick have recovered enough to be standing in amongst their fellow troopers as well. The Marshal holds a brief, yet emotional speech, talking about the end of a chapter and the chance to write their own story from here on out. Corti, your words seem to have found an echo, as the Marshal urges her troops to do better than their forefathers and choose peace instead. The soldiers don't cheer, but most seem glad that their arduous trek is nearing an end. Shouldering their gear or stowing it on their carts, the marching column gets going pretty soon after.

You all ride in your Corphyrean Rail Cart, a bit to the side of the marching column. Since the evening, Tarian has received a short new missive via the telelith:
"Great work- the surrender is prepared. See you shortly for debriefing.
Commander"
You're all still trying to make sense of the whole thing, when, upon cresting the next hill, you look out over a stunning display:
To the right about a mile off, you see a long and thin bank of heaped earth, with thousands of workers surrounding it. Another half mile or so back, you see a vast tent city emerge out of the mud, with some ramshackle buildings in between to provide the workers with their daily necessities. The glint of the morning sun off of the two silver tracks winding their way off to the horizon and the hulking beast of a machine standing upon them with many flatbeds piled high with lumber and steel tracks running to the tent city and back to the horizon confirm it- Sparks and the Commander have successfully launched their project and the railway construction is underway.
The the left meanwhile, you see a similar tent city, but well structured and surrounded by a palisade wall and topped with bright flags that leave no doubt: An entire regiment of the Duskrock Dragoons are out here, either to protect the railway, to accept the surrender of the Marshal's troops, or both.
It's not long, before you're greeted by the commander personally, wearing the naval uniform of Duskrock's commander. The official surrender of Marshal Arcineaux and her corps is a rather quick affair, as she steps before him, takes off her sabre and coat and hands them over. The remainder of the column is then quickly led to the waiting dragoons, who accept the weapons and gear of the surrendering Garronians and accompany them to magistrates of the Corphyrean Council, who register each and every one of the prisoners of war. While the Garronians are being processed, the commander approaches your cart.
"Apologies that I couldn't be more forthcoming with information over the telelith. We suspected our communications might be compromised after a bit, but we wanted to let you know things were under control. Thanks to your efforts, a lot of nastiness has been avoided and the marshal and her troops will have the chance to show that they are willing to fight for the Corphyrean future as much as they did for their own Garronian cause. Now, to a slightly more pressing matter though: I take it, that you were not alone in discovering this antidote and as I am sure you know, we need the same medicines back in the city. Do you know how to create it, or will you require the help of the medical staff of the Garronians? Because if so, I can ensure that they won't be arrested and processed with the rest of them and can be on a train back to Duskrock with us in an hour..."
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms
Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms
Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
Thia appreciated the conversation with Tarian, and with a nod, she'd offer her a firm hand to shake before parting ways for the evening.
During the parade and speech, Thia would exchange looks of humble pride with each member of the team. She'd also make note of Phoenix urging her troops to do better, more so out of curiosity.
From there it was easy to fall in line with the rest of the group for travel. Though, at the sight of the vast tent city, Thia couldn't hide the expression of awe in her eyes when they'd land on the railway construction already underway.
When the group would be addressed in the cart by the commander, Thia would wait silently for any one else to speak up. She'd look to a couple of the others before looking back ahead at the person speaking to them. After wondering if they were waiting on her, she'd clear her throat. "No. I was not alone in the discovery of this antidote." She'd admit, gesturing to Tarian, Corti and Gyselle, then also Leech, Arc and Brandt. "We all had a part in putting pieces of this puzzle together." Pausing to take a breath, the medic would pause to chew her lip giving any one a chance to jump in and interrupt her if she would be about to speak out of place.
Having not spoken collectively as a group, Thia would start cautiously. "Speaking for myself," her hand would raise a bit before she'd place it to her chest. "Having the knowledge at hand to make the medicines, my belief is to have it patented, then completely accessible for medical use and study." With the note that if there were any profits ever made based on the intellectual property, that they were to be recycled back into the medical field*. "At least for the individuals we worked with, I could vouch that the Gorronian staff's experience could be a resourceful asset in a step towards patient recovery, medical training and future advancements."
Apologies in advance, thinking out loud here:
*(To build upon and perhaps cyclically fund some of her earlier demands at council was it? re medical care system etc.?
ie. supplies, care, training, scholarships, research, infrastructure sustainability etc.
Note for above: Specifics of up to even including certain allocations for Warforged opportunities? Something she'd want to consult with Corti for example. And of course include any specifics related to odes Gyselle, Tarian, Arc, Leech and Brandt.
'Garronian Staff': I'm assuming Gyselle and Leech? All medical staff? Thia would vouch for those she's worked with directly, and would extend that to who Gyselle and Leech would vouch for.)
just an unstable unicorn.