Snippet #1692020

Continuing to smugly smile to herself on Niel’s gracious compliment, even if it was just flattery, it was also an intense boost to Ferma’s ego. As Artur returned, she pushed off the wall, stretching as she spoke. “Well, it’s about time. It’s not exactly late, but I for one don’t want to be travelling the dirt roads in darkness.” Confidently folding her arms behind her head, she refrained herself from teasing Bianca again about being scared of the dark, instead taking a few steps to move into leading the group as she guided them out the gate.

“It’s not too far really, and it’s kind of impossible to get lost. Just need to follow along the dirt path to Bree, and you can’t miss it on the side.”

Gesturing as she moved to lead the group, assumedly, everyone would follow suit after her as she proudly made her way out of town. She had to admit, this felt pretty cool – Being in charge of her own little band, telling them where to go, what to do. I mean, TECHNICALLY they were under Artur’s control, but for the moment he’d be following her, so she was in charge.

The trip was filled with much flaunting of authority, taunting gestures, laughs and a small amount of apologies that shan’t be detailed. Things only truly started getting interesting as they approached the walls of the Blade Wings camp…


“Commander Korin! It appears the members from the Red Wolves are making their arrival!”

Korin looked up from his position addressing the soldiers, nodding and saluting to the lookout guard as he made his way over to the front gate. It seemed it was time to meet this mercenary group he’d heard so much about. Preparations had gone smoothly, Barryn having started on more than enough food for everyone, while Lindell handled the sleeping arrangements for the guests. Perhaps most important of all, Korin himself had seen to the security arrangements for the evening, assigning guards around the compound to insure that any disturbances would quickly be discovered – Both internal or external.

After all, there was no harm in being too careful.

The base of operations for the Blade Wings was actually relatively well furnished. A square compound surrounded by wooden walls and sectioned into four separate areas, there was designated areas for eating and cooking, tents for rest, training and sparring fields backed by a weapons tent, and a general common area. In the centre of the camp was the command tent, where Korin and the others would convene on missions and work, along with storing the majority of the earnings. Central paths that convened in a cross shape at the command tent were worn into the grass and marked with dirt, and it was this main pathway that Korin was taking to the front entrance.

Midway down the path, Lindell ran over to accompany him, letting the remaining soldiers finish up setting the spare tents for Artur and company. All of the tents were relatively large, with plenty of standing room – Though it seemed each of the Red Wolves would be required to share a room.

“Everything’s all set Korin, Barryn said dinner would be ready momentarily, so they’re right on time.”

Korin nodded, closing his eyes in contemplation. He wasn’t particularly good with social meetings like this, he much preferred to be interpreted and judged through his actions rather than talk. As Lindell continued to eye his face, she grinned, giving him a soft squeezing hug.

“Hey, ease up a bit, will you? There’s nothing to worry about, you’re not going for a job or something, we’re doing them a favour. Just be yourself.” As Lindell hugged into his chest, Korin sighed, slowly removing her arms, ending up in a bit of a fidgety war with the archer.

“I’m not worried-“

“Yes you are!”

“No, I’m not. I’m just not certain whether this sort of meeting is appropriate in our line of work. As Mercenaries we could very well end up on opposite sides.” Korin went serious as he finally managed to get Lin off of him, sternly watching the approaching group. His gaze faltered for only a moment as he looked to Lindell, her hand over her heart and her eyes downcast as she sighed, downtrodden by Korin’s hardline approach to things.

“I just… Everything doesn’t have to always be so bleak, does it? They could end up being good friends…” Korin watched Lindell meet his eyes, trying to derive some sort of support from her leader. It was some time before he decided to respond, placing a hand on her shoulder.

“I understand things are hard, but I just don’t like mixing business and pleasure.” Korin attempted a smile, but his face turned to surprise as Lin turned away, letting Korin’s arm fall to his side.

“I guess that explains a lot about you then…” Lindell murmured, keeping her back to Korin. He wondered what she meant by that, but had no time to ask as he turned his attention to Ferma, who was now running up and well within earshot.

“Commander Korin! Ugh, finally we’re here, I don’t think I could’ve put up with them another second…” Ferma was of course exaggerating, but even Korin couldn’t help but smile at her pouty little face, ruffling her hair a moment, much to the girl’s annoyance.

“Good job Ferma. Go and let Barryn know we’ll be inside shortly for our meal. You can tell me all about your adventure later.”

Ferma made an annoyed ‘Ooooooh!’ before storming off, annoyed at the childish treatment she was relegated back to now she was back at the bottom of the pecking order. She would’ve maybe protested, but the prospect of getting some delicious food from Barryn, and the way Lin seemed a little off was enough to make her leave without much of another word.

As Ferma made her leave, Korin turned to face the group, eying over each of them before making his address.

“My name is Korin Hartnell, and I am commander of the Blade Wings and leader of this encampment. I trust you all know Lindell, my second in command.” Gesturing to her for but a moment, Korin continued after allowing a response from Artur.

“I understand you dealt with some bandits harassing my companions, and for that, I thank each of you. You’re welcome to stay the night, as we’ve prepared food and lodging for each of you.”

Turning his back to them and heading inside, he beckoned them to follow, Lindell waiting for each of them to pass before trailing at the back of the group. Leading them each over to large wooden banquet table, there seemed to be quite the feast prepared, a few soldiers already tucking in, Ferma herself included. Barryn stood at the head of the table, happily watching everyone eat over their meal.

“Please, be seated, and take what you wish. There’s plenty to go around. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask myself, Lindell, or anyone around really. We’ll do what we can to assist you with what you need.”

Korin pulled aside a seat, moving into position to sit as he poured himself a drink. He didn’t intend to stay too long at the social gathering, since it wasn’t his forte – However, he’d remain for some time out of courtesy to the guests.