Chapter 1: Nightstone

"Are we supposed to do something now?" Xed looks around at everyone, confused at why they're still standing around.

"Also a good question. This town needs help but seems there is a mystery with that lady? " Maru looks a little confused.

"They're gone, now," says Qavez. "She came from inside the inn; maybe ask Morak. As for ourselves, we have to get to Waterdeep."

Xalvador nods "Agreed. Let’s see if anyone knows the mystery woman whilst we make sure the folk here no longer need our assistance before we hit the road" he makes a slight gesture before the unseen servant heads back into the inn and returns with another plate of food

"But if we leave, do they have anyone to help keep them safe?" Xed looks at the townspeople, then back at the group.

"Well the people here seem to be getting themselves better organised now the shock of the attack is fading. Between the villagers and the troops from the keep I'm sure they will be able to hold their own against most threats....giants from the sky not withstanding"

Qavez nods. "That's a good point, Xed. We started talking about who should lead this town last night, but it was late and everybody was hungry. I'm sorta inclined to think that Morak ought to step up since he's the one who's likely most familiar with everybody and probably has a vested interest in the town."

Xalvador shrugs "I'm sure the townsfolk here will be able to decide who, if anyone, should be in charge whilst they get back on their feet. It's not really our place to make the decision for them is it?"

"It sorta is," says Qavez. "After their Lady and Captain died in the attack, they've been looking to us for direction. We got them to the keep, fixed the bridge so the survivors had shelter, and organized food and supplies. And, we were the only ones to step up to those riders when they threatened the town. I'm worried that if we just up and leave, they'll be in a state of panic and in no mind to make important decisions."

Xed nods. "The tallest and strongest usually make the decisions."

"Tallest?! Strongest?! I think that's me yes? On second thought I am not sure either want to make decisions for others..."Maru quickly looses her enthusiasm.

Xalvador looks at Quavez curiously "I'd hardly say the way the towns folk reacted when they were in shock after such an attack is any reliable indication of the way they would be able to handle things normally. By all means lets be sure they are no longer in need of our assistance before we leave but I for one have no designs on taking up the post of Mayor of Nightstone" he pauses for a moment and glances at the patch of broken ground where the eponymous monolith once stood before muttering to himself "I wonder if they'll change the town name now?"

"Does the Mayor get a hat?" Xed considers the mayorship.

As the group wanders back into the inn, Morak greats you with a puzzled expression, "What was all that, then? That human's been skulking around here for weeks."

Xalvador looks slightly troubled "They wanted the woman to leave with them. Whilst she didn't seem to be very pleased by the turn of events she did agree to leave with them."

"They said she was a criminal, and her name is Kella Darkhope," says Qavez. "They were either bounty hunters or something, except she didn't seem too hesitant to join 'em.

"Anyway, Morak, we were talking about getting word to the Lady's family. Whereabouts can we find them?"

Morak replies drily, "In Waterdeep, and I'm sure they'll waste no time in sending us a new ruler." He pauses a moment as he considers, then continues, "Actually, I wonder if you might be wiling to help me out instead. The road to Waterdeep is usually fairly safe, so sending a message shouldn't be too hard. But I have another task that would make better use of your skills, if you are willing. His demeanor turns sad as he explains, "A friend of mine died last night in the attack. He lived alone, and was saving all he had for his family back in Triboar. It would mean a lot to me if you could bring to word to them of his passing, so they don't think he has forgotten them."

Xalvador nods "I certainly can't see that being an issue, Triboar is on the road to Waterdeep isn't it?"

"Bring word, and his savings?" Qavez adds.

Morak shakes his head at Xalvador's question, "No, quite a bit further, and a much more dangerous road. You would pass through Waterdeep on the way."

He also gives Qavez a sad shake of his head, "He didn't have much - only moved here a few months ago." He places a small wooden box on the bar in front of him.