>>5321300>“I graciously accept your terms, my lords.” You bow before Dimitri and the Margrave. “We will stay here in Charon and assemble the incoming sellswords into a mercenary company that will assist with the county’s defenses. Together, we’ll defeat any Imperial Army that tries to break through.”A sigh of relief from Dimitri. “Thank you, Blair. I know this is all new to you, but I trust that the academy has prepared you well for what lies ahead. With you aiding the Kingdom in the battle ahead, I feel more at ease.”
“I will have my seneschal draw up a contract, as well as prepare the necessary funds required.” Says the Margrave. “In the coming weeks, I imagine sellswords from across Fodlan will make their way here once the news reaches them. We’ll be prepared to recruit them into our ranks and ensure that they’re assembled into a cohesive fighting force. In the meantime, you and Sir Bertram will work together to see to the city’s defenses. I trust you’re well acquainted by now.”
Sir Bertram bows, facing you. “I’m looking forward to fighting alongside you once again, Captain. Our resources are at your disposal.”
>Captain? That will certainly take some getting used to. “I as well.”You and Corrine take you leave of Prince Dimitri and the Margrave. You find yourselves atop one of Castle Margrave’s walls, overlooking the city below. The Margrave’s men are still hard at work on fortifying the gates. Slowly but surely, trickles of travelers are arriving to Charon. Refugees, you note. Down below, you can hear citizens loudly trading news and gossip concerning the fall of Garreg Mach. It seems that in these parts at least, the news of the Empire’s attack has already become widespread.
“That was surprising.” Corrine says. “I didn’t expect you to just outright accept their proposal like that. You really are becoming a much more decisive woman.”
>“I don’t have a choice, do I? A mercenary company with an indecisive leader wouldn’t last very long.”“I suppose you’re right. Not that I’m complaining, mind you. Frankly, I think this all suits you rather well. As if you…have a natural gift for this sort of thing.” She smiles.
>“I’d hardly say that. Truth be told, I don’t intend to be a mercenary captain for the rest of my life. But this is a means to an end. Having a company of swords at my beck and call should prove to be useful for helping root out those Shapeshifters.” 