A Royal Gamble

[Gar]

The half-orc's fists clenched, one hand moving instinctively to her greataxe and pausing over the hilt. But she could expect that she was no match against him, and he had called the guards away. Perhaps there was yet some common ground between them. She forced her arms down to her sides and glanced at Sahltie.

"As promised, I release you from your oath," Gar muttered to the hobgoblin, "Your fate is no longer tied to mine. Forget everything you've heard and seen. Go now."

Then Gar faced the king and stated with strong conviction, her nose wrinkling irritably, "The Serpent's Hunger is very resilient. They will hardly be deterred by threats of death or momentary defeat. Perhaps you have held them back this time, but there are more powerful beings among them that could step up to the cause, if necessary, to obtain the objective. And since what they are after sits on your head you can be sure that your life will be their primary target." The barbarian paused a moment to inhale deeply and calm herself before stating, "That is why we have come. The Heralds are on a mission to secure and hide these items so that they do not fall into the cultist's hands and strengthen their quest to bring Odjir back to our world."