Prelude

Attached safely in magic saddles the crew returned to the Plum Valley.  Groth's wobbly Gryffin came in last and out of breath.  On the trip in Auren took notice of the troops standing in formation adorned with real armor and weapons.
     Captain Pierce awaited them near the barracks. He too was dressed in a formal uniform.
     "Welcome back, watchers," he greeted them solemnly, "I'm sorry we have to meet under such somber circumstances." 
     "What occasion calls for such a presence."  Auren asked referring to the formations out in the field. 
     "We are having a formal ceremony," his eyes shot to the ground, "today we are burying three of our own.  We must finish this discussion in the armory.  They are waiting to brief you."
     He directed them to the armory where the master at arms issued them new weapons and winter gear in preparation for the oncoming frost.  From there they moved to a meeting room where two obviously high ranking officers awaited.  The first was a woman with red hair and a large scar down the left side of her face leaving behind a dead soulless eye.  She introduced herself as Major Reeves.  Beside her stood an older stately grey-whiskered man answering to the name of Colonel Dagney.
     Major Reeves reacted first with a snarl, "Oh, come on.  This is the motley group that we will be putting our faith into?"  She stared at them with an accusatory eye. 
     "Do not make the mistake of underestimating their abilities." Pierce replied.
     "What is that supposed to mean?" she crossed her arms.
     "Remember that without them we would not have the knowledge that we have today.  They are the ones who warned us of the dark elves." Pierce smiled.  "Lieutenant Raddick, how much have you shared with them?"
     Raddick stepped forward, "Sir, only the essentials.  No specific details."
     "Do you think they can handle it?"  He asked.
     Raddick nodded.


"HOLD ON TO YOUR BUTTS"