Elona Bound: Part 3
----- Elona-bound Ball -----
She said pleasantries to all those in attendance, welcoming them with the spread of a wide-assortment of food. The band's music played a lively chantey, and all guests seemed to have enjoyed the venue.
After a bit of small-talk, Demitra took to the steps of the mound, reached the top, then signaled for a gathering. All members of the party approached, gathered to listen to the Elonian.
She took in a deep breath, gathered some confidence with a smile from Sirinous, whom she'd grown close to, and began her speech.
"To all members of this group which I have come to call guild-mates. For those of you who do not know of me, allow me to rectify this: I am called Demitra Naja Nyimah. I am Elonian; born and raised within the Domain of Vabbi. I belong to a very small group freedom fighters working to free outlying villages from the wrath of the self-proclaimed god-king, Palawa Joko.
I arrived here from Elona, haphazardly. While on a mission to prevent Joko's parties from using gateways to this place, I was inadvertently forced through an active portal and arrived near Divinity's Reach. After the assaulting force had been vanquished, I ventured into the city to explain to the powers that be of the imminent threat of Joko. I sought an audience with the queen, but was swiftly denied; these political trifles were seemingly so foreign to me… As was this city.
I found myself roaming the plaza with no food, no drink, no wares to trade and no means to acquire lodging. I was approached by several of the city's… unsavory individuals. Their offers and suggestions on how to appropriate coin; I shall not go into the distasteful explanation. What I will say is that these characters were deplorable and I made certain they would no longer prey on victims. But a victim I was: a skimmer without a rider, I wandered aimlessly. It was at this time I stumbled upon you all.
My own awkwardness not-withstanding, I was met with the most wondrous warmth from this guild. I was fed, I conversed, and was even provided with lodging! All this was given freely: no terms, debts, nor favors asked. It was the exact opposite of my entire experience thus far in this land. It was also through this guild that I was able to report my warning of Joko's invasion forces - a message I am sure will now reach the queen. I do not state lightly that I am beyond eternally grateful for all the kindness and friendships I have made here in this guild.
And I now wish to extend my services to each of you…
Within the desolate sand dunes in Elona lies a place, a sanctuary, from which we freedom fighters hail. This locale, while marred with dilapidated dwellings, is adorned with enough magical barriers to prevent its location from being ascertained. It is a safe haven to which we plan, launch attacks against Joko's forces, and rest while we strive to assist my native people. It is this place to which I have come to think of as home. And I offer of the same courteousness which has been bestowed upon me by the virtuous group I address now… Those fighters which wish to venture to Elona: you have a home."
Speech concluded, the woman exhaled and stepped down from the mound. She'd heard a few snickers at the speech; a few mutters among the crowd, but her message had been well received by most. The guild commander took her place, gave a few more words of encouragement and an explanation of their target objective: the Scourge of the Desert, Joko.
The night ran long; new allies were met...
At the finality of the daybreak, all members drank and celebrated one of their last big hurrah before facing the challenge that laid in their future; for a treacherous path was yet to come...
To Be Continued...
