Story Part 38 (Patreon)

Grulba tied the hands of the prisoners, then pulled them to their feet. Shelgrish bowed to the Jarl, then escorted the still-nude prisoners out of the hall, and out of the village. At the gate, they were met by Rylenka, who carried little but her axe, and Glasha, who had a pack of books. “I thought I was looking forward to leaving with you,” Glasha said, “but I’m actually going to miss her.” The barbarian simply nodded in acknowledgement. Rylenka was eying the prisoners, especially Miri. Miri felt uncomfortable, nude, covered in mud, being ogled by the daughter of a jarl who might have executed her. “What are we going to do with them?” the half-orc said.

“We’re going to find out what they’re really doing here,” said Shelgrish, as she led the party down the road. “And how do you expect to do that?” Rylenka asked, curious. “We’re going to find the rest of them. I suspect you could help in that, ranger?” the Barbarian said, cutting Therliss’ hands free and tossing her her clothes. “I’ll keep the weapons for now, if you don’t mind,” she added. Therliss nodded assent.  “Thank you, I will do as you ask. We mean the orcs no harm.” “Putting a knife to the throat of their chieftain was not a great way to send that message,” Shelgrish chuckled. “What about this one?” Rylenka said, “We can cut her free, but I don’t have any clothes that will fit her. Perhaps we should take her somewhere to wash up.” “A grand idea!” Rylenka laughed, “maybe she’ll repeat her previous river performance for us.” Miri was thankful to have her hands unbound, but was too embarrassed to speak. “Don’t get any ideas about running off, now,” Rylenka laughed, slapping her sore backside for emphasis. Miri had no such plans. She was tired, and sore, and frightened.