The acrid smell of smoke still lingers in the air as Captain Khelgar stands on the dock, his face a mask of thunder. He fixes Zero with a glare that could curdle milk.
"Silence? Typical. You're good for nothing but brawn and blundering. But," he continues, his voice softening slightly, "I suppose there's still a use for you."
"These misfits here owe me a hefty sum. Since there's no ship to guard, you'll accompany them and ensure they don't abscond with my earnings. Consider it a chance to redeem yourself, or at least avoid a watery grave."
*She rolled her eyes* Accidents are bound to happen. Let's not dwell on it. we have more important tasks at hand. We need to get to those goblins soon so we can Put a dent in our debt. but i suppose a little time at the Tavern won't hurt too much...
*smiles* That's the spirit! See? I knew you weren't that much of a stick in the mud! *looks at Zero* Now, tell me more about the white rose? *as she's walking to the tavern*
Zero, I understand why you’re upset, and I’m truly sorry if anything I did made you feel that way. I would never harm your family; I only crossed paths with that hag because I was hoping to stop whatever she was doing. I realize now that my actions may have seemed reckless, but I promise you, my intentions were never to bring harm to anyone you care about. If there's anything I can do to ease your mind or prove my loyalty to you and yours, just let me know
*Ori and Damian walk over. Finally arriving.* “Valorie! He Who’s Manhood I Probably Damaged!” *The human comes up and stands with them. Leaning on his staff.* “Are you already apologising?”
"Belay that blather!" Captain Khelgar strides towards them, his face a mask of disapproval. "The only one you need to prove anything to is me," he declares, fixing Zero with a stern glare. "Now, what in the seven hells is going on here?"
He gestures towards the tavern, his voice rising in frustration. "I put you in charge, and instead of collecting my due, you're squabbling like children with the very people who owe me a fortune!"
01:24
He turns his attention to Zero, his voice laced with a warning. "And you," he growls, "remember who you work for. These... associates... are your responsibility. Keep them in line, and focus on getting my gold. I don't care about your personal vendettas or where they come from. They all work for me now, and that's all that matters."
01:24
Khelgar pauses, his gaze sweeping over the pair. "Now, stop this bickering and get back to work. I expect results, not excuses."
"See? That's what I'm talkin' about! A bit of grovelin' and a shared drink, and suddenly we're all chummy." Khelgar raises the bottle of Dwarven Firewhisky to his lips, taking a long swig. "Ah, that's the stuff," he sighs, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand.
01:40
He fixes Zero with a stern glare. "And you," he growls, "remember who you work for. These... associates... are your responsibility. And since you seem so concerned about family, you'd be wise to remember that *I'm* your family now. *We* are. Keep them in line, and focus on getting my gold."
01:40
Khelgar lowers the bottle, his expression hardening once more. "Now, you're all dismissed," he declares, his voice booming across the docks. "Get some rest, and be ready to delve into those mines come mornin'. I expect a full report, and a hefty sack of gold, by week's end."
