Early Dark at the Pea Pod

[Erik]

Erik's walk to the Pea Pod was not at his usual brisk gait. He walked slowly, thinking hard as he walked. For he had much to think about. He entered the Pea Pod tavern and took a seat in the corner, not too far from the fire. The warmth of summer was fading and Jorl had lit a small fire, enough to give a welcoming blaze.
"Good evening Drighten Erik" greeted the landlord. "The pea soup is on if you would care for a bowl?" "Indeed yes, and a flagon of spiced cider"
"I was sorry to hear of your troubles with the lady Yealla" Jorl said as he brought the tray of soup and cider, a hunk of fresh bread alongside the bowl. "But I am sure that with Orlanth and Ernalda's blessing, all will turn out as it should." "I have faith" said Erik. "The lady is not easily won, nor is anything of such value. Yet it is for me to prove myself worthy of her and I have no intention of giving up on my attempts. She has my heart, and I want no other mate."

[Julian]

Regor, attends the Pea Pod, looking up friends and apologises for having been absent for so long to Jorl, the staff and his friends. “I’ve been busy”he states baldly. He buys a round and sits with Eric hoping to hear his news and aspirations. Regor lets slip that he hopes to repay his friends and supporters for their kindness and advice. He tells Eric that he was chuffed to hear Rune Lord Baroness Ivarenna speak well of him. Regor has sworn to be a true friend and eventually leaves (this time) with a clear head. He’s got work to do in the morning!

[Quatlu]

Quatlu arrives at the Pea Pod, and was greatly cheered to see two of his friends already present. "Evening Jorl", he said to the proprietor with a smile. "A nice spiced cider this evening, if you will, and a bowl of mama's pea soup to warm my innards." Jorl bobbed his head and was off in a nonce to prepare Quatlu's order.

He walked over to his regular seat and greeted his friends warmly. "Drighten Erik, good evening to you", he said as he shook hands. "Hundred Thane Julian, I'm pleased to see you took time from your duties as Brigade Thane to relax a bit and have a drink with old friends." He seated himself and when served his drink, he raised his mug and offered a toast, "To the King". Then as he sipped his soup, he mentioned to Erik, "I hear that the Colymar Cavalry are doing extremely well at the Front. Afur has done a solid job with his regiment, and Baron Harold has again shown tactical brilliance in the field. As soon as I am finished with my studies at the Academy I'll be inclined to take my lads up to join the fray. In the interim, I don't know if Grumbold wants to take his battalion forth or not, or any officer his battalion or troop for that matter, but I'd certainly not say no."

Then he asked Erik about a comment he'd heard last Fire Season. "Erik, I understood last Fire Season that there was some comment made about the quality of the Brigade's rations, that Mularik's Company discovered some were unsuitable for consumption. Is that correct? I didn't notice anything myself, but if you believe there was something amiss in our rations, I'll see if an investigation is warranted. I will speak to the Deputy of Public Harmony, Insterda Jarlvasdaughter, to see if she can find any truth in the matter."

[Julian]

Regor informs his senior Quatlu and Eric that he is applying to take his battalion of Royal Foot Guards… to the Front. He seeks their advice! And buys drinks for the advice!

[Quatlu]

Quatlu sets his drink upon the table with surprise and turns to give his full attention to Julian. "Julian, my friend, we have no more than just mentioned this course of action between us, and you have immediately asked to take 2nd battalion to the Front this season. I would be greatly pleased and proud to see you and your battalion in action to support the gallant Colymar Cavalry, and that you might be covered in glory and your pockets filled with battlefield loot. Your request is granted, Hundred Thane. May Orlanth march with you on the winds of victory."