Morning light filters through the dungeon’s narrow windows. Betram stands with spear in hand as Caspian returns, carrying their release writs and sealed travel papers for Rosaria and the Northern Territories.
Caspian
Neris remains under guard, and Maelor will face the council. We have permission to leave, but not permission to forget what waits beneath the northern ice.
They pass through the palace toward the stables. Caspian’s horses stand saddled beneath the crystal’s pale radiance, while Sleipnir waits beside them, composed and ready to serve.
Sleipnir
Prince Caspian, the mounts are prepared. I will accompany you to Rosaria and beyond, wherever your road leads.
A second mount stamps softly as Desiree arrives in polished silver-white dragoon armor, spear in hand. She dismounts with practiced grace and offers Betram a formal salute.
Desiree
My orders are clear. I am to guard you throughout this journey, including whatever diplomatic trouble Rosaria chooses to place before us.
The stablemaster leads the final horses forward. Caspian secures the papers beneath his cloak, while Sleipnir and Desiree wait for Betram’s direction before the formal journey begins.
“Betram looks at Caspian with surprise. "I didn't realize one of your retainers made it to Oriflamme. But it is welcome news." He nods politely to Sleipnir and introduces himself. He also gives a quick Sanbreque salute to Desiree. He was not expecting to see the Knight of Midday's Splendor to join them.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled +2)
Betram Steelstream
I did not realize one of your retainers had made it to Oriflamme, but it is welcome news. I am Betram Steelstream.
Betram nods politely to Sleipnir, then gives Desiree a crisp Sanbreque salute. His surprise eases into formal welcome as the stable’s pale light glints across their armor.
Sleipnir
Your introduction honors me, Sir Betram. Prince Caspian’s journeys are my charge, and I am pleased to find you both safely prepared to depart.
Caspian
Sleipnir reached Oriflamme before us through a separate route. I had hoped his arrival would spare us one more uncertainty before leaving.
Desiree
And your salute is returned, Betram. The Knight of Midday’s Splendor reports for duty, whether the road leads to Rosaria or farther north.
Caspian’s expression brightens at the exchange. Sleipnir takes the reins of his waiting mount, while Desiree settles her spear and stands ready beside Betram’s horse.
✓ Quest Accepted
Reach Rosaria with Caspian
“Betram mounts his horse and watches the other three mount their horses. "It will take us 3 days ride to reach the waypoint at Lostwing Village. That should be our first stop as it sits on the entry point of the road to Roaria. I intend for us to eventually reach the capital of Rosalith before we head north."”
Betram mounts his horse, settling into the saddle as the stable’s pale light glints across his silver armor. Caspian, Sleipnir, and Desiree prepare their own mounts beside him.
Betram Steelstream
It will take us three days’ ride to reach the waypoint at Lostwing Village. That should be our first stop, as it sits at the entry point of the road to Rosaria. I intend for us to eventually reach the capital of Rosalith before we head north.
Caspian
Then Lostwing will mark the first step, and Rosalith will hear our petition before we turn toward the Northern Territories. I am glad to have the route plainly set before us.
Caspian mounts with practiced ease, securing the sealed papers beneath his cloak. His gaze lingers on Betram before he turns his horse toward the stable doors.
Sleipnir
I will see that the journey proceeds according to your schedule, Prince Caspian. Three days to Lostwing, then onward to Rosalith.
Desiree
A sensible first destination. I will keep the pace suitable for the escort and ensure we arrive ready for whatever Rosaria’s court requires.
The stable doors open onto the morning road. Caspian leads out, Sleipnir follows close behind, and Desiree rides beside Betram as the party leaves Oriflamme for Lostwing Village.