The Weary Warriors: Histories of Resignation and Rally

Chapter 12: Emergence Season

110 Ob 14

Mattöl had gained weight during winter and shrugged it off as lack of activity, but at this point there is no denying her pregnancy. Both her and Darikon seem unsure how to feel about it, but Üsën volunteers as midwife.

110 Ob 23

Our plans for the coming year are taking form. Spring will be spent recovering from the flood and restoring our stocks, though Amöst believes there will be little to recover. Either way, housing and supplies should be in order by summer, when we shall attempt piercing the earth properly. Autumn will see whatever preparations be necessary for winter, when we hope to make crafts and celebrate.

111 Gr 05

At long last, it is shallow enough to walk on our old paths. Without having to fear alligators, that is. While we cannot begin work just yet, some time alone is much sought after by all.

That said, Ustir couldn't wait any longer and is already beginning to scrap the old huts.

111 Sl 16

A third stilt house stands, while a platform holds plenty of supplies. Tosirid even found the barrels we had buried last summer. The first we lifted contained swamp water, but the second remained tight. A fine drop does much for the mood.

Mattöl has decided to stay at Ritharthikthog. Asmël pointed out to me that she had only ever smiled at jokes before. Now she seems genuinely hopeful.

111 Sl 27

Darikon is placing demands for safety and protection. While Dodåk agrees with the measures, she believed he is taking his own child more serious than the others. Her dismay earned a snappy response, but Dodåk did not yield so easily, and neither did Darikon.

Eventually he admitted "I've already lost a child to monsters. I will not lose another one." Then he explained, with tears in his eyes, why Mattöl and he left: Their son, a gnome of three years, had been eviscerated during a harpy attack a year earlier. Darikon bore witness to it all, and eventhough the creature has been struck down, life has been miserable to the couple since.

The only attractive thing about this outpost was how far it is from the Entrancing Mountains and all bad memories there. Now they remember life goes on, and recognise the danger of this treacherous soil and its denizens. We agreed to not let the children stray beyond our supervision, especially not alone.

111 Fe 21

One of the houses collapsed thanks to Îgboth picking the foundation apart. Though uninjured, he is currently getting scolded by Dodåk. Whether the child even comprehends this is debatable, but his mother hereby effectively spares him of Čogons scorn.

Meanwhile, Mattöl is doing well and expecting one more month. Upon Üsën's request, Rabîl and I are preparing soap.

111 He 10

Alongside the rise of the sun, a baby was born this morning. The Weary Warriors are celebrating Tårdëm's healthy first day in the legendary lands, here at Ritharthikthog.