The Crimson Lady

You shake her hand. “Just in time, indeed. I thought we were done for when you showed up, so I’m glad you’re on our side! Now though, I need to ask…who are you?”

The red haired woman laughs. “I suppose you wouldn’t know me, would you! My name is Brianna Vicklund. My father is the leader in Crestburn, to the north of Thalberg.”

Sarah leans on Forgebreaker, nodding. “I’ve heard of you. They call you the ‘Crimson Lady’, right?”

Brianna grimaces. “Some people do. I’ve never liked it. Too formal. I like to fight, and it turns out I’m pretty good at it.”

She looks at you. “Seems like I’m in good company in that, here.”

You shake your head. “I can only keep up with these two because of some special equipment.”

Brianna looks between Sarah and Ferra, seemingly sizing them up. Sarah cuts an impressive figure, tall and muscular, leaning on her massive warhammer. The hellhound looks as lethal as she is. Ferra, meanwhile, has shifted out of her combat form, and simply looks like a person. The only hint of her nature are her glowing orange eyes.

At the same time, you take the chance to get a good look at Brianna.

Though fairly tall herself, she doesn’t appear particularly intimidating. Lithe and athletic, most of her upper body is covered by her armor, though she wears a skirt that barely reaches mid thigh, leaving exposed skin above her armored, knee high boots. Her long red hair flows down her back, and her brown eyes sparkle as they turn back to you. A sly grin spreads on her face.

“Like what you see?”

You chuckle and blush. “Sorry, didn’t realize I was staring.”

Brianna laughs. “I don’t mind. I wouldn’t wear the skirt if I didn’t like the looks it got me. But I don’t want to upset your ladies here.”

Ferra shakes her head. “Master knows we don’t mind.”

Sarah nods, chuckling. “And he’s got good taste. After all, he’s got us. And the others.”

Brianna laughs again. “So I hear! I like you already. I made the right decision coming here, I can tell.”

You smile. “I’m glad you approve. But you still haven’t said why you’re here in the first place.”

She nods. “I suppose that would be odd, huh? Well, after the little uprising back home, dad found himself in charge. The other noble family had been Niran’s people, but they couldn’t stand up against our army. It was over quickly.”

She sighs. “Dad was never a big fan of the Order in the first place. So changing sides wasn’t an issue. Afterwards, he sent me along with half our troops to go check on Thalberg. Lira is an old friend of his. But when I got there, I found her already in charge!”

She smiles. “I’m glad. She’s a good person. Anyway, I sat down and got the story from her. I was really surprised when Kaeli showed up! Between the two of them, I learned quite a bit about what’s happening, and who you are. So, I sent a few people back to Crestburn with the news, and headed out to find you.”

You look at her curiously. “Why?”

Brianna laughs. “I told you I like fighting! Besides, what else is there to do? This needs to be done. Anyways, I took the cavalry ahead, and that’s how we got here so fast. The foot troops will likely show up in a few days. I’m glad I got here, nothing like a surprise charge to shatter an enemy line.”

The grin on her face shows her enjoyment, and you chuckle. “Well, I can’t complain, that’s for sure.”

I like her! She’s got energy!

You start a bit at Lilith’s sudden voice in your mind, and you hear her laughter.

Sorry, now that the battle is over, I don’t need to be so quiet. But yes, I like her!

You nod, looking around the battlefield. “I think it’s time to find a better place to chat. And I can introduce you to the rest of the…group.”

Brianna nods. “I’d like that. I’ve already heard so much, after all, but it’s better to hear from the source. Lead on!”