A healing Orc and a plotting Elf

Rienlest had received word of the battle quickly, thanks to the spy he had slipped into princess Lethila's attendants. Broden was weakened, but alive, and the Serpent's forces pushed back. Of course, Rienlest had seen to it that Ethimilee hadn't heard anything yet. That way, he could spin the story as needed. He pushed into her audience chamber and allowed her steward to announce him before approaching the young queen's throne.

"Your majesty, my scouts have news of the battle."

"Oh? It is odd that I haven't heard anything from my own soldiers yet."

"That is probably because they were delayed. Panicked even. You see, the battle was won, but it would appear that Broden... Your Orc commander fought valiantly my lady, but he met the Serpent head on. Word is that while he killed the human commander, Broden took the full fury of his attack first. Broden now lies dying of the Serpents poison."

He saw her soft features change from worry to grief, and his own anger flared and threatened to tip his hand. How could she feel so much for such a brute? Here stood a man of wealth and character, yet she mourned the potential loss of a savage?

"H-he's dying? Is there no way to save him?"

"My lady, I have my best people working on concocting a cure for him, but without any idea of what poison was actually used, it is quite difficult. But this is still a victory. I suggest a feast be prepared in honor of Broden, no matter if he lives or dies, so that we can raise the spirits of your people. What about by the end of the week my lady?"

"Oh... I... I suppose a feast would indeed be good for moral with all that has happened. Do you think your people can help him?"

Even now, she was still distracted with worry for the brute! Rienlest kept if voice smooth and light, but it took some effort.

"I have already dispatched them to the front line my lady. I'll know more in a few days if he will live or not, but I'm doing the absolute best for you."

"Thank you Prince Rienlest. I am truly indebted to you."

"Then perhaps we could have dinner tonight my lady? I would gladly discuss other ways that I could help you in these trying times."

"Alright. Dinner is the least I can do for the aid you have given Broden and my kingdom."

Broden lay in his tent, trying to keep from losing consciousness again. The poison had really taken its toll, but the antidote had saved his life. Lethila had stayed by his side most of the time he was out, but she had left for a few hours, saying something about needing to meet with a new "Friend" she had made while he was out fighting.

While Lethila was out, melina came to see him. Apparently the bar maid had been truly worried about him and had wanted to check on him, but waited until Lethila had departed. The young Elven woman gave him a sponge bath and helped him change his bandages before wishing him well and leaving to return to work.

Later Gaine came in and reported that there were no signs of the enemy anywhere. If everything went well, Broden should be on his feet soon and their forces back at the capital by the end of the week.