The peddler called Dar, had a huge smile on his weather-beaten face when he saw Arlene among us.

As we neared the gypsy settlement, I instructed Maapu to keep the goblins in control. The Aberrant Irregulars is neither a sanction army nor a trained unit. They are a newly formed ragtag bunch. I knew instinctively that the goblins would definitely create friction with the gypsies. I assigned Maapu to repair the cart once we reached the gypsy settlement. Normally, I would have assigned such a task to Theko but with him out to get Taltil, I had to settle with Maapu. That should give them a focus and hopefully keep them occupied. Next, was the issue of the dire boars. Dire boars even tamed ones would create a commotion among common folks. I instructed a few other goblins to stay with the dire boars and keep them away from the settlement. I am certain that Vitalia would definitely keep an eye out on those beasts.

“Dar, this is Rylonvirah. The one I spoke about.” Arlene kept the introductions short.

Dar rubbed his palms as he made proverbial greeting, “Good tidings Madame.” His voice was polite as well as jovial as he could make it sound.

“Good tidings Peddler, Sir.” I returned in kind. I added the Sir at the end, remembering my current lack of position.

“No Madame, Darius is fine. Though local people just call me Dar.” So that is his real name.

Before we could continue our conversation, Esme came around. Her eyes, full of reverence, were keenly fixed on Arlene.

“You little bug, what have you got for me today?” Arlene mimicked a fake threatening tone at Esme and then rushed towards the little girl.

Esme giggled at her newly received attention from her hero and decided to meet Arlene’s rush head-on. Together the two of them fake wrestled for a few heartbeats before Arlene overpowered Esme. The Ranger carefully took the now laughing child in her arms and walked away in the direction of the dire boars. Surely, Arlene would want to show her new pets to Esme.

That left me alone with Darius and some of the gypsies.

“Darius, could we go over the plan again?” I started.

“I already packed. Have only two wagons. The gypsies would be vacating this place before the coming daybreak. I intend to do the same. If possible, even sooner.” He added.

I noticed that most of the gypsy's tents were already loaded on their quaint little wagons. Two bigger wagons that stood apart from the rest seemed to belong to Dar. Both the Wagons were yoked to four cold-blooded horses. Two to each wagon.

“what would be your immediate destination?” I prodded further.

“I would head up to Westerleygates, Madame” answered Dar.

I had to consider my next words carefully since I was uncertain about how much Arlene revealed to Dar. I took a gamble on the fact that both Arlene and Vitalia would have a better understanding of the geographical locations. While I was pondering on my next course of action, Dar aired his own concerns.

“Pardon me, Madame, “ he started, his eyes darting towards the two dire boars, “I am a simple peddler. I may not be able to hire an illustrious band like yours. I have nothing much of value.” He finished hesitantly.

Trusting my faith in Arlene and Vitalia, I answered, “We are on our way to Sarenthill. We planned to restock and gather some supplies at Westerleygates. So accompanying you till Westerleygates is just a minor errand for us.”

Dar seemed to consider my answer for a moment. Then his eyes fell on my clothing and his gaze changed. He was gauging me. Though his initial impression of me might have been overshadowed by the presence of the two dire boars, my garb and the motley goblin crew might arouse his suspicion on closer inspection. Dar might be a simple peddler but he has two Wagons. Most simple peddlers make their living on a single Wagon. So he has his wits. Sell myself too low and I could easily attract his suspicion.

“You don't have to pay us anything, Dar.” At my words, Dar squinted his eyes and he had a sceptical look.

“Introduce us to some interested parties in Westerleygates and we will call it even,” I added with a stern voice.

“I am a humble peddler, Madame. I know of no such folks,” he uttered while keeping his gaze on the goblins. He scanned them as he spoke.

Since Nobles usually deal with skilled craftsmen and peddlers rarely belong to any guilds, I was inclined to believe his words. But his gaze told another aspect of the story. Most guilds would avoid working with a mercenary band that is predominantly filled with goblins. Well most legally operating guilds anyway.

I needed to keep his attention away from the goblins. If he starts thinking about the goblins any further, he might start asking the unwanted questions. Questions about a mercenary band with fifteen goblins, Questions about my measly attire. Questions about my presence in the woods. Questions that I would rather not have addressed. At least not till we are out of this region.

I have to provide another target for him to focus on. Something to divert his thinking.

“I understand your hesitation. “ I said while maintaining my cold business-like attitude. “You don't have to feel ripped off. Let me make you a deal. Introduce me to some prospective folks. We will do the rest. If we land a deal, I will cut you three per cent of the contract amount or the first year annual pay. Whichever is smaller.”

Dar’s eyes widened at the mention of monetary gain. His face had a stupid grin which clearly however hard he tried, he could not conceal.

“Let us talk more about it on our journey. I am sure we have more time.” Eagerness filled his words.”I am sure I can think of some. Give me some time.”

I dismissed Dar and made my move towards where my faithful Aberrant Irregulars were waiting for me.

*****

In the midst of the goblins stood a patchwork cart. While I was engaged in the conversation with Dar, the goblins under the command of Maapu have set about repairing the old cart. Quirky and peculiar were two appropriate words to describe it. Almost all of the spokes were further tied with twines and sometimes with twigs for strengthening support. The axle underneath had another supporting log added. Though how the goblins thought that the additional log would provide stability is beyond my understanding. I could visibly see lard dripping from the outer rim. At least they thought that providing lubrication would help. So I have to give them credits there.

Compared to the cart, the dire boars seemed majestic. Even regal. It might even seem comical to see the dire boars pulling such a mismatched cart. In fact, the cart may not survive half the trip if pulled by two dire boars. I would have to assign one of the dire boars to pull the cart while the other we would use as an auxiliary mount. Satisfied with the work that the goblin put in repairing the cart. I knelt down, resting my weight on my heels to be the same height as the goblins. Some of the goblins, I praised, some I gave a friendly tap on the shoulder and others I simply placed my palm on their arms while speaking to them.

Once I made sure that the goblins knew that I appreciated their labour, it was time for me to pay my respects to the gypsies. I directed myself from the outskirts of the settlement towards the centre of the clearing.

*****

Since Arlene ran around somewhere to play with the children, I would have to introduce myself. I would have preferred to do away with the introduction for the anonymity it would provide. But for the plan I formulated, I need the gypsies to play their part.

As I neared the centre, it became obvious that calling them gypsies might be a misnomer. For they were not a homogeneous group. The humans, at least I presumed them to be mostly human, were of varied facial features. Some were light-skinned while others had a darker tan to their skin. Their hair colours were equally different, from blond to auburn and finally even black. Their jawline, brow arch, the curvature of their nose, location of their cheekbones, every distinct feature hinted at heterogeneity. Some were tall and lanky while others were short and broad, and some were small and lithe. There was even trace of elven and dwarven ancestry among the gypsies. They were more of a bunch of nomads who banded together.

I stopped a sturdy-looking young man carrying a huge sack on his back and requested him to direct me to their leaders. He looked a bit confused. I explained that I was given a cart from their group and I would like to personally convey my gratitude to whoever was responsible. After scratching his chin for a moment, he pointed me in the direction of a large wagon. Or rather the couple who stood there. The woman had grey hair while the man seems to have lost most of his. Thanking him for his patience, I strode towards them.

The woman was busy holding a large draught horse that stood close to the wagon. She patted the horse gentle while guiding it towards the wagon. The man moved around examining a nearby empty plot. There were clear indications that until recently there stood a tent. As my approach neared, the man saw me and waved to the woman. They exchanged brief glances before she dropped the reins and moved closer to him and whispered something.

“You must be the leader of the mercenaries that Arlene mentioned.” She spoke first.

“Yes Ma’am. Though I am afraid she might have oversung my prowess.” I answered.

“Naah, She is a good one. She knows well. Knows to read people well. Never makes a mistake.” The man dismissed my claim.

“Forgive my man. My Anselm, speaks his mind and he is usually fond of short sentences.” The woman added.

“I am Ellie by the way and this is my man Anselm.” She introduced.

“I am RylonVirah, but please call me just Rylon or Vera, either is fine.”

“In that case, Rylon, I would have invited you into our humble abode, but as you see we have packed everything and we were ready to leave. But would you care to step inside our Wagon, There is still some space, we haven’t packed everything.”

“Thanks, Ellie. You are really kind. I only came to thank you personally for providing us with the cart.”

“No need. It was old. We are leaving soon. Would not be of much help to us. Was planning on selling it at the next village.” Anselm spoke fast.

“Your wagon looks enormous for a single horse. Is your horse a special breed?” It was a simple question to start a conversation.

“Actually we use two horses. I am yet to bring the other one. They are robust and gentle creatures. We usually buy them from a breeder. We have always bought from them for generations. Well trained and good breed. Are you, perhaps, looking for some horses to purchase? We could introduce you. But I don't think they train the breeds for battle.” Ellie spoke.

“Actually, I am looking for some draught horse. The prices are a bit expensive in Sarenthill. So any cheaper alternative is welcome, Ellie.”

“Sarenthill, is it? Always hated it. Cannot go anywhere close. High elves requesting papers, tax declarations, trade ledgers. Cannot put a tent without them city guards asking for permissions and registrations.” Anselm was verbal with his complaint.

“I actually heard that it is very charming and pristine. But the people are not welcoming, so it is not our place to go.” Ellie stopped for a moment before realising that she missed her chance to gossip. “Is it where you are from? How come you are here then? Don’t people from Sarenthill only move in High elven nations. Even as a mercenary don’t you make more working in one of the High Elven State?” She continued with her barrage of questions.

“That is true Ellie, But we are newly formed and still growing so we are not picky with our assignments. Plus we specialise. But you probably know it from our group. Not your usual sort.” I did not explain what we specialise in. I decided to leave it at that.

Now time to end the formal meeting.

“I am sorry for occupying your precious time, Ellie. I am sure both of you have plenty of work planned. I only came to thank you both personally for your help.”

“Yes, lot of work. We plan to move before the night falls. Not good to move at night, but we have to push. Still nice to meet you.” Anselm uttered.

“True Anselm. I voice similar sentiments and hence once again my apologies for halting your process. In fact, let me make it up to your folks, if you need hands, please give me a shout. I could spare some of my members.”

“oh, You are a heaven-sent Rylon. But that won't be necessary. We are used to doing this.” Ellie declined my offer. That is an expected answer since by members I meant goblins and no one wants goblins assisting them with packing.

I made a courtesy bow, before taking my leave. While I turned my back, Ellie shouted, “And if you are ever near Springweedfalls, tell Cedric that Ellie and Anselm send you. You will get a good deal.”

“Yes Ellie, if am in that region I will definitely remember your hospitality,” I shouted back. Without looking back, I waved to them while I moved again towards my bank.

With Ellie’s nature, I am sure the message will spread fast.

*****

Dar was waiting patiently for me beside the goblins. He closed the gap upon seeing me.

“Madame, I am ready. All packed and prepared.” He was eager to leave. Given his standing, it is an understandable move.

“Let us take a bit of rest,” I assured him.

“Madame, do we really have time?” Dar did not conceal his anxiousness.

“Fear not Dar, I have sent scouts. In fact, we are not resting. I am actually waiting for their report. Once I get the report, we will move swiftly. So please conserve all your strength.” Dar calmed upon hearing that I have already sent scouts. He muttered a gracious thanks and left.

In the distance, the gypsies have already started lining the first of the wagons. A few wagons started following the lead. Arlene was still nowhere around. Probably still helping them.

In the meantime, a few of the goblins have collected twig and started a small bonfire. As I moved to sit close to the warmth, the chattering stopped. As the silence fell, I realised that my presence caused the goblins to stiffen. Since our band has a long journey planned ahead, I decided to let the goblins enjoy the moment. On the pretext of checking the dire boars, I moved away from the group but not before giving them a friendly wave of my palms.

And the overwhelming feeling of loneliness hit me. I was surrounded by people and yet all I could feel was seclusion. The goblins, even away from their tribe, have each other. Arlene, despite her life, managed to make friends, Vitalia would eventually move to her academic circle. I, on the contrary, have no place to go back. No friends to visit. Nor anyone to look forward to. And the thoughts kept coming. On my way to the surface, while exiled, I focused on my survival. But now, the waiting time has become unbearable. With nothing to do apart from waiting, the pernicious thoughts kept advancing like waves on a beach. They recede only to come back. Those intent feelings of solitude, followed by despair, followed by torment.

Vitalia fluttered out of nowhere as of sensing my mood.

“Magistra, you seemed pensive but not in a positive sort of way.” It was more of a question.

At this point, I would gladly welcome any distraction. Even Vitalia.

“Vitalia,“ I exclaimed, putting on my best smile.” In fact, you might be able to provide me some relief.”

“oh, pray, do tell.” Vitalia sounded genuinely surprised.

“How long do tieflings live for?”

“Are you asking qualitatively or quantitatively? or more in a physiological sense?”

For a moment, I took comfort in Vitalia’s presence and forgot the fact that she is an academic. Only an academic can take simple questions and answer them with multiple complicated questions.

“Just the life span, Vitalia. Relatively speaking”

“Rylon, they are a short-lived race, if you want to compare it with our own life span. If that is what you want to know.”

Not the answer I was hoping for.

“I know, but I needed a second opinion.”

“They usually have a similar lifespan as humans, though maybe a little bit longer. If you are still looking for relative comparisons to us, their lifespan is almost similar to humans. But what is your sudden interest in tieflings, Rylon?”

I am certainly not in a condition to explain Lyria to Vitalia. I am still processing my own feelings. I choose to be elusive.

“Let me phrase it differently, It is almost impossible for humans to live for centuries through natural means. What about tieflings? Can the same statement hold true?”

“Now that you phrase it this way,” Vitalia stopped mid-sentence and did her academic voice, “there are multiple factors to account for. In general, most tieflings usually do not live for centuries and it is highly unlikely to meet a tiefling who has lived for centuries. But it is not impossible. It depends on their extra-planar heritage and its manifestations.”

I already knew that Lyria might be alive. Since the conversation with Aram partly proved it. Now Vitalia’s suggestions provided me with firm ground.

“It is a really nifty subject for research. Since most tieflings are abandoned as infants. So they grow up not knowing their ancestry. Even among tiefling families and communities, their planar bloodlines is heavily guarded.” Vitalia continued further while she settled herself on the ground in a side sitting position. This is the first time I saw Vitalia lower her guard.

I knew Lyria grew up without knowing her parents and I presumed that she was born to a fairly normal couple who abandoned their newborn tiefling daughter. Families who have had Aasimar born, suddenly rise to an elevated position in society due to the revelation of their Angelic ancestry. The converse of that being a tiefling child born to a fairly normal family. The couple however deep in their love to cherish their child would be forced by their extended family, neighbours and society to abandon the newborn tiefling. Rather lose a child than bring disgrace by revealing their demonic ancestry. Knowing these facts, I never broached upon the subject of her family or her childhood. If Lyria is alive, then whatever demon sired her bloodline, I am thankful for that entity.

Arlene walked towards us from a distance. As she got closer, she took a look at me and then at Vitalia and finally exclaimed, “well you two seemed to have a nice gossip moment.”

“Arlene, it is nothing,” Vitalia returned back to her stern self,” Magistra and I were just exchanging some erudite facts.”

“I was just getting some basic facts cleared by the Provost,” I confirmed Vitalia’s words.

With that, we broke our little conversation.