Of Valor

They arrived at the outpost late in the afternoon of the next day.

Well before they reached it, Kir noticed that the whole place had an air of security. A wooden palisade was guarded by a moat of sharpened sticks.

As the Black Sheep arrived in good order, Kir marched at the back of the formation; given how tall he was. Putting themselves on display was a show of good faith to let the watchmen know they weren't hiding anyone. Which they were.

Stella had made the decision to copy Cheshire's appearance, an act which had the raptor confused at first, then hissy. Once Kir had calmed Cheshire down enough for them to perch on opposite shoulders, she regarded Stella with wariness. Kir wondered if that indicated females of the species were competitive with each other.

Once they finished approaching the gate, the dwarvish watchwoman, who was clearly more of an adventurer, called for them to "Halt! State your business."