A Fork In The Road

As the party made their way towards the checkpoint, the Busch Hunter loaded an arrow into his crossbow. 

HALT! We need to inspect your party before you can pass.

Fine, just make it fast. 

As the royal knights began to search the party, the found the elves.

The hell? Aye, Elves aren't allowed in this country.

Hell, I thought slaves were. said Busch lighting up a cigar. The elves looked at him and he winked.

Yes, this man and his party have purchased us.

HA! Nice catch. Go on ahead. Next time, have them in chains.

I'll be sure to remember that.

Busch waved them goodbye before continuing their journey. For the record... I hate slavery as an idea. Once we put our plan into motion, we shall end that shit.

Once the group arrived in New Ottawa, the Ghost met with the Elven King and they talked for quite a long time. Tempest and Spencer, on the other hand, went to get a bite to eat at the New Chalet Tavern and Breakfast.

As the two arrived, a small child was tossed out of the tavern.

BEAT IT! You're lucky I don't call the authorities.

The barkeep slammed the tavern door as Spencer and Tempest helped the child to their feet. As they did, the cloak that was covering the child fell off revealing a beastman, a young fox beastman.

Are you ok?

Y-yea. I wanted to eat something but I didn't have the right amount of money.

We'll get you something to eat, and in exchange you tell us about yourself and how you got here.

The Fox boy nodded and the three entered the tavern.

Carson, he's eating with us.

Fine, but if that little punk tries to steal from me again, I'm calling the authorities.

As the three sat down in booth. The fireplace was a glow and the tavern was full of people getting a bite to eat. Ale was being served by Luke and Sam, the local bartenders. 

What can I get you three? asked the waitress.

We'll all do a 1-2-3, and can you get us something for the kid here to drink? 

Sure thing! Will milk suffice?

Yes, thank you.

Alright! Three, 1-2-3's coming right up!

As the waitress left the booth, the fox boy looked at Tempest. 

Hey kiddo, you're safe here, I promise. said Spencer reassuringly.

Now then, what's your name?

Kett.

Well Kett, it is nice to meet you. I'm Spencer and this is my partner, Tempest.

Kett's tail wagged a little as they continued talking.

Hey Kett, where are your parents?

Dad was killed fighting humans. They came to enslave us.

Tempest curled their hand into a fist under the table. What about your mom?

Momma was killed trying to get me out of the house where I was a slave. 

Both Tempest and Spencer exchanged a look before continuing to ask questions.

How did you get here Kett?

Hide in carts, wagons, and walked. I saw the sign at the entrance, "Friendly City To All Kinds"

Spencer nodded as the waitress returned with their order.

Here we are. Ales for the two adventurers and a milk for the little one. Enjoy!

As the waitress left, Tempest and Spencer began to eat, however, Kett hadn't touched his food.

Is something wrong Kett?

Master said I can't eat with humans.

Tempest looked at Kett.

Well your master is a bitch. Eat with us. I promise you're not in trouble. 

Kett nodded and took a bite of the food. The eggs were perfect, he wagged his tail as he ate. Both Spencer and Tempest smiled to see him eating. 

After they'd eaten, Spencer looked to Kett.

Kett, do you have a place to stay?

N-no.

Then why don't you stay with us. We'll come here everyday for breakfast. No chores, just us making sure you're in good health. What do you say?

Kett looked at Spencer then at Tempest.

So long as it's okay with Tempest.

Of course Kett! Come on! We'll get you all cleaned up!

As the three left, Spencer tossed Carson a pouch of coins to pay their tab. 

Meanwhile, the Ghost and King Reesharon had ironed out details of an alliance.

I must say Noblemen Ghost, you aren't how I pictured you.

Oh? Am I to take offense to that?

No, not at all. You see, the way your people spoke of you, I thought I'd be meeting with a war god of some kind. 

As I told King Eldword, we seek peace but are great at making war. We strive for peace and prosperity, but it seems that things continuously arise that keep us from that. 

Well, I am glad I made the journey to this land. Tell Prince Zane that I look forwards to working with him. As such, I look forwards to our continued alliance in the future.

Likewise. Please be sure to see everything New Ottawa has to offer before you retire for the evening.

Of course, if you aren't busy, I'd much like a tour of your market. I saw many strange things, but after you explained how you all came here, I'm not surprised.

I'd be happy to give you a tour. Please, if you'd follow me.