Astra's Story

Belboz replied to Fertal's forthright assertion. "If bluster and bombast could slay the dragon, he would have been killed long before now. However, you all might satisify me in one point of curiosity before you meet whatever fate has in store for you. From what part of the world do you come?"

Astra IX replied with a plausible story. "I come from Aqualaria Cistrygia. Astra is a fairly common name in our land. We dwell to the south of the Strygia Valley. I guess that your Astra dwells to the north, in Aqualaria Transtrygia." The mute Astra nodded her head, acknowledging that she did. Aqualaria Cistrygia was the original homeland of the Aqualarian nation. Over time, the population and power shifted to the north, across the river, leaving Cistrygia as a quaint and isolated backwater. Aqualaria Cistrygia was too far from the main body of the Aqualarian people to be an integral part of their nation, but the ties of blood and history were strong, and Transtrygia and Cistrygia would come to each other's aid if there were problems. It was indeed likely that she had never known of this Astra. Cisstrygia was boring, and not a land that the high-blooded youth among the nobility would voluntarily go. Still, the coincidence between this Astra's features, and even her name, was uncanny.

This Astra of Cistrygia offered, "If you wish me to confirm the reputation of Aqualaria, I can demonstrate my martial prowess."

"No need to," Belboz replied, and smiled for the first time. "Your national reputation preceeds you. And the others?"

"They all come from lands far to the south and west of Aqualaria Cistyrgia. Indeed, I had never heard of these lands before I had met them. But I can vouch for their skill, their valour, and most importantly, their character. We would like to supplement our ranks with warriors of like mind, but, while I do not mean to offend, as there are some doubts, we would prefer to take care of this alone."

"What sort of doubts?" Fred cut in.

"Well, it is obvious, for example, that you are gimpy, and could not fight effectively. Astra of Transstrygia cannot speak. Belboz, you seem reluctant to go, perhaps because of your age. And the one with the wings seems to be out of her natural element. None of you are quite qualified to go dragon hunting. We are, by experience and temperment. If you all would just stay out of the way, we will be happy to proceed."

"It will be interesting to see how they react. Those who are looking for an excuse to avoid the fight have one. Those who want to participate will have to prove themselves, and how they do will show me a lot about their morals and motivations," thought Astra IX Cistrygia.

1. The four are silent, although Astra T. holds out on hand flat, and the other hand is making writing motions. Checkers understands, and reaches into her pack for her diptych and stylus, and hands them to her. She begins to write (or draw) on the tablets.
2. Lord Fred replies to Astra C.
3. One of the party has a brief daydream, and misses Astra C's speech.

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