That complicates things, Althain thought. Luckily he always kept a few incompetent and more importantly expendable marines just for this eventuality. He called these two forward. They were garbed in the same fashion as their captain, although simpler.
“Accompany these two to the Orchard, then meet me on the ship. Ensure no harm comes to them, and most importantly that they not get lost.”
After they departed, and making sure Ari and Dolphus were out of earshot. He called the rest of his troops out, including the two Caelin he had in his company. “Back to the ship please.” He spoke to his mages. Barring the potential loss of his marines, the day had been an unqualified success. He’d had his doubts about this backwater posting, but Ghalwyn had been correct in the end. Which reminded him.
“I’ll also need to send a message to the Admiral. At your own time please.” When the portal opened he waited for the last of his Marines to step through before he went through himself. When the Caelin stepped through the portal closed behind them with a slight pop, leaving the small clearing empty and silent once more.
The two Marines jogged along behind Ari and Dolphus, their bows still in their hands. As they went along, one looked to the other. “Is it just me or do we always get the worst jobs?”
“Eh, can’t be worse than waiting on the ship for some other ship to pass.”
As they went along, the packed trees started to give way for a pleasant clearing of fruit trees. Lemons, Oranges, Apples, and other perfectly ripened fruits sat on uncountable fruit trees. About one kilometer away across the orchard sat a pleasant little cottage. The marines started to catch up as the beginning of the orchard started to become visible ahead.
It was a squat little building, stone construction, with timber framing around it’s windows. The only thing ruining the rustic image, was the stone dragon curled around the building. Head on one side, Tail on the other.