There were men among them that would have been a boon to her cause, however lost it had become in the murky world of politics. A few of her company had parted with her blessing. Some joined the King's men against the Duke, eager to taste the iron of battle. Others had drifted home to their wives and children. Another had taken up with a woman in town and fancied himself a farmer now. She did not fault them, but their loss was felt keenly and her dwarven companion, her solemn adviser, had suggested in his gravel voice she find a few find men to round out her merry band of mercenaries.
Her gaze slanted over the soldiers as she passed them, considering their self-discipline with admiration. She rarely, if ever, selected from these types of men to grow her ranks. She preferred a fresh canvas or broken men who she could wield into something stronger. She preferred to earn loyalty than for it to be gifted to her due to rank, title, or name. She firmly believed that was the strength of her company. Mercenaries were easy to purchase with coin, but only those who recognized the worth of her men remained.
The men had been observing the town for any with a particular brand of talent. If Egris was to leave Myrken for war, she wanted a little of its stubborn, filthy charm with her on the battlefields of Thessilane.
Four names were given to her for consideration. Four letters with her crest sealed in wax were taken to those in question, all penned similarly aside from the names:
Serrus Belcaw
Murrukh
Elliot Gahald
Niall
Ser/a,
We don't know one another.
But, I am certain that you have heard tales of the reluctant noblewoman who walks more comfortably among soldiers. I am certain you have heard of my attempts to bring sustenance to Myrken in its darkened, famine-ridden days. Or perhaps you've heard less flattering tales. My men have told me stories of you, as well. However, all of us - we've little use for rumors, tales, or myths as war threatens these borders.
Whatever your identity or chosen path, my men have seen your worth and guided me your way.
I write to offer a career among my services, to join my company for a time. However long will depend your own wisdom, but you will be paid handsomely as we discover if we will be able to trust one another. The details of our relationship remain yours to decide.
Do not hesitate to join me for a ride, a drink, or a spar at your convenience, should you find your curiosity whetted.
The Lady Egris Verreaux
The Kestrel