Eldric stepped forward with a faint smile. "Lumberling, Baron Roland has agreed to your conditions. We'll make it official with a signed contract later."
Lumberling turned his gaze to the Baron and gave a single nod.
Roland met his eyes. "Please, come inside. Rooms have already been prepared for you and your men. You must be tired from the road… and the fight." His voice was polite, but there was an undercurrent of careful respect.
"Thank you," Lumberling replied. He then turned to Aren and the other captains. "Help them with the reconstruction and clean-up."
Roland glanced toward him, surprised. "How courteous of you, Lord Lumberling. We appreciate the help."
The Baron gestured toward the city streets. "This way, I'll show you to your quarters."
They began walking through the battered streets. Everywhere they passed, people stopped what they were doing. Some froze in place, others ducked into doorways. Whispers spread quickly, low and tense.
