[quote]“While I’ve been to a fair few places around here, I’ve not traveled to Tetragor” Osric cleared his throat, “I’m Osric Griswall. I don’t mean to be rude, but I’m not really a man of faith. But worry not, I will accomplish what is expected of me. You have my word.”
[/quote]
The inquisitor scratched his chin, while his other hand reached for a wine decanter to refill his cup.
 
[quote]
[color=ed145b]"I did not use grapes.[/color][/quote] 

He heard it clearly, and his hand stayed, as if unsure. Further explanation from that strange girl eased his doubt a bit, and after a long sigh, he braced himself and emptied his glass anyway.

"I trust you." said Carmen finally to the old blacksmith, raising his empty glass. "I've been to Tretagor, but not exactly in Sielse. When I was a military Colonel, conflicts between Us and Them felt like a daily routine. They weren't anything major, more like small-scale skirmishes between our border guards and whatever faction they sent to test our defense. Sometimes we didn't know who the hell we were fighting against or what they were fighting for. Sometimes when we had had enough we would dispatch a team or two into their territory, cracking down several small bases hoping they would learn their lesson. [i]Fortunately[/i] I wasn't long enough in the military to know if that lesson stays."

He sighed again as if remembering something bitter. It was Mirielle's turn now to share her opinion 

[quote]
[color=#778da9][b]"I've lost count how many times I applied to go, but it seems like a highly coveted duty. Never got through even once."[/b][/color][/quote]

"It is because of The Council." Carmen's expression, a bit somber just a moment ago, now changed to disgust. "They are afraid of making any significant action concerning anything related to Tretagor, and would rather urge everyone to stay their hands. It is for the good of all, they said. What a bull! How could you say it is for the good of all if you let ordinary people be murdered, their homes burned and their wives and children sold off to distant lands? Paladin Thomas was the only one who saw beyond their shortsightedness, but what do they do to award his sacrifice? They branded him as an illegal trespasser, peace breaker, and risk maker." He thumped the table and shook his head. "And worse, most of our cardinals bow down to their so-called wise recommendation!" 

Carmen spared a moment to look at the entrance corridor and closed his eyes in a quick prayer. Calmer now, he smiled at Amanita and her seemingly innocent expectation. 

[quote]
[color=ed145b]"I hope it's more humid than here"[/color][/quote]

"Yes, it is now, dear Amanita, it should be rainy season right now in Tretagor." 

[@A5G][@Deide][@Randomness]