The Devil and the Priestess

"By the Confessor, Lord Koth?"

"Yeah, yeah, I know." Koth sat down in the war room across from Lia who held her hands over her mouth in utter shock. "I'm not too happy about the change either." He took a sip from the cup in front of him. "This is some great tea, by the way."

"Um...I...thank you, lord." She bowed. Lia was a very religious woman, but she was of noble serving as well, and seeing Koth was still the same man in his heart, her initial feelings of fear turned quickly to pity. "Lord Koth, your retainer returned while you and the other senior officers were away. He is staying in Andurin, in the inn, right now. While you were away, we also received some uh...friends? Of yours?"

Koth sighed. He could tell from the frown taking hold at the corners of Lia's mouth that it was the hag and her sisters. "Yeah, that coven decided to uh....help us. In exchange for giving them a place to work."

"You certainly attract quite a crowd." She poured more tea into Koth's cup before continuing. "I know I briefed the other senior officers already, but Lord Koth I think there is information you may find interesting. Postings have appeared as far north as Dalrath looking for mercenaries who might enlist in the forces of Bedegar. It is likely Saxton is preparing a strike force to engage with Lady Ruth while him and his forces attack with their armies. It will make the battle with the Star Knight pale in comparison, I am sure."

"Yeah that sounds very possible." Koth took another long sip. "What does that have to do with me?"

"Lord, rumors of your tatoos are quickly spreading. You are very famous among the people living in the town. I have no doubt that if others with your abilities learn of you, they will quickly enlist. I wanted you to be prepared."

Koth smiled, the first big smile he had worn since his change. "Looks like things are looking up, then."