The path along which the Templars strode, once covered in a layer of pure white, was now bathed in crimson. Scorch marks from magics cast during the struggle, fragments of burnt and torn flesh lay scattered amongst strips of cloth and demon essence. Such pristine beauty of the first snow was transformed into a gory nightmare and all Evelyn had to show for such violence was her injured troops and a mound of dead cultists...it wasn't enough. Though she greatly felt at fault for the current state of her people there was still a great bit of anger within the Knight-Captain. Every muscle in her body ached for combat, to be able to plunge her sword into more of the enemies numbers. Even so, Evelyn kept her composure as she stood beside the Lieutenant. [color=fff79a][b]"I'd love to aid you in your mission, Lieutenant, really I would. At the moment, however, I must see to my men. We've come a long way from Starguard and many are injured. Once they've gathered their strength and our business here is complete then we may be able to lend aid. You are welcome to join us on the path to Thanermere, tis not much longer before we reach the fortress"[/b][/color], Evelyn didn't stand in waiting for Landeel's response, instead she strode over to where the injured had been moved and carefully examined their wounds. Twas not easy for Evelyn to witness what injuries her fellow knights had sustained. At this point she'd calmed herself enough to her usual persona and guilt began to take hold of her. Had she not charged headfirst into battle the group would not have takr casualties. On the other hand if they did, Landeel might not have survived long enough for a surprise attack to be organized. Sullen, Evelyn gave the order for the wounded to be moved onto the horses and so the group continued on their way to Thanermere. The sun was barely touching the horizon when the knights arrived at Thanermere. The fort looked like a combination of a cathedral and a castle. Sitting atop a hill it,ugh like Starguard, it overlooked the village which surrounded the base of the hill. The snow topped roofs of the village puffed out pillars of smoke from the chimneys and the lights from within seemed warm and inviting. Thanermere Village appeared to be a cozy little town in the north, unaware of the dangers in their realm. As for Thanermere Keep, it seemed serene to Evelyn. The bright lights from within the grand hall glowed softly against the light of setting sun and the spires looked as if they wished to touch the heavens. The wind blew ever so softly but it's hum could still be heard faint across the land, truly this place was bliss. Approaching the castle gates they were stopped by the watchmen who wore warm smiles on their faces. [b]"Welcome, fellow Templars! What business do you seek at Thanermere Keep?"[/b], the watchman asked as he eyed the wounded party members. [color=fff79a][b]"I am Knight-Captain Evelyn Sunderland, I've been sent by Knight-Commander Grathan to bring word of an attack on Starguard to the rest of The Order"[/b][/color] [b]"The keep has crows you may use for such. From the looks of your men, they're in dire need of rest. Enter as your whim, once inside you should speak with Scholar Printh, he'll see to your arrangements here"[/b], Evelyn thanked the gateguard before he walked off to order his men to grant entry. A moment later, the heavy portcullis of Thanermere Keep were raised and it's doors opened. They'd made it. The interior of Thanermere was just as varied as it's exterior. The old castle looked to be as much of a library as it was a military fortification. Bookshelves lined the walls, filled with ancient knowledge as well as contemporary works. The group entered the grand hall which held a great hearth at its center. Tables were placed in a half ring along the walls of the grand hall's far end. At these tables, scholars performed research, soldiers went over important mission papers, and hunting parties were allied here. The Grand Hall of Thanermere was the central hub of activity in the castle. Upon entering the hall a robed man approached with a subtle yet welcoming grin. [b]"Welcome to Thanermere, kinsmen. I see you've come a long way, you've surely suffered the wounds appropriate for such a journey. I'll be sure to have beds made ready for you, as for your wounded, our healers will see to them"[/b], the man held out his hand to Evelyn who shook it with what little strength she had left in her. [color=fff79a][b]"You have my gratitude Sir Printh. If I may, I wish to speak with you later about the current state of things"[/b][/color], despite reaching Thanermere, Evelyn knew their work was far from concluded. This "Dead God" was an enigma which need to be brought to the light. In her mind, perhaps the scholar knew something of this individual. [b]"Of course, speak with me whenever you are able. In the meantime I should speak with the quartermaster. Farewell for now[/b] Healers came mere minutes after to collect the wounded, carrying them off to their rooms to be healed and tended to. As for Evelyn she sat at one of the numerous tables before removing her helmet. Finally she could rest easy, at least for the moment.