He nods, and with a smaller party approaches the fort. "Captain Agathon! I spoke to Captain Mattias and we've negotiated a truce."

"So I heard. And with the Stormcaller, no less."

"I believe in cleaning up my own messes."

"...A good reason. Alright, come in."

"Do they have any prisoners of yours, at the moment?"

"They do not. But I understand you want to hand over the one I have anyway?"

"Yes. Mattias said he had no relevant knowledge, and Ashe really wants him back. I think it will hurt only the Regent's people."

"I hope we can convince them to break away rather than defend him; I knew many of them, and they're mostly good men."

"We'll try. Is Mattias the best one to argue them around?"

"Probably not. He's low-born, and most of those in the Stand have a little noble blood; bastard branches from a grandfather, that sort of thing. I'd pick Janos if he'll trust you."

"Master of Scouts, his job to be untrusting?"

"Exactly. Did he not even admit he was the commander?"

"He didn't. No hard feelings. So, can we take Callias?"

"Yeah, take him. Make sure he knows about the truce first, though. He's an angry bastard. ...Somewhat our fault."

"I've forgiven worse. Can I bring in my other two? A Disfavored Stone Shield who was hit by the Storm, and a Scarlet Fury. Both of them will stay in line."

"Better than one of the besiegers. Sure, bring 'em in. Friendly face might help."

"His face isn't good at friendly - you'll see. But I think it will. Lantry, fetch them?"

In a minute, there they are. "Kohl. He's agitated?"

"Tied to a post for span, I would be too. We need to keep the truce."

Barik nods. "Him included. Understood. Let's see."

"Callias. You look like shit, soldier."

"Look who's talking...," Callias groans, then his eyes widen with recognition. "Wait, I recognize that voice. Barik of Battle's Rest! I should have known you couldn't stay out of Stalwart for long. Graven Ashe protects!"

"Graven Ashe protects!," Barik replies, warmth in his voice. "But I think he'll have an easier time doing it once you're out of here."

"I didn't hear an attack. You sneaking me out in that outfit?"

"No, we have a ceasefire and a prisoner trade. Keep it sheathed, we'll take out our frustrations on the bastards hiding in Sentinel Stand."

"I'm sure you have plenty, Iron Walker. But okay, I won't give this motherless fucks the beatings they deserve. Just get me down."