The Tale of Cragfoot
In the early days of a scorching season within the Bonro region, the long-forgotten outpost of Cragfoot stirred with renewed life. Once held by the Dreikathi and left to rot in the wake of their occupation, the settlement had become a faint memory, slipping into obscurity as the desert sands reclaimed its streets. Desperate for relief, the townsfolk cried out to anyone who might answer, their wells all but dry and their meagre supplies plundered by opportunistic bandits.
A response came from an unlikely quarter when the Order of Euthymius chanced upon the plight of Cragfoot. At first, the arrival of these outsiders caused a stir among locals, many recalling harsher days under more hostile forces. Yet rather than impose further hardship, the Order took stock of the ravaged settlement and immediately began aiding its people. They repaired the broken well with surprising efficiency, digging deep into the stubborn red clay until water flowed in abundance, rekindling a spark of hope among the parched inhabitants.
While the scorching midday sun continued to beat down on the dusty landscape, the Order steadily arrived with food, clothing, and extra hands to help carry out repairs. Their efforts did not stop at the village’s basic needs: they oversaw the restoration of the dilapidated buildings and the construction of new ones where old walls had collapsed. Notable among these were Shijanyi’s inn, which soon became a hub for weary travellers, and Obrino’s general store, once emptied by relentless thieves, now stocked with goods unique to Cragfoot’s desert environs.
Over nearly two years, the transformation was profound. Where bandits once roamed unchecked, a small but resolute militia of local villagers- trained in handling shields and simple weapons- now patrol the outskirts and keep a vigilant watch. Each day, the settlement grew stronger; its people were no longer starved and fearful but steady on their feet and proud of the progress they’d achieved.
Word of Cragfoot’s rebirth spread cautiously through the Bonro region and beyond. Some whispered that the Order of Euthymius must have come for hidden reasons. In contrast, others praised them for their generosity. Regardless of rumour, the village stood as proof of their kindness: buildings repaired, bellies fed, and spirits lifted under an unforgiving sun. Where once there was a crumbling outpost, there now lies a thriving desert settlement, its people looking to the future with guarded optimism, thanks in no small part to those who answered their pleas.
Penned by my hand on Falsday, the 15th of Sapiarch, in the year 10 AC.
