Boomer

Boomer's route up the Black River

Given the steam barge isn't very fast (maxes out at 10 knots), the journey to Northguard will take two days. Once they arrive at the docks there, Northguard is a hive of activity, beginning with the mighty guns being pointed at any boat approaching the lake, and swift interceptor vessels checking each ship for spies, etc.

The captain of the Restan, Wordel, will be suspicious but persuaded to allow the barge to dock. He will advise that they way north is blocked to the best of his knowledge. The river has been closed by the Khardic forces and the road from Leryn is also being held by a strong contingent of Winter Guard under the command of Kommandant Gursk, with an entire battallion. However, the dwarves have a secret method of transport, Zeppelins, that they use when the overland routes are blocked. Fortunately for Boomer, they have been ferrying dwarves fleeing from Leryn back to Horgenhold. The dwarves have established three stations, north of Rynyr, Riversmet and Leryn respectively to get their people out (and other humans if they can pay for passage). The Zeppelin pilots are strict about taking dwarf folk first, and only humans if there's room (they have a weight limit to observe).

Each Zeppelin (there are six in use), has a squad of riflemen with long scopes to provide support for landing zones and also to discourage pot shots at them. They also carry explosives if need be but they are loath to use them.

The most direct, although dangerous, route to take is due north from Northguard to Rynyr, passing between Meryn and Elsinberg. Meryn is under siege presently and the bulk of the invasion force is concentrated there, and Elsinberg has already fallen and is in the process of being subdued. Otherwise, she can head inland towards Greywind Tower which as yet has not been beseiged (although that is coming). She will receive a friendly reception (once she can prove her identity) by General Dexeter Lyrra, who is marshalling resistance forces in the area. Some supplies are still available if need be. From there, she could head due north to Leryn and avoid the roads, and therefore Khadorian troops.

Sammel, quartermaster at Northguard

Tilson, destitute refugee in Northguard, aided by Mara