What happened to the first settlement?

Everything is worth what the buyer will pay for it.

Bitterness only hurts oneself.

Beautiful.

It is best in its unaltered state.

The Herons have a familiar sense of humor.

Have you tried this combination to see if it worked and whether it could be harnessed?

The Bard has spoken well.

Maybe it's good if Jeptha does not bathe. The village women won't be as inclined to go too close and perhaps his smell disguises him from those he hunts.

I would expect Beast's specialized abilities to be an asset in finding the source(s) of the night sounds. As to the soldier, James did well in reporting it and you did well in sending it. It would be insubordination if he did not perform his duties.