First, my thanks for the kindly compliments; I am very grateful. It is satisfying to know the words I string together move people. It's why I do it, after all.
And speaking of 'being moved': SB, I'm am quite moved you want to incorporate the narrative into the story line; genuinely moved. You may not realize this but I've long felt a strong bond with the character of Dirk because of our shared Bowmen days. To be a part of the character's culmination means a lot to me. Thank you.
Perhaps you and I can use Facebook to sort out just how you want the piece incorporated; no doubt there will be small edits required if you use it in its entirety and also, you will be able to clearly say 'stop here!'
Just so you know - If you have a Fonstad to hand ( mine is the 1994 edition) on pages 76/77 is the two page map of Wilderland. Upper right hand corner of page 76 is a depiction of the Long Lake - in my mind's eye the procession is just south of the Long Marshes, about 6-10 miles south of Esgaroth - so they're not there yet. The people have set out to meet them, is all.
And you know, I always thought Lake Town was on the eastern shore!! I wonder where I got that idea from?
Onwards! Upwards! Storytelling Awaits!