A Tale of Two Orphans — IC

Post by **ratwizard** » Tue Mar 04, 2014 4:36 pm

Valc listens to Rorin eagerly, excited to have the chance to actually hear the man talk for once. He was too quiet most of the time, something Valc regarded as strange. He nods in agreement to the man's words of advice regarding the guard, and a silence falls as they approach the ornate gates.

"Good morning, guardsman." He bows shortly, his hand forthright, palm up, in a gesture of peace. "We are travelers from the West, come to speak to the Welleslys. We are gathering information on this witch plaguing Garland, in hopes of ridding the land of her evil presence. We heard of the Wellesly's plight and are intent to save the children from her grasp. May we enter, sir?"

[SHOW]: Diplomacy Roll: 1d20+11=22

Post by **Fialova** » Tue Mar 04, 2014 5:04 pm

"Alright, but no funny business, you hear me?" the guardsman replies, a bit skeptically. He turns and opens the gate for the group, and after everyone is through he promptly closes it and returns to his post.

The garden surrounding the Weeping Willow Estate is beautiful and ornate, even moreso than the elaborate metalwork that protected the area from outsiders. Apart from the trees, there are all kinds of flowers and animals to be seen, especially birds. It is almost as if the group has left the city and entered into a meadow instead.

As the group makes their way to the entrance to the Wellesly Manor, the doors open for them and they are greeted now by a man in fancy dress clothes. "If you are here to see the Master, he is expecting you," the man begins, waiting until everyone is inside to close the doors behind him. "Do you require any anything to eat or drink, or shall I bring you to him now?"

kalis5 · Post by **kalis5** » Tue Mar 04, 2014 5:10 pm

Rorin's hand twitches at the mention of the Master expecting them. He almost draws his crossbow at the thought, eyeing the doorman.
"No... Nothing for me, thanks, we just had breakfast..."
He stares at the doorman for a few moments before turning away, thinking. They didn't announce their arrival, why would the Master of the manor be expecting them? It's not like they're well known. They aren't part of the town guard, that much is obvious by their dress. So how does he know that they're here to see him? Rorin moves closer to Valc, hoping to get a second opinion.
"Something's off. We never sent a letter or planned this visit to begin with. So why is the master expecting us."

Post by **Scratcherclaw** » Tue Mar 04, 2014 5:41 pm

Caelen perks up at the offer for food. He would never turn down food, especially that of a wealthy man. The delights they could have brought into their estates are most definitely exquisite and Caelen marvels at the idea of devouring these treats. Living a servant's life left no money to purchase such delicacies, so passing up the opportunity now is unthinkable. "C-could I have some ch-chocolate?" he asks the man, a glimpse of pleading in his eyes.

Post by **Fialova** » Tue Mar 04, 2014 5:52 pm

"Perhaps later," responds the man to Caelen. "It is too early in the day for any sweets to be prepared yet. Shall we move on then?" The man seems a bit impatient and forward with the last lines.

Post by **Namelessjake** » Tue Mar 04, 2014 6:08 pm

"Yes, let's move on." Drake said hesitantly. Something didn't seem quite right here. Maybe the witch has some influence here. He thought, trying to work out what was awry. "We're here to see your master, not eat." He continued, eager to get the information they required and get out of the house, something about it meant he didn't want to spend any more time there than necessary. "What's your master's name servant? I like to know who I'm talking to before I talk to them, especially when it's a man of greater birth. He asked, hoping to at least try and find some known ground in such a suspicious place.

Post by **Fialova** » Tue Mar 04, 2014 6:42 pm

"Very well," the man continues, "follow me, then." He seems pleased that the group is heading to the master first. To Drake's inquiry, he responds "The Right Honorable Walter Wellesly, sir. Head of the Wellesly House." His answers remain, as ever, short and to the point.

The man hurriedly leads the group through the corridors of the house to a large room. The room has high ceilings, and walls covered in the heads of various animals both known and unknown to the group. A trophy room, one would suspect. Rugs mad from animal skin decorate the floor and large cushioned seats draped in even more animal hides are placed around a large hearth, where a fire is roaring.

Seated near the fire, the group finds a man of large stature and girth. He holds in his hand a goblet and is gazing at the flames when the party approaches. Once he realizes their presence, the man turns, stands, and approaches. With his free hand, he makes a wide gesture and in a deep, booming voice proclaims, "ah! Welcome! Come, sit! There is plenty of room for everyone here. Make yourselves comfortable, my honored guests. How was the trip here? Did you run into any trouble on the way? Please, sit down. Any drinks, hm?"

Post by **PureZaros** » Tue Mar 04, 2014 9:11 pm

TheWalrus42 wrote:As the group makes their way to the entrance to the Wellesly Manor, the doors open for them and they are greeted now by a man in fancy dress clothes. "If you are here to see the Master, he is expecting you," the man begins, waiting until everyone is inside to close the doors behind him. "Do you require any anything to eat or drink, or shall I bring you to him now?"

Normally Embla would be jumping around, looking at the new environment she is in. However, something about this place is slightly off, hinted at by the butler's comment. Leaving Fluffy at the door, she enters quietly, keeping comments subdued and emotions hidden.

---~---
Seeing the man before her, Embla slowly sizes him up. For a parent that has lost his children, he doesn't seem too distraught.

Post by **ratwizard** » Tue Mar 04, 2014 9:39 pm

Taking Rorin's hint to heart about something being off, Valc skeptically and silently continues through the manor with Drake speaking to the servant until they find Walter Wellesly himself, a large man with a large voice. He had learned in his knight training, which included pleasantries and the general diplomacy and respect a man of his position should regard himself with, that it was rude to decline a second offer of food or drink. With that in mind, he speaks first to Mr. Wellesly.

"Yes, please. I'd enjoy some wine or ale, if you've got any casks open." He smiles wanly at the man, the idea of Wellesly's pre-knowledge about the groups' plans and intentions swirling in Valc's mind uncomfortably. "The trip was without note - no bandit, wild beast, or Imardanian deterred us from our journey on the way here from Greywood." An idea comes to Valc, one that he feels daft for not realizing sooner. The innkeeper obviously knew these affluent people, as she gave Caelen the address. Perhaps she had simply sent word of their arrival. A footrunner could outpace them since they had walked not too briskly. He wishes he could mention this to Rorin, to perhaps alleviate the man's worry, but it was not the time for whispers.

He decides to get down to business, as the servant had seemed quite urgent in doing. "So," Valc says, drawing his hands together, his fingers interlacing. "We hear you've a problem with a local witch." His face is solemn as he looks at Wellesly.

Post by **Fialova** » Wed Mar 05, 2014 2:52 pm

"Bah, even if I didn't I would open one for you my friend," the large man bellows. He picks up and rings a bell from the table situated next to the chair he was just in, and within moments a pair of servants - likely kitchen staff, by the looks of their clothing - arrive. "Fetch this man some wine and ale!" he barks, to which they scurry back off in the direction they arrived in.

With Valc's comment about the witch, however, their host's demeanor suddenly changes. In an instant he goes from loud and smiling to serious and more mellow. "Yes, that," he sighs. "It's a sad time at the Wellesly house, for certain." He hangs his head down for a moment when a door opens and the servants return, this time with a large tray of various wines and enough glasses for everyone. "But let's not talk about that, yet," he says loudly once again, his mood returning to how it had been before. "Let's talk about you. All of you. What are your skills? What do you know? What makes you fit for the job you have come here to do, hm?" With this he grabs one of the bottles from the tray as the servants are setting it down, uncorks it, and tops off his glass. He then downs the entire thing, sits back in his chair, and stares down the group expectantly. "Please, drink as much as you like. I have plenty more."

* * *

Zara refuses the offer of food and drink when the party first arrives, but the spread brought out by the kitchen servants provides such a wide array of fine beverages that she can't help herself. All of the best wines and ales can be found before them, including her personal favorite - a Menora Merlot, and all for free. She quickly grabs the wine bottle before anyone else has a chance to choose, and pours herself a glass.

After taking an incredibly satisfying sip, she places her glass back on the tray and quickly unsheathes both swords. She moves to an open space in the room and, without warning, begins a short routine to demonstrate her agility and skill with the pair of blades. Once finished, she returns to the tray, grabs her glass, and takes a seat on the floor with her blades in her lap. "I hope that is a sufficient explanation," she says, bluntly as usual, before continuing to enjoy her wine.

Post by **ratwizard** » Wed Mar 05, 2014 3:24 pm

Valc serves himself a glass of wine, a drink that he is actually quite foreign to. He is quite utilitarian in his expenditures, probably influenced by growing up in the lower-middle caste during his upbringing. He did not develop a huge interest in extravagance upon his knighthood like many others had. For this reason, he had rarely had a chance to taste the wines of the Tulrissian lands, something that was quite the hobby of many Lords and their knights. "Very good, sir. Thank you."

He watches, with curiousity, as Zara performs her deadly routine in front of the group. It was the first he'd seen of her combat prowess, and he reckons he'd not like to face such a deadly woman in combat. Valc was not one to pride himself on his virtues or abilities, but the man had asked of his capabilities and he did not want to underplay his and his comrades' worth. He raises his voice as Zara finishes. "We're quite the diverse group, as you might have realized. Each of us has our own skillset and knowledge. Myself, I was lucky enough to have been trained under Lord Halstos - may he rest in peace - and I have practice with the blade," Valc pats the pommel of his bastard sword, "As well as a formal training in military tactics. However, our worth, sir, may not be in any individual's own strengths and skills, but in our combined efforts. I believe that as a group, we are more than able to rid Garland of this damned witch and get you your dearest children returned."

Post by **Namelessjake** » Wed Mar 05, 2014 4:10 pm

Drake nodded in approval of Zara's taste in wine. He had always been a fan of Menora Merlot. As she performed a demonstration of her skills he took the bottle and poured himself a glass, watching the display. She may prove to not be as useless in combat as I'd first thought. He mused, gently sipping his wine, savouring the taste. Having grown up privileged, he had developed a taste for the finer things in life early on. A son of a major Tulrissian Lord knew his wines.

"My skills are somewhat similar to Valc's. I trained under my Father's Master at Arms from an early age. Sword and shield mostly, lance too on occassion. I've won more than my fair share of tournaments. Some even here in Garland." Drake said, pausing to sip his wine once more. "He's certainly right though, it is much more about our skills together than individually." He said, hoping that Wellesly's information on them didn't include the fact this was the party's third day together.

Post by **Scratcherclaw** » Wed Mar 05, 2014 4:25 pm

Caelen eyes Walter as he speaks. Something seems off about his behavior. It strikes Caelen as odd that there is little concern for the wellbeing of Walter's children. He had quickly changed the subject when Valc brought up the witch. How can a man remain so apathetic about his children? And he seems far too friendly to strangers. Something is wrong here. Before he has a chance to speak of it, Zara rises from her seat and performs and elaborate, albeit impressive combat routine. As Zara concludes her demonstration, Caelen is again forced to wait, as Valc has spoken up, followed by Drake. He silently fumes, vexed by the interruptions that withheld his inquiry.

With Drake's explanation finally over, Caelen realizes he can finally sate his curiosity. "E-excuse m-me, M-mister Wellesly, b-but you, um, d-don't seem too shaken by your children's k-kidnapping. If my f-father lost me to a w-w-witch, he would have been devastated. Any father in that p-position w-would be. But not you." He stares at Mr. Wellesly with doubting eyes, his glare practically saying "Are you sure about all of this?"

kalis5 · Post by **kalis5** » Wed Mar 05, 2014 4:26 pm

Rorin shakes his head at the offer of drinks.
"No thank you, I'd rather stay sober."
After that he doesn't say much, and remains quiet as the others describe themselves and the group. It's better if he doesn't reveal anything about himself at this point in time, especially not to an aristocrat given his... Past. That, and most of his skills would make a noble nervous about their coin purses.

Post by **PureZaros** » Wed Mar 05, 2014 5:10 pm

"I... shall pass on the refreshments," Embla said, eyes scanning the room. Wellesly still seems too buoyant, even after the subject of his children was brought up. I'm glad I left Fluffy outside now, I'm not sure I want this guy to have us all accounted for.

As Zara does her routine, Embla mentally prepares herself for her own kind of show. Waiting for Drake and Valc to finish talking, her countenance darkens. As soon as the conversation ends, Embla summons a mantle of dark, purplish-black energy around her arms. She holds the ethereal flames easily, sending them spiraling around her arms and into her hands to form two spheres of energy. Holding the spheres, her eyes glow, reflecting the power she is manipulating. Finally, Embla relaxes and releases her focus on the magic, willing it to dissipate.

Post by **Fialova** » Wed Mar 05, 2014 5:38 pm

The large man watches intently from his seat as the two women show off their talents and the men talk, applauding after each display. "Very impressive!" he exclaims after seeing and hearing the details of four of his six guests. "I suppose you other two have your reasons for not talking. I respect that." With this he stands up, placing his glass on the table next to the bell, and walks towards them, his size only really fully noticeable up close.

As he gets near to the group, he turns to Caelen. "I suppose that must seem odd," he says, his voice getting more serious again, as it did at the last mention of the witch incident. Around this time the three who partook in his hospitality start to feel woozy and quickly collapse to the floor. "But it's because I don't have any children," he says calmly, before knocking Caelen unconscious, Embla and Rorin being simultaneous hit with darts from behind, shot by the man who had let them in and escorted them to the room.

* * *

When the group finally comes to, some indiscernible amount of time later due to the lack of windows in the room, they are tied to chairs positioned in a semi-circle around the room, spaced enough apart that no one is in arm's reach of one another. All of their weapons and armor, had they any to begin with, have been removed from their person - even hidden ones - and placed in a heap off to the side. In the center of the semi-circle, their host towers over them, grimacing down at the group with a much more intimidating look than he had before. To his side stands the man who had let the party inside, this time less frantic-looking than he had been.

"Who are you and how do you know about the witch? What do outsiders want with me? Are you the kidnappers?" the smaller man asks, his anger showing through his eyes despite his otherwise calm appearance. "I do not like thugs, so speak up. Otherwise he," he motions to his large friend, "will break you."

kalis5 · Post by **kalis5** » Wed Mar 05, 2014 6:32 pm

As the smaller man speaks to the group, Rorin tries his best to get out of the bonds behind him without attracting attention, realizing that he can't escape though, he relaxes a bit and eyes the big man. There's no real escaping this situation, but then again, they haven't exactly done anything wrong. So long as none of the others don't do something stupid, things will progress well... Oh, who is he kidding? One is a homicidal maniac, the other a easily shaken boy, and then there's the two lords, and the priestess. All and all, not a very good situation to be in.
He gives the ropes one last tug, seeing if they don't slip free before finally yielding. He might as well get some information out of their captor...
"Well... Since you... Asked. So nicely. I suppose a bit of honesty could be given, under the circumstances. I'm Rorin, from Peloth. I was in Greywood when my home was attacked by Imardin. Nowhere near here when I believe your children were kidnapped by the witch, if rumors are to be believed. To be honest, we came to find information on the witch in order to defeat her and restore some semblance of peace to this land. And get Lord Jont out of his castle. Obviously things didn't necessarily go to plan. However, I must ask. Your children aren't dead are they? And you know this, obviously, otherwise you would have snapped our necks the moment you had us unconscious and in your grasp. So your children must be collateral for something. And a witch would not have need for money so there's no real ransom, unless, say, you made her worry. I'm guessing the Welleslys didn't get where they are without a bit of 'inside knowledge'. From the fact you know we're outsiders, from the fact you know we were here for you long before we walked in, I'm gonna take a shot in the dark. You're a mage, aren't you? You scryed us when we walked into town, didn't you? And the witch took your children so you wouldn't threaten her, is that it? And when we walked in, we scared you because you thought we were in league with her. Is that the gist of things, or am I off base here?"
He looks at the Lord, hiding behind the big bodyguard. From the looks of things, the bodyguard was a recent addition, no doubt. Had he been there before, the children might not have been taken. Or the kidnapping would have been much more violent.

[SHOW]: Acrobatics Roll: 6(1d20) +9 = 15
Stealth Roll: 3(1d20) +9 = 12

Post by **Fialova** » Wed Mar 05, 2014 6:57 pm

"Ah-ah-ah," the smaller man says as he notices Rorin's brief attempt to free his hands, "I wouldn't do that. You wouldn't get very far." He holds up his blowgun as he says this. "Just stay where you are and if I am satisfied with your answers then you have nothing to worry about." He folds his arms in front of him, then walks closer to the spy and listens intently.

As Rorin finishes his exposition, the man leans in and speaks only inches from his face. "So you come all the way from the north to meet Lord Jont, and then suddenly just decide to investigate a kidnapping? You just happen to hear of my children being taken, and decide to help? And now you accuse me of witchcraft as well? Or even conspiring with her? Ha!" He leans back out, taking a good long look at Rorin. "This witch, if there even really is a witch, is no friend of mine!"

He walks back near his large friend and faces away from the party for a moment. When he turns back, he is less angry-looking than saddened. "If you are not the ones who took my children then what are you playing at? Do you want money, is that it? Trying to take advantage of a burdened man of means? I don't know if my children are alive or not, but if they are I would gladly pay all I have for their safe return." His words are solemn and his face a bit gloomy the longer he rambles. Quickly returning to his previous expression, he continues, "but I do not trust strangers who wander around a new town for less than a day and then decide to get involved. You have a motive, and I am going to figure it out. Until then, you can stay here. I hope you are comfortable."

With this he motions to the large man, who grabs the chair he had been sitting in before and sets it in the center of the semi-circle. The smaller man then takes a seat in it and stares at each of the members of the group one after the other.

Post by **ratwizard** » Wed Mar 05, 2014 7:19 pm

Valc feels woozy and his head is swimming with whatever strange alchemy the wine contained to incapacitate him. He comes to, noticing the bruising mark on Caelen's face and listens to Rorin and the man's back-and-forth. Wiggling his wrists, he knows he is in an uncomfortable, immobile position that he won't be able to break out of. His physical helplessness annoys him deeply.

He finally raises his voice, using his willpower to speak with a calm and collected tone despite feeling aggravated and insulted. "I'll tell you honest words, stranger. We've come to Garland under Lord Aerden's leadership," he pauses, awkwardly wagging his head toward Drake who looks quite groggy as well, "Who, if you check his possessions, will you find travel documents proving his identity. Lord Aerden, of Spearpoint Castle - no doubt you've heard of it - recruited me and the others from Greywood no more than three days ago. His initial intent was to travel to Tulrisse's major cities in order to rally the divided Lords under one banner - one common army against the horrors of Imardin's attacks might be enough to rid our lands of this terrible siege."

He pauses a moment, squeezing his eyes shut to help readjust them, as the lighting in the room and his lightheadedness was making him nauseous. "Truth be told, sir, we arrived in Garland last night with intent to speak to Lord Jont, but we were told of the witch plaguing these lands and how he would not speak to us with that problem on his hands. The witch simply proved an obstacle in our path to hold court with Lord Jont, a problem we gathered information on and sought to eliminate. We were given the address of this manor by the woman at the Timid Troll, where we stayed last night, and we came here immediately."

"Now I understand your suspicion of our motive, especially with how diverse and possibly shady my comrades and I might seem, but I promise you that we have nothing to hide and that our intentions are benign."

[SHOW]: Diplomacy roll: 1d20+11=21

kalis5 · Post by **kalis5** » Wed Mar 05, 2014 7:27 pm

Rorin opens his mouth in a mock of an "ah" before nodding a few times, a sort of grimace on his face. And there's the info he needs. And the opening to get them out of this situation.
"Lord Jont was threatened by the witch if rumors are to be believed, and his children threatened. He locked himself inside his castle and won't see us. We're trying to raise an army to fight back against Imardin, and we're seeing any Lord that we can... If we can get his vote of confidence in our mission, other lords will be more willing to listen to us... Look... You're not the only one in this room that's lost something of his. My home is gone. What's worse, it's not even destroyed, Imardin is holding it under their damned fist... I want it back. I want to go back home. I want things to be the way they were as badly as you do for your children, I'm sure of that. Your children might still be alive and here we are sitting around doing nothing but shouting at each other.
"You can still get the people you love back. But us?... People have died. People have been killed. Simply because they were in the way. We can't get them back... But if saving your children and killing this witch can at least help us rescue those that are still alive, then I would gladly drive my dagger through her black heart. One way or the other, she has to be killed. This can't keep going on. Too many have already been hurt by her, and when Imardin rolls in and starts kicking down doors, I doubt Lord Jont will be willing to come out of his castle and rally the troops then. The witch picked this time for a reason. So long as she exists, there won't be peace in these lands. Not for me, not for Lord Jont. And not for you. Money's just a shiny piece of trash to me Lord Wellesly. I could care less for it, it's just a means to an end. All I want is my home back. I paid my last few gold pieces last night at the inn too, you could tell from my already empty pockets. If I have to do it without pay, so be it. Just don't leave me locked up here while my home burns..."
He hangs his head down and takes a deep breath. He didn't tell the others where he was really from, or why he's there. The truth's out now though.

Post by **Scratcherclaw** » Wed Mar 05, 2014 7:54 pm

"Y-you couldn't have been civil about this? And perhaps not have your brute knock me out?" Caelen glares sharply at the impostor Wellesly. He slightly cringes from a pain on his cheek, what he assumes is where he was hit. "You could have been reasonable and explained your situation to us without this elaborate ruse, but noooo. You had to poison my companions and then use your ogre over there to take care of me. The only thugs in here are you two." Caelen finishes his furious rant, seething with rage. His breaths are clearly audible and a scowl is on his bruised face.

"By the way, you're not the only one who has lost someone important to you. I grew up in Kurnhuelde. My friends were constantly being taken into slavery by the orc slavers, and I would never see them again. I lost my father in Serran escaping this cruel life, and after a short time here in Tulrisse, my mother perished too. And now Virem, the only safe home I've ever had, has been plagued by the invasion and everyone I knew and cared for has fallen with it." While his expression still displayed anger, his eyes glinted with a speck of sorrow.

Post by **PureZaros** » Wed Mar 05, 2014 8:27 pm

Embla came to quickly, starting at the sound of an angry Caelen. Looking around, she noticed how she, along with all her companions, was tied up. "Dammit, not again!"

Wishing she hadn't left Fluffy outside, Embla instead settles for a knives-and-daggers stare at the man Caelen had yelled at, realizing he was the real Wellesly.

Post by **Fialova** » Wed Mar 05, 2014 8:41 pm

Zara says nothing while the others have shouting fits with their captors. Though she tries not to show it, she is incredibly embarrassed - embarrassed that she didn't see this coming, embarrassed that she was clearly fondled while asleep because she no longer feels her daggers on her legs, and embarrassed most of all that she so quickly demonstrated her abilities to strangers who turned out to be dishonest at best, and perhaps sinister at worst.

Unable to move, and knowing based on Rorin's failed attempt that escape would be unlikely if not impossible, she sits quietly in her seat. Apart from the ropes and the strange position of her arms, she is in fact quite comfortable. Her head is a bit groggy from the altered drink, but she isn't entirely displeased that she drank it - free wine is still free wine. From the real Wellesly's speech she doubts he truly has any ill will towards them, so she is content to simply sit and stare into the eyes of the larger man, hoping that maybe she can intimidate him. Or perhaps tickle his fancy, whatever works. If he does fall prey to her looks she intends to return the favor and leave him unconscious, though she seriously doubts she will get the chance.

Post by **Namelessjake** » Thu Mar 06, 2014 6:02 am

Drake groggily came to and tried to wriggle his hands free, although the rope just dug into his wrists, showing little chance of escape. He sat back in the chair letting the others talk, he wasn't sure how well his words would come out considering he had just be drugged. He tried to pay Rorin and Valc's words some attention but his foggy mind kept finding its way back to one night after a feast in Spearpoint Castle's Great Hall where he had found himself in quite a similar position. From the innocent looks she had given him across the tables he had been surprised when she had pushed him down onto a chair and tied him too it. The younger daughters of Lords destined for the church rather than marriage did tend to be some what repressed. Still, he could remember everything about than night tied to the chair. I doubt this time will be quite as fun.

Feeling up to talking, he whispered a couple of words to himself to check he was articulate before speaking to their captor. "What they've said is true. I'm Lord Aerden of Spearpoint. We came here to win the allegiance of Lord Jont, but found him locked up in his castle due to the witch. We came here looking for information as we intent to defeat this witch, hopefully winning Garland's support in the process."

Post by **Fialova** » Thu Mar 06, 2014 4:18 pm

"Hm..." the party's host begins, after taking in all of their pleas and insults and other comments. He was silent during it all, content to let them speak their mind, but now he is ready to respond. He unfolds his arms and crosses his legs in their place, placing his hands in front of him fingertip to fingertip. "So you are a proper nobleman?" he says to Drake. "If so, I'm sure you won't mind me checking."

With this, the large man heads over to Drake, digs through his pockets, and takes out the young lord's ID and portrait and brings them back to his master. After perusing them for a moment, Walter looks up. "I see. These are definitely official papers. It appears I misjudged your character, Lord Aerden." He waves his hand to the large man, who again makes his way towards the group, but this time he begins untying everyone: feet first and then hands.

"I trust you will forgive my... skepticism. Things have not been going well for me lately, and it is not easy to trust people - especially not strangers." He stands from his chair, a smile now on his face, and steps closer. "So if you are really here to help, then what is your plan? To slay the witch, yes, but how? No one knows her whereabouts, no one even knows if she is real. Until recently she was only a legend, there had been no witch sightings in over a century. I will gladly pay you for the deed if you manage to accomplish it, but I doubt you will succeed. Especially given your lack of knowledge of the forest." He glances them all over as they are being untied and regaining their composure. "You will most certainly need a guide."

Post by **Namelessjake** » Thu Mar 06, 2014 5:00 pm

"I can imagine things have been tough for you Sir." Drake said, rubbing his wrists as his hands were unbound. "If you have anyone that would be able to guide us, we would very much appreciate it. I think that if this witch is back and real, she won't take to kindly to people searching for her. As long as we're in the right area of the forest, I imagine she'll find us. Then it is six against one, and we're all competent fighters." He said, trying to disguise their lack of any real plan, Walter would be more likely to offer assistance if he thought there was at least some chance that the party would succeed in their quest.

Post by **ratwizard** » Thu Mar 06, 2014 5:11 pm

As Valc is untied and the impossible situation as seemingly been dealt with, his irritated mood pervades, but he is eager to get out of there. "While your skepticism could use a little less aggression, I forgive you. I've no children of my own so I can only sympathize your position. However, your worries move us. We will seek out this damned witch and find your children, if you can provide a guide for us. You at least owe us that much for your unbased conniving, sir. We've had poor luck seeking out certain peoples in Garland as of lately."

Post by **Fialova** » Thu Mar 06, 2014 5:29 pm

"Well, I suppose I could pay any guide unwilling to go for free, sure," the man says a bit hesitantly. "But I can only make suggestions of who could take you, you will have to decide for yourself who you are comfortable with hiring." After everyone is untied and helped back to their feet, Walter sits back down in his chair.

"There are a few men I know of that are up to the task, but surely there are others to be found - I don't bother myself with the details of every lowlife and woodsman in the city, you see." He refills his glass and takes a sip before continuing. "Now, for the ones I do know. The rangers tend to know the forest quite well, it is their duty after all to scout it and eliminate any threats. Clearly they weren't good enough to sense the witch's presence, but then I suppose they wouldn't have been expecting her: no one was. So you could go ask them, perhaps you could convince them to aid your cause. However..." He looks up to the large man, who gives him a nod, before continuing.

"There is one man in particular who is unofficially recognized as an expert tracker and woodsman, one who knows this city and forest inside and out if the rumors are to be believed. You could ask him as well, if you like, though I really wouldn't know how trustworthy he is." He takes another, fairly large, sip. "Other than that, you'd just have to ask around I suppose. Like I said, this is not my area of expertise. Whoever you find, tell them they will be compensated just as much as the rest of you for the safe return of my children."

Post by **Scratcherclaw** » Thu Mar 06, 2014 6:06 pm

"Funny how you're questioning someone's honesty," Caelen grumbles, still upset. With his hands now free, he feels the large bruise on his face. He winces in pain. Although still furious with the man, helping him was the only way of gaining access to Lord Jont's court. Revenge was due, but Caelen figures it should wait for a better time. Caelen turns to address his party rather than Mr. Wellesly, refusing to speak to him directly. Seeing the faces of his new peers soothed his anger a bit and he returned to his calm, nervous self. "I d-don't think the r-rangers would be much help. Th-they weren't much help l-last night and we could end up b-being guided by that insolent man V-Valc and I had the p-pleasure of meeting."

"I s-s-suggest we get the w-woodsman's aid. He knows the f-forest and c-can help us track the w-witch." Caelen cares not if Mr. Wellesly thought of the man as trustworthy or not. Receiving help from possibly deceitful folk isn't a new concept to the group. Caelen's eyes shift between Zara, Rorin, and Embla.

Post by **ratwizard** » Thu Mar 06, 2014 6:27 pm

"This woodsman - does he have some sort of history to make you doubt his trustworthiness? I'd imagine the promise of gold if the job is successful would buy his loyalty to us." Valc turns to the others in the group for approval and speaks in a low tone. "The woodsman sounds more useful to us than the rangers. Besides, I'd rather not risk bumping into that ranger-captain again."

Post by **Fialova** » Thu Mar 06, 2014 7:20 pm

While having no real preference on who to find as a guide, Zara feels the urge to offer her thoughts to the group just in case they find her council of use. "The ranger captain you met may be unpleasant, but I doubt he would be less trustworthy than some woodsman we know little about. We might ask around town too, there may be better options available. Whatever you decide, best do it quickly." Hopefully they can at least come to some agreement.

* * *

"I know little of him except for his reputation and that he is lowborn rabble," Walter replies to Valc, a bit of arrogance showing through his voice. "As you may have noticed already, I have a distinct distrust of lowborn rabble." With the last words, he looks over the party, making it clear to anyone that he considers them - with the possible exception of Drake - on the same level as the woodsman he had mentioned.

kalis5 · Post by **kalis5** » Thu Mar 06, 2014 9:37 pm

Rorin wrings his wrists as he tries to get the feeling back into them. Tight ropes. He shakes his head as he starts to get rid of the numbness.
"I doubt she'll go finding us. We're threats, and she's lived this long without being found. No, if she wants to face us she'd fight us one by one. We can't go waltzing into the woods like an army, we'd just scare her off. Despite our numbers, I'd say a show of power will just get people killed. Discretion is the better option here. That is, unless you want to be turned into frogs or some such.
As for who we should take... I'm for the woodsman. Despite the rangers being more tied to the woods, the woodsman is more likely to have stumbled onto the less obvious paths in his line of work. There's a difference between knowing the wood and living in it."

Post by **PureZaros** » Thu Mar 06, 2014 10:18 pm

Embla scowls at Wellesly's distain of those lower born. This guy is definitely getting on her nerves, and she's not one to let go of grudges. "Listen here, little man. I don't even know if I was born, let alone high or low. Right now, we're equals. You need help, help is being offered."

Turning to her companions, she threw her two cents in. "I'm for the woodsman. From what Valc and Caelen have told us of the Rangers, they're more likely to abandon us out there."

Post by **Fialova** » Fri Mar 07, 2014 4:57 pm

"Well if you are so intent on hiring the woodsman to help you, then I suggest you head to the market. That is where he tends to be. You can often find him just loitering there, it is a bit unnerving actually." Walter motions to his tall friend before continuing. "Roark, here, will escort you out if that is all."

Post by **ratwizard** » Fri Mar 07, 2014 8:13 pm

Valc stares at Roark with a look of vague skepticism, untrusting of the large man. He looks back to Walter. "The market. Right. We can stock up on any supplies we'll need for the trek there, as well. As for the woodsman, does he have a name? Any distinguishing features?"

Valc turns to Drake, surprised at his silence. He speaks in a hushed tone. "Are you alright with this plan, Lord Aerden? The woodsman will likely be our best bet as a guide. Who knows, maybe he'll know how to kill this thing."

Post by **Namelessjake** » Sun Mar 09, 2014 1:33 pm

"The Woodsman sounds like he'll make a good guide." Drake said agreeing with the others. He turned to Valc. "It should be fine. Wellesly's views on the lowborn make him a bit biased and if he's right not to trust him there's six of us." He whispered back. It made sense. The woodsman sounded like he had much more to offer the group than any other guide would have. "We'll head to the market then." He said to the group. "Sir Walter, thank you for your.... hospitality."

Post by **Fialova** » Sun Mar 09, 2014 3:09 pm

"Yes, he has a name. Cormic, I think it was. McCormic, maybe? I don't know what he looks like, but I imagine it would be similar to that boy," Walter replies, pointing to Caelen, "but without the pointed ears. Maybe dirtier, who knows? It shouldn't be too hard to find him. Now if that is all..." Walter looks expectantly at the group, and it is clear to all he is trying to get them to leave.

The group gathers their confiscated belongings and, once ready, they are escorted out of the manor and the estate by the large Roark. Wasting no time, they then return to the marketplace in search of their woodsman guide. When they arrive it is just as bustling as it was before. People are everywhere, going to shops and bakeries and the like. If the woodsman is here, it will take a bit of searching to find him.

Post by **Scratcherclaw** » Sun Mar 09, 2014 3:53 pm

Caelen scowls at Walter when he mentions the woodsman would look similar to him. Oh, well pardon me for not taking my best attire while I was fleeing for my life. He rolls his eyes and follows the group out.

Now in the market, he sees that it is as lively as before. Great. Finding this man will definitely be a breeze. Caelen has a difficult time peering over the masses of people, being shorter than many of them. Growing increasingly frustrated, he hops up onto Embla's shoulders, giving her little time to react.

With a much better vantage point, Caelen is able to view the whole marketplace. He hastily scans the market for McCormic, uncertain how long Embla would allow him to remain on her shoulders.

[SHOW]: Perception check:2(1d20) +12 = 14

Post by **Fialova** » Sun Mar 09, 2014 3:57 pm

[SHOW]: Caelen spots many people among the crowded streets who could match Walter's vague description of the woodsman. Some are hurrying about like most everyone else, but some of them are just standing around doing nothing in particular.

Post by **Scratcherclaw** » Sun Mar 09, 2014 4:48 pm

Caelen hits Embla's arm as if she were a horse. Th-that way. T-towards that b-building. He points to a man wearing wearing rugged, dirty clothing nonchalantly leaning against a building, looking much more suspicious than the other men matching his description. He remains on Embla's back as she plows through the crowd. She hasn't thrown him off yet and it saves him from walking, he figures. As the group approaches the man, he hops off, not needing to be so high any longer. He nudges Valc and Drake to begin speaking.

Post by **ratwizard** » Sun Mar 09, 2014 4:53 pm

Valc says little as they tread on toward the marketplace, his mind on the witch and the danger waiting them. As they reach the marketplace, Caelen sights somebody he thinks matches Wellesly's description and they approach. Prodded forward awkwardly by the elven teen, Valc steps forward with a quizzical look on his face and speaks. "I'm looking for a fellow named Cormic. Might you be him?"

Post by **Fialova** » Sun Mar 09, 2014 5:02 pm

"Me?" The man looks a bit flustered. "N-no, of course not. Why would you think I am Cormic? I'm just Todd." The man is nearly as awkward as Caelen, though you would not expect it when looking at him. He meekly points to another similarly-dressed man standing on the other side of the market, a man Embla might recognize as the con-man who had played her the night before. "That's who you want. Now leave me b-be, please. I don't need no trouble." With this the man refuses to speak anymore, or even look anyone in the eyes.

Post by **Namelessjake** » Sun Mar 09, 2014 5:09 pm

Drake eyes up the man pointed out to them as Cormic before walking in his direction, motioning the group to follow his lead. It seemed that perhaps Walter had been right to mistrust the man, he certainly didn't look trustworthy. "We're looking for Cormic, we were told he might be able to act as a guide for us?" He said, addressing the man. "What do you think?" He asked the group behind him, out of earshot of Cormic, trying to convey his misgivings. Maybe I just have a similar bias to Sir Walter, he could look fine to the others.

Post by **PureZaros** » Sun Mar 09, 2014 7:51 pm

Caelen wrote:Growing increasingly frustrated, he hops up onto Embla's shoulders, giving her little time to react.

"Wh-whoa! Embla cried, windmilling her arms to avoid losing her balance. Not succeeding entirely, she continued to stumble around, yelling up at Caelen. "Hey! No riders under five foot ten! Get off, I can't see!" Something of Caelen's -the hem of his shirt, possibly an arm, Embla couldn't tell- was obscuring her vision.

Caelen wrote:Caelen hits Embla's arm as if she were a horse. "Th-that way. T-towards that b-building."

The hit stung, and Embla wasn't too happy about it. "Oy! Do that again and you'll be out an arm and probably everything else!" The hit did cause her to stumble in the direction that Caelen wanted to go, though.

As she half fell, half walked through the crowd, Embla worked on getting whatever was obscuring her eyes away from her face, even as Caelen commandeered her arms and head to keep his balance. Finally tearing away what turned out to be Caelen's big, floppy shirt, she spotted a familiar face in the crowd. "YOU!" she cried, throwing Caelen off of her shoulders into an unceremonious heap on the cobblestones. Charging, unknowing, she tackled the man that the group was seeking, landing on his chest and pinning him to the ground. "Why in five hells would you send me on a wild goose chase like that! I've more than half a mind to take your arms off! Explain yourself!"

Post by **Fialova** » Sun Mar 09, 2014 8:10 pm

The man is caught a bit off guard by Drake's question, but just as he opens his mouth to speak he is tackled to the ground by a furious Embla. Trapped under the woman, and with the wind knocked out of him, he yells "What was that for, you- oh," before realizing who his attacker was. Once he catches his breath, he simultaneously stands while tossing Embla off of himself, his strength too much for Embla to resist by herself.

Back on his feet, he ignores Drake and addresses Embla first. "Why?! Why would you threaten to kill a man just looking to make a bit of coin, eh? I was right to call you a crazy lady, that I was." With this he turns back to Drake. "Look, I don't know what you want with me but if she's coming with you then I don't want no part of it. Count me out, man."

Post by **PureZaros** » Sun Mar 09, 2014 8:23 pm

Scrambling off the ground, Embla stamped her foot in frustration. Turning to Drake she said, still half yelling, "The jerk tried to get money out of me for directions to the graveyard!"

kalis5 · Post by **kalis5** » Sun Mar 09, 2014 8:23 pm

As a near brawl suddenly erupts in front of him due to Embla, Rorin stands there and just watches for a few moments. His mind races for the right words to say, suddenly realizing that they're slightly screwed, because someone couldn't resist trying to attack a woodsman. Wonderful. He opens his mouth as if to speak, his face still uncovered, his index finger extended before clamping his mouth shut and pulling his hood over his head.
"If you need me, I'll be over here with the rest of the sane people."
He walks off towards some of the market stands, eyeing the goods as a regular customer, wishing he had some money for more supplies, but given the current situation, he has none. He also decides that now might be a good time to do some looking around to see if he spots anyone he knows, spy or otherwise. Let's call that plan b.

[SHOW]: Perception Roll: 2(1d20) +9 = 11

Post by **Fialova** » Sun Mar 09, 2014 8:38 pm

Zara can't help but to be alarmed when Embla assaults the man who just might end up leading them into the forest. Well, so much for getting off on the right foot. Can't say I am surprised, though. She quietly watches the scene unfold, puzzling over the enigmatic Rorin's motives as he walks off to peruse the wares of the local shops. For a moment she thinks of speaking up, but she decides to hold off until the noblemen have at least made their own attempts to defuse the situation.

[SHOW]: It might be the fact that now, as opposed to yesterday, there are too many people wandering the streets, or it might just be that there is nothing to find, but Rorin's second attempt to find his spy companions meets with as little success as the first. Who knows where they could be, if they are here at all?

Post by **ratwizard** » Sun Mar 09, 2014 9:06 pm

Before Valc can get a word out, Embla storms up to the man and tackles him. As the man throws her off and they squabble back and forth, Valc calls for silence with a loud, brief shout. Eyes on him, he speaks up. "I don't know what happened the other night between you two, but there are bigger things about than petty squabbles. Cormic - or McCormic, whatever - there is guaranteed payment for you from House Wellesly if you do a job for us. Ample payment. If you can forgive misgoings and simply ignore each other in the process, I'm sure you'll be quite pleased with your decision when the job is over."

Post by **Fialova** » Sun Mar 09, 2014 9:13 pm

"Both," the woodsman replies to Valc, when the subject of his name is brought up. "Cormic McCormick's the name. And you should have mentioned payment before! That changes things somewhat. So how much are you offering, hm? A lot, if it is from the Welleslys, yes?" He rubs his thumb and fingers together in the same manner he had suggestively indicated payment to Embla the night before, a smirk now streaking across his face.

And then it changes, his smirk turning into more of a nervous smile. "Wait, if you are working for the Welleslys then this is about the witch... ain't it?" He stops his motioning and looks back at the part, his expression indicating a return to distrust.