R1: Hired Hands (nimisgod judging)

[Dungannon]

In agreement to return the horses, the group mounts up and begins the trek back to Traver's ranch. There's no apparent rush, as everyone seems content to take it easy and try to observe as much as possible of the surrounding landscape. Nothing of interest shows itself to the adventurers however, and they return to the farm without incident. After stabling the horses, except for BusterJack who is once again loaded down the the party's equipment, everyone makes ready to head out on the road once again.

As the party approaches the gate at the end of Traver's Lane, a figure suddenly approaches from the side. It's Dak, and he appears very nervous. "Wait sirs, please. I may be able to help you.."

 

[Patlin]

"Yes, Dak?"

 

[Dungannon]

Dak glances back at the farm, then hurredly continues, "I didn't want to say anything in front of the others. I've heard some rumors. They say that the bandits are from Lathim, some sort of advance party from their Thieves Guild looking to expand their reach. Maybe you should head that direction instead of wasting time going to Ravensdale."

Dak pauses for a moment, looking around nervously, then continues with a hopeful expression. "Is this information worth the money you offered?"

 

[LogicsFate]

"Why didn't you want to say if front of the others?... what money!?" Valan looks towards Ragnykir and Gideon with a questioning look

 

[Roger]

OOC: You gotta know I'm Sensing Motive all over Dak. I bet it's something you'd prefer to roll, Mr. DM Guy.

"Yes, indeed; I took it upon myself to offer a sizable reward for exactly this sort of information. It does seem quite out-of-the-way for thieves from Lanthirn, coming all the way up here, though."

 

[Dungannon]

Dak nods his head back towards the farm, "I didn't want to say anything back there cuz I'm afraid one of the others may be working with 'em. Aleksi, that is. He's mean, and I heard him say once that he's originally from Lathim."

Ragnikyr & Tor:[sblock]The two of you sense that Dak is not telling the truth, although you can't be sure what his motive for lying is.[/sblock]

 

[IcyCool]

At Ragnykir's words, Gideon narrows his eyes at Dak. Is he lying?, he thinks.

OOC: Gideon will sense motive.

Sense Motive, untrained, +0

 

[Dungannon]

Valan & Gideon:[sblock]Despite your wariness of Dak, you can't find anything in his words, tone or actions that tell you he's being dishonest.[/sblock]

 

[Roger]

"You've placed yourself at great personal risk to help us, Dak; we are in your debt. Here," Ragnikyr says, digging out five gold and handing them to Dak, "you've more than earned this reward. I doubt we ever would have thought about heading to Lanthirn. We'll have to get on the road immediately to get there in good time. Run along back to the farm, and keep your reward well-hidden."

Ragnikyr waits until Dak and the rest are well out of earshot before addressing the group.

 

[Dungannon]

Dak smiles and pockets the coins, a relieved look on his face. "I'm just glad I could help. I've never been on an adventure, this is probably the closest I'll ever come." He then takes off through the grass, apparently taking a circuitous route back to the farm.