Danello informs Risse, "Yes, it looks like the thieves were here as guards. At least, the two guards are the only ones we can confirm are missing. The Master is quick to point out that wagon passengers weren't documented, however. There might have been someone hiding there, and managed to take out two guards, and hide their bodies . . . but the two missing guards are the primary suspects."
Looking to Maraliss, "As for being away from the caravan, we should arrive at the Keep by mid-afternoon. If you can succeed quickly, you way very well rest at the Inn tonight. Too much dawdling, however, might earn another night on the road."
Risse manages to find the Caravan Master, who is roving about the camp, making preparations to get moving for the day. He doesn't seem entirely enthused about answering all the questions, either. He weakly repeats his theory that thieves hid among the pilgrims, and killed two of his guards. At the hint that he is hedging, and might be involved, he seems to relent, and answers in a lowered voice. "Look, we took on a few extra guards at the humble request of His Holiness back there -- he insisted we increase security. There were slim pickins to be found of guards with any real experience. He forced me to bring in some . . . less than reputable help. The two missing were of that sort. I'll not be held responsible if the men he insisted protect his cargo ran off with it.
"Those two kept to themselves. Thick guys, a human and a halfling. Didn't take to riding well; their mounts are still here. Armed with short blades, just like the rest of the guard. Paid a fair sum for the trip, both ways. They received a pittance up front, were to receive half of their sum today at the keep. If they're anything like our regular guard, they'd spend it on booze and entertainment, then blow the rest when we return to Loftwick.
"Now if you'll excuse me, I'd like to get headed out before some real serious thieves find us out here like sitting ducks."
On the way back to the group, Risse runs into Veir and Slash; feeling a bit unappreciated, they'd spread out and have managed to locate a trail headed north into the forest.
