14th of Wealsun, 582 Part One: The Trip to Lowick
Suddenly, the normally-quiet albino half-elf, Black Blade, leapt onto her chair and cried, "Doesn't anyone here ever go on any adventures?! You can't possibly wait for the next orcish troop to raid Chatwin for adventure, do you?! I must have adventure! I need a purpose!" Her hand was on the hilt of the large runesword in its scabbard at her waist, and she drew it halfway out of the hilt before she realized what she has done. Sheathing it, she sheepishly sunk back into her chair and whispered, "There. I feel much better now that I have released all that negative emotion."
Having returned to her more normal calm state, Black Blade noticed that her outburst had attracted some attention. A brown hair woman, dressed in loose fitting, rough hewn clothing, approached her. "I doubt you'll object to my sitting down, especially since I share your boredom."
She took a seat in the chair nearest Black Blade, but leaned in towards her. Up close Black Blade saw that this woman was in her early twenties, brown eyes to match her hair, maybe five and a half feet tall, 120-130 lbs. There was a sheathed broad sword at the left waist, and a dagger at the right. She seemed to be weathered.
"Daltonne's the name. Came here some months ago from the south. Yet to find a darned thing to do. Spend me time sittin round that Inn, like it's some place special. Now that elf that was there, Saugus, he lucked in to a big adventure into the swamp. Now there was a lucky one that Saugus. Course he joined up with that Unseen Blade group. But joinin's not fer me. Starting to wonder if this town's got somethin against women. Few of us ever get in on anything good." She paused for any possible reaction.
Then she continued. "There used to be an adventuring group round here called themselves the Flyers, but they busted up cause the woman in the party, Shantyra the ranger, got fed up with their chauvinism. Least that's how she tells it. She's the one that runs the veterinary out back of the stables. Other than that, well not much opportunity for us in this place. Course, if you an me was ta team up, well, I heard a rumor, in my days over to that Inn, something to do with farmers coming here with their grain. Now if you and me, if we was ta do sumpin' about it, well, that might change their tunes. And even if it didn't it would give us sumpin' ta do. Who knows, a few golds might just cross our palms as well. At least think about it."
She settled back into her chair, letting her words sink in, waiting for any reaction.
Black Blade smiled her mysterious smile and jumped up from her chair. "I'm ready when you are!" She retorted to Daltonne, excitedly. Her gem she was fingering a while ago was safely put back into her pocket, and she awaits to find out more on this turn of events.
As they enjoyed the excitement of the moment and reflect on the possibility of an adventure, another female approached. An elf, wearing a beautiful suit of elven chain. She had steel gray eyes and silver blonde hair, worn in a twist at the nap e of her neck. "My name is Jessa, Jessa Wren. I hope you won't think me forward, but I could not help over hearing your outburst," referring to Black Blade, "and your suggestion," referring to Daltonne. "... though, I must admit I had to strain to catch the latter." She allowed herself a slight grin at that moment. "But if you two have a line on adventure, and you wouldn't mind a third, and I hope you won't think me forward, but, I'd love to go along."
Daltonne stood up and took the Elf's hand. "Daltonne. Well met. Forward? Hah. Men can be as forward as they wish, and never need ta apologize. Never be ashamed te ask fer what you want in this world. I have no objection to yer joinin in. What say you?"
"I think that would be fine," said Black Blade. She looked at the newcomer with some study. "We're planning on heading over to the Inn the Shadow of the Three Towers. You might as well come with us."
Meanwhile, Serena Jule, of Bittle's Books & Study, decided not to eat lunch at the bookstore today. Instead, she headed over to the Inn the Shadows of the Three Towers. Glancing around for friends or neighbors she picked a table near a window next to the one usually reserved for the Seekers, and settled in to enjoy the sunlight. When asked she ordered a light meal, consisting of fresh vegetables and fruits. "Early summer delicacies if you please," she asked politely.
She sat, contenting herself to look out the window, picking away at her fresh fare, when her attention was drawn to the three newcomers, two Elvish, one human, but all three very female and very well armed.
"See, them there's the ones I told yers about," the human one pointed at some farm types, who quickly turned away somewhat embarrassed by this unwarranted attention.
Gus, the Inn keeper made a bee-line for the three. "Daltonne, I've told you not to bother my guests. Now I can give you three a seat by the window, down by the river front, if you'll just keep it down."
Daltonne and the others, whom Serena would learn were Black Blade the albino half elf and Jessa Wren the wood elf, moved in the direction Gus was ushering them. "I was just tellin me friends here,"
"I know, I know. Now sit down. I'll get you some drinks and you can talk to me. How's that?"
This seemed to mollify Daltonne for the time being at least. Gus was no sooner gone than he was back with some fine wine and mead. Each woman chose her pleasure.
"Now what is it you are all up about?" he asked Daltonne in particular.
"I was tellin me friends here, thems farmers there. They don't live around here. They comes all the ways over te here to use the mill here. Why don't they use their own mill?"
Gus pondered over the situation. "I'm going to tell you all I know. But before I do, you must promise to keep your voice down, and to not go bothering those men when I'm finished. OK?"
Daltonne quickly agreed, but a smirk gave her away.
"And your friends here must promise as well." As they agreed, the smirk left Daltonne's face.
Gus began. "I have learned that these farmers are from Lowick, a village to the west of here, who make the trek down here to grind their grain. They do have a mill there, but for some reason they do not use it, the y come all the way down here. That is all they will say on the matter. I do not pursue it, and they do not offer. I do not mind because they are good paying customers. But I can sense, being the inn keeper that I am and having met many a man down on his luck, that there is some reason behind their trek that they will not divulge, yet would much like to be rid of. They seem scared."
Gus let this sink in. Daltonne looked past him and over to Serena, a 30ish, 6', 150lbs, female, with blonde hair and light brown eyes, who had been openly listening to Gus's tale. "Why don't yer pull yer chair over iffin yer so interested?"
Serena smiled and said quietly, "It would be my pleasure!" and she did so.
Daltonne was momentarily taken aback, but then gave a broad grin. "Ah, another brave woman in our midst. Well met ... ah ??"
Names were exchanged all around.
Daltonne continued. "So Lowick, eh? Perhaps we could head down there and have a look see. Never know what we might find."
The three others seemed to suggest this was a reasonable idea, "And I hope exciting. Nothing much ever happens around here," lamented Black Blade.
"That is not entirely true. If you had been reading your Chatwin Chronicle you would know that many exciting and even profitable ventures have originated from our fair village," a male voice broke in.
The four women were amazed to see a man materializing before them. He stood maybe 5'5", stocky almost heavy, with shaggy brown hair, brownish garb, resembling an upright sheep dog. A staff supported his right side and a hunting hound of some sort sat at his feet. His voice was soft, with a tinge of authority.
"Now, Artemus," said Gus," how many times have I told _you_ not to surprise the guests?"
Artemus smiled sheepdogishly. "Yes, Gustavus, you are correct as always, but if they read the paper..."
"I have been reading your Chronicle," explained Black blade, "and it seems everyone else is off adventuring but me, and my three friends here." The women shook their heads in agreement.
"That's right," agreed Serena, "so we are off to Lowick to have some fun of our own."
"Lowick, is it?" Artemus reflected. "Well if you are going to Lowick, be sure to give my regards to the mayor of the village. His name is Shepton. I know him very well though I have not seen him in years. Maybe I should go with you? No, I have other fish to fry, er, I mean, there are many other important issues with which I must deal. NO, I will stay here, but do give my regards to Mayor Shepton. Tell him his old chum Artemus says, "hello."
Daltonne agreed that his would be done. Artemus took a seat at a table nearby and freely listen to what ever else transpired between the four women.
As it was already mid-afternoon of this the 14th of Wealsun, Daltonne suggested leaving on the morrow.
Black Blade took a swig of her mead and thinks deeply.
"I agree with Daltonne," she finally replied, leaning back into her chair. "But how far exactly is Lowick from here? It all depends if we need- -rations for a day or a week. Also, I'd like to know just what the Hades is plaguing the farmers at their mill. Just a suggestion--I'm not pushing it, I believe in democracy--maybe we should go back with the farmers, question them then, maybe hire ourselves as bodyguards or something of the sort to them."
She began fingering her ruby she slight-of-hands from her pocket, thoughtful.
"Either way, I'll do it, whether just a bunch of goblin kids spooking the place or an entire draconian force hell-bent on destroying me."
She swigged the mead again, and sighed.
Serena, glancing to Black Blade, said, "I wouldn't think Lowick is far from here... How far would a farmer travel to process grain?"
"If you don't mind my interjecting," Artemus spoke up. "Assuming you have mounts, then Lowick is about a days ride west of here." He unrolled a parchment, "If you stick to the north shore of t he river, you will come to the quaint, and now uncursed, village of Monpelone. There you take the rope barge cross to the other side. Follow the northwest fork, and you should find Lowick no problem. Going straight will put you in the Downs. There you could head due north and find Lowick as well. But the diagonal route is faster and more efficient. As you can see, Lowick is not hard to find."
The four femmes nodded their understanding; Artemus returned to his table.
Black Blade continued. "I mean, you think those farmers will tell us what is wrong if we offer our services? To help get rid of whatever is bugging them?" She pocketed the ruby with the same speed when she withdrew it. "I've said too much. What's everyone else's opinion?"
"I require only a few things that must be purchased," Serena commented. "I have supplies and gear from a previous journey that will serve me well." She continued talking excitedly with a mouthful of fruit, "I'd like to leave soon, my collection of books could tolerate an addition or two."
"I think I only need a couple things and I'm ready too. I've got a weeks rations, but I thin there's an Inn in Lowick so we can always stay there and find food too. Gus thinks I'm a bit too loud, so I won't go over and bother them farmers, but if one of you ladies is a bit more 'eloquent' you might want to go speak with them. I shur don't mind accompanying them back to Lowick and maybe they might like the company. Otherwise, I'll jes do my shopping and meet yo'all here in the morn. What'd ya say?"
Daltonne was assigned the task of getting standard travel supplies, and checking with Grimes at the stables to see the mounts would be ready to ride in the morning.
Black Blade yawned, stretched, and leaned forward to stare Serena deep into her eyes with crimson eyes. "You'd be surprised what one could do if desperate enough," She thumped her chest. "Take me, for example. I was desperate enough for treasure. Look where it got me. I almost get raped by a blue dragon, along with other, smaller, events. But I still went going. Then I did the ultimate stupidity: I accepted this blasted sword." She slapped the hilt of the great runesword at her side. "I honored a dying creature's request and I accepted this blade. Damnedest thing I've ever done, besides trying to cut a deal with that blue dragon." Leaning back, Black Blade downed the last of her mead, ordered another from Gus, and stared thoughtfully out the window.
Jessa narrowed her eyes and gave Black Blade a strange look. "Almost raped by a blue dragon? That tale seems very familiar to me. You and I must speak privately when their is time. I have a feeling there is much for us to talk about."
Daltonne looked at Black Blade "Why that sounds pretty incredible. Does that sword of yours have any special talents and did that blue dragon scare the bejeebees out-of-ya?" She looked down at her own blade and said, "Can't say that I have any weapon so fine as yours, but I can tell you that iffin the need arise I can swing her with gusto."
Black Blade gnawed on her lip for a bit, thinking on how to explain. "Thanks to a righteous knight, I managed to escape from the beast." Apparently, that was an experience she would rather not expand on, not because of emotion but something else. "As for my sister ~Fear~ here," she somewhat snarled, "She's not the lady she appears to be." Then she changed the subject. "If all agree, myself or Jessa or Serena could talk to the farmers, most preferably outside the Inn, just so we won't tick Gus off." She added as she began to drum her fingers on the hilt of Fear.
It was decided that Jessa would be the most likely to get any information from the farmers. "When they get ready to leave, I'll make my way outside. I'll see what they are willing to tell me."
A calm clear morning gradually developed as the Four Female Friends mounted their trusty steeds and began the ride westward towards towards Lowick. As they rode, Jessa told of what, little, she had gleaned from the farmers. "Very close mouthed, and definitely scared. No matter how much I tried to reassure them that I only wanted to help, they did not seem interested in my help. For some reason their mill has been closed. Refused any suggestion that we accompany them to Lowick. I gathered that they did not want to be seen with us. Said they would stay in Chatwin forever if they had to. Funny though. When I left them, I'm certain one mumbled `thank you' and the other wished me good luck. When I looked back, they were busy with each other."
The ride continued, stories exchanged, wonders expressed about the plight of Lowick.
"How long we been on the road?"
"From what Artemus suggested we're about an hour from Monpelone."
The sound of approaching hoofbeats came closer. As they looked behind them, they saw a single rider, male, gaining on them. As he drew closer, he took a berth sufficiently wide around them so as to not disturb their mounts. He called a "Well met Lassies," as he raced by.
"Wonder where the fire is?"
Within an hour they had reached Monpelone. "This be a village? Looks more like a ghost town." Indeed, other than the well built stone monastery, the other houses could easily have blown down if a fast horse rode by. The rope barge was just arriving a t the east side of the river. A lone rider waited impatiently for it. He turned and acknowledged their presence. "Ah Lassies, what loovely company forrr a trrip acrrros this fairrr rrriverrrr."
As the barge docked, he moved aside. "Afterrr you fourrrr. You brrighten my day."
After paying the crossing fee of one gold each, they boarded the barge, and so did the lone rider. "O'Dwyerr, clerric of Trrrithereon, at yourrr service."
The crossing was uneventful and soon they were on the other side. No sooner had the barge docked than O'Dwyer pressed his mount off, heading down the path. "A pleasurrre, I'm surre we'll sharrre again."
The Four followed the rode until they hit a fork. One trail headed straight, the other slightly to the right. Daltonne pointed to the right," That be northwest, lest I miss my guess."
The others agreed. The rest of the afternoon was spent in a calm ride along the somewhat marshy path, till gradually the ground grew dryer, and somewhat hilly, the rode became rather poor. Having crested a few of them, with the hope that each was the last, they came upon a cross roads up ahead where there appeared to be some sort of dispute going on between a man in a wagon, and a small child, a very small child.
"That be a halfling," noted Daltonne.
As they four got closer they could hear the voices. "Look, runt," the wagon driver shouted, rising from the seat of his turnip cart. "I don't need this. It's been a long day already, and I don't need no lousy kid keeping me from my supper. Now get out of my way, or I'll grind you into the dirt, young'un or no!"
The halfling lad, looking very much the peasant in his homespun trousers, plain tunic, and straw hat, did not move from his position in front of the snorting mules. "But Sir," he pleaded, wringing his hands in apparent distress, "I just wanna find hero types! It's been a whole week and I ain't found one yet. Mister Shepton's gonna be sore if I come home again without any heroes again tonight."
The wagon master yelled down, "Well, I ain't no hero, and I don't give a diddly-dang who gets mad. If you ask me, you could use a good whuppin! Now get out of my way!"
Reluctantly the young halfling moved aside. Whipping his mules into action, the wagon master continued on his way, heading to the south, failing to notice the approach of the four women.
The halfling lad watched as the wagon headed out of sight.
Black Blade turned to her companions.
"So, the kid needs a hero?" She grinned slightly. "What say we see what the problem is. I mean, it be monsters under the bed or in the closet, I think we can scare them off for him. Just to humor him. Eh? It can't be that far from Lowick. It'll probably take, what? A half-hour? An hour at most?"
She then shrugged.
"That is, if it is just that," she smirked and awaited the others to respond.
"I suppose it wouldn't hurt to ask him what Mister Whatsisname needs a hero for," Serena said. "If its trivial we can just continue on our way."
"Yes, I say let's see to im. Why iffin I recall correctly didn't Artemus mention that his ol' chum was called Shepton? Let's see what the lad wants."
Jessa shrugged and says "Why not? As Black Blade says it shouldn't delay us long. Besides what ever is wrong at the mill has waited this long, it wait a little longer."
Jessa called to the boy," Lad? We hear you are looking for some heroes? Well we four may be of some help."
The small boy was delighted by both the natural sight of Jessa and her question. Bowing deeply, which is risky for a halfling, he said, "That's right Miss, er, Misses. Are you ALL heroes, er, I mean, heroines."
Jessa assured him the four were indeed what he was searching for.
Black Blade gripped the hilt of her sword, "This sword has foiled many and evil foe." The boys eyes showed wistful admiration.
Daltonne said, "Lead us on to this here Shepton. We're raring ta get to it."
The boy leaped in delight at the successful end to his quest. "Then if you will all please follow me. My name is Snags, and I will be your tour guide through our fair village. He took off at a quick sprint up the hill. The four on horseback followed. "You must admire his enthusiasm," commented Serena.
Following the lad's lead, the Four found themselves, just as the sun was setting, cresting what proved to be the last hill. The road which had deteriorated for a bit was once again clearly defined. The village appeared as a typical sleepy peasant town. On the far side lay a small lake, and a creek ran from it south through the town., parallel to the road on which the four were being led. Several rowboats and nets were near the shore of the lake.
The houses of the village were relatively small. From the vantage of the hilltop most seemed to be straight, wooden, dome-shaped standard houses; squat, dome shaped halfling homes; and even a few larger buildings that looked like shops or inns. All but a few were aglow with candle light, and most showed signs of minor activity. Smoke rose lazily from the chimneys, and as they rode closer, noses caught the scent of food
As they entered the village proper, the houses were even less impressive; a few villagers are seen, but at the sight of the Four, their eyes grow suspicious, and they retreat into their homes. There do not seem to be more than thirty buildings in this village, and some of them are obviously vacant. The road led into the village, then forks. The left fork continued on to the lake. One building, the `Trading Post', stood out from the others. The right path crossed a bridge and headed towards some nicer buildings situated on a graduated slope.
"That's Shepton's house up there," called out Snags, who had hardly broken his pace, though the riders figure three miles have been covered. He pointed to a large house on the west of the village, sheltered among a copse of trees on the southern s lope of a hill.
He led his party across the bridge, past a man with horse, who has apparently set up a campsite replete with tent and fire ring, and appeared to be cooking something over an open fire. "That feller looks familiar," said Daltonne.
Then past another a building or two, until he came to a stop at the bottom of a small hill, in front of a wooden gate. The house sat maybe sixty yards up the hill. "This is Shepton's House," declared Snags proudly.
Black Blade leaned over toward Jessa and whispered, "Do I seem that familiar to you? I've changed quite a bit since the last we met. We shall have words next tavern we stay at."
A few minutes later, she also added, "So, tell me, what ever happened to `John�, anyway? Last I heard, you two got hitched."
The blonde woman started at the mention of her husband and stared at the albino for a moment. Her eyes seemed to glaze over for an instant and she quickly turned her face away from Black Blade.
"He's dead. A plague that was only fatal to those with human blood ravaged our city a year ago." Jessa's voice was hoarse with pent up sorrow. "Both Astros and our daughter, Luella were infected. Neither survived."
She ran her hands through Schkar's thick gray mane. The mare turned her head and nickered softly to her mistress.
"Tis a shame," Black Blade nodded ruefully. "Your husband was a good man. My condolences go out to you."
"So, Snags," Black Blade coughed upon sight of Shepton's home, "What exactly is the problem?"
"Somebody' been setting fire to buildings. Nobody knows who," he said as he opened the gate.
"Snags, can you tell us who that rider is? Next to the bridge," Serena asked.
Jessa said, "Yes, I'd been wondering who that rider was, too."
"Him? He rode by me when I was trying to find heroes, musta been and hour before you real heroes showed up. Didn't even stop when I waved to him. Thought he was heading to a fire or sumpin."
"Do you by any chance know how the fires were started to the buildings? Any ideas, or rumors? Theories? I'm curious."
"Me? No, I don't know how they started, I'm always asleep when it happens. Some people say the seen the hay walking in the field, other think it's animals moving about in the moonlight, but nobody's seen who done it."
Serena turned toward Snags, "and what pray tell, is your position in the House of Shepton. Assuredly you must be a trusted member to be given the responsibility of choosing heroes."
"That's right," beamed the lad, "Mayor Shepton appointed me the Village Gopher. I think it was because of my skill in crawling under houses! I don't live with him, I live on the other side of the stream," he noted, pointing back the way the four had just ridden.
"Village Gopher?" Black Blade smiled lightly. "How cute.
"By the way Snags, is this Lowick?" Daltonne asked.
"Yes, this is Lowick," responded the halfling, who by now is busy tying up the horses to the fence.
Daltonne then said, "Mayhap we should go pay our 'spects to Mayor Shepton and maybe he can tell us 'bout these fires and such. Oh Snags, where is the mill and was there any fire there?"
"Did you say, 'hay walking in the field?" Serena asks, incredulously. Serena offered a thank you and passed through the gate.
"'Hay golem?'" Black Blade snorted. "I don't know about you, but this is getting more interesting by the moment." She knees her mount over to where Snags has fixed up the others. As she dismounts she notes, "This seems like a bad mystery play gone real to me."
Jessa Wren dismounted and gazed up at the house. "Is Shepton an important man in this town or does he just like his privacy?" She looked down at the boy and gestured towards the house. "Let's go meet this Mr. Shepton. After you, Snags."
Following Serena through the gate, Jessa said "The 'walking hay' could be someone underneath using the hay as a disguise. Has anything else been happening that's unusual?"
Snags led the way up the hill to the large house. The sun was pretty well gone, and evening had given way to night. "The mill? The mill is way over there, beyond the village proper." He was pointing well across the bridge beyond some hills. "Don't think there were any fires near it, but I can't be sure. Yeah! Some say the hay is walking. Don't think any of the hay could go lame though."
As they neared the house they could see it was shaded by several massive trees. The house appeared totally dark save for the light of many candles and lamps pouring from the windows. The pleasant melody of some music wafed through a window to the left. Serena is drawn to the sounds of strings. Peeking in the window, she saw a smiling halfling seated at a large harpsichord, plucking away.
Snags knocked upon the front door. A rotund, gray-haired halfling woman opened it. Snags blurted out, "The Heroes are here! Mrs. Teubo. I have brought Heroes for Mayor Shepton!"
The housekeeper, being a halfling, looked the four under. She nodded approvingly, "Indeed you have, Snags. Here's a reward." She handed the young one a gold piece. His eyes as big as the piece itself, Snags turned to the women. "Maybe this makes me a hero finder. I'm a hero finder!" he proclaimed, skipping down the walkway.
"Won't you four young ladies follow me?" Mrs. Teubo escorted the four into a library. Rows and rows of books lined the walls, a woven rug covered much of the floor, and five overstuffed armchairs filled the space. "Make yourselves comfortable. I will get some tea, then supper will be served, " she said friendly as she stepped out of the room.
Two minutes pass. A stout halfling male, by far the best dressed person seen since arriving in Lowick, entered. He wore velvet trousers and a silk shirt with buttons that look like pure silver. He had muttonchop sideburns and a good haircut. "I am Shepton, please to meet all of you." He offered a firm hand shake to each of the women. He produces a fine pipe and a pouch of tobacco. He proceeded to carefully fill the pipe with just the right amount of tobacco, carefully measuring the depth with his thumb. By now Mrs. Teubo returned with a steaming tea pot and a platter of small cakes. She began pouring cupfuls for everyone, and offering cakes all around. Shepton took a cake and devoured it, then sipped from the tea. He was just about to light his pipe, when he paused. "Oh, where are may manners? After all this is the eighties, [the 580's] would any of you like a bowlful?" he asked, offering his pouch around.
For the next fifteen minutes, small talk ensued. Daltonne mentioned the name Artemus. At the sound of this, Shepton's eyes lit up and glazed over. "Good old Butz. Or at least that's what we called him back in that old guild, er barding college. How's he doing now?" He showed a genuine interest in the actives of Artemus of Chatwin fame.
Finally he put down his pipe, set aside his tea cup. �Well, I suppose you have all gathered that this town is in desperate need of champions. You see, it seems we have a problem with an arsonist."
Mrs. Teubo entered at this moment. "Dinner is ready."
At this Shepton stood. "We can discuss the matter over dinner."
All entered a very well-set out dining room. The table, of fine wood, was laid out with an assortment of steaming meats and vegetables, loaves of fresh bread, goblets of wine. The tableware of was excellent quality, as were the linens under them.
As he served the plates to one and all, he said, "So what can I tell you, to help you get to the bottom of this?"
Daltonne said, "Why Mayor Shepton, tis real nice of you to invite us to yur table. Artemus sends his best. He seems real busy writing the Chatwin Chronicle and such. But that's not really why we are here. We was coming cuz we heard the farmers are coming to Chatwin to grind their grains and we's wondering why they not be using your own mill. But now we hears 'bout hay golems and such. We are searching fer adventure and would like to help iffen you see fit to tell us what�s going on in yur town."
Mayor Shepton took in Daltonne's questions and seemed a bit perplexed. "Artemus is well then I take it? Glad to hear it. Now what's this about hay golems?"
"Daltonne," Serena laughed, "I'm the one who spoke of hay golems. It's the first thing that came to mind when Snags told of the hay that walked in the night. I'd hate to get a rumor started!"
"Me neither," agreed Shepton, "some fools have been claiming there's a crazed scarecrow running loose setting these fires, but a hay golem is even more fantastic"
"Your Wine is exquisite, Mayor Shepton, " Serena said, "as is your hospitality. Please tell us when this problem began. What have been the arson's targets? Where have they taken place? Do you have any suspects? What about witnesses? What is occurring at the mill that would explain the farmers reluctance to speak to strangers in a distant town?"
This put Shepton more at ease. "The mill? How did you know about the mill? Our farmers have been talking in Chatwin? They should have known better than .. .Oh, never mind, that's not important. No, nothing to do with the mill. Different matter entirely. Definitely not the mill. Got closed by the new tax collector, the legal representative from Narwell, after some of our farmers got uppity. NO, don't think that has anything to do with the fires."
Black Blade tried to remember her manners, being so long out of civilization that she was still wearing her armor and Fear as she helped herself to some veggies.
"What do you know about these arsons?" she questioned. "Is it possible you have an enemy wanting to destroy your village?"
As she awaited answers, she began to eat savagely, then paused, picking up a fork and smiling sheepishly, muttered a quick apology.
"The fires started about two months ago, and that was a full month after the mill was closed. Didn't think much about them at first. Could have been accidental, right? Started on the other side of the stream outside the village. A chicken coop went up, then an outhouse. Could have been just a prank. But then they got closer to the village proper and they were larger in nature. Last one claimed a barn! Was then I figured that something should be done. So, I sent little Snags there to flag us down some heroes who might lend us a hand."
Jessa took a bite of the savory food washing it down with a sip of wine. "I really must complement you on your choice of cuisine, Mayor." She took another bite, swallowed, and cleared her throat "An arsonist is a serious problem, though. Has anyone suspicious come through town lately? Or is their anyone you might suspect?"
"No, no one new to town. Can't imagine why anyone here would want to do such a thing." Shepton seemed truly perplexed.
"Mayor, does the arson or arsons always strike at night?" Serena asked.
"Some people have claimed to see the culprit, yes. In all cases it seems as if it was one individual who was responsible. but no one could catch him. Fast, he was, real fast. Some claimed he was a scarecrow, but I figure he was using this as a cover or disguise. And, yes, since all the fires occur at night, you can understand how the dark can play tricks on you. And, considering the nature of these villagers, simple farmers really, the more fantastic the story, the more they 'd like it to be true ."
"And has anybody disappeared from town lately?"
"No, no one's really disappeared. Some people have given up their farms with the mill shut, and the old mill owner's gone, but I don't think that fits `disappeared.�"
"A scarecrow disguise?" Serena laughed, "hardly a wise choice when starting fires!" Her voice becoming more serious, "I respect your judgment mayor, but I think there may be a connection between the mill and the fires. It sounds as if some have lost the means to provide for themselves or their families." Raising an eyebrow, "and you did say the fires started after the mill closed. That put the miller out of a job. However, it doesn't fit that the arson would target anything other than the tax collector or town property..." With a bit of a grin, "Oh, and by the by... what does this job pay?"
Speaking to her companions, "I suggest we investigate the scene of the last fire, perhaps a clue will turn up. I'm sure the mayor will have someone show us where its at. And perhaps we should talk to some who witnessed the fleeing 'scarecrow', perhaps they'll shed some light on this curious pyromaniac."
Daltonne said, "Yes, I agree with Serena. I thin that there may a connection, though I don't rightly know why I thin that. Let's call it intuition. But anyway, I thin we should look at them burned-out places and maybe Mayor Shepton can tell us who says they seen that scarecrow or whatever it may be."
"And maybe we can go look at the mill too. Maybe that tax collector wanted it fer himself and closed it down. Taxes or no, collectors shouldn't be closing down peoples livelihood. I don't hold much to tax collectors and suspect anyone who takes away peoples hard earned money."
"Oh and Mayor Shepton, you needn't get upset with your farmers they said nothing to us, I just figured why come all the way to Chatwin iffin you got yer own mill is all. There must be a reason. Just a guess you see."
"Jessa, did you hear that delightful music as we entered? Perhaps, Mayor Shepton would ask the musician to entertain us after dinner, " she said, turning and smiling at the host.
At this Shepton blushed, then smiles. "That was me actually. Did you like it? Yes, once we finish our talk I will gladly play for you. Perhaps some of you will accompany me?"
Jessa got a slightly dreamy look and a faint smile appeared momentarily on her face. "Yes, Serena, that music was nice." Then her expression became unreadable and she glanced around the table. Turning to their host she said "Would you excuse me for a moment?"
Black Blade, after trying without avail to recall manners long since gone, wiped her mouth with her sleeve, belched slightly, and glanced brightly at Shepton.
"Music? I used to be a musician myself, up until ten years ago. I use to tumble long before that to music." She stared longingly into space, in remembrance.
Jessa had gone outside. A few minutes later, the elf returned, sits down and continues eating silently, her face expressionless.
"I have just one more question, Mayor Shepton. I have noticed that you seem quite well off. Yet as I and my companions walked through Lowick, I noticed that all of the towns citizens look to be taking the brunt of this arsonist Why do you not help them with some of your wealth?"
"I do what I can, that's where you come in. As Mayor, I do not receive a salary. My wealth, er, is, ah, something I came by through my own initiative. Back when I knew Artemus. Actually it's really the job of the representative of Narwell, but, ...." Shepton took a deep draught from his wine glass. He continued in a slightly high pitched voice. "But that's not your concern. My property could well be next, and it is all I have. So, while I might have the nicer house, I am not that different from t he other villagers, and I certainly did not get this way at their expense." He filled his glass and took another deep drink.
Sensing the Mayor's discomfort, Serena sought to break the tension. Pulling out her flute, she gently played a few notes, trying to recall the melody the mayor played upon their arrival. "I'd love to accompany you Mayor Shepton. Your music is lovely. Lady Black Blade, what sport is this Tumbling that you did to music? Some sort of wrestling?" she asked, perplexed.
"I ain't no lady, Lady," Black Blade laughed. "As for my tumbling days, well, I just tumbled for money whenever I could. I used to play music, too, but not as well as our host here.
"Y'know, investigating the crime scene would be the best option we've got. I'm for it."
The others shook their heads in agreement. The problem had piqued their interests and adventurers' instincts.
"I am afraid I cannot offer you much in recompense. Would 50 pieces of gold, each, er I mean, apiece be sufficient?" Mayor Shepton asked.
"And, of course, you will be my guests right here in my house. I do have plenty of rooms. Perhaps in this way I can help my people better than if I just gave them some money?" He looked to Jessa as he said this.
Jessa had the good grace to blush slightly. "Forgive me, Mayor Shepton. I meant no insult. Whatever help you can give us will be enough."
Shepton smiled, "Not did I, my dear. Perhaps I'm a might touchy with all that's gone on."
"Mayor, 50 pieces of gold apiece sounds acceptable to me. Especially when coupled with your offer of hospitality," Serena said. "The others may feel differently, I do not speak for them."
Daltonne said, "Sounds good to me. When do we start -- in the morn? Where will he go first? And who, Mr. Mayor, are these people claiming to have seen the arsonist and where can we find them?"
"Oh, a few of the townsfolk. I'll have Snags take you around on the morrow."
Black Blade ran her hand through her thick white mane. "50 gold pieces, eh?" She smiled slightly. "Small price, but, then again, this is civilization compared to what I used to fight in, and considering room and board is also being thrown in. I must be getting old, but, all right, I'm in too. 50 it is." She began to whistle the tune the mayor was playing earlier. "Well, 50 gold sounds fine to me. Better than some of the merc jobs I've taken in my lifetime. Let's get to work; the sooner the better."
Mayor Shepton seemed visibly relaxed now that he had four heroes ready and willing to accept the challenge. Hearing Black Blade's whistling, he hummed a bit, then said, "Let us to the parlor. I find instruments so much more sonorous, don't you?" Serena nodded in agreement. The rest of the evening, and into night was spent with Serena and Shepton exchanging and sharing musical notes.
Finally tired from playing, Serena engaged in polite conversation. "Your library is very impressive Mayor Shepton. Perhaps on your next visit to Chatwin you might find time to visit its newest book store, Bittle's Books and Study. A friend and I are working to collect books of all types for people to study."
Mayor Shepton showed a real interest in this. "A bookstore? Closer than those in Narwell? Well, this is indeed an eventful day. Heroes on my door step, and books within a day's ride. For what more could a mayor ask?"
"Speaking of libraries, Mayor Shepton, would you mind if I had a look at yours?"
Shepton was only too delighted to offer her free reign of his book collection.
It was close to midnight when Ms. Tuebo showed the ladies each to her own room on the upper floor of the mansion. The doors could be locked from the inside, the key rested in the interior lock.
Once all were in their rooms, Black Blade tip-toed out of hers and, though still donning her studded leather and Fear, she moved silently and knocked on Jessa's door.
Once in her room, Jessa unwound her long, blonde hair and sat on the bed combing it with a small bone comb.
Suddenly, she hears a knock at her door and someone on the other side whispers "Jessa? It's me," the voice hissed. "It's Zantel."
The comb slipped from the elf's still fingers and landed softly on the rug beside the bed. She stared wide eyed at the door for a moment not believing what she just heard. Then she got up and opened the door a hands-width to peer at the albino half-elf standing outside her room.
"I know it's impossible, Jessa, but it's true, I'm Zantel. We've...we've gotta talk. I had no idea you would of all places show up in Chatwin, but now I'm glad you did. You were my best friend during the tetravis egg incident, the only one I've had in a long time. I'm in need of your help. I need help to break this sword's curse."
Jessa's face turned grim. She opens the door wider; the half-elf entered; and, as she closed the door, gesturing to a chair. "Please Black-- Zantel-- sit. " Jessa returned to her seat on the bed. "What has happened to you? Did the sword do this?"
Black Blade--Zantel--slumped into the chair and nodded.
"Yeah, well, at least I didn't grab Death. Or maybe I should. I don't know. It's a good sword, the problem is I lose more friends when I'm in battle. Fine when I'm alone, but, hey, I never did like to be alone." Her fingered drum the hilt of Fear. "I've been with her for close to five years now. She's bleached me with dark magic. The curse is that I can't be parted from her for too long, or I'll die and my soul sent to Oblivion."
"Whenever I draw the damned thing, and I usually can�t help drawing it, it causes me to appear ghastly. My eyes blaze red, my face seems more shallower, my hair becomes unmanageably unruly. My hands seem to be more like talons, and my canines enlarge."
Their conversation continued until .......
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