Session 0: Miles To Go Before We Sleep. Report
General Summary
In which, Else and Ferdinand leave Herzhald and begin their long journey to somewhere else. The initial plan was to escort Ferdinand back to his family home at Weissbruck. However, things were destined to take a sinister turn in Bogenhafen and plans had to be changed.
Time: Dawn,
Weather: Cloudy strong blustery winds from the south-east
Most of the village of Herzhald turned out to watch Else and Ferdinand depart.
Father Leopold and Linden Heinuch both handed Earnst a sealed package of letters for delivery to their respective masters and then said their farewells to their two guests. The rest were mostly women and children as the men were still working in the forest and they kept a discreet distance and tried not to catch the eye of either Else or Ferdinand.
Old Mother Runhild watched Else and Ferdinand depart from the threshold of her hut. The procession eventually moved off and the village gradually disappeared into the distance.
Earnst the drayman had been correct and most of the road to Bogenhafen was downhill and each of the three drays in the column was accompanied by three men, a driver and two brakemen ready to apply horsehair brake pads to the rear wheels to slow them on the steeper slopes.
Ferdinand did attempt to ride on the logs as suggested but found the experience very uncomfortable even with a borrowed blanket roll for padding and he eventually joined the draymen and walked alongside instead. He even helped the brakemen to haul on the ropes that applied the brakes.
The draymen seemed pleased to have Else and Ferdinand with them if only because they were fresh ears that hadn’t heard all their jokes and gory stories and Ferdinand quickly got the impression that he was being used as an excuse to retell all the tall tales of the past that every drayman knew and was glad of a chance to tell again.
On one particularly steep slope, Ferdinand was helping the brakeman pull on the rope that applied the brake to the lead dray and was told of the day when that very rope had snapped at a critical moment and how the brakeman had been too slow to throw a chock under the wheel and the dray had rolled uncontrolled down the slope crushing six fine dray horses and killing the driver before depositing its load in the ditch at the foot of the slope. There were gory details of how the driver had been pinioned to the side of the ditch by one of the logs and had to be put out of his misery. Everyone had blamed Ranald for that mischief of course, but since that day the brake ropes were checked regularly for wear before leaving the village.
Else had collected ‘Clever Hans’ from the stable and thanked Rudi for his efforts caring for the horse over the past two days and now walked beside the column listening to the chatter of the draymen and feeling slightly left out as despite his strange appearance the draymen seemed more accepting of Ferdinand than her, even if he did dress like a messenger from the God of Death.
Three hours later the column topped a final rise and looked down upon the valley of the River Bogen and the town of Bogenhafen stretched out below behind its stout walls and gates. The terrain now became more populated with cultivated fields on both sides of the road worked by local labourers and farmers and more carts and wagons joining the flow of traffic heading towards the town. A few of those closest to the road stopped to stare at the strange individuals accompanying the Herzhald men and the draymen took great delight in telling those within earshot that they were not to worry and he was just the ‘Demon of death come to guide them to Moor’s Garden.’ A story made more sinister as the wind in the Bogen valley dropped and a fine mist rose from the river to shroud the entire area.
Ferdinand got the impression that he would be added to their list of tall tales over the months to come.
Time Noon
Weather Mist: The wind drops and a chill mist rises from the river reducing visibility to 100 paces.
They stopped outside the gates of Bogenhafen just before noon and the draymen happily shared their meal with Else and Ferdinand handing out pasties made by their wives and filled with minced meat and vegetables at one end and fruit at the other.
Ernst says his farewells as the drays prepare to move into the town. "You staying here?" he asks "If not I could always deliver that message to the mail agent along with the others." he offers "Save you the toll on the gate."
Else shakes her head "Thanks for your offer, Ernst. And thanks again for the company of you and your men on our short journey. Ferdinand and I have some business to attend to in the town before we travel on so we will deliver our own message. But we do need to visit Castle Grauenburg, and would be glad to take any messages there for you if you would like."
Ernst shrugs "Your call hunter." he acknowledges "Likewise I'll hand the package for the Graf over to his agent. There's probably stuff in there he needs to see anyway and I need to see him to get paid for this lot." he adds indicating the nine logs sitting on the drays.
"Understood. Then this is where we part I believe. Good luck with the rest of your business and I wish you and all of Harzheld a prosperous Winter!"
Ferdinand smiles as he says his farewells. " I am grateful for the travel, and especially the company. If you ever find yourself in Weissbruck, stop by the Gruber estates to say hello."
He finds himself surprised at how much he has enjoyed the company on the travel. Once again, he is reminded that one's birth and upbringing do not say everything about them, a lesson he has had many firsthand opportunities to see in action.
Else turns to Ferdinand and gestures towards the town. "Shall we see what Bögenhafen has to offer this fine Freitag, Ferdinand?"
Ferdinand nods "Very well. Last I was in Bogenhafen, I was but a small child. It will be interesting to see how it differs from my memories." Ferdinand rubs his stomach. "I also would not be averse to sampling some of the food and drink. Is the area known for any local specialities?"
"I suppose that depends on the coin one is willing to spend, Herr Gruber.", Else laughs. "If I am honest, I've never really got a true sense of whether you are the type to trade rabbits for carrots out of habit, amusement or necessity."
"I will admit," Ferdinand says, rubbing his head, "In that instance, it was out of what I perceived to be a necessity. The stories I had been told my entire life of those in your vocation had led me to believe that I would be burned on sight. As such, my intention was to keep a low profile until I made it back home."
His stomach grumbles. "As to how much coin I am willing to spend, I often find that the best way to partake in local culture is to eat the food of the working man." His face takes on an animated, enthused expressiveness that is uncommon for Ferdinand. "Back in Marienburg I would, for every lunch, have a fish stew prepared on the corner of the docks! Marinus and I had an ongoing competition: if I were able to correctly identify by taste the catch of the day used in the stew, I did not have to pay. If my theory of the contents were incorrect, I would instead be obligated to purchase a fish, to be donated to the local temple. Let me tell you, the variety was such that Manann would be mighty pleased with all the fish I brought to him!"
Ferdinand pats around his pockets. "Also, while we are in town I should like to look into purchasing a vihuela." His smile fades. "My hands have felt quite idle this entire trip, as, unfortunately, I was forced to part with my instrument before leaving Marienburg."
Time Early Afternoon
Weather (Overcast) The mist has cleared but it remains dull and overcast.
Else and Ferdinand enter Bogenhafen through the west gate and make their way slowly down Bergstrasse towards the centre of the town and the Merchants Guild House leaving Ernst and the drays behind at the gate sorting out their tolls. The guards on the gate took one look at Else and Ferdinand and waved them through with the usual marks of respect for an obvious agent of Sigmar. The mist is not as thick within the walls, though the day remains dull and overcast. However, unlike the villagers of Herzhald, the townsfolk of Bogenhafen are at least making an effort to celebrate Festag and the main streets are full of townsfolk in colourful costumes and hawkers selling candied fruit and freshly baked pies and sausage. By the time Else and Ferdinand reach the edge of the Dreiecke Platz they seem to have acquired a small following. Mostly children dressed as various woodlands creatures with a smattering of goblins and fairies. However, there are quite a number of adults keeping pace with the group some of whom are also in costume or wearing masks. There seems to be an air of anticipation from the group as if Else and Ferdinand are part of the entertainment and you overhear a few comments admiring your costumes and speculating about what they represent and the type of performance you are about to deliver. Nevertheless, you manage to reach the Guild House and climb the wide steps to its stout double door without incident only to discover that its locked and bolted.
"We're closed." it says in an angry voice "Go away I'm busy." There was an instant eruption of hissing and booing from the crowd of children at the foot of the steps which was only placated when the creature inside launches a shower of candied fruits out the small window and down the steps. "Hurry up! what do you want?"
Else recognises the creature behind the door as one of the gnomes that the various business and government departments employ on administrative duties. They have a reputation for being fastidious book-keepers and remarkably honest if somewhat abrasive.
This one Else has seen about town but never spoken to before.
Ferdinand butts in before Else can respond. "Greetings. Why are they projecting fruit and fish onto that man over there?"
Else dodges the candies, glances briefly at Ferdinand, open-mouthed, and then, when she gets a chance to speak, ignores him and addresses the gnome directly. "Good sir. My name is Else Sigloben and I am an official Witch Hunter just arrived in town. I'm looking to deliver an important message to the verified agent of Duke Konstantine of Drakenburg. I realise that it is most irregular to interrupt your Freitag, but the business is of the utmost import. Would you be able to direct me to such an agent, either on the premises or at their own accommodation?"
The sudden interruption by Ferdinand makes the gnome jump and he takes a second to recover his balance. He's clearly standing on something so he can reach the window.
"Err! Can either of you read?" he asks when he has recovered his balance.
"As for the man in the stocks if you don't do something entertaining soon you may well find out."
"Yes, Mr. Gnome, I am literate, but I assure you I am here for the entertainment of no-one whatsoever! Now what say you regarding my inquiry?"
Ferdinand turns and starts walking through the crowd, making his way towards the man the crowd is throwing things at. He manages to make it near to the stocks and turns before spreading his arms and addressing them with an uncharacteristically loud voice, "People of Bogenhafen, I request that you inform me of the wrongdoings this person has committed in order to have garnered such treatment!"
Back at the Guild House the gnome allows himself a small snort of derision at the Hunters misjudged confidence.
"Well if you are literate then simply head across the plaza towards the river. The shipping agents have their offices close to the quays and warehouses. Easier to keep an eye on the handling of their goods. I believe Duke Konstantin's agent is in Rosen Allee near the Cartwrights Guild. You'll see the agents plaque next to the door."
Else is partway through "thanking" the gnome (in a rather long-winded and patronising manner intended to convey the fact that she finds him unnecessarily rude without actually saying so) when she hears Ferdinand's voice booming from the other side of the square. Stunned for a second, she stands gawping at the spectacle of the bald, scythe-wielding foreigner addressing the entire town, before scrambling down the steps and attempting to push her way through the crowd to reach him before he gets into real trouble.
Ferdinand seems to be attracting a lot of attention. Most of the crowd at the foot of the Guild Hall steps decided to follow him and they are rapidly joined by others that he passed enroute across the plaza. All are now jostling to get a good view of whatever is about to happen. Children are now being hoisted onto their parents shoulders so they can see over the crowd.
Else finds herself having to push through the throng, guided mainly by the top of Ferdinand's scythe which she can only just see above the crowds heads now she is at ground level. She hardly hears Ferdinands dramatic speech but the whole crowd erupts in cheers and pushes back to form as wide a circle as possible around him. Those at the back who can't see try to elbow their way forward to the front, including Else, whilst those at the front push back to try and give Ferdinand room for his performance.
Ferdinand looks around at the crowd of expectant faces, "Are my words not easily understood?" He scratches the top of his bald head. "Perhaps my accent is stronger than I anticipated?", he asks his audience.
Receiving no answer, he turns to the man in the stocks and speaking slowly and simply, in order to make himself understood, he asks, "You, sir! Why are you here?"
A tall slender woman pushes her way through the crowd into the circle and looks Ferdinand up and down with an amused grin. "He is there because he offended me," she says and the crowd roared and clapped enthusiastically.
"But more importantly why are you here?"
She is dressed almost entirely in red. Her robe is of blood-red silk buttoned tightly up to her neck, her hair has been dyed red, her face has been painted with white powder and highlighted with vermilion. In her hand, she holds a long white staff topped with a red crystal clasped in a gilt hand and she wears a headpiece consisting of two rams horns.
She doesn't wait for Ferdinand to reply but instead struts into the circle and throwing her arms wide and her staff high promenades herself around the edge as the crowd cheers and claps enthusiastically.
In doing so she suddenly notices Else who by now has managed to push her way to the edge of the circle in her tall black hat and sombre attire. For a moment there is a flash of recognition and Else imagines that she is about to say something.
But this is clearly not the time for out of character conversation and so she ignores the hunter and waiting for the crowd to calm she addresses her audience
"I don't remember inviting the messenger of death to our festivities. So tell me dark one why have you entered my realm and what is your business here. I do hope your not here to ruin our fun, because Gunther there tried that and now he's a just a little bit fishy." She screws her nose up and waves her hand in front of her face in a gesture of mock disgust. The crowd roared with laughter and she turns to Ferdinand and raises an inquisitive eyebrow awaiting his reply.
Else scans the crowd trying to judge the mood of the assembled folk, but also searching out any other members of the red woman's troupe, or whatever they are.
Who is she?
Have they crossed paths at some point?
Else has a bad feeling about how things are unfolding but doesn't want to draw the crowd's ire by spoiling their fun.
Ferdinand seems oblivious to the potential danger he is in "I am here to investigate why this man is being mistreated. You mention that he has offended you. I regret to inform you that I do not recognize you. Are you perhaps the daughter of the Graf Saponatheim? I have only recently arrived in town and as such you must forgive the gaps in my knowledge of local politics."
Else stands wide-eyed, frozen in place, aghast at how events are unfolding, but too flustered to intervene.
The Mistress of Mayhem glares at Ferdiand "Now you are becoming tedious my little demon of death." she says petulantly. "You know for a herald of Morr you seem remarkably noisy. How on earth do your charges manage to get any sleep?" she adds with a grin and the crowd titter nervously.
"But you're correct we don't recognise each other. Which is exactly how it should be," she turns to the crowd "Isn't that right, we are all strangers here?" The crowd give her a rousing cheer.
"But I do recognise your sombre looking friend," she says sweeping her staff dramatically to point at Else.
"Tell me demon, why is a real Witch Hunter chasing you through my realm?" The crowd falls silent and all eyes turn to Else. "I do hope the answer is entertaining because I fear that your audience grows impatient."
There is a roar of affirmation from the crowd.
A look of panic crosses Else's face briefly as she realises what she has to do, but with no alternative apparent to her, she steadies herself, takes a breath, and steps fully into the arena, positioning herself such that the Red Woman stands between her and Ferdinand.
Spreading her arms and throwing back her shoulders in an attempt to mimic the kind of stance that she has seen actors and entertainers adopt, she raises her voice in order to project her lines to the whole audience as she turns on the spot to face them all in turn.
"Ladies, Gentlemen, Common Folk of Bögenhafen, take a close look! You know me!"
"I am your own Gerlinde Sigloben of the Cleansing Flame!"
"The Reiks most infamous, most feared, most desired Witch Huntress! Scourge of Daemons! Arch enemy of corruption!"
"Risen and returned! Back from the dead!"
Else waits for the noise to subside before continuing; sweeping her cloak in a wide arc she points an accusatory finger at the Mistress of Mayhem.
"I return for a reason! Know that this Red Woman stands between me and my fell quarry! I have stalked this agent of Shebol through nine hells, pursuing him to Mórrslieb and back! And by Sigmar's grace I have him cornered! I swear he will be mine ere this day is through!"
"Stand aside Red Lady, for I must face my foe!"
She tails off a little limply, waving her hand at Ferdinand and imploring him with her eyes to play along, not knowing if he even has the sense to understand that she is play acting a role and not actually her dead mother risen from the grave.
The Mistress of Mayhem laughs mockingly at Else's little performance but doe not step aside.
"We all know you Else Sigloben agent of the Cleansing Flame and we knew your mother too."
There was a low murmuring amongst the crowd.
"But your authority carries no weight in my realm."
She glances over her shoulder at Ferdinand as if to gauge his reaction to these events.
"What has my little demon of death done that so offends Sigmar?"
"The only offence he has committed here is to be disappointingly boring."
The crowd roars its agreement.
Ferdinand watches Else's performance, scratching his head and squinting his eyes. Suddenly his eyes widen and he says "OOH!"
He draws his scythe and waves it about, then speaks, making his voice even deeper than usual.
"I AM THE MESSENGER OF MORR. AS AN SERVANT OF MORR, I AM OBLIGED TO FULFILL CERTAIN ORDERS THAT MAY BE PRESSED UPON ME AS A MEANS TO CARRY OUT MORR'S WILL. IN THIS INSTANCE, AND WHAT HAS BROUGHT ME HERE, IS A MISSION . . ." He slows a bit here, thinking.
"A MISSION TO HERALD THE DEATH OF BOREDOM! " He points his scythe towards the man in the stocks. "THIS MAN HERE WAS BORING. HOWEVER, OBSERVE NOW THAT HIS MONOTONOUS, SOME MIGHT SAY, TEDIOUS, ATTRIBUTES HAVE PASS ED FROM THIS REALM INTO THE NEXT. WITNESS NOW, HOW ENTERTAINING HE IS WHILST COVERED IN FISH!" He raises his scythe far above his head to emphasize this closing argument.
The Mistress of Mayhem looks somewhat non-plussed by the sudden transformation of Ferdinand's attitude and glances at Else eyebrow raised as if the enquire if this behaviour is normal.
"You are going to make Gunther entertaining?" she asks Ferdinand clearly not convinced.
"DID I NOT HEAR CHEERING AND LAUGHTER AS I APPROACHED? THE CROWD IS ITSELF PROOF OF HIS HILARITY!"
Ferdinand looks over at Gunther and points his eyes towards the crowd, hoping to indicate to Gunther that he should at least make some sort of effort here.
The Mistress does not seem that convinced although clearly, the crowd are curious to see this miracle performed. So, she taps the foot of her staff on the ground and signals to the two hooded executioners guarding the stocks and Gunther is released and escorted down to join you. A strong smell of rotting fish keeping him company.
Gunther is escorted down to join you by the two hooded executioners trying to maintain some air of dignity as the crowd laugh and jeer at him.
"Aristea I think this has gone quite far enough, just let me go now and we will say no more about it," he demands.
The Mistress bristles "I am THE MISTRESS OF MAYHEM and nobody leaves my realm without being entertaining. You know that Gunther so why be so obstinate?"
"Why do you keep calling me after your dog? You know my name?"
The Mistress rolls her eyes "Because he's boring and smelly just like you." she explains "You know we are meant to be incognito. The people are not meant to know who we are. It's part of the mystery."
"Well, its a stupid idea and I've been opposed to it all along. We shouldn't be toadying to the lower orders like this, it's undignified."
"Says the man covered in fish guts." smirks the Mistress
"Anyway, it was agreed by the Town Council that the Merchants Guild would host and pay for the Festag events. So it's not up to you. This is now my realm and you must obey my rules."
"You either entertain the people or you become entertainment for the people."
"Those are the rules and my little Demon of Death here has promised me he is going to make you entertaining."
She turns to the crowd.
"We're all curious to see this miracle of Morr's magic aren't we?" she shouts and great roar rises from the crowd.
Ferdinand leans in closer to the man and speaks quietly but quickly.
"We are poorly met, sir. The weather is murky and dull today. My apologies for misnaming you earlier as Gunther. I was, at the time, under the impression that you were named Gunther, and meant no offense. I am outraged by your repugnant treatment by these people here, and wish that these disgusting rules did not target you for a reason as frivolous as entertainment value. However, we are much outnumbered here so surmise that the most likely course of action for us to remove you from this situation is to temporarily play along. Are you able to do one thing to assist me? I will require you to proclaim to Morr, stating that if you are not worthy of such treatment, he should pull away the corpse of the fish resting atop your head." At this, Ferdinand looks at the very large fish carcass which has been resting entirely atop the head of the man. "Do this as loudly as possible, as I will need you to cover up my own speaking."
Ferdinands plan should the man agree is to position himself behind the man, so as to shield himself from the view of the crowd and when the man begins his proclamation, to reach up and touch the large fish on top of the man's head, trying to touch a part that is not very visible to the crowd. He then will perform his System for Generation and Excitation of Light from Non-emitting Items (a method that his colleagues had colloquially but inexactly called "Light"), with the fish carcass as the Item in question.
At the very end of the man's proclamation, Ferdinand will move his hand away and cease touching the glowing fish, causing it to disappear.
Gunther ducks away from the strange peasant dressed in a demon costume "Who in Sigmar's name are you?"
He glances over at the Witch Hunter whom he obviously recognises "More to the point perhaps What are you?"
"Hunter is this man dangerous, he looks like some sort of hedge-wizard. If he is, then stop playing these silly games and do your duty?"
He then turns on the Mistress of Mayhem.
"This is exactly the reason I was so opposed to these festivities in the first place Aristea. This riff-raff can't be trusted to enjoy themselves without getting ideas above their station."
The crowd begin jeering and things begin to look decided hostile, some of the smaller children sensing the mood begin to cry.
The Mistress of Mayhem is clearly annoyed that once again Gunther has been allowed to spread discord and ruin the mood. She waves her staff dramatically and points to a group of large creatures standing at the rear of the crowd close to the well-pump. Who immediately spring into action.
"Those who refuse to entertain will become the entertainment," she announces loudly and the people immediately quieten down to watch what happens next.
They do not have long to wait. From the edge of the crowd, a bucket of very cold water hits Gunther full in the face and sprays in all directions soaking Ferdinand and the nearby executioners. This is closely followed by another and another as the party of men dressed as some sort of orc or troll enjoy their moment in the drama.
The crowd cheer each deluge of freezing water with growing enthusiasm spurring the Orc's who have now formed a bucket chain from the well-pump to even greater efforts.
The Mistress has trouble stopping the almost unbroken flow and by the time she does both Gunther and Ferdinand are soaked to the skin and shivering. She now signals to another group this time of young girls dressed as wood nymphs or fairy-like creatures with wings who now dance daintily out of the crowd and proceed to skip around Gunther and Ferdinand cascading them in a white powder mixed with chicken feathers.
"Now Gunther 'as bin fished an battered." someone quips from the crowd prompting another roar of laughter.
"An death is spittin fevers instead 'o gibberish." adds another.
Gunther and Ferdinand are well and truly covered in flour and feathers by now and the Mistress steps in to shoo the nymphs away.
She smirks at Gunther. "Those who refuse to entertain will become the entertainment,"
She turns to the executioners who managed to avoid some of the water and most of the powder and feathers. "Take Gunther back to the stocks, I think the people would like to demonstrate their appreciation for his kind words."
She then turns to Else "I think your little demon has overstayed his welcome Hunter, so you can take him away if you wish. Though I must admit I am disappointed he seemed to show such promise and he has such lovely big hands. Such a shame to burn him really." She winks at Else "If you can ever keep him quiet long enough that is."
Else scowls at the Red Woman, seething at the treatment given to her and her charge. "Your business is your own of course. But perhaps one day you may find that your entertainment crosses a line. Not everyone of significance is amused."
"Lord Gruber," she shouts across to Ferdinand. "Let's get you some new clothes. Baron Gruber will not expect to see his long-lost son in such a state." She walks across the Ferdinand, intending to escort him out of the square to the nearest tailors.
The Mistress of Mayhem steps aside and allows Else to take charge of Ferdinand's feathered dappled form. "Do come to tea when you have the time Hunter Sigloben. We can talk about our respective business and you can tell me what happens to our little friend here."
Then she spins on her heels and wanders off into the crowd to spread pleasure and pain elsewhere,
Ferdinand pale and shaken from the flour and feathers that have been thrown at him runs through the crowd into the nearest alleyway before Else and Mistress have finished talking.
Else watches 'The Mistress' disappear into the crowd and turns just in time to see him disappear as the crowd closes in around her and their attention returns to dancing, eating and watching the other entertainers. She follows and finds him sitting on the ground with his knees drawn up. He is breathing heavily and rapidly fiddling with a small, black wooden stick that appears to have a fist carved into it.
Else crouches over him pity welling up as she sees the state he's in. She sits herself down alongside him and stares at the wall opposite. "Well, that could have gone.. better. It is neither right not fair that an instinct to help is rewarded with the treatment that you have received, Ferdinand. But our world is neither right nor fair, and learning this is almost always a harsh lesson." She glances across at Ferdinand, her voice growing steely, "But I swear to you and in Sigmar's sight that our Miss Mayhem will someday learn a harsh lesson of her own. One that leaves her in a worse state than yours."
"Now," standing up and brushing down her breeches, "how are we to proceed. We need a change of clothes for you. Either I can find some and return to you here, or we must walk a while to find some. You will no doubt attract more attention if we do the latter, but we could perhaps cover most of the mess if you were to take my cloak?"
Else began to mentally list the people she knows in Bogenhafen who might be prepared to help Ferdinand as a favour to her.
The best place she could think of was The Wagon and Horses just off the Hafenstrasse and close to the Teamsters Guild. Not quite as upmarket as the others but it must have overnight accommodation for the teamsters like Ernst Drayman who are staying overnight in the town and so must also have washing facilities and it's literally around the corner.
Else makes a decision. "Change of plan. Let's try to get you cleaned up at the Wagon and Horses. Are you ready to brave the locals? What d'you say? I'll wave these at anyone that gets too interested." She pats her holstered pistols.
Ferdinand rubs some more feathers off his face. "Yes, I would be happy to remove ourselves from this situation as quickly as possible. I will follow your lead."
Although Ferdinand seems to have pulled himself together quite a bit, he is still holding on to the dark carved stick.
Else helps Ferdinand to his feet and together they make their way through the backstreets west of the Hafenstrasse to a tavern near the Teamsters Guild called The Wagon & Horses, Bogenhafen
Else tethers her horse in the yard at the back and they enter to find the room crowded with carters and draymen enjoying some relaxation after delivering their loads. The atmosphere is heavy with pipe smoke and the smell of horses.
Else immediately spots Ernst Draymen and the others from Herzhald sitting around a table in the corner playing dice.
"Ernst! I didn't think we'd meet again so soon!", Else calls as she crosses the room. "Do you know the proprietor here? We ran into a little 'fun and games' with some Festag revellers - one styling herself Mistress of Mayhem caused us some problems - and now Ferdinand needs a place to clean up. Do you think the owner here would let us use their facilities?". Lowering her voice as she reaches the table, "I hope your day has gone more smoothly than ours..."
Ernst looks up in surprise as he hears his name called by Else. Then notices Ferdinand standing behind her covered in flour and feathers and laughs. "You only make that mistake once." he grins "So, it's The Mistress today is it, she takes her job pretty serious she does."
"HEY! ERICH" he calls to tall dark-haired man across the room "You got somewhere my friend here can get cleaned up."
Erich looks over and smirks "Haven't got a bathhouse, but your welcome to use a horse trough in the stables." he says leading Ferdinand across the inn yard "If you want hot water my wife Sigrid will boil some for you and she'll wash your robe too if you like only five Pfennig."
Ferdinand asks Ernst, "As I am not familiar with the local customs, I am not sure quite what was going on. Who was that woman?"
Ernst shrugs dismissively "It's Festag. Some people like to have fun on their day off. The Mistress is just one of those selected to make sure they do. It's one of the reasons we like to time our journey's to stay here on Festag night. The town gets really lively after dark if you know what I mean."
He grinned "She probably took one look at you and figured you were part of the entertainment?"
Ferdinand turns back to Ernst "That is quite a large celebration to be happening every week! I was not quite prepared for that. Although you have correctly identified the issue: it appears that my mode of dress is not suitable for this region."
Ernst grins "Not sure what region that outfit would be suitable for ta be honest." he quips using Ferdinands own words "especially with the scythe."
Eric leads Ferdinand out to the stable block where there is a trough set aside for washing. Ferdinand thanks him for the assistance and agrees to have his robe washed. "While we are discussing clothing, Erich, would you perhaps be able to provide me with clothing more suitable to the local fashion?"
The tavern keeper promises to take a look through the clothing that has been left in the tavern by passing guests and returns as Ferdinand is just finishing his ablutions "These of any interest?" he asks showing you a pair of woollen beeches and a jerkin. "I can let you have them for thirty silver. They're clean and lice free," he adds encouragingly.
Else winces at the price, but doesn't want to interfere in Ferdinand's transaction.
Ferdinand's eyes widen slightly. "Oh. It appears that the market forces have caused for clothing to be more expensive here than I am used to." His eyes go unfocused as he mumbles some numbers for a few seconds.
"Alas, I appreciate the offer, Herr Jaeger, however, my current budget for the journey does not allow for it."
Ferdinand turns to Else, "I had hoped to help us remain less conspicuous, but it appears I may need to wait and appeal on my Father's kindness for new clothing. Would your offer to let me wear your cloak over my robes still stand? Of course, I am referring to after my robes have been cleaned."
Erich looks a bit disappointed but doesn't argue with the stranger.
"Let me know if you still want that robe washed," he says as he turns to walk away.
"Wait up there, Barkeep!" Else calls. "Would you consider a fair exchange?"
"You and your lady wife get the fine robes worn by my friend here - Estalian cloth I believe - and you hand over the spare clothes you've found. Ferdinand, would that be agreeable?"
Ferdinand fiddles with his carved stick.
"Oh. Well. . . I do quite enjoy these robes. Although it does seem that they are perhaps more trouble than they need to be. I would agree to this trade, should Herr Jaeger as well be amendable to the transaction. However, in the interest of full disclosure, I should inform you, Herr jaeger, that the cloth is actually from that of a clothier in Marienburg. He does quite fine work, especially with the creation of pockets."
At this point, Ferdinand has ceased fiddling with the stick and is instead becoming more animated as he blurts out, "I find that most clothing does not have the requisite number of pockets, and those pockets that do exist are of the wrong angle, so that the contents may accidentally fall out while the wearer is seated. That is not, of course, to disparage the Estalian artisans. I do in fact, have an affinity for Estalia myself. Though of course, I would not want to participate in a trade without providing proper information regarding my contribution."
Erich pauses and considers Else's offer for a second but then shakes his head.
"I'm sorry Hunter but as your friend rightly says that sort of clothing is special. I'd never be able to sell it on. I'd have ta get me wife to pick it apart the cloth alone ain't worth as much."
"I can lend your friend a nightshirt to wear whilst my wife washes his robe if you like."
Else nods "I think that might be our best option."
Ferdinand changes into the nightshirt and hands over his robe to Eric for washing. Whilst he is waiting on his clothes to dry. He turns to Else.
"What should our next course of action be? I am growing rather keen to depart Bogenhafen. Though I believe you had some business to attend to. Was that taken care of?
I was preoccupied at the time so did not catch if you had completed your goals."
"Yes, I think we should leave as soon as possible, but you are right that I have some business to attend to first with Duke Konstantine's shipping agent - across town near the river, on Rosen Allee. It shouldn't take long, though." Confirms Else.
Ferdinand looks at Else with an intensity he normally lacks. It appears for the first time he is actually meeting her eyes directly, rather than looking slightly to the side.
"I had initially assumed you were in the area specifically to be looking for me. Upon reflection, I realize that may have been mere coincidence. What business had you in the area, and what is this letter regarding?"
"Just a report. The worrying rumours that I was acting on - that prompted my trip to Herzhald - thankfully proved to be mistaken - I assume that the Duke will be much relieved by the news."
"Ah. What were these rumours regarding? Hopefully, it is not something that would be a danger as far afield as Weissbruck?"
Before answering Else takes her leave of Ernst and the draymen and leads Ferdinand to a quieter table where they can talk without being overheard. Ferdinand is now wearing one of the tavernkeepers borrowed nightshirts to protect his modesty whilst he waits for the return of his robe.
Else opens her mouth to speak and then pauses for the briefest moment before fixing Ferdinand with a penetrating stare. "There are always rumours, Ferdinand Gruber", Else surveys the tavern's jostling patrons as she ticks off a familiar set of items on her fingers. "Cultists plotting a revolution, corrupted mutant livestock, freakish children with the evil eye, invading foreigners", her eyes flick back to Ferdinand's face briefly, "a priest turned by depravity or madness. In this case, the villagers feared they were being stalked by a figure from beyond the grave, a daemon or spectre they surmised. Of course, it transpired to be nothing more than a lost lordling. But an investigation is an investigation and each deserves to be reported, considered, analysed... in case seemingly innocuous events disguise a more worrisome pattern of some kind..."
She tails off pondering the strangely dressed figure in front of her as if seeing him properly for the first time since their first shadowy encounter. "But no, I don't believe any danger follows us from Herzhald... Why? Do you disagree? Do you... did you... perhaps.. Can you...", Else is surprised to find herself struggling even to even allude to Ferdinand's mysterious arcane ability, "see.. something?"
Ferdinand looks away and stares at the wall.
"No, nothing specific. Recently I had begun to feel a sense of. . . wrongness, that I cannot attach to a specific cause. Perhaps it is not logical, but I felt worried for my family and decided it was time I return home. As well, I am interested to obtain the instruction I mentioned earlier. Due to the oppression from authorities, my craft still remains a field of study in which we have many blind spots. Part of my interest in seeking instruction is to determine whether this feeling I have is related to my craft, or purely a psychological effect arising from within myself, as my fellows at the College in Marienburg insisted."
Else nods, wondering, not for the first time, at Ferdinand's thoughtful and reflective concern for others - the very opposite of what her mother would have had her believe was the twisted, grasping mind of an unlicensed magic-user. She runs her finger lightly along her scar, adjusts her hat and stands ready to leave. "Let's be going then. The sooner we leave here, the sooner we leave Bögenhafen."
Time Mid-Afternoon
Weather (Overcast) The mist has cleared but it remains dull and overcast.
Erich eventually returned with Ferdinand's robe, clean and still warm from being dried over the kitchen stove and bidding farewell to Ernst and the other draymen from Herzhald Else collected her horse from the yard and led Ferdinand to 'Rosen Allee' where she had been told she would find the Dukes Shipping Agent.
The alley was the usual mix of workshops, shops, small taverns and offices and Else scanned the numerous signs for the badge of Duke Konstantin or some mention of his name.
They were about halfway down the alley just past the house of the Guild of Cartwrights when they notice a group of watchmen idling in the street ahead.
Else recognised a couple of them by sight and as she approaches they stiffen and assume more alert poses of attention.
There are four in total and the most senior knuckles his forehead as Else approaches. "Arternoon Hunter." he mumbles his mouth clearly full of something which he is trying to swallow quickly.
Else notices that the alley is strewn with candied fruit similar to that thrown by the gnome earlier.
"Good afternoon. I am looking for the Shipping Agent of Duke Konstantine of Drakenburg. I am told it is near the Cartwright's Guildhouse. Would you point it out to me." Else looks around for any sign of the Red Woman as she waits for a reply.
A bearded watch sergeant hears Else's voice and ducks from a nearby doorway into the street. Else recognises him as a member of the Bogenhafer Watch called Werner.
He grins "Well fancy that it's Hunter Sigloben. What brings you to sunny Bogenhafen this fine Festag morning?"
"I have a message to deliver Harnish - to Duke Konstantine via his shipping agent - other than that just passing through - will be glad to get away from all this Festag nonsense, to be frank. How have you been? How is the town?"
"Town's fine an I'm still getting nagged by me, missus'. So I guess all is as it should be." he grins and the other watchmen snigger at the joke.
"Festags no problem usually, but it looks like some of 'em went a bit too far this morning. Gave yer shipping agent a bit of fright. We're just hanging about waiting fer the carpenter to put his door back on its hinges."
He points to the door through which he just emerged. It looks like its been stove in and is hanging from broken hinges. The crest and plaque on the door frame confirm that this is the office of W. Berger Agent to Duke Konstantin.
Else raises an eyebrow in alarm. "Well, well. I hope the fellow wasn't harmed. I think we should have a word with him right away. He's inside I assume?"
"Ferdinand, follow me inside and keep your eyes open if you will." Else gestures for Ferdinand to stay close
"Thank you Harnish." Else steps through the smashed door into the office looking to seek out Berger and find out what has happened.
Else allows her eyes to adjust to the shadows within. A middle-aged man with blond hair and bushy eye-brows is sitting behind a desk inside the office nursing a cut to his head with a bloody handkerchief. He looks a bit shaken.
The room appears to have been searched and there are papers and candied fruits scattered all over the floor. The door to the street has been blown off its hinges and is hanging open in the frame.
Ferdinand takes a nail from his pocket and holds it as he follows Else into the room. As he walks through the door, he looks closer at it to see if he can determine what caused it to fall off its hinges, a kick, or an explosion?
Ferdinand pauses at the threshold to the office and studies the door. There isn't a mark on it and yet the hinges are broken and twisted as though the door was forced out of its frame. As Ferdinand leans forward to take a closer look he catches a faint smell of spice. Cinnamon? Perhaps the merchant trades in spices?
"Herr Berger. What happened here? Are you hurt?"
Ferdinand carefully touches the door, trying to see if he can detect if any magic has been used on it. He carefully runs his fingers across the surface of the door but feels nothing but the grain of the wood beneath his fingertips. If magic was employed then it was not used on the door itself.
Berger looks up hearing Else's question.
"Just a bump on the head I think. Thank Sigmar. I hit my head on the table when the door flew in and knocked me over."
He scans the room as if taking stock of the content.
"They seemed to be looking for something." Notes Else.
Berger nods "Demanded to know the true path to Castle Drakenburg."
He shakes his head and laughs at himself.
"I thought they were revellers from the Festag, even threw them some candy. That was before they blew my door in of course. I don't think they had a sweet tooth"
Ferdinand leans away from the door. "Explosives?" he asks.
Berger looks up "Didn't hear a bang. If anything it felt more like a strong gust of wind."
Sergeant Harnish interrupts "Ain't been no wind to speak of today Herr Berger and look at the way those hinges have been bent. Looks like someone jimmied them to me." he reaches out to touch them and snatches his hand back quickly "That ain't normal, they're cold as ice."
Ferdinand reaches towards the hinges with his non-dominant (left) hand, and gingerly touches them, trying to sense for magic.
Else's tone and manner instantly become more serious and professional when she hears of the link to Drakenburg and her mind goes to the voices in the dark outside Herzhald...
"Herr Berger, did you tell them the route to Castle Drakenburg? What did they look like - sound like? How many of them were there? Can you see if anything is missing? Also, how quickly can you get a message to the Duke if you sent your fastest messenger? We need to let him know what has happened..."
"Sergeant Harnish, did anyone outside observe the attack? Any word of strangers asking about Drakenburg or Duke Konstantine?"
Even before Ferdinand's fingers touch the hinges he can feel the tingle of magical energy arcing across the gap and into his body. It was pure too, this was the work of a master.
"Of course I didn't tell them the route. I know my duty and my instructions from the Duke." he snaps indignantly. "I actually sent them in the opposite direction and gave them directions to Castle Dachenfels instead," he adds with a smirk. "Not sure if they believed me mind you. Kept jabbering in some foreign tongue. All I managed to grasp was that someone had corrupted the way lines, whatever they are, and so they were having trouble finding their way about. They'll regret it if they find their way to Castel Drachenfels though." he smiles grimly.
"There were four of them I think though only two came in the office the others waited outside in the street. Tall, thin, dressed in dark clothing." He pauses and nods at Ferdinand "Not unlike your friend there in fact, except they wore dark cloaks with cowls and masks so it was hard to see their faces and they carried bows on their backs like hunters. Pale skinned too from what little I could see." he added.
"They took my map of the local trade routes." he pointed to a large pale square on the office wall where clearly a something had been hung. "That'll show them the road to Drakenburg if they know how to read it. I'll be sending a warning to the Duke immediately but he won't get it until tomorrow even if they travel overnight."
Harnish was listening to all this with a puzzled expression on his face.
"What's this all about Hunter?"
"Why all the interest in Drakenburg and the Duke?"
"It's the first I've heard of it. Is there something I should know about?"
Else ignores him "Thankyou Berger, clever idea to direct them to Drachenfels - that's quick thinking under pressure - let's hope that slows them down a little. I have a message of my own for the Duke - would you see that he receives it along with your own. It is of crucial importance."
Else hands the sealed letter to Berger and locks eyes with his for a second before releasing it into his grasp.
She then turns to face Harnish. "Sergeant, my guess is that someone wishes the Duke ill - possibly not one of Berger's actual assailants, but someone pulling their strings. Perhaps a foreign power with a grudge against the Duke? Or someone outwitted in a trading arrangement? In any event, he must be informed that he needs to be on his guard. Perhaps it would make sense to enquire as to whether foreigners have been seen in the area. Perhaps they are accommodated near here?"
Returning her attention to Berger, "As a trader, you will no doubt have interacted with people from many different places. Did you recognise the accent, perhaps even understand a little of what they discussed amongst themselves?"
Berger considered Else's question but shook his head. "Can't say I recognised it. But it wasn't Bretonnian and that's for sure, and when they spoke Reikspiel it had a Wastelander twang to it. More so that your friend has."
Berger took Else's letter and placed in a tray together with a number of other sealed documents that he recovered from the floor.
Else examines the room and the broken door, glancing at Ferdinand as she does so to see if he has found anything, all the while pondering whether she should now return to Drakenburg immediately, rather than continue on to Weissbruck, and, if so, whether Ferdinand will take the news well...
Ferdinand, with an even bigger scowl than he usually has, gestures for Else to come closer to the door, and lowers his voice so that he is not heard by the others in the room.
"I will first emphasize that all tools are just that by definition and that each tool can be used for both laudable and deplorable purposes. Similar to how your own firearms could, in the hands of a bandit, be used to murder innocent travellers. Yet you yourself do not partake in such actions. . ." He hesitates at the last sentence and is not entirely successful at removing the slightest hint of a question mark from the end of the statement.
Ferdinand steals a glance towards Else's face, seeing if she is in agreement, and following along with his reasoning.
Else's brow is knotted in some bewilderment as she tries to parse Ferdinand's obtuse wording, but as his meaning dawn's her eyes widen and she leans in to hear more, giving a small nod of encouragement and pursuing her lips tightly as she anticipates disturbing information...
Ferdinand turns back and gestures towards the door and continues speaking, malice seeping into his voice. "Such activity, you must understand, irritates me greatly. It is due to such profane uses of our practical application of magickal energy that we have been given a bad name in the view of the general public - " he glances at Else, " - and the law."
Ferdinand closes his eyes and breathes deeply, calming himself before continuing and gesturing towards the hinges. "These hinges here have been destroyed through the work of magic. It is exceedingly clear and I have no doubts at all of the cause. What is worse still is that this was done by a very skilled practitioner - one that, I must admit, far exceeds my own capabilities."
Else's voice is hushed and urgent, "Ferdinand, I believe that what we have seen here in combination with what you have just told me changes things significantly for both of us. It cannot be a coincidence that both the shadowy figures that you and I encountered in the woods and also the assailants here share a similar, distinctive, foreign, yet unplaceable accent - and now we learn that they are violent law-breakers, targetting the Duke's seat in Drakenburg, and, most worryingly of all, are casually deploying arcane powers of the most destructive kind. This changes things for me directly, because I must now reach Drakenburg with all haste in order to warn and defend the Duke from these... witches. And it changes things for you, perhaps less directly, because you must accompany me."
"If I have learned anything of your character as we have travelled together, it is that you are likely already inclined instinctively to stand against these forces, and I would hope that this will mean that you are ready and willing to accompany me on what may be a course of action that puts us in some jeopardy - but I have to say that, should it come to it, you would have little choice but to fall in with me, as the alternative is that I act in my capacity as your official.. custodian, shall we say. What say you?"
"Hmm. I recall, those in the woods were asking me how to get to Drakenburg, so it seems likely that they are the same group," admits Ferdinand.
"I am indeed eager to assist in preventing more acts such as this. However, I must point out that it is a dangerous approach we are considering. Whoever has done this exceeds my own abilities, and I believe they may outnumber us as well. Are you able to conscript some help, using your position in the law?"
Ferdinand looks off to the side. "In addition, I feel it would be prudent to clarify before embarking on this endeavour: would it be acceptable to you should I make use of my magical training in order to help overcome our target, in the event that circumstances lead to its necessity?"
Else's brow furrows, "That would only be acceptable in the gravest of circumstances, Ferdinand. And even then, there are members of my profession who would debate me fiercely on the matter. Let us hope that we do not have reason to require it... Your points regarding our numbers are well-made, however."
"Herr Berger!", Else turns back to the guildsman raising her voice, "The gravity of the situation means we must alter our plans. We intend to ride for Drakenburg immediately to warn the Duke of what has happened. The messenger or messengers that you intend to send there.. we would do well to travel with them to bolster our chances should we encounter trouble en route. And we will need to commandeer one of the Duke's horses for Ferdinand if we are to make it there ahead of your assailants."
"That's not a problem Hunter you can take one of the messenger's spare horses if needs be," confirms Berger.
While Berger organises their travel arrangements, Else calls out to Sergeant Harnish: "Sergeant, a word please!", and then much quieter "The thieves are foreigners it appears - though none can say where exactly they hail from - and they are set on making their way to Drakenburg, no doubt with ill-will in their hearts. My companion and I intend to out-ride them in order to warn the Duke. This may likely be some kind of espionage or sedition against the Reikland itself. While I assume that your own duties demand that you remain within Bögenhafen's walls, might you spare a couple of men to accompany us? Perhaps scouts or outriders used to patrolling the region. It appears we may face a posse of moderate size and would do well not to encounter them at a numerical disadvantage."
Ferdinand's face darkens at Else's reaction to his request, and he leans in a corner with his arms crossed while she continues the conversation with the Sergeant.
Harnish scratches his beard dubiously "I don't have that sort of authority Hunter, you'd 'ave ta ask the Watch Captain, 'an even then I doubt if many of our lads can ride. Might be better to talk ta the Road Wardens, it's more there line of work if ya get me meanin. Either way, you'll 'ave ta ask at the barracks."
Ferdinand approaches the Sergeant. "Are there any licensed magic users inside the city whom we could approach for aid?"
Harnish looks somewhat uncomfortable at Ferdinand's question "I wouldn't like ta say." he finally admits "There's always rumours of course, but I'd av thought that sort of information was more in the Hunters remit than mine. Them sort of licenses could be issued by several authorities, so we just check the seals are valid if we find one. Not sure if anyone keeps a ledger of all those issued."
Harnish gives Else a quizzical look having obviously overheard the open discussion about the use of magic. However, he refrains from questioning a witch hunter about her business.
Else scowls at Ferdinand before regaining control, "Your idea is sound, but I am sure we are capable of escorting a messenger to Drakenburg, perhaps with the aid of a roadwarden or two. We are not riding 'gainst Tyrion and Teclis, after all."
"Berger, summon the messenger and an extra horse for Ferdinand. We will meet you at the West Gate. Harnish, get your men to ask around the area and if you hear anything regarding our adversaries, in particular their number, appearance and how well armed they may be, have the information sent to the West Gate, also. We should aim to leave within the next couple of hours."
Else orders galvanise everyone into action. The messenger is summoned and handed the dispatch bag which also contains Else's letter. Ferdinand is introduced to his horse and the watchmen wander about the area trying to look busy.
The carpenter turns up in the middle of all the preparations and begins work replacing the broken hinges of Berger's office door.
"I assume you can ride priest," the messenger says as he hands Ferdinand the bridle. But doesn't wait for a reply pushing past the carpenter to collect the dispatch pouch from Berger instead "Late today." he notes as he takes it.
He returns to the street and mounting his horse turns to Else "Hunter, I suggest we take the Ostendamm as far as the creek and then cut through the back streets to the West Gate. It's longer but it will avoid the festivities in the town centre."
Ferdinand looks puzzled at being called a priest, but realization dawns on him as he looks down at his robes and scythe. He spends a few minutes getting familiar with the horse before trying to mount up. Ferdinand hasn't ridden a horse for years.
Else mounts her horse 'Clever Hans' "Lead on Messenger. What name do you go by?"
Ferdinand makes an uncharacteristically high pitched noise as he climbs onto the horse and immediately falls off the other side but fortunately lands on his feet and suffers no injury. He quickly looks around to see if anybody witnessed his fall and then tries to mount up again, more carefully this time.
The messenger is distracted by Ferdinand's awkward antic's trying to get into the saddle. "You have ridden before priest?" he frowns.
"I'm sure it will come back to him.", announces Else bringing Clever Hans alongside Ferdinand's mount to reassure it and give it a lead to follow. "Let's go."
The messenger grins at the awkward antics of Ferdinand still trying to settle himself in the saddle.
"I'm not sure your friend here is quite ready to leave yet Hunter. You can call me Keller by the way, or Claus if you prefer."
Ferdinand tugs at his robe that he is now tangled in and pats the horses head. "I will be ready shortly! I have indeed ridden before, although not in these robes. . ." He attempts to prop himself up in the stirrups to correct his robe layout.
Eventually, Ferdinand seats himself properly, and a small grin sneaks onto his face as he is back on a horse after a very long hiatus.
"Very well, let us ride!"
Claus nods to Ferdinand satisfied that the awkward fellow has sorted his seat.
"Right you two follow me." and he heads off along the Ostendamm at a steady pace weaving in and out of the various wagons and occasional groups of stevedores still working on Festag.
On reaching the Hafenbach Creek he turns left and plunges into the side streets heading south-west until you all emerge onto Bergstrasse just inside the West Gate where you had entered the Town this morning. The gatekeepers greet you as you approach. There is no sign of Sergeant Harnish.
Ferdinand nudges his horse to pull up beside Else's. When it doesn't, he nudges it with increasing force until it finally gives in and obeys. Once close to Else he speaks.
"What is our plan of action to be should we catch up to these criminals?"
"My expectation is that we will not encounter them, Ferdinand. As foreigners and criminals, they will likely not want to be encountered - maybe they will travel off the road as when we came across them previously? Maybe they will travel in disguise. Either way, we do not have time to search for them or interrogate any travelling party that we come across. Rather, my aim is to out-pace them and reach Drakenburg ahead of them in order to give the Duke some warning of their existence and imminent arrival. We can ask after them if the opportunity arises, though."
"It looks like Harnish has not made it here yet. But we have little time to waste."
"Gatekeeper!", Else wheels her horse around to face the militiaman, "Is there word from Sergeant Harnish for us?"
The gatekeeper shakes his head "Nah! Not sin 'im taday 'unter. He'll be over the uver side o'town na doubt."
Claus looks at the sky "Sun's waning. Be lucky to reach Ardlich before nightfall as it is Hunter."
"Gatekeeper! When you hear from him, let him know we rode for Ardlich. If he has any information for us, he's to send it with the next road warden patrol, either they will reach us on the road, or in Drakenburg if needs must. He'll understand what I mean. Keller, Ferdinand, let's make haste!"
Time Dusk
Weather (Windy) The wind picks up and blows away the mist of the morning.
The sky had cleared by the time the party left Bogenhafen and a strong wind had blown away the remnants of the mist and cloud which had dominated the morning.
The three riders made reasonably good progress but saw no sign of the foreign criminals who attacked the Dukes shipping agents offices.
The few travellers they encountered on the road claimed not to have seen anyone strange or suspicious on their journey and nobody they overtook on the road matched the description given by Herr Berger.
They arrived at the village of Ardlich just as dusk was falling and most of the farmers and field workers were returning to the safety of the stockade before darkness fell. As at Herzhald, a series of braziers were lit around the outskirts of the village the main difference being that unlike Herzhald this village had a stockade and gates that were closed after dark.
Claus leads them to the village centre and shows them where to stable their horses and then heads for a small Shabby looking tavern crowded with a dozen or so locals enjoying a well-earned drink after a hard days toil. There are four tables in the common room all of which are occupied though one is only occupied by a single herdsman drinking on his own.
Else scans the patrons with a furrowed brow as she marches toward the bar, conscious that her ability to tell friend from foe is likely to be negligible unless she hears an out of place accent. When she reached the bar she hails a server and asks how Festag has gone - and if there have been any interesting travellers passing through.
Two men and a woman are huddled around a corner table arguing loudly about something but they look like locals.
At another table, a spiteful looking man dressed like a woodsman is sitting alone studying some sort of document.
Three more local men are talking quietly at a table near the door whilst at the last table, a wealthy-looking halfling and three men are talking quietly together but Else catches them watching her as she crosses to the bar.
The bar-keeper is a small thin woman with silver-grey hair and a haughty expression. she eyes Else up and down suspiciously as she enters and isn't particularly forthcoming. She claims that she has seen no unusual travellers today other than Else and Ferdinand and scoffs at the idea that Festag would be different to any other day in a farming village pointing out that animals don't celebrate holidays.
However, she is careful to make the point that the entire village did attend the temple that morning to pay their respects to Sigmar.
Claus joins Else at the bar "Jug of cider please Camilla and some bread and cheese if you have it."
Once she is out of earshot he whispers to Else "I can recommend the cider, but steer clear of the hot food. Camilla and her daughters are not the best of cooks."
Ferdinand joins them. "Yes, I would be interested to try the cider. Is this a local speciality?"
Else quickly orders a small beer and some bread and cheese, following Claus' lead. But without waiting for it to arrive she proceeds to briskly circle around the room bluntly asking each party if they have travelled far today and where from, and also if they have come across strangers on the road or passing through the village - anyone acting suspiciously, or speaking in a strange accent. She starts with the halfling's party, with the intention of moving on to the arguers in the corner, then the woodsman and finally the three locals. She is particularly interested in anyone that has travelled towards Bögenhafen as they have seen the road ahead.
Claus watches Else stalking around the room interrogating everyone then turns to Ferdinand "The ciders pretty good if you like your cider sweet, the ales not bad but a bit musty for my taste. Your friend takes her job seriously. Whose she actually looking for?" he asks.
Ferdinand does some awkward stretches, trying to remove the soreness he is feeling from having ridden the first time in years. "We are hunting some criminals who broke into the watch office in Bogenhafen. By coincidence, we had come across them in the woods at night previously, as well. They were looking for Drakenburg so we are attempting to proceed will haste as to arrive there before our quarry."
"I was aware the Shipping Office had been broken into but I thought it was just a bunch of revellers indulging in too much ale. What's so special about Drakenburg it's not even shown on most maps?" notes Claus
"That's what we are interested to discover, Claus," Else mutters to her companions as she passes them at the bar, "and it might be wise to keep the details to ourselves for the time being, gentlemen." The last words are delivered practically through gritted teeth as Else locks eyes with Ferdinand momentarily, raising her eyebrows imploringly.
Else approaches the halflings table and demands to know where they travelled from and where they are heading. The halfling is clearly annoyed at the questions but claims they are bound for Bogenhafen having left Grubevon that morning and saw nothing usual on their journey.
Else moves on to the group of three locals who were arguing earlier but they claim to live in the village and have seen nothing.
As Else finishes her conversation with the locals the woodsman finishes his ale and gets up to leave heading purposefully for the door.
"Hold there, Sir. I'd like a word, please, before you leave. What's your business today, and what's that you were reading. Verena smiles on a man of letters, they say, though some claim Sigmar had little time for words on paper. What say you?"
The tall woodsman pauses in his stride towards the tavern door and without turning replies "Witch Hunter my business is my own as is yours. I suggest we keep it that way." and with that, he heads once more towards the door.
Else draws her (presumably unloaded) pistol, points it at the man's back, and cocks it loudly. "Halt now! I am Sigmar's eyes and ears, and his mighty hammer, too, and my business is the business of whomsoever I damn well choose. Now show me that document."
She gestures to any folk between the woodsman and the door, "Hold him. Ferdinand, relieve the man of his 'business', please."
Ferdinand sets down his cider and undoes his scythe from his back, so he is ready should he need it. He cautiously approaches the woodsman.
"I would recommend, good sir, that you comply with her instructions and pass me the documentation to which she is referring. She can be rather set in her ways, and one of her ways appears to be an assumption of obedience when she issues commands."
If the woodsman hands over the papers, Ferdinand will back away a safe distance and start skimming through the documents.
The woodsman shrugs and stops in his tracks hands open to show they are empty.
"Alright Hunter no need to get nasty, we're both in the same line of work. I'm just not used to discussing my business in public is all."
He reaches into a pocket and shows you a badge confirming that he is a member of the Bounty Hunters Guild in Altdorf.
"I suggest we continue this conversation in private as my horse needs feeding and half the village is listening in here."
"As you wish." answers Else gesturing towards the door "Claus, keep our drinks company for a second. Ferdinand, your cider will wait a moment, let's see what the 'hunter' has to say for himself, shall we?"
Else holds the door open for the bounty hunter and follows him outside, but doesn't walk as far as the stables, preferring to talk out of earshot of the tavern, but within sight of the door.
"Talk." She orders, holstering her pistol.
Ferdinand looks longingly at the cider, as if considering walking back to pick it up, but concedes and follows the two outside.
"Not much to tell." he says dismissively "I'm tracking down my mark, got as far as this shit hole and ran into you. I have no idea who you are looking for but listening to your priest friend here running off his mouth it doesn't sound like we are on the same mission. I'm just a bit puzzled why a Witch Hunter should be searching for common criminals. Not that I want to know of course. That's clearly your business Hunter and none of my concern." There was just a hint of arrogance in the final comment. "Now if that's all I shall go and tend to my horse."
Else chooses to ignore the impertinence. "The boundary between common crime and, say, cultist activity is sometimes a thin one. Let me see your document. Describe who you are searching for. Do they have names? What intelligence are you acting on and where will you travel to next. Remember keeping information from a witch hunter is not a wise course of action, even for an experienced operative such as yourself.."
"I think you are mistaken Hunter." the woodsman says imperiously "I have shown you my guild seal and that is all I am required to share with you."
"Unlike you, I only get paid for success and if I tell you who my mark is or who I am working for what would stop you stealing my livelihood?"
"The person I am seeking is no concern of the Sigmarite Church. Nor am I acting as their agent on this contract. Of course, if you want to hire me to help you find your quarry then I'd be happy to help for a reasonable fee. I can look just as well for two people as I can for one."
Else catches herself and bites her tongue for a moment.
"All right then. Keep your secrets." she snaps angrily.
"But know this: I have no interest whatsoever in your 'livelihood' or your bounty - merely in the defence of the Reikland. I suppose it is for each man alone to decide whether they stand at Sigmar's side or turn away when called upon. I pray that you do not live to regret your tight mouth."
"Have no doubts on that score Hunter. Sigmar's hand guides us both I'm sure." smirks the Bounty Hunter.
Else spins on her heel and walks back towards the tavern. Perhaps, like Ferdinand on a Festag, asking further questions may create more problems than it solves.
Ferdinand looks at Igor and widens his eyes. "She can indeed be rather intense! I myself have been forced upon her company." Ferdinand pauses. "You purport to be a bounty hunter? That is quite exhilarating! Surely you could spare some interesting tidbit of your story to me, to keep me entertained? As you have seen, my current company is not the most engaging."
The bounty hunter frowns but eventually shrugs "I'm going to feed my horse." he says turning and walking once more towards the stables "But there is no law says you can't come with me if you're that desperate for company."
Time: Nightfall
Weather: (Overcast) The wind has dropped again and the clouds have returned
The conversation dies as Else re-enters tavern. Claus is chatting happily with Camilla the tavern keeper, but she also stiffens at Else's approach and their conversation lapses into silence.
There is an empty table now that the woodsman has left but as Ferdinand has not yet followed her back into the tavern Else ignores it and walks over to Claus at the bar. As she does so, the halfling and his party hastily finish their drinks and leave the bar heading towards the sleeping quarters at the back of the inn.
"Did you get the woodsman to talk?" he asks as Else approaches. But she just scowls at him.
Ferdinand decides to decline the bounty hunters invitation to accompany him to the stable and instead makes his excuses and decides to return to his drink. "Ah, I have just remembered that my cider is getting warm. Good day."
As Ferdinand walks through the door Claus repeats the question that Else had failed to answer.
"How about you priest?" he asks "Did you discover anything from the woodsman?"
"No." Admits Ferdinand reaching the bar and taking a sip at his cider. "But his profession is actually that of a bounty hunter, not a woodsman. I had expected some very interesting stories, so I asked him to share. People usually enjoy talking about themselves, you know? However, he was reluctant, I suspect that the Witchhunters' presence caused him discomfort."
Else rolled her eyes at Ferdinand's the later remark.
That was after all had been her intention.
"A bounty hunter!" exclaims Claus understanding crossing his face "That might explain why he was so irritated at being exposed." He nods towards the sleeping quarters "Camilla was telling me that halfling and his companions are a bad lot. Maybe you just blew his cover."
Neither Else nor Ferdinand cared to speculate on Claus' theory. Instead, they finished their drinks, paid Camilla for separate sleeping chambers at the back of the inn and decided to retire early.
Claus was happy to remain at the bar and continue drinking and chatting to Camilla.
Time: Dawn
Weather: (Mist) Visibility is less than 100 yards
Else rises just before dawn and after going through her painful morning penance, dresses slowly and enters the bar feeling fatigued and uncomfortable to find Ferdinand and Carl already up and dressed. "Ah! Hunter, you are awake," observes Carl through a mouth full of oatmeal "two Road Wardens turned up after you had retired an told me to tell you that the watch found no trace of those criminals in Bogenhafen. The best guess is that they went over the wall during the night, or perhaps slipped away on a barge." He takes a swig of his cider to clear his pallet "They were going to stay and escort us to Drakenburg but there's been a bit of a ruckus in the village overnight. A lot of the animals have gone missing and the wardens are off helping the local watch try and track down the thieves. Mind you they'll be lucky to find anything in this mornings fog." "Oh! An that Bounty Hunter you spoke to last night. He was here earlier and left a few minutes ago. Camilla reckons he was heading for Drakenburg." Claus pauses suddenly aware of the sickly pallor on the witch hunters face. "Are you all right, you look more tired now than before you went to your bed?" Before Else can answer Ferdinand pulls her aside. "In developing theories it is often prudent, to begin with, the simplest possible explanation and disprove that before adding complexity. In this case that would lead me to develop the theory that these livestock disappearances are connected with our strange quarry. Would you concur?" Else frowns "Perhaps you are right, Ferdinand. But your theory would also imply that our friendly Bounty Hunter's quarry is connected with the magic-using foreigners that we seek - and he has headed on to Drakenburg, not back to Bögenhafen! My gut says we should make haste in the same direction - but perhaps we can get some information about the livestock thieves before we head out - and that might allow some time for the fog to lift... " Else can't help feeling somewhat relieved at the prospect of a little more time before saddling up and subjecting her body to the discomfort of the saddle, "What do you think?" "Yes, I agree." Ferdinand looks over at Else, a strange quirk to his lip that she eventually recognizes is him trying to suppress a grin. "Perhaps the livestock thief is another Ferdinand!" He lets the grin break out fully, having revealed his joke. Else frowns slightly, as she turns back to Claus, not seeing much to grin about and confused by Ferdinands apparent good humour. "I feel absolutely fine, Keller. These wardens and watchmen, do you know where were they headed?" "They headed back towards Bogenhafen. At least that was the direction their trail led." Claus returns to his oatmeal and cider leaving Else and Ferdinand to sort their own breakfast. "Back to Bogenhafen. I am getting a bit tired of retracing our steps." Ferdinand does not like the thought of returning to the realm of the Mistress of Mayhem so soon. He turns to Else "Perhaps your initial inclinations are correct, and we should proceed post-haste towards Drakenburg." He pauses, "After having a cider and some oatmeal before departing, of course." noting how drawn she looks. Else sits down gratefully at the table. "We should probably find out more before we leave for Drakenburg. When we've eaten. Can you see to the horses, Claus?" Claus nods and continues eating. Ferdinand and I will talk with the authorities. Then, when we return here, we will make speed for Drakenburg. Hopefully with better visibility." Else agrees. "Breakfast, and then full speed to Drakenburg."
Time: Mid-Morning
Weather: (Mist) Visibility is less than 100 yards
Having completed their breakfast Else and Ferdinand leave the tavern to join Claus with the horses. They mount immediately and head for Drakenburg as fast as the roads and mist will allow. Two hours later they are making good progress and though the mist continues to limit the visibility of their immediate surroundings Claus seems confident of the route. However, as they crest a small rise Claus suddenly pulls up sharp and signals them to stop. Something is clearly moving on the road ahead and from the vague outline in the mist, it looks like a large hound. You can hear it snarling and growling as it tugs at something large laying in the road in front of it. Claus immediately begins to prepare his bow. Else dismounts and loads her pistols, scanning the scene to see if the hound has an owner. "Keep a tight reign on your horse hunter. If that thing has friends you might need it." warns Claus. Else completes the loading of her pistols. 'Clever Hans' waits patiently but its ears twitch nervously at the sound it can hear from the road ahead. [Group Observation Test] Ferdinand stares intently at the mist around him. The hound looks larger than usual, more like a pony or a donkey in size. It's certainly bigger than the wolves his relatives used to hunt in Estalia but similar in appearance, but Ferdinand always thought that wolves hunted in packs. Whatever it is eating is too big to be a sheep, it looks like a horse. No wonder the horses are nervous. Ferdinand dismounts from his horse and ties it close to where Else tied 'Clever Hans'. He reaches for a nail from his pocket, then looks at Else thinks better of it, sighs, and unhooks the scythe from his back instead. "The size of this creature appears to fall beyond the standard deviation expected for a hound. Unless the hounds here in the Reikland are larger than I am used to in Marienburg, I would suggest that perhaps this creature has been afflicted with a mutation," he comments. Else keeps her eyes fixed on the dog. "It's big. Yes." She begins to cautiously move towards the hound, quietly, hoping to get within close range before dispatching it. But ready to fire upon it if it attacks. "Watch the trees, Ferdinand, it may have family." Ferdinand looks to the trees and trying to see if he can detect anything hiding within them. Having secured their horses and prepared themselves Else and Ferdinand begin to advance slowly along the road towards the hound. Claus remains stubbornly in the saddle but has prepared his bow and nocked an arrow. This road is not an Imperial Highway and its surface is in need of repair Else and Ferdinand take care to avoid the occasional pothole on its surface not wishing to trip. Else has a loaded pistol in each hand whilst Ferdinand now carries his scythe. At first, the hound seems not to notice them intent upon its meal. It continues to rip large lumps of flesh from the body in the road and swallow them whole. But as Else and Ferdinand draw closer something alerts it to their presence.
It stops and looks up staring in their direction, its ears flatten on its head and it emits a low prolonged threatening growl. Both Else and Ferdinand will recognise that signal as they will have seen it used many times by feral dogs in the street. It means 'back-off, this is mine', clearly this creature sees you as a threat or a competitor.
[Observation Test]
However, the hound's sudden interest in you has also attracted the attention of others. From beyond the body it was feasting upon a small humanoid figure suddenly gets to its feet and looks in your direction. Whilst beyond it two larger shadows can be seen moving through the mist towards you.
Else and Ferdinand continue to walk slowly towards the hound. It growls menacingly at them but seems reluctant to leave its meal.
Claus is still mounted and has remained with the horses forty paces back down the road.
You are now sixty paces from the hound, still too far for a decent pistol shot. But close enough now to realise that this is no ordinary dog. The size of a small pony or donkey its eyes have a demonic red glow and its hackles are raised as it watches you draw closer.
The diminutive figure you noticed earlier seems unperturbed by the beast and has actually walked over to join it. It too now stares at you as if puzzled and trying to work out who you are. It pats the hound reassuringly on the neck as if to try and calm it.
From farther down the road the two larger shadows are also emerging from the mist drawn to the sound of the growling.
Else's sixth sense is warning her that something isn't right there is a danger here.
Ferdinand realises that the hound in the road looks much more like the wolves he remembers his relatives bringing back for skinning after a successful hunting trip.
[Group Observation Test +10 for improved visibility]
As the haze clears Else suddenly realises what she is looking at. As the small figure turns to reassure the hound its large nose and sharp features confirm it to be a goblin despite the weird fur hat it wears which had hidden its ears.
And the hound isn't a giant dog it must be its mount. A giant wolf feasting on what looks to be a dead horse.
Almost at the same moment, it seems the goblin finally realises what it is looking at.
Two stray humans walking along the road. It lets out a shriek and grabbing the collar of its wolf leaps up into the saddle.
Immediately behind it, two more wolf riding goblins emerge from the mist.
Else's eyes widen, and she stops suddenly in the middle of the road. Then she gestures to Ferdinand to get close to her. "Ferdinand, get behind me - when they are close, let them have whatever you have got up your sleeves. Concentrate on the whichever gets here first - if we kill one the others may lose the stomach for a fight."
Else then raises her voice and bellows over her shoulder towards Claus, but making sure that the Goblins can hear: "Men! To Me! Goblin riders! Form up! Fire on my command!"
She turns back to face the oncoming riders, both pistols aimed at the nearest target. She is hoping to spend extra time getting a good bead on them in order to maximise the chance of getting a good hit.
"Understood," Ferdinand growls slinging his scythe and pulling a handful of nails out of his pocket with his left hand, whilst gripping one nail in his right, he positions his fingers around the nail in the proper shape. At the same time, he runs through the proper pronunciation to invoke his Method and Procedure for Propulsion of Magical Potential From Inanimate Objects in his mind. As soon as one of the creatures gets close enough for his spell, he plans to cast it. If it is a goblin riding a wolf, he will aim for the wolf.
The two additional wolf riders join their comrade on the road taking station either side of him and all three now stare at the odd-looking humans sixty paces away.
Why aren't they running away?
The sudden shout from the one in the elegant feathered hat makes them jump. She seems to be shouting to others hidden in the mist.
Is this a trap of some kind?
They exchange glances and the boss in his new fur hat realises that he needs to do something to exert his authority. He stands in his stirrups points at Else and screams (Gházhakh) "ZOG DEM."
The goblin on the right immediately digs his heels into his mount and it leaps forward covering almost five paces before the rider realises he is on his own and reigns in his mount. Neither of the others has moved and the boss is screaming abuse at the one who failed to obey. A fierce argument ensues and he returns to volunteer his own opinion.
Their mounts meanwhile have their own issues to deal with, the bosses wolf is not happy to have the other two so close to his food and is snapping and snarling at each, in turn, trying to make sure they keep their distance from the dead horse at his feet. But they see this as basically a challenge and whenever it looks away they try and grab a bite for themselves.
None of the goblins or wolves is really paying much attention to Else and Ferdinand at this point.
Just then Carl rides up holding the reins of Clever Hans and Ferdinands borrowed horse. "Thought you might like these." he says as he holds up the reins for Else to see, then stares along the road. "Sigmar preserve us are they goblins?" he exclaims as he notices the noisy argument taking place sixty paces away.
At that moment there is a sudden shriek of alarm as the goblins realise a small knot of horsemen has suddenly appeared on the road not more than few paces away.
It is a trap!
The boss goblin immediately does what any self-respecting leader would do. (Gházhakh) "ZOD OFF." he screams and immediately hauls his mount away from the dead horse and makes off in the opposite direction as fast as he can. The other two racing to catch him up.
Else swings herself back into the saddle. "Looks like a dead horse. Rider could be dead, too. Or not. Let's see. Claus, keep an arrow notched and watch the trees, those Greenskins might find their nerve again out in the mists. Slowly now." She nudges Clever Hans slowly forward towards the dead horse.
Ferdinand raises an eyebrow at Claus. "Witch hunters," he says quietly so that Else cannot overhear. "Invoke more fear than a horde of goblins." He then follows Else to investigate the corpse.
It takes Clever Hans less than six seconds to carry Else the sixty paces to the location of the dead horse. It has been badly mutilated with large lumps of flesh ripped from its fleshy hindquarters and its stomach has been torn open and its entrails pulled out onto the road. Nevertheless, it's immediately obvious that it was somebodies mount as the saddle and harness are still in place.
It doesn't take Else long to spot its rider as she can see another body lying in the road about twenty paces beyond the horse. Presumably, that was what the goblin was doing whilst his wolf was left feeding on the horse. "Claus, keep your eyes open and an arrow nocked. Master Gruber, let's check this poor unfortunate." Else and Ferdinand ride over to body lying in the road whilst Claus keeps watch for shadows in the mist.
Else dismounts to examine the body, assuming it to be deceased. It's not difficult to identify the man lying in the road. He is the bounty hunter she met last night in Ardlich. It appears he will not be collecting on his bounty after all. His throat has been cut and he is laying on his back his coat and pouches ripped open and pockets pulled out. The goblin has clearly rifled through his possessions and anything it found of value has been taken including his distinctive fur hat and his weapons. Anything the goblin didn't want has been discarded on the road including his guild badge, his coin purse and its contents, a small folding cameo case and several documents.
Ferdinand dismounts from his horse and handing the reins to Else begins to gather the various documents scattered around the corpse. Some are soaked in blood or mud and almost illegible but one is legible and appears to be a letter the Bounty Hunter had written and planned to send to his wife. "Perhaps these will illuminate the mystery of the bounty hunter's quarry."
Ferdinand shows the letter to Else. "Hmm. If I am interpreting this letter correctly, it appears that one of the Drakenbergs themselves was this man's quarry. It would be highly unusual for a bounty to be raised for a noble, would it not? As to the frogs, this appears to be some sort of medical procedure. Alas, I do not have much knowledge of such things." Ferdinand attempts to investigate the man's cheek, to see if there are any marks or sores on it, though he will take care to avoid touching the spot lest it be infectious.
The cheek of the corpse does seem to have a discolouration but wine coloured birthmarks are not that uncommon even though they are a cause for concern by some.
Else takes the documents from Ferdinand "Thank you! Ferdinand. Please gather the rest of the poor fool's possessions - the badge, the purse, and that cameo case. We'll need to get him off the road." Else stows the documents temporarily in her tunic, grabs the mans ankles and attempts to drag him to the side of the road. "We've nothing to dig. A grave with. Have to make do. With a pyre. Can't leave him. To wolves."
Else casts about for brushwood sufficient to burn the corpse and strips off his clothing, hoping to use it as kindling.
Time: Noon
Weather: (Dull) The mist clears and visibility returns to normal
Carl helps Else drag the dead man off the road. Fortunately, Carl also has a hand axe and so sets about cutting some wood for a pyre, whilst Else gathers as much nearby brushwood as she can find without wandering too far into the mist. By the time they are finished, it is almost noon and a pale watery sun has finally sucked up all the mist. There is no sign of the goblins. Instead, they find themselves on a lonely road somewhere in the Hohenlach Hills overlooking the river Bogen in the valley below. Ferdinand assists Else with gathering the bounty hunters possessions. While doing so he looks inside the cameo case and purse. The small polished wooden cameo case contains a small somewhat faded portrait of a rather severe-looking middle-aged woman. As he opened it a small wisp of hair dropped out and was blown away by the wind.
There was nothing else inside the case. The small leather purse contains twelve silver imperial shillings and four brass pennies.
He also assists with the pyre but does not offer up the sticks he is carrying.
While doing so he asks some more questions. "Do you make anything of the discussion of frogs? Also, is our course of action changed at all due to the knowledge of this bounty?"
Assured that there are no signs of further corruption on the body, Else lights the pyre and absent-mindedly warms her back against the fire. "I agree with you Ferdinand, the frogs sound like some kind of treatment for the affliction that he describes. Not something I would imagine being effective against what sounds like a serious ailment: bleeding, sores, etc. His family appear to have ben struck by the same scourge, his father dead. His brother Adolphous is also in the bounty hunting trade by the sound of things and has an elf as a target in Altdorf, from where the deceased no doubt hails. The bounty for the woman being sought by Iggie here is much greater though than that for the Elf - enough for him and his family to start a new life? So, I would again agree, perhaps a Drakenburg noblewoman. Someone with a connection to the elf, perhaps, unless the two bounties are unrelated... Let's see what else these documents might tell us...".
She removes the papers from her tunic and reads them by the light of the crackling fire which is by now giving off an unsettling smell of roasting meat, which Else doesn't seem to notice.
Else rifles through the documents Ferdinand handed to her. Most are of little interest and clearly just pamphlets that the man collected on his journey probably from locals.
Else scowls at the warrant, then shows it to Ferdinand, briefly. "A Drakenburg wanted for sedition! What is she supposed to have done I wonder? Incited a riot in the Imperial capital?"
"Hmm". Ferdinand's eyes widen, "I had long thought that most of my fellow nobles had such narcissistic personalities that they were incapable of seeing the flaws inherent in our government." His voice picks up volume and his nostrils flare as he continues, "Not just the classist and nepotistic systems, but also the reliance of laws drawn from superstition. . ." Ferdinand loses all steam and his voice fades as he glances at Else, remembering who he is speaking with. "Either way, I doubt this has much to do with those that attacked the barracks in Bogenhafen."
Ferdinand's words halt Else for a second, but she shakes off that line of thought, "Muller thought different by the sounds of things. But he may not have been the smartest of men."
Else stows the luckless bounty hunter's possessions in her saddlebags (intending to have them sent back to Altdorf when she reaches Drakenburg) and remembers to check the deceased horse's saddlebags before they continue on towards their destination.
The horse's saddlebags have been emptied by the goblins. From the few crumbs remaining, it looks like their main content had been food probably field rations for the journey. The bounty hunters blankets and spare clothing seems to have been taken also together with his hat and weapons.
The saddle and horse harness is still on the horse and might be worth something to Ferdinand if he ever gets his own horse. It's just a bit bulky to carry around.
Ferdinand notices Else inspecting the saddlebags."What shall we do with the gear for the horse? It would be regrettable to leave it on the road. However, shipment to Altdorf could be expensive."
"Strap it to your horse. As far as I'm concerned it's yours unless Muller's guild claims it. Let's get going. Claus, we're moving out. Stay alert."
A closer inspection reveals that the horse tack is branded on the inside with an owners mark though none of you recognises who it belongs to. After some fiddling, everything is strapped to the back of someone's horse and leaving the funeral pyre still burning you set off once more for Drakenburg.
Time: Early Afternoon
Weather: (Bright) A chill breeze clears the clouds and the day becomes bright and clear.
The road dips down into the valley and begins to follow the north bank of the Bogen. The river here is unnavigable, at least by trade barges and the flow is fast and frequently broken by rocky rapids and occasional waterfalls.
Nevertheless, a couple of hours into your journey a riverside inn appears ahead.
Claus points to the inn ahead "I usually stop here for a bite and a wet." he comments to Else hopefully.
"Agreed. But keep your guard up. We don't know who is in there." Else warns.
The inn is smaller than usual for a roadside inn but retains the usual features. A high wall surrounds the stable yard the doors are stout and the windows have shutters. You hand your horses over to the stable boy and slip him a few coins for feeding and watering them then follow Claus into the bar.
Claus walks around to the bar counter and greets the elderly overweight female tavern-keeper who is busy playing some sort of solitary card game on the countertop. "Shallya's blessing on you Enna. We haven't eaten since breakfast, so what can you offer?"
"Bit late fer food. But I can let yer have some cold cuts, bread an cheese" Enna answers giving Else and Ferdinand a suspicious glance."Strange company yer keeping these days boy." she remarks sweeping the cards under the counter.
Ferdinand approaches the bar and takes a seat. "Good evening, barkeep. It is a bit chilly out today. Could you please inform me as to the local specialty drink?"
Else rolls her eyes at Ferdinand's pursuit of new drinking experiences, turning to scan the room while wondering whether their quarry might perhaps have eaten here already and just left, or might even be about to walk in this very moment. "I'll have whatever you're having, Claus", she mutters over her shoulder as she stares intensely at the Inn's front door, willing it to open, with one hand hovering over the grip of her sheathed sword.
The tavern looks pretty empty. There are three others present though one a rather plump man of average height with a wild unkempt beard and rustic complexion quaff's the last of his ale and heads for the door. "Gonna get on Enna, place just got crowded. Might see'ya later." he comments.
The remaining two are both female and look like local rustic's. They sit in the corner and watch you with vague interest whilst nursing their drinks. One is elderly thin and boney with very pronounced teeth, the other is quite young, short and heavily built and with a tanned weather-beaten complexion with thick straight hair.
While waiting for the food and drink, Else decides to do some subtle probing, telling herself to tread a little more softly this time. She saunters over to the pair of women and touches the brim of her hat in welcome. "Good afternoon there." She looks after the departed third party, and offers a sympathetic observation: "Strangers coming in off the road and crowding out the regulars must be something of a common problem for a roadside Inn such as this one."
The older woman laughs "He just hates strangers. We don't get that many around here." The younger woman just giggles.
As Else is talking to the customers, Ferdinand talks to the innkeeper, figuring he couldn't be much worse at gathering information than Else was at the last inn.
"It seems as though my appearance has made your customer uncomfortable. I apologize for the lost business. Why was he in such a rush?"
"Don't bother yourself about him, anyone he doesn't know makes Hud uncomfortable. That's why he hangs around here." replies the woman dismissively. "I'm surprised you don't see many strangers given your place just off the road. Are we the first to come through for some time then?" asks Else.
The woman behind the bar hears Else's comment "Not today we haven't only an idiot would travel over the Hohenlach's in this weather." the Tavern Keeper replies with a smirk. "Past couple days, perhaps? Surely we cannot be the strangest visitors you've seen recently," adds Ferdinand. The woman raises her eyebrows but doesn't comment. Like a tall dark man in a black robe carrying a scythe should be asking such questions. "This ain't no Imperial Highway and the rivers shallow enough to walk across. Mebbe one day if the Duke gets 'is finger out Drakenburg will be the place to visit. But fer the minute we make do with the likes of Claus here and the occasional Road Warden patrol." she finally adds by way of explanation. "Well I'll drink to that. Thanks for your hospitality, Enna." comments Else raising her glass. "Talking of Wardens. When you next see one, tell them there's a bounty hunter named Muller died on the Bögenhafen stretch of road earlier today. We found his body and drove off the Greenskins that did for him. Burned the corpse. We'll hand his badge in at Drakenburg I guess." The tavern keeper seems remarkably unsurprised by the mention of goblins "Probly won't see none till tomorrow now." she answers "Unless the Merchant Guild kicks up a fuss to the Duke and the Duke gives 'em a kick up the arse they prefer to avoid travelling the road in the mist or rain and this mornings mist would have persuaded them to stay at home. Takes a whole day to make the trip. But I'll tell 'em when I see 'em." She suddenly frowns and then claps her hands sharply to get the other women's attention. "Oi! Come on you two its time to earn yer keep. These coves need feeding. See what we have in the kitchen. Chop! Chop!" The two women quickly empty their glasses and wander off through a door behind the bar. The younger one giggling at the strangers and obviously trying to flirt with Claus. A few minutes later they are back each carrying a number of plates and bowls which they lay out on a table in the middle of the bar. Giving the strangers a mock curtesy before returning to their own seats in the corner. Claus wanders over to the table and sits down taking a plate and a knife. The table is set with a range of food items. Thick cut local black bread, a bowl of dripping, a slab of solid cheese, a small joint of cold mutton, a plate of braun and some sort of vinegar sauce. Claus begins helping himself to the bread and spreading it thickly with the dripping before eating it hungrily.
Else tucks in, but avoids the vinegar sauce, passing it to Ferdinand and pointing at the braun while she chews on some bread and cheese.
Ferdinand eagerly starts eating, focusing on the brawn like Claus but trying a bit of everything.
Time: Late Afternoon
Weather (Sunny) The watery sun has soaked up all the mist and the day mild and sunny.
Having finished your meal and settled the bill with Enna the three of you retrieve your horses from the stable boy and make your way westwards once more. As you leave you notice the man the women called Hud down by the river bank fishing but he takes no notice of you. The road continues to follow the river for some time as it gradually climbs up into the foothills of The Grey Mountains. Claus points out an old tower on the far bank he refers to as the Seesenschloss presumably part of the old defences of the Empire. After some time the road fords a shallow stream, one of the upper tributaries of the Bogen and shortly afterwards it abandons the river valley and begins to climb directly up into a wide pass between the Hohenlach Hils and the Drakenburg Heights. As late afternoon approaches and the sun begins to set you arrive at a village Claus calls Fraglich. It sits across the junction of two roads, the one from Bogenhafen and another which joins it from the head of the Bogen valley.
The village looks about the same size as Herzhald but unlike that settlement, this one has all the trappings of a border outpost. It is surrounded by a stout palisade and a ditch and is guarded by a watchtower close to the western edge guard the approach down the pass.
Claus leads you through the eastern gate and along a narrow street towards the town centre. The local people look sturdy and self-reliant as one might expect in a border outpost of the Empire. Many wear furs and carry bows or axes and there is much more diversity in the population with quite a few dwarves and even a few Bretonnians with their strange clothing and accents.
Claus pulls up in the town centre. "We are about halfway to Drakenburg" he announces "But there isn't much between here and there other than the little hamlet of Kreuzstadt. Did you want to eat here or keep going?"
Else glances at the position of the sun "If we push on will we make it to Kreuzstadt before dark?"
Claus looks at the sun and screws up his nose as he considers the question. "We can easily make it to Kreuzstadt before dark, but there ain't much there, to be honest. It's smaller than this place. If we're pushing on I suggest that we keep going to Drakenburg. As long as we don't dawdle we can make it before dusk I think."
"Then let's go. Ferdinand, we push on." decides Else.
Ferdinand sighs and shifts awkwardly in his saddle, trying to rub the soreness out of his rear and legs. "Agreed.
Time: Early Evening
Weather: (Sunny) The watery sun has soaked up all the mist and the day mild and sunny.
You decide to keep going and Claus leads you through Fraglich and out along another road that snakes its way up the pass towards The Grey Mountains. It looks as though it will be a fine bright evening, the snow-covered peaks seem to glow in the light of the setting sun. Were it not for your sore thighs and buttocks it might even have been pleasant. You pass another fortified tower Claus refers to as 'Rotefelsenburg' guarding the passage through the foothills and after almost two hours in the saddle you finally arrive at Kreuzstadt.
Like Fraglich, Kreuzstadt sits astride the road through the pass and is surrounded by a ditch and wooden palisade. But Kreuzstadt is much smaller, little more than a tavern with a few huts clustered around it.
The narrow pass widens at this point into an open rolling plain edged with a forest in the far distance. A hidden valley sheltered by the Hohenlach Hills to the east and the foothills of The Grey Mountains to the west. Sheep can be seen wandering across it in small flocks.
Claus leads you through the village waving to anyone he recognises and exchanging greetings. The road continues through the hamlet across the plain towards the wooded foothills of the mountains. But Claus leads you southwards now taking a narrow winding road that climbs up a narrow gorge into the wooded hills to the south.
"Not long Now" he assures you "Just keep alert these woods can sometimes be treacherous"
However, as the sun finally begins to set behind The Grey Mountains you emerge from the woods to see Castle Drakenburg shining like a golden vision in the sunset on the heights just a few minutes ride away.
You pick up the pace keen to at last get off your horses and spur your horses forward entering the small town which is nestled around the based of its walls for protection.
"Welcome to Drakenburg" announces Claus dramatically and urges his horse up the steep approach road towards the castle gates.
You ride through the gate into the lower courtyard and two stable boys quickly emerge to take your horses.
"Are you going directly to call on the Duke?" asks Claus dismounting "If so I shall take my leave and deliver these messages to his steward."
"Thank you, Claus. You have my gratitude. We will no doubt see you again either here or on some future road. I wish you safe travels." replies Else. "Ferdinand, we should attempt an audience with the Duke or his daughter this evening. I am conscious that our foes may have outpaced us and be amongst us as we speak."
"Yes, I would be interested in meeting this daughter. Although the warrant for her may indicate that she is in hiding. In such a case, we would be relegated to speaking with the Duke instead. I will remain alert to threats from within the castle." Ferdinand adds scanning his surroundings and looking for any sign of their enemies or anybody taking undue notice of them (undue, that is, beyond the looks the two would normally elicit).
"Just to be clear, Ferdinand. I would keep the existence of that warrant between ourselves until we share the news with the Duke or his daughter. If they don't already know about it, I would rather they heard it direct from us rather than some other way." warns Else.
"Oh yes, of course!" Ferdinand lowers his voice. "We must be diplomatic. Although I would be curious to find out if the Duke has some more information regarding the nature of her actions, to have led to such allegations."
Please Continue on Session 1: The Dragons Lair
The Road To Bogenhafen
Date: Festag 23rd Day of Vorhexen 2512 IC,Time: Dawn,
Weather: Cloudy strong blustery winds from the south-east
Arrival In Bogenhafen
Festag 23rd Day of Vorhexen 2512 ICTime Noon
Weather Mist: The wind drops and a chill mist rises from the river reducing visibility to 100 paces.
Entering Bogenhafen
Festag 23rd Day of Vorhexen 2512 ICTime Early Afternoon
Weather (Overcast) The mist has cleared but it remains dull and overcast.
Else and Ferdinand enter Bogenhafen through the west gate and make their way slowly down Bergstrasse towards the centre of the town and the Merchants Guild House leaving Ernst and the drays behind at the gate sorting out their tolls. The guards on the gate took one look at Else and Ferdinand and waved them through with the usual marks of respect for an obvious agent of Sigmar. The mist is not as thick within the walls, though the day remains dull and overcast. However, unlike the villagers of Herzhald, the townsfolk of Bogenhafen are at least making an effort to celebrate Festag and the main streets are full of townsfolk in colourful costumes and hawkers selling candied fruit and freshly baked pies and sausage. By the time Else and Ferdinand reach the edge of the Dreiecke Platz they seem to have acquired a small following. Mostly children dressed as various woodlands creatures with a smattering of goblins and fairies. However, there are quite a number of adults keeping pace with the group some of whom are also in costume or wearing masks. There seems to be an air of anticipation from the group as if Else and Ferdinand are part of the entertainment and you overhear a few comments admiring your costumes and speculating about what they represent and the type of performance you are about to deliver. Nevertheless, you manage to reach the Guild House and climb the wide steps to its stout double door without incident only to discover that its locked and bolted.
The Dreiecke Platz
As they are pushing through the crowds, Ferdinand waves awkwardly at the costumed children following them, and puts on an unconvincing grin. He purchases a pie from one of the vendors and eats it happily while walking. "Wow! These spices are much more savoury than those I am acclimated to!," he exclaims through a mouth full of food, "Though my memories must have deceived me, as I do not recall the buildings being so ramshackle, nor all the dirt. They seemed quite large and grand last time I was in town." After Else tries the door to the Guild House and finds it locked, Ferdinand licks his lips from the last of the pie and asks, "What are our intentions at this establishment? I had expected you to be leading us to locate more food or the instrument sellers." Else bangs as loudly as she can on the Guildhall door. "Yes, yes. We have time for all that. I was hoping to deliver a letter, first." Else frowns at the door, as if that might help it to open. The scene is now rather awkward as having climbed the flight of steps to reach the wide doors of the Guild House you can now see quite a large crowd of costumed children and supporting adults, presumably their parents, gathering expectantly at the foot of the steps below you. Else begins to feel somewhat exposed almost as though she is on a stage and bangs more urgently on the Guild House doors. Meanwhile, from this raised location Ferdinand can now see right across the triangle-shaped plaza. In the eastern corner is a prestigious looking building all covered in gilt carvings with decorated columns and spires, in front of which stands a large statue of what looks like a boatman holding a fish. Beyond it and forming the northern side of the square is a larger and more sombrely decorated building with long windows, the facade of which includes a prominent relief showing the Goddess Verena advising a group of what look like judges and merchants. Whilst directly opposite you is a collection of smaller buildings linked by covered ways and heavily decorated with images of golden fish. It's clear from the tables and chairs arranged outside this building that it must be some sort of high-class eating establishment. However, much as its architecture was of interest what was happening in the plaza was even more so, for the entire space seemed to be filled with revellers and entertainers. Ferdinand can see people dancing on the far side led by a strange individual dressed in greenery and playing a pipe. Whilst everywhere he looks there are musicians, jugglers, mime artists and even acrobats performing for the crowd. It looked like a fair or festival of some sort and many people were wearing strange costumes for the occasion, not just the performers. The only oddity that caught Ferdinand's eye was that on the raised plinth where the statue of the boatman sat a set of stocks had been constructed and here some poor unfortunate was being pelted with rotten fruit and what looked like fish guts by an enthusiastic crowd of cheering townsfolk. At last Else's banging seemed to get a response from inside the Guild House. There was the sound of cursing and angry words muffled by the door and the distinct sound of something being dragged across a stone floor towards them. After several more seconds of cursing and scraping from beyond the heavy doors a small panel in the door level with Elses head flys open and a wizened white-bearded face appears.The Guilder Gnome
The Mistress of Mayhem
The Fish Man
- There was Lilith Brandywine who lived locally with her three sisters and her ageing mother. She was a jailor at the local jail and Else might be able to order her to help.
- Then there was Emma Schnellin a local pedlar Else rescued her from some thugs a few months ago and she might be willing to reciprocate now.
- Or Karl Kotulla the river pilot. He lived in the town with his family and might find it a good investment to have a Witch Hunter owe him a favour.
The Wagon and Horses
Else smiles at the slightly awkward expression of gratitude. "No need to thank me, Ferdinand. At present, you are my responsibility, after all. In fact, I should have been keeping a closer eye on you. I shouldn't have let you get into such a sticky situation. Now," she blinks as she tries to move on from the unintentional pun, "I'm afraid I must take you directly to the nearest jail. .. Don't worry, I know the jailer - she might be able to help with your ... apparel." GM: The prison is at Fort Blackfire the watch barracks hard under the town wall to the north of town in the area known locally as 'The Pit'. To get there Else and Ferdinand will have to cross the river using Kringler's ferry. It's up to Else whether she takes her horse or pays for it to be stabled this side of the river. Either way, it will cost money.GM Note: The prison is at Fort Blackfire the watch barracks hard under the town wall to the north of town in the area known locally as 'The Pit'. To get there Else and Ferdinand will have to cross the river using Kringler's Ferry . It's up to Else whether she takes her horse or pays for it to be stabled this side of the river. Either way, it will cost money.Looking at her companion afresh, Else reconsiders making the long journey across town in the company of a bald, feathered, giant and tries to think of a tavern in the vicinity that she feels might be sympathetic to their situation. A brush, some soap and water, a temporary change of clothes - someplace slightly upmarket perhaps. Used to accommodating visiting merchants, etc., as they visit the guild quarter. Else mentally runs through the options in her head. The Journey's End - The local Coaching Inn near the East Gate was where the coaches from Nuln picked up and dropped off their passengers. But it was a long way from this alley just off the Hafenstrasse and would involve another trip through the realm of the Mistress of Mayhem to reach. The Cross Pikes - was where she would normally stay but it was close to the postern gate on the same side of town as The Journeys End and so held the same dangers.
The Rosen Allee Incident
Festag 23rd Day of Vorhexen 2512 ICTime Mid-Afternoon
Weather (Overcast) The mist has cleared but it remains dull and overcast.
Professional Conflict
Festag 23rd Day of Vorhexen 2512 ICTime Dusk
Weather (Windy) The wind picks up and blows away the mist of the morning.
An Early Night
Date: Festag 23rd Day of Vorhexen 2512 ICTime: Nightfall
Weather: (Overcast) The wind has dropped again and the clouds have returned
A Late Breakfast
Date: Wellentag 24th Day of Vorhexen 2512 ICTime: Dawn
Weather: (Mist) Visibility is less than 100 yards
Else rises just before dawn and after going through her painful morning penance, dresses slowly and enters the bar feeling fatigued and uncomfortable to find Ferdinand and Carl already up and dressed. "Ah! Hunter, you are awake," observes Carl through a mouth full of oatmeal "two Road Wardens turned up after you had retired an told me to tell you that the watch found no trace of those criminals in Bogenhafen. The best guess is that they went over the wall during the night, or perhaps slipped away on a barge." He takes a swig of his cider to clear his pallet "They were going to stay and escort us to Drakenburg but there's been a bit of a ruckus in the village overnight. A lot of the animals have gone missing and the wardens are off helping the local watch try and track down the thieves. Mind you they'll be lucky to find anything in this mornings fog." "Oh! An that Bounty Hunter you spoke to last night. He was here earlier and left a few minutes ago. Camilla reckons he was heading for Drakenburg." Claus pauses suddenly aware of the sickly pallor on the witch hunters face. "Are you all right, you look more tired now than before you went to your bed?" Before Else can answer Ferdinand pulls her aside. "In developing theories it is often prudent, to begin with, the simplest possible explanation and disprove that before adding complexity. In this case that would lead me to develop the theory that these livestock disappearances are connected with our strange quarry. Would you concur?" Else frowns "Perhaps you are right, Ferdinand. But your theory would also imply that our friendly Bounty Hunter's quarry is connected with the magic-using foreigners that we seek - and he has headed on to Drakenburg, not back to Bögenhafen! My gut says we should make haste in the same direction - but perhaps we can get some information about the livestock thieves before we head out - and that might allow some time for the fog to lift... " Else can't help feeling somewhat relieved at the prospect of a little more time before saddling up and subjecting her body to the discomfort of the saddle, "What do you think?" "Yes, I agree." Ferdinand looks over at Else, a strange quirk to his lip that she eventually recognizes is him trying to suppress a grin. "Perhaps the livestock thief is another Ferdinand!" He lets the grin break out fully, having revealed his joke. Else frowns slightly, as she turns back to Claus, not seeing much to grin about and confused by Ferdinands apparent good humour. "I feel absolutely fine, Keller. These wardens and watchmen, do you know where were they headed?" "They headed back towards Bogenhafen. At least that was the direction their trail led." Claus returns to his oatmeal and cider leaving Else and Ferdinand to sort their own breakfast. "Back to Bogenhafen. I am getting a bit tired of retracing our steps." Ferdinand does not like the thought of returning to the realm of the Mistress of Mayhem so soon. He turns to Else "Perhaps your initial inclinations are correct, and we should proceed post-haste towards Drakenburg." He pauses, "After having a cider and some oatmeal before departing, of course." noting how drawn she looks. Else sits down gratefully at the table. "We should probably find out more before we leave for Drakenburg. When we've eaten. Can you see to the horses, Claus?" Claus nods and continues eating. Ferdinand and I will talk with the authorities. Then, when we return here, we will make speed for Drakenburg. Hopefully with better visibility." Else agrees. "Breakfast, and then full speed to Drakenburg."
An Encounter In the Mist
Date: Wellentag 24th Day of Vorhexen 2512 ICTime: Mid-Morning
Weather: (Mist) Visibility is less than 100 yards
Having completed their breakfast Else and Ferdinand leave the tavern to join Claus with the horses. They mount immediately and head for Drakenburg as fast as the roads and mist will allow. Two hours later they are making good progress and though the mist continues to limit the visibility of their immediate surroundings Claus seems confident of the route. However, as they crest a small rise Claus suddenly pulls up sharp and signals them to stop. Something is clearly moving on the road ahead and from the vague outline in the mist, it looks like a large hound. You can hear it snarling and growling as it tugs at something large laying in the road in front of it. Claus immediately begins to prepare his bow. Else dismounts and loads her pistols, scanning the scene to see if the hound has an owner. "Keep a tight reign on your horse hunter. If that thing has friends you might need it." warns Claus. Else completes the loading of her pistols. 'Clever Hans' waits patiently but its ears twitch nervously at the sound it can hear from the road ahead. [Group Observation Test] Ferdinand stares intently at the mist around him. The hound looks larger than usual, more like a pony or a donkey in size. It's certainly bigger than the wolves his relatives used to hunt in Estalia but similar in appearance, but Ferdinand always thought that wolves hunted in packs. Whatever it is eating is too big to be a sheep, it looks like a horse. No wonder the horses are nervous. Ferdinand dismounts from his horse and ties it close to where Else tied 'Clever Hans'. He reaches for a nail from his pocket, then looks at Else thinks better of it, sighs, and unhooks the scythe from his back instead. "The size of this creature appears to fall beyond the standard deviation expected for a hound. Unless the hounds here in the Reikland are larger than I am used to in Marienburg, I would suggest that perhaps this creature has been afflicted with a mutation," he comments. Else keeps her eyes fixed on the dog. "It's big. Yes." She begins to cautiously move towards the hound, quietly, hoping to get within close range before dispatching it. But ready to fire upon it if it attacks. "Watch the trees, Ferdinand, it may have family." Ferdinand looks to the trees and trying to see if he can detect anything hiding within them. Having secured their horses and prepared themselves Else and Ferdinand begin to advance slowly along the road towards the hound. Claus remains stubbornly in the saddle but has prepared his bow and nocked an arrow. This road is not an Imperial Highway and its surface is in need of repair Else and Ferdinand take care to avoid the occasional pothole on its surface not wishing to trip. Else has a loaded pistol in each hand whilst Ferdinand now carries his scythe. At first, the hound seems not to notice them intent upon its meal. It continues to rip large lumps of flesh from the body in the road and swallow them whole. But as Else and Ferdinand draw closer something alerts it to their presence.
The Mist Clears
Date: Wellentag 24th Day of Vorhexen 2512 ICTime: Noon
Weather: (Dull) The mist clears and visibility returns to normal
Carl helps Else drag the dead man off the road. Fortunately, Carl also has a hand axe and so sets about cutting some wood for a pyre, whilst Else gathers as much nearby brushwood as she can find without wandering too far into the mist. By the time they are finished, it is almost noon and a pale watery sun has finally sucked up all the mist. There is no sign of the goblins. Instead, they find themselves on a lonely road somewhere in the Hohenlach Hills overlooking the river Bogen in the valley below. Ferdinand assists Else with gathering the bounty hunters possessions. While doing so he looks inside the cameo case and purse. The small polished wooden cameo case contains a small somewhat faded portrait of a rather severe-looking middle-aged woman. As he opened it a small wisp of hair dropped out and was blown away by the wind.
- There's a pamphlet from Weissbruck calling for the expulsion of all dwarves from the town as they are no longer needed to work the mines and just hanging about causing trouble.
- A menu from the Festal Rest on the Bogenhafen/Weisbridge road.
- Apparently, someone has paid for pamphlets claiming that there is a werewolf in the cellars of Castle Grauenburg that is preying on local sheep.
- A menu from The Journey's End in Bogenhafen.
A Road Less Travelled
Date: Wellentag 24th Day of Vorhexen 2512 ICTime: Early Afternoon
Weather: (Bright) A chill breeze clears the clouds and the day becomes bright and clear.
"Don't bother yourself about him, anyone he doesn't know makes Hud uncomfortable. That's why he hangs around here." replies the woman dismissively. "I'm surprised you don't see many strangers given your place just off the road. Are we the first to come through for some time then?" asks Else.
The woman behind the bar hears Else's comment "Not today we haven't only an idiot would travel over the Hohenlach's in this weather." the Tavern Keeper replies with a smirk. "Past couple days, perhaps? Surely we cannot be the strangest visitors you've seen recently," adds Ferdinand. The woman raises her eyebrows but doesn't comment. Like a tall dark man in a black robe carrying a scythe should be asking such questions. "This ain't no Imperial Highway and the rivers shallow enough to walk across. Mebbe one day if the Duke gets 'is finger out Drakenburg will be the place to visit. But fer the minute we make do with the likes of Claus here and the occasional Road Warden patrol." she finally adds by way of explanation. "Well I'll drink to that. Thanks for your hospitality, Enna." comments Else raising her glass. "Talking of Wardens. When you next see one, tell them there's a bounty hunter named Muller died on the Bögenhafen stretch of road earlier today. We found his body and drove off the Greenskins that did for him. Burned the corpse. We'll hand his badge in at Drakenburg I guess." The tavern keeper seems remarkably unsurprised by the mention of goblins "Probly won't see none till tomorrow now." she answers "Unless the Merchant Guild kicks up a fuss to the Duke and the Duke gives 'em a kick up the arse they prefer to avoid travelling the road in the mist or rain and this mornings mist would have persuaded them to stay at home. Takes a whole day to make the trip. But I'll tell 'em when I see 'em." She suddenly frowns and then claps her hands sharply to get the other women's attention. "Oi! Come on you two its time to earn yer keep. These coves need feeding. See what we have in the kitchen. Chop! Chop!" The two women quickly empty their glasses and wander off through a door behind the bar. The younger one giggling at the strangers and obviously trying to flirt with Claus. A few minutes later they are back each carrying a number of plates and bowls which they lay out on a table in the middle of the bar. Giving the strangers a mock curtesy before returning to their own seats in the corner. Claus wanders over to the table and sits down taking a plate and a knife. The table is set with a range of food items. Thick cut local black bread, a bowl of dripping, a slab of solid cheese, a small joint of cold mutton, a plate of braun and some sort of vinegar sauce. Claus begins helping himself to the bread and spreading it thickly with the dripping before eating it hungrily.
Onward and Upward
Date: Wellentag 24th Day of Vorhexen 2512 ICTime: Late Afternoon
Weather (Sunny) The watery sun has soaked up all the mist and the day mild and sunny.
Having finished your meal and settled the bill with Enna the three of you retrieve your horses from the stable boy and make your way westwards once more. As you leave you notice the man the women called Hud down by the river bank fishing but he takes no notice of you. The road continues to follow the river for some time as it gradually climbs up into the foothills of The Grey Mountains. Claus points out an old tower on the far bank he refers to as the Seesenschloss presumably part of the old defences of the Empire. After some time the road fords a shallow stream, one of the upper tributaries of the Bogen and shortly afterwards it abandons the river valley and begins to climb directly up into a wide pass between the Hohenlach Hils and the Drakenburg Heights. As late afternoon approaches and the sun begins to set you arrive at a village Claus calls Fraglich. It sits across the junction of two roads, the one from Bogenhafen and another which joins it from the head of the Bogen valley.
A Painful Decision
Date: Wellentag 24th Day of Vorhexen 2512 ICTime: Early Evening
Weather: (Sunny) The watery sun has soaked up all the mist and the day mild and sunny.
You decide to keep going and Claus leads you through Fraglich and out along another road that snakes its way up the pass towards The Grey Mountains. It looks as though it will be a fine bright evening, the snow-covered peaks seem to glow in the light of the setting sun. Were it not for your sore thighs and buttocks it might even have been pleasant. You pass another fortified tower Claus refers to as 'Rotefelsenburg' guarding the passage through the foothills and after almost two hours in the saddle you finally arrive at Kreuzstadt.
Else leads the horses and Ferdinand around to the stable block and deals with the practicalities of their food and welfare. There is some discussion about the extra tack but the stable boy says he will take care of it and store it in the tack room until you want it back.Else and Ferdinand make their way to the main reception room and ring the bell to attract the Steward. It takes a few minutes before he appears during which time you get to admire the family portraits and local art collection. There is even one of Sali and her two brothers. SESSION CLOSED
Please Continue on Session 1: The Dragons Lair
Rewards Granted
Missions/Quests Completed
- Else and Ferdinand experience Festag in Bogenhafen
- Find further evidence of the others hunting for Salundra.
- Decide to travel on to Castle Drakenburg to warn the Duke.
- Meet a Bounty Hunter called Igor Muller on a secret mission.
- Later encounter Goblins on the road to Fraglich and discover they have murdered Igor.
- Uncover the fact that the Bounty Hunter had a warrant for Salundra.
- Deal with the Bounty Hunters body.
- Visit the rather strange Temple's Tower Inn for lunch.
- Proceed with haste through Fraglich and Kreuzstadt to reach Castle Drakenburg as dusk settles.
Character(s) interacted with
In approximate order of appearance:
Ernst Drayman
Morris Whitebeard
The Mistress of Mayhem
Gunther The Fish Man
Erich Jaeger
Camilla Holkzkurg
Igor Muller
Althaea Ostoroth
Enna Klump
Solla Renmann
Ernst Drayman
Morris Whitebeard
The Mistress of Mayhem
Gunther The Fish Man
Erich Jaeger
Camilla Holkzkurg
Igor Muller
Althaea Ostoroth
Enna Klump
Solla Renmann
Created Content
Related Reports
Notes
The Festag scene in Bogenhafen was really inspired by Lucy Worseley's documentary on 'The Twelve Days of Christmas' and was intended to deal with the question of what people in the Empire do on their day off. The Lord of Misrule being replaced in this instance by a rather over-zealous The Mistress of Mayhem . Which incidentally was the title my son adopted as Guild Leader of the 'Mayhem' guild when we played Warhammer Online.
The basic idea behind the scene was that the Bogenhafen Merchants Guild had persuaded the Town Council to support the idea of organised celebrations and activities every Festag to keep the local townsfolk occupied entertained and out of trouble. The logic being that if you didn't take charge and direct their energies then they would probably entertain themselves with much more uncontrolled outcomes. It was also reasoned that a reputation for entertaining Festag events would attract more visitors to the town and provide an additional opportunity for local merchants to profit on a day which would otherwise be wasted.
So, the tradition was created and members of the Merchants Guild take turns to host and manage the festivities every week.
Else Sigloben
Ferdinand Gruber
Report Date
20 Jan 2021
Primary Location
Secondary Location
Comments