1.0 Introduction

Roland seems to relax with the encouraging support received by his protégés. He smiles a genuine smile and says, "Thank you. You never cease to amaze me." He glances over at Rufio. "Rufio, please sit down. Actually please all sit down."

"I am reassured you accept this task willingly, even not knowing what it is. I sincerely hope this is a simple task, and I am not putting you in danger." Roland stands, and he bonds his hands behind his bank. His tall imposing frame appears to look bigger with you all seated. "Two evenings ago Milly went missing. You know her don't you?"

The question is rhetorical, because you all do know Milly. She is an out going blonde girl of 14 years old. Although not part of your peer group, everyone knows Milly. She is training to be a bard, and her skill set is very much comedic performance. She really has talent, and regularly entertains the orphanage with her quick wit and off the wall antics. Something of an extrovert, she oozes charisma, and everyone enjoys spending time with her. Now Roland mentions it, you don't recall exactly when you last saw her.

"Well, you may not be aware of this", (he glances at Rufio and Samej), "but we do have a head count every night, and we knew she wasn't here two nights ago. I spent the whole day yesterday looking for her, and I drew on favors and contacts around town to seek rumors about where she might be." He rubs his brow and frowns. "It seems a missing 14 year old orphan is nowhere near the top of people's priorities in a city like this." His tone of voice sounds incredulous. "So, if there is one thing I've learned from years of adventuring, it's we must look after our own!"

"My sources tell me she was kidnapped." His eyes bulge in astonishment as if saying it aloud made the truth real. "Who would do such a thing?... So, we must find her. I mean, you must find her."

"Yes! Let's not dally! Milly was last seen in The Market. A young rogue saw three cloaked men grab her. The action was swift, and she barely managed to scream, I am told. I was told this by a friend, but he advised I should not talk to the rogue because the kid is skittish." Roland takes a deep breath. "I don't know why Milly was taken. I can tell you the young rogue is called Slink, and he frequents a tavern called the Singing Sword, which is located at the edge of The Market. You need to find out what he knows."

Roland listens to Szent's comment and says, "You may be right, but I think the bigger concern was the age difference. I think you all will have greater success connecting with him than me, as he is a similar age to you all."