Andwise Tighe-on-Hearth

When he realizes Hilgo has still not returned, Andy drops off his written report and heads for the festival, determined to find Bethel and Arlene. He is shocked that, despite the throngs of people, he finds the couple within a relatively short period of time. Realizing he can't speak to them without falling back into the "little boy" persona he first approached them with, Andy keeps his distance from the couple, but keeps an eye on them. Trying to avoid them while not actively trying to hide from them. Just like when you bring your daughter to a carnival near your parents' and you spot a classmate from 35 years ago you have no desire to reconnect with.

Without letting the grieving couple wander too far away, Andy finds himself enjoying the festival, despite being tired and a little heartsick at not finding a solid lead to any stolen youth. He looks for some fellow Halflings to talk with, engages in some feats of dexterity, and generally overindulges in food. When he spots Bethel and Arlene leaving, he trails them until they lead him to their home. Filing the location away, he heads back to enjoy himself until after dusk.

Before retiring for the evening, he heads to Enos's guard station. Enos? I was wondering if you could do me a favor? He gives a description of Bethel and Arlene, along with the location of their home. I don't want to speak to them on my own and risk giving away my mission, but they were the ones who gave me the tip that led to the drug smugglers. He hands Enos a pouch with 10 gold in it. I think it's only fair they get a finder's fee. If you could give this to them along with a message. Tell them this is a reward for the tip that led to a group of smugglers. Tell them they shouldn't get their hopes up, but the investigation is ongoing. Can you do that for me, Enos?

With a nod, Andy heads to bed, hoping to finally catch up on his sleep. The next morning, he starts a list of what he needs to pose as a merchant before taking it to Enos.

The first week passes quickly as Andy enjoys the festival while working on his disguise and cover story. He doesn't make it too complicated, since he'll have to inhabit the character for long stretches. Clothing with some padding sewn in to give him more girth, a short, brown wig, and a little bit of make-up to make him appear a few years older. The real transformation is in speech and attitude as Andy loses his wide-eyed, nearly childlike demeanor to adopt the gregarious personality of Wilibald Bolger.

As he enters the second week, with the festival over, Andy finds himself growing restless. He finds himself taking to the streets in his guise as Will the Bulge (as Andy sometimes remarks to people to get that nickname going, giving the illusion that Wilibald Bolger has been around a lot longer and is more well-known than he actually is).

Once his cargo is secured, Andy awaits the arrival of Bastion Sales in order to join up with his caravan.

Andy watches the priest for a moment before heading to the caravan. He approaches the first person he sees and introduces himself. Hello! The name's Wilibald Bolger. Could you direct me to the caravan master? I believe I am to be joining you on the road to Saltmarsh.

Why, I work for myself, good sir! I've just been waiting for the next caravan to Saltmarsh to get my supply of mining tools to the Dwarves who are so eagerly awaiting the arrival of my fine goods! A lone merchant is an easy target, even in the best of times. He motions toward the priest departing with his fallen burden then meaningfully taps his finger on a broken arrow still protruding from the side of the wagon. And these are not exactly the best of times, are they?

The same priest carting your fallen comrade? I suppose the trade in alms is poor along the road. I can't imagine he's paying for his passage with hard work! Wil lets out a guffaw at the thought.