After hearing the words of the parchment scroll, Aundovald asks,
"Who would claim to be this "true heir of the Duchy" as the letter states?"
Now, pointing to the scrawled letters written on the margin corner, he asks directly to Master Aelwynd,
"What does this writing say?"
After hearing the answer, he repeats it and continues the questioning.
" "Bitterturn M." What does this mean?"
He expands the question to Amberstead as well.
"Lord Chamberlain, do you know of a "Bitternturn M."? Could it be a place? A man's name or monniker?"
Thinking over the content of the letter even more, Aundovald begins to develop an understanding - or at least a speculation. He looks back at the carriage. The Chamberlain's identifying coat of arms is emblazoned on the side of the vehicle. The flags and markings of royalty appear flagrantly obvious now, like targets.
Aundovald speaks out assertively, loud enough for the Chamberlain to hear while still keeping his eyes forward, studying the carriage and the road ahead.
"Lord Chamberlain, I would make a suggestion that you should take seriously...."
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OOC:
Aundovald shares his belief that the Chamberlain, and even the party, is in danger if the Chamberlain continues to reveal himself openly. There is a bounty on his head. His carriage and travel method have been clearly identified. Aundovald expects the attacks to continue and perhaps even intensify in Market Town, since these bandits clearly were nearby to the town. It holds to reason that they got the invitation of mutiny and murder there, and likely others received the same or at least know about the ransom.
Aundovald suggests that the Chamberlain take on a disguise, donning everyday clothing and covering his face as much as possible. Aundovald also suggests hiding the carriage somewhere in the woods or a gully and riding the rest of the way on the horses, perhaps at least to a nearby farm where they might be able to get some information on the town or even purchase another mundane cart if needed.
Aundovald wants to hear what Lord Chamberlain Amberstead thinks about continuing to Market Town. Does he have allies there, loyalists and troops whom he can truly trust and take sanction with? Or should he instead return to his place of safety in Red Stone, now that he knows the clear and present danger?
The information on the letter seems to change the parameters of the venture. How should the party respond? Aundovald knows that it would be a bad look for the newly commissioned retainers if their employer, and the current leader of the region, was slain while under their care. Aundovald prefers delivering Amberstead to the quickest place of safety, then separating from him to move onward to their own mission in the north, though he may not say that so bluntly to sound callous.
Last edited October 4, 2024 6:58 pm