Oh, way to go Leth. 'What happened to the brigands?' 'Ah well no big deal, we just killed them all.' Stupid, stupid, stupid. Leth mentally berated himself as he tried to figure out a way to dodge the question. Knowing how well-loved Kells had been, and assuming these people were from around here, Kell's old town, and probably remembered him fondly, Leth figured it would be worth a shot to associate themselves with their late mayor.
"Not ordinary brigands, I don't think. We were all friends to Kells - may the Gods watch over him - and I think they thought we might have had something to do with the missing Sphere. Where they would get that idea, I don't know. We've managed to avoid being captured thus far, but I'm afraid they will keep coming after us... which is why we need as much help as we can get right now. If you can't help us, that's quite all right... but it sounds like this Oak's Wife might just be able to give us some assistance, if you'd permit us to come along. For Kell's sake, I believe this situation needs to be resolved, and his name cleared. If that would be too uncomfortable for you, we won't push the matter any further, and we'll be on our way."