Conspiracy in the Courtyard

Fat Jack jumped up and said, "That is an excellent plan. We shall be right here."

"But how are we to mark the passing of the hour?" asked Rob. The only ways to find the time were through sundials, which were useless at this hour of the night, and through the circuit of the stars in the night sky. Unfortunately, cloud cover prevented using the stars, and Astra was not quite sure where they were. And the bell tower of the church only started ringing in the morning.

One of the other men suggested, "This candle's wick has about an hour to burn, I think. Astra, would you be able to get back here before the candle burns?"

"I am sure that I will."

Astra then left the inn, and went into the courtyard. A minute later, Fred followed.

Astra told Fred about the conversation that she held with the group in the corner.

"I do not know, Astra. Something about this does not feel right. Why would they volunteer to part with it?"

"There could be any number of reasons. Our source said that Horace would be released a week from now. Maybe this group is just trying to make some extra money from the transaction?" Astra was careful not to mention the Snark - she thought that someone from the group might be eavesdropping.

"How are we going to get the money?"

Astra remained silent, and showed him her bracelet. Slowly Fred understood - Astra was going to steal the centaur from this group.

"Ah, I think I understand. You have resources that I did not know about, then. What would be the best way for me to assist?"

1. "Stay hidden, and follow me to make sure that I do not get ambushed."
2. "Accompany me openly, as the Baroness's centaur trainer. A show of force might make them think twice before doing anything rash."

Add New Option

Go Back

View Forward Story Tree
View Back Story Tree