Chronicles of Forgotten Paths

Cap.3 - The Research

The night brings great rest to the adventurers, and with the first light of dawn, they gather in the main hall.
After a hearty breakfast, their task is clear: find Lyanna. That's the name of the girl. However, they must proceed cautiously—it's unclear whether she fled or was kidnapped. After all, Jarl Eldric has no shortage of enemies.

Tordek speaks first:
"I know the dwarves at the local forge. I can ask them for information, and besides, I need to arrange something for a project I have pending."
Altherion nods, while Atos replies:
"I'll search for information elsewhere, perhaps by listening to the locals' gossip."
The three exchange a glance of understanding and split up.

As soon as he leaves, Altherion heads to the small stable to check on his steed, Eldryn—an imposing horse with a coal-black coat. He strokes its muzzle almost affectionately, ensures it has been fed, and then sets off toward the forge with Tordek.

The village is small, and the commercial stalls are clustered in the northeast section.
Atos, moving cautiously but keeping his ears sharp, begins wandering along the edge of that area, picking up whispers and rumors. The jarl is not well-liked: many resent him, accusing him of prioritizing his wealth over improving the lives of his people. However, his daughter is beloved; the information gathered suggests that no one holds any grudges against her. On the contrary, she inspires only affection and goodwill. These rumors largely eliminate the locals as suspects in her disappearance.

Meanwhile, Tordek, followed by Altherion, pushes open the forge door and greets two dwarves standing behind the counter, tending a roaring fire. They respond with warm smiles and enthusiastic greetings.
Only then does Altherion notice that Tordek, despite being a dwarf, is quite tall—likely over 1.30 meters—while the others are visibly shorter. The dwarves, casting mildly skeptical glances at the half-elf, introduce themselves as Durnik and Thorrim, the latter being the forge's owner.

After exchanging pleasantries, Tordek gets to the point:
"I know we've got work to start, but I've got an urgent matter first. We're looking for someone."
Leaning closer and lowering his voice, he adds,
"The village chief's daughter has been missing for days. Perhaps you've heard something?"
Thorrim strokes his beard, thinking. After a moment, he replies,
"No, I haven't seen or heard anything. But then again, the jarl isn't popular. Many hate him, but his daughter? She's well-liked. I doubt it's a revenge plot. Perhaps Teodora, one of her friends, might know something. She's the florist's daughter nearby."
Tordek nods, satisfied with the information.
"Thanks. We'll wrap this up quickly, and I'll return to the forge for the project."

As they leave, Tordek and Altherion encounter Atos approaching. The three share the information they've gathered and decide to head to the florist's stand.

From the small shop comes an intense fragrance—a blend of flowers and herbs. Inside, an elderly woman with white hair, slightly hunched, is arranging a bouquet. For a moment, Atos smiles faintly, feeling a sense of tranquility.

Altherion steps forward and asks,
"We're looking for Teodora. We were told we might find her here."
"Oh, you're looking for my granddaughter? She's out gathering flowers, but she should be back soon. Can I help you in the meantime?" the woman responds with a kind smile.
"We were told she's friends with Lyanna. We'd like to ask her a few questions."
The woman stiffens slightly, observing the group with concern.
"Yes, they're friends, but I haven't seen her for days. Is she alright? Has something happened to her?"
"Don't worry, it's just a precaution," replies Altherion.
Visibly less at ease, the woman returns to her work.

Shortly after, the trio spots a girl emerging from the forest. Young, with brown hair tied with a ribbon and a simple dress suggesting modest means, she carries a bundle of yellow flowers in her arms. There's no doubt—it's Teodora.