Kerl

  I was approached by a young Dwarf who had learned I was gathering allies to form an army, saying I should speak to a Dwarven Noble by the name of Glarr Mudstubbs.  I called for Robyn and the Dwarf led me to Mudstubbs home, where I knocked and was greeted by a stout, gristled Dwarf and two guards.   The Dwarf bade me to leave my weapons at the door, which I did, in part,  keeping my throwing knives hidden.

As I exited the Prancing Pony after confronting Milada, I spotted an old friend of Kerls; a noblewoman by the name of Rhianonn, talking to a group of strangers.  The square was busy, so I could not be seen talking to her. I pulled a small piece of paper from my pocket, scribbling on it "meet me in beggars alley." I then walked past her, my face covered, dropping it close to her foot as I did so.  Then, without turning back, I hastened to the rooftops around Beggars alley to await her.

After meeting with Gerwolf, I made my way to the Prancing Pony Inn, planning to spend one last night in comfort before returning to Thorins Halls.   I pulled open the tavern door, instantly struck by the smell of ale and burning pipe-weed, pushing my way through the crowds to the bar.  I was about to signal to the bartender so I could rent a room when I looked to my right and saw something that made my blood boil.

Milada stood there, draining the bottom of her tankard.

Milada, who had allied herself with Hughes.

It seems as though I was wrong to not blame Lady Hughes for the actions of Osdegul, the Lieutenant of her Mercenaries, and now 'tis too late for me to save those she has murdered.  If only I had acted sooner, If I had arrested her, then Kerl might still be alive.

But I didn't

I was a fool.

I trusted her.

And when Hector Worthenine, leader of her band of mercenaries, attacked Sir Kerl and Milada outside the Prancing Pony, the doubts began to creep back in.