The "NEW" Trader

[OOC: I'm not aware of the plotline at the moment, though it may be interesting for YG to be unwittingly drawn into things; perhaps his naivety could be exploited?]

*Young Grimwold sees that FrightKnight is still a tad inebriated, and supporting him, he steps forward. Knowing that he could be doing FrightKnight a favour helps him conquer his shyness.*

Good day. My name is Young Grimwold. Though I may change it when I'm old. Anyway, as you can see, this gentleman's sword, which he bought from you, is seriously faulty. And the only thing more dangerous that a sword which works properly, is a sword which doesn't. It would be a shame for you to garner a reputation for bad salesmanship, so very early in your career. So perhaps you can offer FrightKnight a much better deal?

*YG had his club by his side, but he raises it slightly, so that the trader can quite clearly see it.*

*All of a sudden a voice begins to speak in Deal's head, it is the cruel cold voice of Scareye* [ModNote: Previously seen at The Forge.]

Scareye: Well Mr.Deal or is it Mr.Nesty? My spys tell me you have assumed a new identity and have begun business. I have a task for you my servant. The mage will come looking for an curse identification scroll after finding he has none left (we stole them). There is a false one which Visage has planted under your store, selll it to him!

*The voice stops as soon as it started*

[ModNote: Scareye seemingly is next seen back at The Forge.]

*Since Nesty has handed over the sword, and has since got a rather far-off look in his eyes, FrightKnight and Young Grimwold wander away...*

*Then, with a burst of light and an unusually sulphurous cloud of smoke, Hordriss appears next to them. [ModNote: Hordriss was previously at The Forge.] Seeing the sword, he looks as if he will make a lunge for it. But then steadies himself.*

<to self>
Remember, keep our minds... be civil...

<Aloud>
Good sirs, one regrets this sudden intrusion, but it is of the utmost necessity that one obtains that sword, for the safety of all...
*Suddenly realises that he's talking to a FrightKnight and a rather confused-looking ogre.*

Ah... needs must one supposes... also some pecuniary recompense may be in order....

Money.

But it is vital that one takes that sword.

*Looks at FrightKnight again curiously.*
Is it possible.... sir Knight, are you at all familiar with the workings of a forge?

*Rob's eyebrow raises slightly, even in his current panic he is aware of what Nesty just said*

Rob: I did not tell you my name, how do you know me when I have no knowledge of you?

[OOC: Can Nesty and Ringmasterrob hear Hordriss' conversation with FK and YG, or are they too far away from the stall?]

*Young Grimwold is a little startled by the appearance of the mage. But he remembers Hordriss, from his early days in the Dungeon. In fact, it was Hordriss that inspired YG to turn to Latin. YG is in awe, as he should be, and somewhat confused by Hordriss' pomp and sorcery, as he should be. But he senses the opportunity to do something, to make a mark - just as long as he can assert himself to the right extent.*

[OOC: I'm not sure whether Hordriss would recognise YG after so many years. But he would certainly recall his parents, Mrs. Grimwold and Grimwold the Ogre; and possibly Festus...]

Sir, my name is Young Grimwold. You need not introduce yourself to me - your reputation precedes you.

*YG has flattered Hordriss - always the right thing to do.*

Your offer of money is very kind. However, we've just had to barter for this sword, which FrightKnight needs, especially since his previous purchase was faulty. If you'd be willing to offer us some explanation in addition to coins - a syllepsis if you will - I'm sure we'd be willing to support whatever worthy cause has involved you.

[OOC: I think that they're too far away to hear, otherwise they might get involved and this plot is character-heavy as it is!]

*Hordriss smiles benevolently*
Young Grimwold, ah yes of course, one knew your parents, and briefly yourself, but one's mind is preoccupied.

In brief Young master Grimwold, one is having immense trouble with a dark and malevolent force, its origin is... unimportant, but in order to destroy it, it is necessary to entrap it in a vessel, which represents its nature: violent and evil. One would hope that this sword by your... *looks with some disapproval at Lord Fear's former lacky* ..friend's side would be highly satisfactory. As to your good self, ones allies and oneself will be forced to enter a helpless state.

One recalls that you are more learned than you might appear, and one appreciates that in this somewhat barbarous area. However, at the moment one is really in need of a guard, and one is sure that you are fully capable.

Now, FrightKnight, *Hordriss speaks quietly, but with dignity.* One is no lover of your kind, although one notices that you have divested yourself of the crest of Lord Fear, which does you credit. One can find you a sword from a much more reputable source which will far outweigh anything a market trader can sell, but one requires the use of the sword you carry. As to your knowledge of metalsmithing, one assures you, you will be in control of the forge at all times.

One is under immense pressure. *A more dangerous look flashes across Hordriss' eyes for a moment.* Now, will you help? Both of you?

*Rob still has a look of concern, he decides to sort out this 'curse' now and find out more about Nesty later on. He hands over the gold and reads the scroll. It flashes red around his rings, they are clearly cursed for real!*

[OOC: Rob is far too concerned with his rings to pay attention to the FK, YG and Hordriss conversation so don't worry!]