Sheepstead, Mid-Spring...
(Ludwig 5-1) You go to meet the merchant's brother, a "refugee" from Preston by the name of Louise who has set himself up in a fairly posh apartment in the Inner Ring. You've no real skill in the art of haggling, at least not compared to him, but, luckily, he's already grown bored of his new pets. After some talking, you're able to bring the price down to three ducats a snake. (2) However, upon hearing your implication of skill, a greedy glimmer appears in his eyes. He offers all of his three snakes to you in exchange for a simple task, he assures you that it would be very minor for one such as yourself. (2) Sadly, he refuses to let you see the snakes until the purchase is made.
The Weyland Highlands, Mid-Spring...
(Sir Jormund 5-1) The McKinley's do not seem to be pleased by your unwillingness to disarm yourselves, but they're willing to parley with you out here anyways. (6+1) The apparent leader of the McKinleys, a gaunt man with a shock of red hair and runny eyes, steps forward to respond to your proposal. "We had hoped you and yours would see the light and surrender before worse happens. Dark things stir, and the Highlands cannot be divided. Lay down your arms, Knight, my father will see you."
(Sir Joseph 1) You attempt to leave, but the guards don't let you. The red-haired man strokes his beard, face grim as he looks you over. "I'm afraid we cannot allow you to leave, Sir," he replies, a hint of clearly-feigned remorse in his voice, "Not after seeing our defenses. What promise do we have that you have not been acting as a spy for the Manskinners?"