Scene 2:
As they stepped into Ryker's lodge, the group was met with an arsenal of deadly weapons. Swords, daggers, and crossbows hung on the walls alongside bizarre gadgets and traps. Ryker gestured to the array of weaponry. "Welcome to my humble abode."
Nicholas's eyes widened as he scanned the room. "You're quite the collector."
Ryker chuckled. "Tools of the trade. Or, at least, they used to be when my dad was still around."
Richard asked, "Oh... is he gone?"
Ryker replied, "No, no, no. He joined the other knights fighting in this war. The king of Savoyen summoned the garrison to take back a town from Norrich, so he was also levied."
The kingdoms of Norrich and Savoyen had been embroiled in a series of intense battles, with both sides capturing and recapturing towns and villages.
Despite the turmoil, the king of Savoyen had strategically deployed his men to outer villages, providing crucial support.
However, the safest haven remained the capital city, where Ryker resided and the king held court. The capital's formidable defenses and strong garrison ensured a relative sense of security amidst the ongoing conflict. It was a place most people came to seek refuge.
Elora frowned as she walked forward while the others were caught up in the discussion, studying the wanted posters on the wooden board.
"These are some of the most notorious criminals in the south. Look here, this one says 'Wanted criminal, Gorthoz.' It says he tried to overthrow the king of Savoyen using black magic and manipulation but failed, and instead kidnapped the king's daughter... And oh my goodness, the bounty is 50,000 silver dead and 100,000 silver alive with neutralized powers."
Richard approached the board, examining the posters. "You've dealt with these criminals before?"
Nicholas inquired, "Ryker, how do you plan to bring down a wizard with manipulation powers using just weapons and gadgets?" He was curious to know how a mere man could bring down a sorcerer, knowing Ryker was not someone who used magic.
Ryker replied, "You mean, how did I bring him down? I study every move of my target—what they do, how they fight, even down to what they eat. Gorthoz was a very powerful one, but I can say not intellectually."
Nicholas asked, "So you killed him?" He asked because he didn't believe that Ryker could capture a wizard with two swords and some gadgets.
Ryker then replied, "No... I captured him."
Richard and Elora showed surprise on their faces, but Nicholas remained stoic as always, though there was a bit of concern in his heart.
Elora asked, "How did you capture a wizard without using magic?" They all looked at Ryker attentively.
Ryker explained, "Gorthoz used mind control on his victims by looking into their eyes, making them take their belongings and possessions to his hideout and making them see illusions.
He did this to both the rich and the poor. Until one day, those riches could no longer satisfy him, so he decided to go for the crown instead. He could crush a man's bones with his hands, so basically my swords would be useless against him.
"So I thought to myself, everyone has a weakness, and I studied how his powers worked. And then, I made him lose his powers." Richard and Elora were shocked, but Nicholas was confused and asked, "How is that possible?"
Ryker replied, "I made him think the swords in my hands were my only weapons the day I confronted him. And when I charged at him, he stretched his hand towards me and pulled me through the air, then he grabbed my neck and tried to look into my eyes as I struggled.
That was his mistake. I knew Gorthoz's plans were evil, so I acted fast. My swords flashed in the dim light, distracting him from my real goal. But I wasn't there to kill him.
"With a quick move, I spat the Komodo python's venom I held in my mouth into his eyes, blinding him for a moment. Taking my chance, I cut the cord that held the strange pendant around his neck.
"The pendant, which gave him his dark powers, dropped to the ground. With Gorthoz now blinded and weakened, he was at my mercy.
"I dragged him from the forest where his hideout was to the palace, where the king's guards were waiting. The king's justice was quick and harsh. Gorthoz's crimes earned him a traitor's death.
"Then the king's messenger came forward with a scroll and a chest. 'Ryker, by the king's order, you are rewarded 100,000 Silver Stags for bringing the sorcerer to justice.'"
Elora asked, "And what about the king's daughter?"
Ryker answered, "Princess Elizabeth? She's fine. Receiving royal treatment and indulging in the finest cuisine the palace has to offer. Roasted quail, exotic spices, and the best care money can buy. I even heard she has an engagement party coming up soon with the prince of Wellington."
Ryker's eyes burned with conviction. "In the past, I've hunted bounties for profit. But my true aspiration has always been to join the Savoyen Knights, to fight for justice, not personal gain."
The group exchanged skeptical glances. Nicholas spoke up, "That's quite a leap from bounty hunting."
Ryker's expression turned resolute. "I've seen the worst of humanity. Now, I want to protect the innocent, bring order, and most importantly, justice to the world."
The room fell silent, the only sound the crackling fireplace, as Ryker's visitors pondered his words.
Ryker stood, breaking the silence. "You can all relax and settle in. I'll head to the market to prepare dinner."
Elora offered, "I'll accompany you, Ryker."
Ryker nodded. "Very well, Elora. We'll return before sundown."
Nicholas and Richard nodded in agreement. With that, Elora and Ryker stepped out into the fading daylight.
Later that day, Ryker and Elora returned from the market, both carrying baskets full of fresh fruits, vegetables, and tasty treats. The smell of Marlene porridge and baking apple pie filled Ryker's lodge, making Nicholas and Richard's mouths water.
As they all sat down at the table, Ryker smiled. "Traditional Savoyen food, straight from the fire."
Nicholas took a bite of the porridge and grinned. "Good!"
Ryker's eyes twinkled. "Glad you all like it. I have to admit, though, I know you're not from here. You're from Norrich, aren't you?" he said with a smirk.