>>6107350The thought of them faking a gunfight crossed your mind, but then you remember the high price of bullets outside the West. They won't be happy be using up their precious ammunition just for a distraction - that is, if they don't set a price tag on their 'help'. So you thought of another plan.
"Alright then... how about blocking the roads that lead north? At least, until we hit that cave. Just don't let anyone through."
You know full well the Ravens will also rob anyone that tries to pass, but that's not really your problem. Black Maria seems to have understood this additional source of 'income'.
"Hrrh, very well! I assume it's so those cultists can't escape, then? Good plan. I'll also set some of my people in the pines as well."
Huh, she seemed to really has it out for those cultists. Which makes you wonder...
"I think that's that from us. Before I go, I gotta ask you something: how'd you end up meeting Millie?"
Black Maria lets out a throaty laugh.
"Curious girl, ain't you? Hrr... basically, we tried to rob them, and ended up getting beaten up single-handedly by that horse of hers, Clyde. Seriously, the most fun we've had in months! That guy definitely has some kinda bulletproof skin, hhh. So, anyways, afterwards we got to talking. It's like she knew I had beef with the Singulo bastards, so she said she'll call on us if she needs help fighting them."
Woah, as far as abilities go, bulletproof skin seems like a good thing to have.
"Interesting... thanks for the story."
"No, thank you and Millie - get those cultist bastards, yea? If need be, we also deal with 'disposals', if you want..."
"Well, we'll see what happens then. We'll be going to the cave soon enough."
"Hrr, will you look at that - Jonah's connecting with your kid."
"Kid? Oh, that's my cousin! Come on, Craig, don't bother him."
With that, the Ravens disperse - presumably to set up their blockades. You also take your leave - although the question of 'where to' raises its head. Sure, you can regroup with Millie and head to the cave, but you're close to the lumber yards you're supposed to inspect. Then again, the cave itself isn't that far off...
>ENCOUNTER ROLL, 1D20 WITH YOUR CHOICE>CHOOSE ONE>□ Head back to the hotel and prepare to head to the cave>□ Check out the lumber yards a bit, especially the incident sites>□ Check out the area near the cave, just for a wee bit>□ Maybe you can try out that theatrical audition, should be quick enough to do before news of the blockade gets in town>□ Other (fill in) 