[color=bisque][i]"Taken"?[/i][/color] Abel wondered why the old man spoke so cryptically, but that was at least one mystery solved. Any mother would be depressed if her son went missing, wouldn't she? Nonetheless, the dumb kid shouldn't be running off without telling anyone-- no wonder she was worried sick. He wanted to poke a little further to find out more about the supposed kidnapper, but it was clear the old man wouldn't let any other details slip. If he cared enough by the time he reached the village, he'd have to remember to ask the mother herself-- assuming he can even find her. 

"[color=bisque]The rest of my party decided to take a break and help the boy search,[/color]" Abel said, sounding a bit gloomy himself. 

[i][color=bisque]I elected to escort one of my comrades back to town because he was so damn anxious to get there, but then he decided he wanted to stay and left me.[/color][/i] Of course, Abel wouldn't dare say [i]this[/i] to the old man. It would only confuse him. 

"[color=bisque]I elected to scout ahead and make sure our rooms were prepared for the night,[/color]" Abel shrugged, "[color=bisque]We've been on the road for quite a few days and a hot meal sounds like heaven right about now. I'm certain my party will make sure the boy comes to no harm. If I see her, I'll let his mother know he's safe.[/color]" He smiled reassuringly.