Dukhan stood uncomfortably straight, snow accumulating on his shoulders as an elderly woman tenderly showcased the produce she had on offer. He had been trying to find a polite excuse to leave for the better part of ten minutes now, as it was more than apparent that this woman did not have any of the information Dukhan was looking for. She beamed as she presented head after head of decaying cabbage, rambling about her granddaughter's fantastic woodcarving skills. Dukhan had already made up his mind that he would make a token purchase of an apple, one of the more palatable looking things for sale, as it was clear that this woman was less than financially well-to-do, but she wouldn't let him get in a word in edgewise!

As Dukhan struggled to pay attention, he spied a young woman in... armor? In the middle of a town? In this weather? Dukhan had to admit that his clothing was rather conspicuous, but nothing compared to this girl's. She was muttering to himself. Quite an odd one, to be sure, but odd folk often had stories to tell. Perhaps she could provide him with an idea of where to start his quest?

Before he had time to consider any further, the old woman removed a heretofore unseen crate of carrots and began showing them off one by one. Dukhan, overtaken by panic, sprung into action.

[color=a36209]"Much as I'd love to continue chatting I think I see my... erhm... cousin! Yes, my cousin is over there and I'd like to speak with her! Now, here is a bit of gold for that delicious looking apple! Thank you very much for your time and... ahem... [i]thoroughness[/i]."[/color]

Dukhan left a bit of gold on the counter (probably too much) and began to walk toward the odd woman.

[@Avali]