Remain conscious

Through sheer **** of will, you manage to avoid falling off your horse. This is no easy task, given how fatigued and weak you suddenly feel, but you refuse to give in. You will not present yourself as a beggar collapsing on a noble's doorstep.

Just then, the gate to Ironrath is opened. You encounter a middle-aged bearded man with a relatively amiable appearance.

"Good day to you, ser," you greet him politely. There is not really much day left, as it is past sunset.

"Good evening, lad," the bearded man returns with a smile and a nod, "What might you be doing here at this hour?"

You sneeze twice, wipe your nose, and tell him "I am a mere commoner looking for work. I came to the Wolfswood because I have great experience with the harvesting of ironwood. Would you happen to know if Lady Forrester is looking for one such as I?"

"Not to my knowledge," the bearded man admits, "But it is possible she may be able to hire you in some capacity. Come on inside."

He steps aside to clear your path, and you swiftly enter the courtyard of Ironrath, still atop Aerion. It is a little easier to concentrate now, but you are hoping you'll be able to lie down soon. Your cold is starting to become a nuisance in many ways.

As he closes the gate behind you, the bearded man remarks "I do not believe you told me your name."

"It is Brynden, milord," you inform him straightforwardly.

The bearded man nods his head and declares "I am Duncan Tuttle, the castellan of Ironrath."

"I will remember that," you declare. After a pause, you gaze down at Duncan and ask "When might I be able to speak with Lady Elissa?"

"Immediately," Duncan Tuttle replies, "At the moment, she is with her daughters in the Great Keep, but so she can spare a minute or two to speak with you."

"I appreciate that," you tell him, "Should I wait here? Or are we going there?"

1. Duncan brings Lady Forrester to you

2. Duncan takes you to Lady Forrester