One fine day in the camp, just past noon and the regular strategic meeting between the Elinien generals and Rashid, the various unit commanders are summoned for updates and debriefing.
There is nothing unusual in this. Except for the two runners who set off in the direction of Tornilen's and Osoerde's camps respectively, when a certain man among the unit officers has entered the command tent.
Inside the tent, unusual things take place.
As the officers file in, chatting among themselves and taking their places around the map table, few notice that more than usual of the Patriarch's bodyguard are on duty.
When Gerard, an officer in the dragoons, enters the tent, two men seize his arms, while a third who enters the room behind him, pulls away his knife and sword from his belt. A fourth inside the tent, places himself before the man, shielding the man from the rest of the room.
"Gerard, you have been accused of being under the magical influence of Manethander. For your own safety, and the safety of your peers, you will be held in captivity until the current campaign has been completed. By order of the Patriarch you are hereby placed under arrest until further notice."
Yet another man enters the tent, this one carrying shackles of iron for feet, neck and hands.
While the other unit officers were unaware of this plot, they are calmed by Kerric and Rashida, who assures them everything is under control.
When poor Gerard is safely in irons, the Patriarch himself is summoned. Rashid turns his gaze upon Gerard, trying to divine any taint or control that may be visible to his Paladin senses. Even if nothing shows, Gerard's fate is sealed.
"The procedure you have just witnessed, will be the fate of any man who is revealed to be infected by Manethander's influence. Gerard will be brought back to Ansien and all available remedies will be spent in an attempt to save his mind, body and soul from the clutches that may taint him."
"Remain vigilant and observe for changes in behavior or people suddenly conferring, who appears to have no reason to do so. Above all, keep in mind that this enemy can break even the strongest chains of loyalty. We can only protect ourselves by trusting our peers to save us, should we fall under this evil's sway."
"Gerard, are you aware that you are infected? - Do you have any words to add, before these men take you away?"
OOC: Bjørn, do you have any comment from Gerard you'd like to add?
MEANWHILE: The runners arrive at their destinations, and in both places a series of events occur. (Alex+Bobby, feel free to post what happens on your ends)
