The shadowy figure spoke from behind Drugnor, seemingly melded with the
darkness.
"I'm here," whispered Drugnor, gruffly. Then, turning, "I'll have your
beard if this is--"
"Don't look at me!" commanded the voice. "Turn back around, and keep
your voice down. You know that the seal was legitimate. You are in a position
to do your nation a great service... no, don't interrupt. It's really very
simple. If you accept, you will be placing yourself at great risk for little
personal gain, unless you believe in honor. If not, someone else less
qualified takes your place. Either way, you were never contacted and you
never met me."
"Why all this secrecy?" questioned Drugnor, looking around apprehensively.
"Even here, esteemed Dwarf, prying eyes and hostile ears abound. If you
are ready to proceed, feign a coughing spell. There's a small packet under the
bench before you, slightly to your left." While Drugnor glanced suspiciously
through the papers within, the voice continued in a low voice. "Among other
things, what you have are parts of journal entries, trading records, other
messages from a variety of very different individuals. Yes, that is a map of
Barsaive, a special map, but that becomes important later. All of those
individuals share two common links: they work, or worked, for us and they
have disappeared without a trace, all within the last month. Carefully placed
operatives working for years... We have almost lost all. Your reputation
proceeds you, your family is known for audacity, bravery, and you personally
have earned the title of patriot. That is why I come to you. You made the
run down the Serpent River three times and lost your cargo the last two. Out
of loyalty to the oppressed, they say, but the important thing is that you
got to your destination successfully three times. If you act as our eyes,
you can help alleviate the damage the last month has seen. We believe that
you can discover the whereabouts of our people and further their work at the
same time. All you have to do is start making that run again, as far into
Theran territory as you can. Gather what information you can and make the
connections that your family is known for. You will, of course, be handsomely
recompensed, rest assured of that. The risk is very real, so you may take
all the time you need, as long as you decide before the hour."
"I hate spies and I hate spying... but I can't refuse," began Drugnor.
"I'll need a day to get the Ale Barge ready and I--"
"Your boat is already being readied. You can leave at morning light.
Go directly to the docks. Your family will be notified of your departure.
We are in your debt, Drugnor Caskbreaker. Farewell."
Drugnor immediately felt that he was alone.
Rugnor's Statistics:
Runs Made(Throal Mountains to Lake Ban): 31
Runs accosted by Therans: 31
Runs requiring Bribes: 22
Runs requiring Theran 'river maintenance' taxes: 14
Runs where entire cargo was lost: 8
Teeth lost in 'Misunderstandings': 1
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