--On a lonesome stretch of dirt road, just beyond the safe walls of Bartertown, a wagon carrying two ladies was stopped by a young man standing in the middle of the road. The sun was meeting the horizon just before sleep.


    --The young man made wide gestures with his hands as he spoke:


    -Ahoy, fair maidens! Couldn''t help but see you traverse these perilous roads on your own. I can only conclude that you don’t know about the bandits that lurk in these dark woods? I offer to lend you my aid on your journey, lest you fall prey to their fiendish... – His enthusiasm suddenly vanished as he spoke on - Why are you pointing a crossbow at me?


    -Not to be rude young man, but that is the worst crock of shit I have heard in a long time.


    Move to the side, please. -- The old lady replied, with a dry tone.You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.


    -Ok, wait, wait... I''ll be honest with you. I’m a mercenary. I was in charge of defending a merchant returning to Bartertown after a successful trip, but my band and I were ambushed by a group of bandits. I alone survive... I fear of returning to Bartertown now. If word gets out of my failure, no one will hire me again. I need to get out of here until the dust settles. Will you help me?


    Dropping her guard a bit, the old lady replied -- Assuming you speak the truth, what use would we have of a defender who has failed to protect anyone but himself?


    -That, I fear, shall be spoken of me if I return to Bartertown. But think of it this way: perhaps I am the only one to live, because I was the most skilled of my comrades?


    The old Lady pondered this for a bit, and reluctantly asked – Can you drive a chariot?


    -Sure.


    -Fine. -- Said the old lady. -- Your story rings true. Hop aboard, but keep in mind that I''ll be right behind you with my crossbow.


    Extending his hand, the man introduced himself – I''m Zarak.


    -I''m Magda, and this is my niece, Sophie. We''re heading south, to the mining town called


    “Nomad’s Rest”.


    --And so, Zarak felt pleased with himself. His second bluff worked like a charm.


    @@@


    -Thank you for reading. Next update will be on Monday morning.