UNBRIDLED Destiny
A Pick your Path Adventure Web book
You are jobless and here are two people talking about needing what you do for a living. Besides, the job presents a chance to make some friends as well as the prospect of some coin.
“Well met,” you say to draw their attention, as if walking up to their table was not enough. “There is no use cluttering up the bulletin board. I couldn’t help but overhear your conversation and I have decided that I would come over and offer my blade if it will help you with your endeavor.
“I know you,” Diosa says as she studies your face, trying to recall where she has seen you. “You are the city guardsman who saved a little boy’s life yesterday.”
After bidding you to sit down, Diosa tells her friend all about that terrible day when you had stopped the merchant from killing the lad.
“A lot of good it did me,” you say bitterly. “I was let go because that man was the son of a wealthy merchant who had strong ties with people in high places. They had to pacify the merchant’s ire, and that was done by firing me.”
“It was a very good deed,” Encanto says warmly, extending his hand. “I am Enkanto, and my friend here is Diosa.
“I understand that you are trying to find something in perhaps a dangerous place?” you say as you take the proffered hand and introduce yourself. Your question is designed to learn more about the place they plan to go to, and why.
“Um, yes,” Enkanto says hesitantly. He steals a look at Diosa who gives him a cursory nod of approval. The young scholar accepts her judgement, and proceeds with answering your question.
“First, I’m afraid your question requires an explanation as to why I am doing this. I’ll try to keep it as brief as possible.”
Diosa makes a face and rolls her eyes at this, but only you notice. She orders a round of drinks while Enkanto gathers his thoughts. By the time the drinks arrive, Enkanto is ready to begin to tell his story, but not before ensuring there are no listening ears. He glances about, and leans in to speak quietly so only you and Diosa may hear.
“I am trying to find a monocle eyepiece that is nearly 800 years old. To be blunt, I am fascinated with ancient objects, and spend much of my free time trying to find them. When I find the monocle, it is mine, but I will gladly share the wealth of anything else that is found. If nothing is found, I’ll pay each of you a gold a day for your trouble.”
Diosa exclaims in dismay loudly enough to draw a look from the tavernkeeper, and you let out a low whistle in surprise.
“In offering that kind of coin, the quest must be pretty dangerous,” you say, probably mirroring the thoughts of Enkanto’s friend.
Enkanto takes another sip from his glass and continues to explain.
“Several years of research led me to believe that the eyepiece may not be lost forever. I now believe I know where it can be found. Forgive me for not saying where I believe it to be, because in researching it, I may have asked too many questions in too many places. I think I made someone curious and maybe they too now desire the eyepiece.
Yesterday, my home was broken into, and some of my research was stolen. Whoever it was had been able to disable my protection wards. They did not get my most important journal. I am smart enough to know not to leave it at home. So, now I fear time is of the essence. I cannot tell you where I will lead you, but I can tell you there will be danger, and though I don’t know what dangers lay ahead, I do know there may be danger lurking in the shadows behind us. So, are you in?”
What will you do?
Select Choice 3 : The job sounds like just what you are looking for. You gladly accept.
Select Choice 4 : Hunting giant rats might not be as dangerous as the job they are talking about. You finish your drink, kindly decline, and head for the city sewers.