From inside the Commander’s tent, you hear voices. With the intent to inquire about the wanted poster you enter. The inside is sparsely furnished. Along the walls chests with equipment are situated. A few chairs surround a big wooden table in the middle. You see older men bent over it, inspecting something on the table. As you approach the man at the far end stands up. The others follow suit. You bow and introduce yourself.

A weary traveler, ey? We don’t get them around here anymore, with the Gnarls and all.

Have you come to help?

The man to your right inspects you. His blue eyes are sharp but tired. His head is bald, and a curled mustache of a shock of black hair sits above his lips.

Rude to simply interrupt! Your manners are as bad as the Gnarls!

The one to your left hisses, but you ignore him. You bow and carefully approach the third man at the far end. His armor is polished but worn. A full amber beard obstructs the lower half of his face, and bushy brows hide his sharp green eyes. He musters you.

My name is Sergeant Stanton. I’m in charge of this camp here.

I was ordered by his majesty King Aldreth to deal with the Gnarls. A gnarly issue, I might say.

He chuckles.

If you are here to help, I would appreciate it greatly. Southeast from here, not far from the riverbank a group of Gnarls have made their camp, and I fear, they intent to stay.

We cannot let this happen. Gnarls are vicious creatures.

If you were willing to travel to their camp and slay as many as possible, I would be forever in your debt. And don’t forget Ivan!

You agree to help as good as you are able. However, night is falling soon, so you ask to stay the night. The sergeant agrees and offers you a place in the eastern tent. One of its soldiers just recently found a ghastly end by the hands of the Gnarls.

You say your thanks and leave. The eastern tent is located closest to the edge of the forest. Now at dusk, the camp is filled with more men. They had just returned from their duties on the Southeast edge. In front of a small fire, you find a group of soldiers enjoying their supper.  You decide to join them and sit down at a free spot.

The fire is warm. Some men lift their heads to look at the new arrival, but they don’t utter a word. In silence they munch on their food. You here someone approach you. It was the bald soldier you encountered in the commander’s tent earlier. He offers you a bowl. It’s filled with steaming hot stew. Gratefully you accept it as he sits down beside you.

What a brave soul you are.

Oh, where are my manners. We haven’t been properly introduced yet. My name is Officer Rutledge. Nice to meet you!