--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.