### 167

Loud and raucous laughter greets your tired ears as you enter the Stornside Tavern. A motley throng of drinkers, over-dressed and over-armed, prop up the bar along the back wall. Suddenly a voice calls out to you, and you raise your weary eyes. It is the captain, the mercenary leader you met at the Inn of the Crossed Swords.

‘Well met, my friend,’ he cries and slaps you enthusiastically on the shoulder. ‘So you’ve changed your mind. You have come to join my band of fearless fighters.’ Before you have a chance to reply, a foaming tankard is thrust into your hand.

‘To the battle and a full purse!’ he shouts, and his toast is echoed by a score of drunken voices.

The captain and his men are bound for Eula aboard the riverboat that leaves at midnight. If you sail with them he will pay for your passage.

If you wish to sail with the captain at midnight, turn to 341.

If you wish to make your own way to Tekaro by road, turn to 118.