Read The Unknown Man: Book 1 in The Keepers of the Orbs Series for Free Online Page A

again, while he thought of a plan. “I could send you out with some of my guards, but I’m not sure who I could assign this task to.” He thought for a moment when an idea crept into his head and he began to laugh. Liniana would be the perfect guide, and if he sent her with this man, she could spy on him during their journey. She could gather just the right useful information to force him into service. “I’m wary about whether to trust you, and in that case, I suppose I should send my daughter as your guide.” He sat forward with large eyes.
    His face flushed at the prospect of the Lord’s daughter as a guide. Surely, a soldier would be more appropriate; but then again, he didn’t seem to be in a position to argue. “Very well. If you deem her adequate, I will accept your hospitality.”
    The Lord guffawed. “I can see this isn’t what you expected. I assure you she knows the land well, and is a good resource in the open wild.” He grinned, “if not a good judge of character as well.”
    The lord waited for the man to respond, but when it seemed he had nothing to say, he continued. “There is no one I trust more for this duty than her, and I will send two guards with you as well.” He brought his hands together—his pointer fingers outstretched—and rested them below his lower lip, “You’re welcome to a room in our guest quarters, and require your attendance at dinner with my wife and I this evening.”
    “I’m very gracious to you, my lord.” He bit his lip and kept his opinions to himself. He wanted to get back on the road to discover his identity, but if the lord wanted him for dinner, then he had no choice.
    “Liniana will return from her training in a matter of days. In the meantime, you’re welcome to partake in all the realm has to offer.” He looked toward Markel and said, “Captain, see this man to one of the guest quarters and ensure he gets settled.” The lord rose. “One last thing. In payment of my hospitality and assistance in this matter, I expect you to offer your service in my army upon your return.” The man bowed his head in acceptance, as the lord took his wife's arm. He bowed to the party and they headed toward the door.
    The man looked to the captain, and motioned for him to lead the way. He wasn't looking forward to it.

A Dark Tavern
 
    Inside the Merchant's Dagger Tavern, the mood felt thick and threatening. The bar sat very dark, considering the time of day, but with no windows in the establishment, what else would one expect? Many lit sconces adorned the wall, they cast an ominous glow throughout the room. Most of the patrons looked very rough, and rightly so, because they were employed by seafaring merchants. Several of the men wore dark cloaks and stuck to tables on the outskirts of the room.
    The door opened, letting bright light burst into the room. Two Goblins walked in and took a table in the center. One looked older than the other—a grotesque sight to behold, with numerous scabs and sores on his face. They were in the midst of an argument.
    “I still don' know what ya be thinkin’ Tuk? Lettin’ that knight out of our grasp with no reward!” Kos said. He glanced around the room looking for the owner of the establishment. “What do it take to get a drink ‘round here?” He slammed his fist down on the table. “We be thirsty and in need of ale.”
    A tall, dark-haired man appeared from behind the counter, as he made a scene. He had a scarred face, rimmed with a light beard. He approached the table the Goblins occupied, his hand on his dagger.
    “I won’t be having any trouble from you, Goblins!” He reached a hand up to scratch at his beard. “I don’t like Goblins in this bar. If you show me some coin, I will fetch ya some ale.”
    A cloaked man, sitting in the darkest corner of the tavern, took an immediate interest in the two Goblins and the barkeep. He leaned forward to hear the conversation better. He wore a mysterious look.
    Offended, Kos