Dark One Rising(45)
CHAPTER 11
Dain rode his horse into town. The sun had set, and the merchants had already closed up their carts for the night; the store keepers had locked their doors. The only noise was coming from the taverns and inns on the south side. The ruffians and cutthroats were known to frequent the businesses on this side, and if he wanted seedy information, he had to go into the seedy part of town.
He dismounted and tied his horse to the post. He pulled his cloak’s hood up and adjusted his sword on his hip. He opened the door to the tavern, and the sights and sounds hit him head on. The noise of boisterous patrons was deafening, and the light from the lamps and the raging fire in the hearth hurt his eyes after riding with nothing but the fading sun for light. He sidled up to the bar and waved to the barkeep. The barman walked over and leaned on the bar, to hear better over the din of the room.
“What can I get you?”
Dain pulled two gold coins from the purse under his cloak and set them on the counter.
“I’m looking for Brogan.”
The barkeep glared at him for a few minutes, not touching the coins. He eyed Dain, then scowled at him.
“What makes you think anyone here knows where he is?”
“I’ve been around the block a few times friend, and I listen to talk, and pay attention to details. I would bet there is someone in this room that knows where I can find him.”
“Maybe you should tell me who’s asking and maybe I could find someone to help you.”
Dain sighed. “I was hoping I didn’t have to use my face as a bargaining tool, but if that will move this along, then I will play it your way.”
He pulled his hood off his head, and the barman stood up straight, surprised.
“Your Majesty,” he bowed. “I didn’t realize it was you who was asking. What would Your Majesty want with someone like Brogan?”
“I need some information. He gets around more than I do, and I would bet he has traveled into Xenos lately.”
He frowned. “He will not willingly give you any information that has to do with the duke willingly, without adequate compensation.”
“I will pay what is necessary, but time is not on my side, so if we could hurry this up, I’d appreciate it.”
The barman tossed the towel he had been holding over his shoulder, pocketed the coins and yelled over the noise.
“Anyone seen Brogan tonight?”
There was an eerie pause of noise, all eyes looking toward him. No one came forward at first, then a man approached. He was average height and very thin, with yellowed teeth and greasy hair. His left retina was covered in a milky film and a scar ran from his eyebrow down to his cheek. He was dressed in what looked like clothes made from animal skins, and he had a small knife on his hip. He slithered up to the bar and squinted at Dain. Then he spoke, his voice low and gravelly.“Maybe, maybe not. What do you want with Brogan?”
“Information. And my payment is money, not answers to questions that are not your concern.”
He rubbed a dirty hand across his chin. He looked over at the barman, then back at Dain.
“You take a risk coming into this part of town, Sire. Seeking information about certain things could be detrimental to your well being.”
Dain put a hand on his sword and glowered at the greasy haired man. The barkeep snapped his head around and glared at the slimy man.
“Watch your tongue, Cyrus. Have respect for your king, or you could find a noose around your neck.”
Dain held up his hand. “It’s alright. I’m not new to the goings on in this neighborhood, friend. I take my chances by being here, I understand. If the information wasn’t so important I would be at home in front of a warm fire, a soothing ale in my hand. I would appreciate your assistance.”
Dain took a coin from out of his pocket and handed it to him. The man took it and stared at it, then looked at Dain again. Dain sighed and handed him another.
“More than a fair price for your help.”
“I think Brogan is in port tonight. Follow me.”
Cyrus smiled a yellow-toothed grin and motioned for Dain to follow. Dain threw another coin at the barkeep and nodded. He followed Cyrus out of the tavern and out into the street. They walked silently toward the water front, the greasy man shuffling along, dragging one leg slightly. It was completely dark now. Dain pulled his cloak tighter, for the clouds had rolled in from off the sea and covered the stars, the moon a hazy lamp under the gray cover. The breeze from the water and the scent of salt and fish became stronger the closer they came. They headed down a side street, toward the wharf, the silent boats bobbing gently in the evening tide. They hit the wooden planks of the pier and his boots clomped in the silence. The greasy man led him halfway down the pier and stopped at a small boat. He stepped on to the deck, Dain just behind him, and yelled down into the galley.