The Dark Stranger
Pick Your Peril: The Hero of Mudtown
(This is part of a series of choose-your-own-adventure articles. If you want to start from the beginning, click here. If you want to revisit the previous chapter, click here.)
The Stranger is almost completely obscured in shadow, curiously isolated in a forgotten alcove of the tavern. His eyes glint coldly in the candlelight as you approach. You’ve just barely managed to squeeze through the crowd when he addresses you.
“No.”
You haven’t spoken a single word, but it appears the conversation is already over.
You open your mouth to say something, but the hooded stranger holds up a hand, silencing you. He speaks again, quietly. Even above the noise of the crowded tavern, the Stranger’s soft words have no trouble slithering down your ears.
“I will not help you.” He picks up a wine glass and raises it to his lips. “Now leave me be.”
Needless to say, there are far more suitable companions for your venture. It seems as if any one of the other patrons packing the tavern would be more willing to help. This Stranger clearly wants nothing to do with you.
And yet…
There is a strange aura surrounding this man. His words carry power, and even looking at the Stranger makes your hair stand on end. Such a mystifying and commanding presence could be a valuable asset, and the Stranger hasn’t even had a chance to hear you out yet.
Maybe if you told him the details of your plight, he would be more willing to assist you.
As if reading your mind, the Stranger speaks again.
“Not a word, peasant.” The cold eyes glimmer from the shadows. “Leave me alone. You won’t get another warning.”
What will you do?