"Three groups have departed for Greyfen in the past two days."
Pax placed a folded report on Sage's desk, his expression suggesting that the information contained within was unlikely to improve the Guildmaster's mood.
Sage, who had been enjoying a rare moment of peace with a cup of tea, slowly lowered it and looked toward his intelligence officer.
"Three?" Sage repeated, raising an eyebrow. "That's rather unfortunate. I was hoping the rumors about an ancient dragon would frighten everyone away. Apparently, the people of this kingdom have developed a disturbing disregard for their own survival."
Pax pulled out a chair and unfolded the report. "Two groups consist of experienced mercenaries, while the third appears to be a smaller collection of hired scouts. They departed separately and took different roads, but their destinations suggest they're investigating the disturbances around Greyfen."
"Do we know who's paying them?" Sage asked, his amusement fading.
