Chapter One: Trouble In the North

King Jonathan of Tortall's study

King Jonathan of Tortall shuffled through the many papers on his desk. It took him a few moments to find what he wanted. Finally he offered a letter to the former King of Thieves, George Cooper. "I want you to take a look at this," Jonathan told his most trusted friend.

"What is it?" George asked.

"It's from Baron Abelard of Miran," he answered. "He wrote to tell me of a thief on his fief," the King answered. "He claims that this thief robs anyone who passes through. He wants me to send the King's Own to capture this thief."

"Why should you send your men to help him?" George asked. "He's the most annoyin' man this realm's got."

"He claims that his constables and soldiers have tried to capture him, but cannot." Jonathan answered. "Now he wants my men to go in there. I think this may have something to do with the ugly rumors I have heard about. I want some real evidence."

"Are you goin' to send the King's Own?" George asked.

"No, of course not. That's why I need you. You still have your connections. I need to know if anyone has heard of this mysterious outlaw and where he comes from."

"I can't do that," George answered. "I have obligations. You should ask Myles. He has more connections than I do."

Sir Myles of Olau's study

Myles of Olau looked across his desk at Jonathan. "I don't understand what you are trying to tell me," Myles told the king. "Abelard has always had a good reputation. He should be able to take care if this on his own."

"But he can't," Jonathan answered. "That's why he asked for royal aid. I think this has something to do with the rumors you heard. People just don't resort to robbery unless they have to."

"What do you want me to do?" Myles asked.

"I want you to send a man and a few others. They will be disguised as men of the King's own. They will say that they are there to see how much help needs to be sent. They will really try to find out what is wrong and see if Abelard is to blame. I will send a few of the King's own, but I want one of your agents to lead them. This agent should have some military training."

"I know just the right agent," Myles said after a moment's thought. "I don't know if this agent will do it."

"Please try to talk him around," the King of Tortall stated. "I need to know the truth."