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(Black Leaf) |  |
To the people of Newhaven, Black Leaf is nothing more than an experienced adventurer and free-spirited wanderer. She arrived in the city several months ago, allegedly seeking new opportunities after a long career as a scout and mercenary in Teradryn. She claims to have fought in border skirmishes, delved into ancient ruins, and served as a guide for noble expeditions. Many believe she is simply a well-traveled, thrill-seeking explorer, and her casual, easygoing demeanor helps maintain this illusion. She presents herself as a former scout-turned-sellsword, offering her skills to noble houses, merchants, and adventuring groups as a tracker, guide, and bodyguard. Occasionally, she takes contracts to escort caravans or investigate ruins, lending credibility to her reputation as a wandering warrior.
Black Leaf's connection to the Baron is carefully woven into her cover:
- She befriended members of his household, impressing them with her knowledge of wilderness survival, swordplay, and strategy.
- The Baron, seeing her as a reliable and capable mercenary, sometimes hires her for odd jobs, scouting dangerous regions, escorting messengers, or uncovering local threats.
- She has built genuine camaraderie with his knights and guards, sharing war stories and tactical insights.
- She maintains a neutral reputation, avoiding deep political entanglements while appearing as nothing more than a well-connected adventurer.
Despite her casual front, Black Leaf is always watching, listening, and subtly probing for information. Her methods of delivering intelligence to the King's agents are discreet:
- She leaves coded messages in seemingly mundane correspondence, letters about "trade routes" and "hunting conditions" contain hidden details about the Baron's movements and political climate.
- She meets with trusted contacts in secluded locations, such as remote taverns, abandoned ruins, or beneath the cover of darkness in the city's outskirts.
- She uses rumors and gossip to her advantage, manipulating the flow of information while ensuring she remains above suspicion.
Though she is loyal to the King, Black Leaf finds herself growing fond of the Baron, making her mission more difficult. She respects his leadership and sees the makings of a great ruler in him, though he remains unaware of his true lineage.
She often wonders what would happen if he learned the truth. Would he remain loyal to the King? Or would he see it as a betrayal? If the King ever ordered her to manipulate, mislead, or, worst of all, eliminate him, would she be able to follow through?
For now, she remains vigilant, balancing duty and personal loyalty, knowing that one day, the truth may come to light.