Mercor's voice wavered at the end of the sentence. He realized that that is exactly what he did: cheat people out of their money. His supposed "Plague Cure" was a vial of water with purple dye and honey in it.

The man then admitted, "I need your help. Lord Mortan, the man who presides over Exordior, hasn't been seen in days. He was once a very friendly, social man, but recently, he began to act scared and stopped coming out of his manor. His guards allow no one in, not even me. I think he may be ill with the plague."

Surprised, Mercor sputtered, "How is a 'con man' to help with that? I don't even know you! I don't care about Exordior or its Lord!" Some angry faces turned his way. He spoke quietly, "What's in it for me?"

"Ten thousand gold pieces," stated the man.

Mercor's jaw dropped. He asked, "Who are you?"

The man answered him, "I am Socius Mortan, son of Salus Mortan."

Part 2
The plan was simple: The next night, Mercor would go to the Lord's Manor with his "Plague Cure" and attempt to gain entry under the assumption that Lord Mortan really was ill. Once inside, he would discretely unlock a side door into the parlor while attempting to sell the medicine. If suitable information was not relinquished through subtle query, Socius and Mercor would sneak in come nightfall.

After having discussed this plan with Socius, Mercor left back to his room in the inn for the night. His cargo had been delivered and thankfully the stable boy had stolen nothing. There was still a large stain on the bed. Mercor went down to confront the innkeeper, but he was nowhere to be found. Mercor slept on the floor instead.

In the morning the storm had stopped. Mecor dressed and went outside. It was a cool but sunny dawn. However, people remained hidden inside, for fear of the plague. Mercor went to the pub. He wanted to learn what he could about the manor before he attempted to enter it that night.

The only people in the pub were Exordior guards in padded armor. They were crouched down, looking at a body. They drew their swords when they saw Mercor.

"Stay back!" one of them advised, sword ready.