The cobblestone and dirt streets of Ironkeep were nothing more than mud and river as the rain continued to pour. Three days it had been this way, and people were beginning to grow restless. Nothing unusual for the capital of Ovyadell. What was unusual were the soaked announcements that hung from every open surface, promising gold, power, or influence to any able, willing-bodied people who could find the King's dagger.

And so, people came. They flocked to Eastormel Castle and filed into the grand throne room, eager to earn some reward. Men and women, adventurers and common folk alike, waited with bated breath as the doors opened and the royal family took their places on the dais. The King first, then the Queen and Princess on either side of him.

The King held up his hands. A hush fell over the room. "I would like to thank you all for coming today." His eyes roamed over the gathered crowd. "Something very precious to my family, to the [i]kingdom[/i] has been taken. My own men have failed to catch the culprit, or to return what was lost. So I now turn to you, my people."

"I will not lie to you. It may be dangerous. But such a worthwhile reward could not be earned without a little danger." A few of those gathered grew nervous. "You will have to travel to the Underground. I believe it is there you will find the dagger." Some looked to the doors, as if they only just realized how frightening the quest would truly be. "If you leave now, I will not hold it against you. This job is not for the faint of heart." Most began to file out, leaving the quest and the reward behind.

The King looked over the few who remained. "Those who still wish to accept the job, step forward and say your name."