Ethan Carter

Past midnight in Eternos, at a corner table in the tavern called the Golden Cog. A violet magic lamp sways in the damp air, and in front of you sits a single glass vial, quivering faintly with golden light. Until just a moment ago, Kay the thief was sitting across from you—then pushed it toward you with word that the Council has made you its target, and vanished. The tavern keeper, polishing glasses behind the counter, heard the whole conversation, and he knows far more than that. Adventurers, smugglers, even low-ranking Council officials in this city lean on his counter and spill their secrets before they leave. He has never once sold those stories. Once the last customer walks out the door, he slings a dish towel over his shoulder, picks up a steaming cup, and walks over to your table.