Evonne Elmwater to Fiontann of the Black Steel, greeting!
It has certainly been an eventful day!
Calvert, of the traders of Traders' Wharf, has agreed to deal with us as you hoped. Trust was mainly created when Morfryn and I were able to find and bring back unharmed the child of one of Calvert's associates, who had been snatched from his cradle by wolves... it is a long tale, but suffice to say that besides the ravening wolves, we also encountered several giant spiders in the Wildwood, barely a league or two from Traders' Wharf itself. On both counts we were exceedingly lucky to escape with our lives.
These details are relevant, as in addition to establishing trade, after witnessing Morfryn's bravery, Calvert has also made us an additional offer of a guardsmen's contract. In five days from today (assuming this letter reaches you by nightfall the day after we set out), a party of hunters and lumberjacks from the Wharf will be travelling to the southern Wildwood, and have requested our protection. They will remain there for a week, and Calvert has made an initial offer of two silver coins per head per day for any protectors the Black Steel can provide.
If I were to give my opinion, I am far from convinced the level of risk is worth the rate that we have been offered. The Wildwood appears to be exceptionally dangerous; indeed, it is like nothing I have ever seen before - every bit as bad, and worse, as every tale of horror I heard as a child from the tavern-goers of Trestlebridge. However, Morfryn has already volunteered his services, and I know neither you nor I would wish for him to face its dangers alone. It is also, of course, of great financial benefit to us to maintain the Wharf's good opinion.
Therefore, if you wish for the Company to take up the Wharf's offer, I must emphasise that it is essential that you inform any who come that they will be putting their lives in grave peril, and must not underestimate the risk of their own violent and untimely demise.
Please let me know by reply if you would like me to make a counter-offer to the Wharf's initial suggestion of two silver pieces. I do not think it would be unreasonable to ask for three - in addition to medicinal expenses, funeral arrangements, et cetera. I have with me what I need to draw up the details of such a contract here - suffice to let me know of any other clauses you would wish to include and what price you would be willing to settle for.
You may leave the rest to me.
I have the honour to remain,
Yours sincerely,
Evonne Elmwater
