Document seen clutched in the hand of  a purple man returning to Sterntown

   "... well, that muttonheaded little fool won't return the cane! Things weren't looking too good for us, you know. Then I remembered this little iron pigsticker, and that got me thinking [shows cold-iron phurbu].

   "You remember when I told you about Bear? I know, I know - He has no power here. But our shamans taught us the gods brought Chaos upon the world, and Bear's way was to stand firm and ferocious against the onslaught of the disorder the gods unleashed.

   "Bear may no longer keep me in His claws, but His plan for me would not change - men are foreordained to follow the path the Spirits lay out for them. I must align myself with those who oppose the Chaos - this dagger was a reminder from Bear that I am to pursue that path, even here.

   [laughs]

   "Besides, that Malchris is downright courteous compared to my old man. At least I know where I stand with the fellow, and his rewards are commensurate with the risks.

   "As a matter of fact, you might be interested in some of what he has to offer. Do you remember when you told me that you ..."

-- fragment of conversation overhead between Purple Annar and a resident of Sterntown