Please only seek this geocache during daylight hours. Other thieves may be lying in wait to take the Black Bird from you!
So, you want to be a hero? It's a dangerous but incredible life to lead. Rumor has it these virtuous individuals are willing to fight hard to aid the weak and defenseless. Some believe such a person is mysterious, other worldly and the subject of legends. Perhaps they are simply people like you or me that seek treasure. Whatever the case, when adventure calls, the hero will be there.
Agility, luck and stealth are the characteristics of a heroic thief. Wait, a thief? How can a thief be a hero? Performing noble deeds doesn't preclude seeking treasure in one's free time. When night descends, this stealthy character will sneak about town picking locks and liberating excess wealth from those with an abundance. As long as no one gets hurt (or notices the burglar was there), what's the harm?
You enter a dim and rather seedy looking tavern years after chosing this sly and crafty path. The bartender, who looks vaguely familiar, glances at you out of the corner of his eye before continuing to wipe down the well worn bar. A man is passed out at one of the tables. Charming. You wouldn't be here if not for a note delivered earlier imploring your help.
"Over here," a rather gruff but sustained voice calls out. You immediately recognize the portly figure of Signor Ferrari whom you met in Rasier. Walking over, he gestures to a chair at his table. "Sit, sit. I have a job for you."
The green tassel on Ferrari's black fez sways as he pours a Raseirish Coffee for the both of you. You take a seat and grasp the mug offered. The coffee is as bitter and thick as you remember.
"Very good," Ferrari says. "I dislike a man who doesn't drink. It reveals a distinct lack of trust. And you can trust me, my good sir."
Ferrari sips his coffee.
"Now, do you recall our business in Rasier?"
You nod your head.
"Then you remember the Black Bird and my desire of its acquisition. I should want that you fetch it for me. A clue in my possession may lead to the genuine figure . . . unlike the fake you were sent for last time. When you return with the Bird, we shall negotiate payment for your services."
"Your stealth is your greatest asset. If you are caught, I will know nothing of your actions, of course."
Ferrari takes a folded piece of paper out of his pocket and slides it across the rough surface of the table to you.
"Wilmer overheard these ramblings from another patron of this fine establishment in regard to our target. Make of them what you will. The location is a lead on a clue."
The top of the note includes the phrase "River Rock". Fortunately, you are familiar with the landmark.
"How long you take, the minutes and the seconds, are of no consequence to me. Only the degree of the task is important. The rest, my dear fellow, is up to you."
Ferrari gently slaps his black crop against the table and gestures to the door.
"Good luck, sir. I have some thinking to do."
You leave the tavern and look at the paper Signor Ferrari gave you. It reads . . .
50 feet north of River Rock
Bogey Devon Clara Bogey Alice Clara Bogey Clara Alice Bogey Ellen Franc Alice Alice
Clara met with Franc and Bogey. Devon met with Alice and Franc. Ellen met with Alice and Bogey. Franc met with Bogey twice.
This geocache is based on the Quest for Glory series of adventure games by Sierra On-Line. Permission for placement was kindly granted by Lida Gouchenour of the City of Columbia Parks and Recreation Department.
Sierra On-Line Series
