Not Another Hero

assign all points to Haircut.

Audible LOLs.

I vote the traveling players IF you can convince them to head towards-ish the mines, you can learn a lot from them along the way about the surrounding countryside. Also, I'm sure people accustomed to traveling about a vast countryside have a deal bit more insider knowledge about the pulse of the country/quality of life of the people and even political intrigues, if they are acquainted with other bands of travelers. Just make sure their patron isn't a close friend of yours, as it wouldn't do to be discovered just as you embark.