As you first approach the main area of the Pilgrim's Rest Inn, you will talk to The Keeper, if the main character has a succesful dialogue with The Keeper, The Keeper reveals his plan to destroy the Forest Shadow. In the event of an unsuccessful dialogue check the main character can talk to Henpecked Hou and he will eventually tell you to ask The Keeper "about the twisted servants of The Mother." Which will prompt The Keeper to then reveal his plan to have the main character kill the Forest Shadow and give a half-year's worth of silver as payment.