It is January 6th, 1371, and J'Harast has been training for six days. You have been avoiding the other members of your party - especially Petunia - but late this afternoon you finally return to your room at the inn.
It is deserted; the fire is cold.
Pinned to your pillow is a note, dated December 31st:
Dear J'Harast,
I am leaving you. I realize now that I was too hasty, both in offering to serve you for a year, and in agreeing to be your wife. When you left me this morning I lost my head. I thought you were with one of the other women in the group. My jealousy was such that I went to Sasha and called her a tart, then called Illyana worse.
I am too immature yet to be a member of this group, your follower, or your wife. So, I am leaving Sandas to start anew. Please do not try to find me.
I love you always,
Petunia
You leave the inn again.
As J'Harast is walking to the fighters guild, he sees his mother in the road ahead of him. Blinking, the vision does not go away. In a calm, tender voice, one that he remembers from his youth, he hears his mother, "J'Harast, what have you become?"
He blinks again, and sees his brother next to his mother.
"J'harast, what have you become?" the shadow says.
"Why? Why?" The two shadows ask.
J'Harast is shaken by these visions, his face flushes red. To no one, he speaks, "I don't know! I don't know. I don't know myself anymore."
Tears stream down his face, and he notices for the first time where he is. In the religious district, near the temple that Sasha has frequented in the past.
He moves towards the door, and hesitates as he looks around.
He sees his mothers visage smiling as he opens the door.
As he enters the temple he cries, "Help me! Help me!"
"What is the problem?" asks a young acolyte of Tyr.
"All gone! All my fault! Help me! I need your help, and quickly. A friend has been killed, by my inaction, and I need to recover her body and help to heal it."
"Killed? How? And who?"
Grabbing the acolyte by his robes, J'Harast shakes him, "Quick grab your gear and come with me."
"I can't leave my post," he replies. "Let me fetch Verona."
He breaks away from you and hurries into the back of the temple.
A moment later he returns with the high priestess...and two more acolytes.
"Yes, dear?" Verona says to you in a compassionate voice. "J'Harast, isn't it? My assistant here says that someone has died...another party member? My word."
J'Harast falls to his knees, sobbing, and tells his tale.
"Sasha is dead because of me. Petunia has left because of me, and I did nothing. I have sunk lower than low. I am vile."
"We, Rane and I, were in the haunted house at the end of town, exploring at night, by ourselves. I guess Petunia woke up and I was not there. She accused others, and Sasha came to find me."
"She found us in the house, we had just encountered undead, which drained my lifeforce. We were resting. Rane had been upset with Sasha, and when she showed up, he killed her. I did nothing. Then, when she was dead, I helped him to try to dispose of the body."
"Mother, I'm sorry, I did not mean to do it. Mother, please, forgive me, help me Mother. What should I do? What can I do?"
J'Harast falls prostrate at Verona's feet, tears streaming. "I love her, and I killed her. Help me please. Please?" He begs.
Verona's face grows more impassive as you tell the tale.
At last she speaks.
"Do you know where the body is? If it is still intact then we must retrieve it. Then, we must deal with you and your friend Rane."
She turns and whispers in a low voice to her assistants. Two of them hurry off.
"They are bringing the carraige around. Are you fit to lead us?"
J'Harast nods his assent.
You head outside as the closed carraige - pulled by four horses - stops by the door. You climb in, followed by Verona and her assistants.
The carraige moves through the streets of Sandas, its passengers silent.
Finally, it comes to a stop outside of the Inn of the Drunken Dwarf.
Verona speaks to one of her acolytes.
"Go and see if there are any of J'Harast's friends inside, and if there are, please tell them that I request their presence."
The acolyte steps out of the carraige and heads into the inn.
In the inn, Rane is speaking to Bel...
"Where is everyone? I've only seen you around lately. I know Illyana is off training at Castle Yuri, and J'Harast is training also I believe, but I have not seen any of the others for a few days. We really should be more in touch with each other. Is everyone just training to your knowledge?"
Before Bel can answer Rane, your attention is distracted by the sight outside of a large, ornate enclosed carraige stopping before the inn. A side door opens, and an acolyte dressed in the robes of Tyr climbs out. She makes for the inn entrance and a moment later she is standing in the doorway of the common room. After a brief hesitation she comes over to the table where you sit, and speaks to both of you.
"The High Priestess Verona requests the presence of your company concerning a matter of some urgency," she says, and waits expectantly for your answer.
Bel grins and says, "I would never turn down the request of such a distinguished person, of course I will come. Rane, you coming?"
Rane stands up. "Lets see what this is about."
As you head out, Rane asks the cleric, "What does Verona want, do you know?"
Without waiting for an answer, the dark half elf continues, "... But if this is about the speed we are cleaning out the house, you can tell Verona that if her order didn't charge us so much to heal and raise our dead, we would have some money to train with, and be able to do more at one time."
"You may tell her yourself," replies the acolyte.
You reach the carraige, and the acolyte opens the door.
Within are Verona and three more of her assistants.
Also sitting there is J'Harast. His expression is strained, his eyes red.
"Please watch your step," says the acolyte from behind you, motioning for you to enter.
Bel frowns and says, "J'harast, are you alright? Is something wrong with Petunia? Mistress Verona, what does this mean?"
Rane flashes J'Harast a concerned look. "I hate like crowded places... I'll ride on the board out here." Rane moves away from the door and stands on the step holding onto the side of the carriage.
The acolyte behind Rane glances at Verona. The high priestess nods.
"As you wish," says the acolyte.
Bel climbs aboard.
"Now what's this all about?"
"We will see soon enough," Verona replies, nodding to the driver.
The carraige moves off with Rane riding on the step board, clinging to the side. Soon he is caked in mud and horse dung, kicked up by the wheels and the horses hooves.
Your destination is soon apparent, even though no one says a word to you. Through the West Gate the carraige goes, then turns south into the outer city.
After a short time it comes to a stop outside of the derelict house.
Verona looks at J'Harast.
"Lead on," she says.
Rane shivers as he see's the house. "Now wait a minute, I think you at least owe us an explanation of whats going on before we risk our lives entering that cursed place again. In case you haven't noticed, far too many of us have died in there, not that you don't mind taking our gold."
"Indeed?" replies Verona as she climbs out of the carraige. "If what I have been told is true, then at least one death that has taken place here is not to be blamed on the occupants of the house..."
"J'Harast, what's this about?"
Slowly, with very careful and deliberate motions. J'Harast will lead the small party into the house.
Bel follows J'Harast in.
Rane stands his ground outside. "I'm not going in there until I know what this is about. While your acolytes might be capable, and you Verona are probably a match for most, there is still great danger inside, and unless the matter is pressing I want to wait until the rest of our companions are here."
Verona looks at the half drow and almost looks amused.
"Why so nervous about going in today, dear? From what J'Harast has told me, the two of you have made it a bit of a habit in the recent past of paying visits to this place without the rest of your companions."
Her slight smile fades.
"As it is, should we decide to wait for the rest of them, we may be here for a very long time...no matter. I am not imposing my will upon you, dear. You do not have to accompany us. You can wait out here...or wherever, if you wish."
Rane shivers in the cold, "I see. Then in that case I will wait outside the house."
Rane glares at J'Harast. "I'll be waiting for you to return, you can bet on that."
J'Harast turns around, fire and anger in his eyes. He takes a swing at Rane, and yells "Shut up, you know what this is about."
Bel steps between the two and trys to restrain J'Harast. Bel says, "Hold it J'harast, Rane if this is as serious as it sounds you have some fast talking to do or I'll help J'Harast take you apart and leave you to rot."
Rane backs away. "Go on in and show them what you will. I'll be waiting for you, J'Harast. That I will."
With that Rane turns and bolts, putting his hands to his ears and running toward the road.
J'Harast runs after him.
Bel's face explodes in anger and he casts an entangle spell at Rane.
Alas, in the 18 seconds it takes Bel to cast the spell, speedy Rane has run well past the maximum range of it...through the gate and out of sight around the corner down the street.
J'Harast, unable to catch him either, returns.
"Do not worry about him, dears," says Verona. "He is dangerous but he cannot escape the reach of Tyr. I have the means to retreive him when I wish. Let us go inside."
J'Harast leads you into the house...through the entrance foyer and into the hall.
On the floor you all note a trail of blood that was not there the last time you were here...going down the hallway in one direction, and into the livingroom where you battled the sheet ghoul in the other.
"Is this yours and Rane's handiwork?" Verona asks J'Harast.
Bel, too angry to be confused, says, "Ok J'Harast, do you give me an explaination or do we track him down and cut him into fishbait and worry about reasons later. I'm mad enough right now that I don't care which we do as long as we cut Rane up at the end."
A calm comes over J'Harast, "Bel, do not worry, let us trust this great Lady. He will be brought to justice soon enough. I will track me alone, if necessary."
Bel says in a voice as cold as ice, "By Vidars sword J"Harast, I swear I will not rest until the truth is known and justice is done, you will not be alone in this matter." His voice returning to normal, with a tinge of respect in it, Bel says to verona, "M'lady, I trust you to enlighten me."
"That is why we are here, druid, you and I. To seek enlightenment."
J'Harst's voice is full of sorrow and pain, as he faces his comrade in arms.
"Do not blame only Rane. Through my inaction and my association with him did Sasha meet her end. I will search for him and bring us both to justice."
"Please, may we continue. I will tell you all Bel, when we are finished with this task, that I promise you."
Looking at the blood trail, "We were in the basement. However Sasha had mentioned that they had encountered something up here. I don't know."
"'They'?" asks Verona. "She was not alone? Who was with her? Though I expect that we will find out soon enough."
That you do.
Following the trail into the living room, you are greeted with a grisly sight...a scattering of bones...well gnawed by some nameless beast. Also lying about are pieces of clothing and equipment.
Verona nudges the skull with her staff.
"An elf," she says. "Are you missing any other members of your party? Or would you bother to notice? All of this took place only a week ago, after all."
She picks up a now tattered cloak. The two of you recognise it to be Sasha's.
"Let us continue."
You follow the bloody trail in the other direction. It leads you to the top of the stairs, where you find two more well-chewed bodies and more blood stains. They are nude, human-like but not human, and what frozen flesh remains on their bones is grey.
J'Harast leads you downstairs. At the bottom you find yet another patch of blood...though it looks as if someone has tried to clean this one up. A trail of it - faint but still distinguishable - leads you deeper into the dungeon...down the long passage past the fork where one branch leads to the undead area...and to its terminus at the sewer.
The water is dark and foul smelling.
"Well, J'Harast? Where is she?" asks Verona.
"We secured the body under the water here."
J'Harast prepares to enter the water, to look for Sasha's body.
"No. I have a better way," says, Verona, stopping him. She signals to one of her assistants, who pulls a scroll out of his satchel and hands it to her.
J'Harast instead turns to Bel.
"Bel, revenge is a very bitter dish. Are you ready to partake of it? I am, because I know what I have done and what I have become, to the depths of where I have sunk. I will do all in my powers to deal with Rane. I understand him, in a manner that you do not, nor will ever. As for paying, the great Lady her has assured me that I will pay for what I have done, and I will gladly do what she asks, or commands me to do even if I must die, I will do so, as long as I can right the wrong that has been done."
Bel, voice sounding more dead than alive, replies, "This is not a matter of revenge, I will leave the decision of his punishment up to Verona, this is a matter of honor and duty. These are the very core of my soul and I cannot deny them. I will not rest until Rane is brought back to justice, what form this justice takes is is not for me to decide. I will do everything to bring him back to face justice and only as a last resort administer it myself or help another."
"The punishment depends on what we find here. So far we have only J'Harast's words and Rane's peculiar actions to go by...and neither can be considered credible in and of themselves," Verona opens the scroll and reads the arcane words written on it.
As you watch, the water level in the sewer drops...and drops...until only about a foot remains at the bottom.
You look over the edge.
A spike has been driven into the wall of the sewer below where you now stand, and about a foot below the normal water level. Tied to it is a rope, and tied to the rope are the remains of a body. Something has been eating at it, for little is left of it but for bones and gristle. Some hair remains attached to some patches of skin on the skull, though, and that hair is a familiar red in colour.
Verona looks at J'Harast.
"It looks as if your words are the truth," she says, and motions her assistants forward. They grasp the rope and haul the remains up onto the walkway where you stand. Another scroll is handed over, and Verona reads the words.
Before your eyes the body becomes whole...flesh grows, concealing muscles and organs. The body shudders, and starts to breathe.
Sasha lives.
She opens her eyes.
"Welcome back, Sasha," says Verona, as the cleric of Isis looks about. "I think you have a tale to tell us, dear."
Teeth chattering with cold, Sasha looks up, clearly confused. "W-w-what h-hh-happend?" She draws her arms around herself to try and get warm.
"I-I-I'm fffreeezzing...."
Bel removes his coat and drapes it around Sasha.
"T-t-thank you ... " Sasha takes the coat gratefully and soon looks around with more interest.
"So ... what happened then ... why am I here ... Verona? J'Harast? Bel?"
"I am hoping that you can tell us, dear," replies the high priestess.
What cloak and other warm clothing J'harast has, he will remove and hand to an alcolyte to give to Sasha.
Bel, looking very grim, says, "Sasha, I do not know all the details, so I will not try to explain but I was lead here by J'Harast and Verona. They can enlighten you and finish telling me, but there is much to answer for here."
Sasha accepts the additional cloak handed her by the acolyte and gives J'Harast a puzzled look.
She stands slowly, her hair cascading around her shoulders in a fluffy red cloud. "Well ... if that is the case, could we go somewhere warm ... and that has hot food. I am so confused ... " she looks around suddenly ...
"Is my tween still with me?" she asks.
There is no sign of it.
"I think not." Speaks J'Harast. "Lady Verona, may we return to your temple and discuss what we must there? I am not comfortable here."
"Yes, let us leave here," replies Verona. "The longer I tarry here, the more likely it is that my presence will be noted...if it has not already."
"That would be fine with me. But what have we to discuss? I mean, I would like to know what happened ... I remember coming here looking for you ... and Raith ... " She looks around suddenly. "Where is Raith?" She asks, despair in her voice.
Verona hesitates.
"Was he with you, when you came here six days past? An elf, whom you gave your cloak to, dear? Then I must tell you that he died that night also."
You head out of the dungeon and up into the house. Verona directs one of the acolytes to retreive Raith's remains, and you head outside, to where Verona's ornate carraige awaits.
A half an hour later, and an hour after you entered the house, you are back at the temple of Tyr.
Sasha is quiet the entire trip, deep in thought. When they arrive at the temple, she walks in with everyone, though very withdrawn and silent.
Sasha takes a seat then looks up, first at Verona, then J'Harast. Very quietly she asks, "So, who will tell me what happened? I can remember going to the house with Raith - we were attacked almost immediately by these weird gray shadowy things - I killed two of them, but Raith was gravely wounded. I put my cloak over him, wanting to keep him warm while I sought help. I had followed tracks here - and assumed J'Harast had come here - he seemed to be obsessed with this house."
J'Harast nods grimly at that.
Sasha pauses briefly, collecting her thoughts. "I went downstairs, to the basement, searching for J'Harast and whoever was with him - there were two sets of tracks. Then ... I think I did find them ... but I cannot remember what happened. It seems we must have been attacked ... but it is all fuzzy ... I remember arguing with either J'Harast or Rane ... was he there? But then ... it is all a blank. Were we attacked by some more creatures then?"
J'Harast looks down at this and speaks. "No Sasha, you were not attacked by a creature, rather you were assulted by Rane and his powers. Your tween helped you overcome his influence once, and called out to me to help you. While you were swinging at Rane.
"I was ... I did ... I jumped between you and him... I then drew my sword and threated to prevent you from attacking Rane. That gave him the opening he needed. I guess I was distracting your Tween.
"You killed yourself, by stabbing yourself in the head with a dagger."
Sasha pales suddenly and steadies herself, "I-I what?????" Sasha says in a confused whisper. "I ... would ... never .... never ... have done so. Why ... why would I .... "
"Your mind was under assault by Rane. He has some latent powers that allow him to contol minds. How, I do not know. He forced you to do it."
Sasha looks somewhat relieved, but stunned as well. "Oh."
Verona nods. "Such powers are called psionics. They are very rare, but they make the few who have them very powerful. This Rane is a very dangerous individual."
Turning away from Sasha, and looking at Verona, J'Harast continues telling his sordid tale. "I was in shock, and helped Rane carry your body to the sewer, and bury it under the water. We then left the house by the secret door through the anvil. We agreed not to tell and returned to the Inn, alone. Pretending not to know what happened. The others told us that you had gone to find us and that Petunia had been distraught."
"I left her a note and went to the fighters guild to train. In the heat of the training, and the adrenaline high I saw the first vision. It was my mother, asking me what I had done."
Clearing his throat, he continues, staring into space, not looking at Verona, Bel, Sasha or anyone else in the room.
"I ignored the vision, writing off to the training. However, these visions continued every hour of every day. By the sixth day, I had become distraught, and sought out Petunia."
Tears stream down his face, "There was a note. Petunia has left me and left this town, to make her life somewhere else, so she can grow up and mature."
"Leaving the Inn, I saw the vision again, and it was joined by my brother, taunting me, asking me, begging me. I found myself near the temple and found myself entering. Verona heard my story out and came with me to retrieve your body."
J'Harast falls to his knees, eyes downcast.
"I have lost the three women who I have cared for, one by disease and two by my actions. Sasha, I am sorry for what I have done. I am hopeless and will face that punishment that Verona and the laws of this town and of the Thieves guild will mete out. I am ready for this, now. However, I ask one favor Lady Verona. Let me hunt down Rane and return with him to justice. I know him and think that I can find him."
Verona shakes her head.
"That will not be necessary. He cannot escape the sight of Tyr. I have the power to bring him to us whenever we are ready to deal with him."
Tears stream from Sasha's face by the end of J'Harast's tale, and her hands flutter in her lap, as if they had a life of their own, jerking nervously, plucking at the fabric of the cloak. She looks up, confused and shocked. "B-but ... I still don't understand ... "
She rises slowly, walking to H'Jarast. She stands in front of him and takes his hands, pulling him up. "I'm sorry to have caused you this grief ... I don't know how these things happen ... it seems death and hurt is my only contribution to this world ... I am so sorry ... I have somehow caused you this anguish by my action ... wounding you more deeply, after all the losses you have already suffered. And now you seem to blame yourself ... why?" Sasha looks to Verona, as if to find the answer there.
It is J'Harast who answers, though.
"You have _not_ caused me grief. It was _my_ actions and _mine_ alone that have caused me to fall to where I am. I have looked after myself and myself alone. I have been selfish, arrogant, and egocentric. It was these traits that caused me to make the _wrong_ decisions when I did and caused me to help Rane cover up his crime.
"I _could_ have stopped him, but I was to much enamored of personal gain and personal fortune to see what Rane was and I was becomming."
"Why do you think you must be punished? It is I that need to seek forgiveness for my inexplicable action ... the shock you must have felt ... when I .... " Sasha cannot finish her sentence ... and looks up instead.
"I must pay for the crimes that I have committed against you and against the group," says J'Harast. "For one, Rane and I were skimming off the party treasure, about 20 to 30% and splitting this money. Rather than share equally, we shared with you what we wished, after keeping what we needed and wanted. I decieved you and the group with regards to this."
"Oh." Sasha says in a very small whisper. "I guess I was clueless as usual."
"More to the point, when I had a choice to make, one that was right and honorable and the other wrong and evil, I chose the latter. I chose to help Rane. I am no better than him, I am a murderer of the worst sort."
Shattered, all Sasha can do is mumble, "Oh ... I didn't understand ... " Sasha just stands there, looking so confused and hurt, eyes dull, body listless.
"I'm sorry ... I'm sorry ... perhaps it was I that is .... or was obssessed with the house ... perhaps the residual evil there ... affected my mind somehow ... I cannot explain why I did that ... I am so ashamed ... Rane's actions ... I don't know ... " Sasha straightens, as if gathering some inner strength.
"I am responsible for what has happened here. And I take full responsibility. J'Harast is not to blame - yes, perhaps his actions afterward are not commendable, but hardly evil. I would like to find Rane if only to find out exactly what he did and why - that may be the key to sorting this all out."
J'Harast laughs at this, a cold bitter laugh. "You are not responsible for this, not in the least. How could you be responsible for me agreeing with Rane and murdering you? You are guiltless, and blameless, and these are qualities that I admired in you before, and still do, even while I hid your body in the sewer and cleaned the blood away from the stones."
"Oh ... well ... I didn't understand before ... " Sasha says in a barely audible whisper.
She turns back to J'Harast, tears welling in her eyes again. "I am so sorry ... you know .... that I would never have willingly done you harm ... I understand some of your pain ... I ... I hope that you can understand that I didn't mean to hurt you .... I would ... would understand it if you no longer wanted to be associated with me ... I wish most strongly that you would give me another chance ... but will understand if you can not ... to you it must seem I somehow betrayed your trust ... after what you shared with me ... " Sasha stops again, looking very sad and lost.
"Lady, it is you who must choose to give _me_ another chance. I have wronged you and the party, tremendously. I have wronged you in such as grevious, horrible way, by betraying your trust and innocence. I must face what punishments that are my due. Then and only then can I ever consider asking you to give me a second chance."
Verona speaks.
"Such punishments as you will endure will be decided by a higher court than any that exist on Earth, J'Harast. You have turned to evil...I knew that the moment you set foot inside my temple to make your confession. And yet, you now regret turning to evil, and want to make amends. Time will tell.
"You are like a ship without an anchor, J'Harast. You have no morals, no concept of what is right and what is wrong. You are guided only by your own cruel self-interest. Your anchor was your brother, whose soul is still imprisoned somewhwere in the abyss. I believe that if there is any hope for your redemption, it will only come when you have made Jaramir whole again.
"In the meantime, there are other matters to concern yourself with. I will not bring the City Watch into this matter. They are corrupt, and the death of a minor cleric from a far-away land would not concern them unless their palms were well greased with gold. However, you have double-crossed a fellow member of the thieve's guild, and they will seek their vengeance.
"Sasha, you have been blind, perhaps, to the antics of J'Harast and Rane, but then so have the rest of your party, dear. What would be the alternative to such blind trust, though? Together you have all entrusted your lives with each other in the heat of battle...it is only logical to assume that you could trust each other with the party funds. So do not fret or blame yourself for your actions. You are the glue that holds this group together - more or less - and they will need your strength.
"Perhaps you have become obsessed with the house, though, Sasha...perhaps you all have," she continues. "It is a mystery, and I suspect a darker mystery than any of us originally imagined. You have now cleared the house itself, and are moving under the graveyard. I will warn you now, that graveyard is owned by the Church of the Gods of Trouble. They are evil, very evil, and the fact that there is a passage linking it to the house troubles me greatly...though long have I suspected their involvement.
"However, I fear that you are all getting in too deep with this. Repeatedly do you come to me with your dead. This troubles me. I think perhaps you need to take a break from this task I set to you for a time.
"I spoke to Ray Jay yesterday. Yes, we talk, she and I...she is aware of all that happens in Sandas. She tells me that this Vardui has almost pinpointed the location of Jaramir's soul. Perhaps you should go and rescue it. Ray Jay thinks that you are up to it.
"But that brings us back to the matter of Rane and J'Harast. Shall I bring the half drow to us to answer for his crimes?"
"Why? ... " Is the only word that passes Sasha's lips as she turns away and blindly stumbles to the door. "out ... out ... I have to get out ... " she mumbles, as she tries to open the door ...
J'Harast looks at Sasha, not saying a word. Waiting for someone else to break the silence. You can clearly see the look of pain on his face.
Sasha leaves.
A few minutes later, Sasha returns, looking a bit more together.
Though she still is a bit pale and strained looking, the fire is back in her eyes.
"I'm sorry. I just needed to .... well ... anyway." She walks forward and addresses everyone.
"I think I agree with Verona now - and as some of you know, it was my original intention to go after Jaramir. I welcome the oppurtunity to do so now ... It has been on my mind a lot - though I knew Vardui was working in it ... it sometimes seemed to me that folks were forgetting about him." Very businesslike now, she turns to Verona.
"Is there some source of information we can study that will tell us what to expect when we enter the abyss or whatever? I mean what kinds of actions are effective, proper behavoir in dealing with the denizens below and such?"
"You should seek the advice of Ray Jay on these matters when the time comes. She told me that Vardui is very experienced in travelling the outer planes...especially the planes of chaos. I do know that it is difficult to plan in advance a trip to the abyss, dear...it is so...changeable...so - ugh - chaotic! But on the outer planes certain magical items and spells will work differently, or not at all, I know that much."
"I would also like to train ... I have neglected matters in this area for too long - because of the house. Perhaps during my training I can discover more also."
Sasha turns to J'Harast, her face softening a little. "Will you accompany us to retrieve your brother then?" She hesitates, "I think it would be a good thing for you ... and your actions in bringing Verona in on these events ... gives me hope ... that all is not lost ... and I want to give you a chance ... to really live life on the terms it should be lived ... please say you will accompany us."
Verona looks at the elf expectantly.
"Agreed. I will accompany you to retrieve Jaramir. Mayhaps it is what I need to become centered again."
"However, I have one request. Lady Verona, would you please bring Rane here, or tell me how to get to him. I have to free myself from him and his influence."
"Yes...I would like to hear what he has to say for himself," says Verona, and signals to one of her aides. Another scroll is handed over. The high priestess opens it and mouths strange arcane words while you watch uneasily.
There is a tearing sound from behind you. Turning about, you see that a gate has opened, and through it you see blue skies and puffy white clouds.
There is a whistling sound, and something invisible blows into the chamber wherein you stand. You cannot see it, needless to say, but it sounds as if a miniature tornado has entered though the gate. The gate, in turn, closes behind it.
"In the name of Tyr, god of War and Law, I command you to seek out Rane the half-drow and bring him to this place," shouts Verona above the howling wind.
The whirlwind goes howling out of the chamber, leaving you in silence.
A short time later you hear the wind approaching again. It bursts into the room again, and in it you see Rane spinning about like a leaf in a breeze. It drops him to the floor...none too gently.
Then, the gate opens again and the servant passes through. Silence returns again, for a moment, as the gate closes.
"Speak, Rane," says Verona. "Account for yourself."
J'Harast grips his weapons tight.
Rane smiles. "Nice seeing you again Sasha."
He then looks at J'Harast, and concentrates...
...and J'Harast feels another will seeking to control his.
Sweat breaks out on his brow, as he resists...successfully.
Verona's expression grows stern as she sees what is happening, and she speaks.
You cannot understand the word she speaks to Rane, but all of you can feel its power, for it is a Holy Word, and baneful to any she should direct it to who are not of her ethos.
Rane cries out in agony and clutches his ears, but it is fruitless to do so.
His head explodes, spraying the rest of you with blood, bones, and grey matter.
Rane's headless corpse drops to the floor at your feet.
Verona looks exhausted, and sits down heavily in a convenient chair.
"Such is what happens to those who bring ill into the house of Tyr."
Sasha steps back, looking a bit green ... she covers her mouth with her hand and turns away.
J'Harast looks at the dead corpse of his former associate.
Pointing to a ring on his finger, he speaks, "Sasha, I believe that ring is for you. Rane told me that he found it in one of the chests we searched. He had it identified and told me it was some sort of protection magic."
"I figure that you deserve it for what we did to you. If you refuse to keep it, I will bring it to Ming and sell it as a start to repaying the debt that I owe to the group."
Sasha takes the ring from J'Harast and slips it on. "Thank you ... I had wondered what happened to some of the things ... but other things were always more pressing. Thank you." She clasps his hands warmly, and gives him an encouraging smile.
"Additionally, I will see if I can gain access to his bank accounts and return what money there is to the group."
Bel says, "Maybe we should reconsider the mandatory detect evil scan on the group members. It is only through J'Harasts repentance that we are not all dead."
J'Harast disagrees.
"You would insult those who you seek to join you. I would not ever have consented to anyone detecting anything on me. I find this an insulting concept.
"The trust that Rane and I violated needs to be built and strengthened. I have placed my life in your hands now, because I am aware of the penality that will be exacted on me by the thieves guild."
Looking further at Bel, "And what next, after detect evil? Detect sexua orientation? Detect alcoholic? Where will it stop once you begin to violate the freedom of others."
Ignoring any rebuttal from Bel, J'harast turns to face the tired Lady Verona, "Lady, I am in your debt. Perhaps I can once again become the person I once was. However, I need to be alone for a while, and continue my training at the fighters guild. If you permit, I would like to return here at the conclusion of my training to talk to you and learn from your teaching. I see the errors of what I have done, and while it will take time for me to truly repent and repay to those I have harmed, I need to continue on the path towards redemption and salvation."
"The path to that salvation I think lies with the soul of your brother," she replies. "But you are welcome to come here when you wish. Who is - or was - your patron? Tyr is the patron of good warriors, you know."
Sasha frowns. "I know I first suggested it, but I don't feel comfortable doing that. I can't put my finger on it, but it seems as if we are punishing, or doubting those that have fought with us already shown their bravery and courage. Let's not become paranoid and untrusting of those we know. Let's not do that unless it is a new member or if someone currently with us gives us cause. Would that be acceptable, Bel?"
Bel nods and says, "That is what I meant. I was not proposing we scan everyone on a monthly basis, just new members or members that have given us very good reasons to be suspicious."
Sasha nods. "Good, we are in agreement at least. So, where are the others? And I guess we should do something about Raith ... I feel so badly about that ... " Tears well in Sasha's eyes, but she chokes them back.
She paces briskly, ticking off items on her fingers. "First thing we need to do is see if Vardui and Ray Jay will see us. Then we must figure out who is trained and who needs training - I for one would like to - I have been very lax about it lately and could really be doing much more. Then we need to organize our group - do you think we need another member. Who do we have ... Illyanna, Raz, Pillar, Bel, J'Harast, and myself. Does that seem adequate? I would feel better with at least one more fighter among us. Can we go to the fighters guild and recruit one?"
"If I may be so bold, perhaps you should add a few more members to your party. The road before you will be daunting, and there is strength in numbers."
J'Harast replies to Verona...
"I have never been a religious sort. My parents and I worshipped the elven god Rilllifane Rallathil. However, I could not tell you what he stands for nor yet his religious observations. Personal power and other material things have always been more important. Perhaps I can learn about Tyr, and strive to become a _good_ warrior in all meanings of the word."
"As for adding party members, I think that we need more fighting power up front. I must remain the lone scout in the group. The loss of Petunia weakens us greatly at a head-to-head brawl. This other person, the one who replaced Amythar, what was his name, was he a fighter. I would like to see us recruit a few more fighters or those with duel talents, including fighting."
"If there is nothing else, I must return to the fighters guild and work out. I will be there for now, and do not plan to stay at the Inn, for now. Someday I will return there. If you need me, please come and find me."
"Sasha, I am sorry for what I did, and will try to make it up to you. I owe you a life, and I will strive to become a better person. Lady Verona, Thank you for your understanding, and I know that I must return to you a better man, or else I will have failed at this second chance I have. I will return to learn from those who you will point me to and try to refocus my life to one where others are more important to me than myself, and where material gains are not important."
J'Harast then bows his head low before Lady Verona and Sasha and leave, heading towards the fighters guild to finish his training.
J'Harast leaves for the guild. Sasha and Bel return to the Inn of the Drunken Dwarf.
The common room is quiet tonight when you return. Only one patron is there...sitting by the fire and drinking hot cider. A wood elf, he looks as if he has journeyed far.
In fact, he almost looks a little familiar...
"Bel, are the others here, or have they gone home or to training. We should meet with them soon ... but right now ... I think I just want to sit here and think a bit. And then find a Cleric of Isis ... if by some chance she is still here. Do you want to see if you can find someone that would like to accompany us to the abyss?"
Sasha takes a table and sits down, being careful to make sure the cloak doesn't fall open and indicates she would like some dinner and some wine.
As you seat yourselves a newcomer enters the room...a grey elf, very muscular.
He looks like just the sort of fellow you were looking for...
The grey elf looks around the room. Almost instinctively, he goes to Sasha and Bel.
"Greetings. I'm hoping you can help me. I'm looking for a dark elf. There are rumors one has been seen in this place. Either of you two know where I can find him?"
Sasha looks up tiredly, she brushes back her *red* hair carelessly.
"That is a rather vague description. Could you tell me more? I knew of one ... but surely it cannot be the same one ... in any event, he is no more." Sasha replies.
The grey elf smiles at the fact that this dark elf might be dead. "From what I've heard, his name is Bane, or something like that. I've never seen him, just know he's a half breed and was seen about this tavern recently."
Sasha replies emotionlessly. "Rane. His name was Rane."
Farad smiles. "Thank you lady." He takes out a small book and writes that down.
Bel looks up and says, "I do not know of any elves named Bane but I could make some inquiries. There are many elves in the town and I have some connections. What do you wish to speak to him or her about?"
The elf smiles. "If he's a drow, we won't be speaking long."
Bel shakes his head and says, "I agree the dark elves have a tendancy to the dark, hence their name, but it is dangerous to generalize good or evil to all individuals in a group."
Sasha nods in agreement with Bel. "That way is dangerous - for everyone. Each individual is unique and accorded respect by their own ways ... they are not answerable for the crimes of their race."
The elf smiles and waves his hand as if to dismiss the argument, "Yes, yes, I know all that." He grins wickedly, "Just as it would be wrong to think all druids are lovers of animals, in more ways one."
Sasha frowns, but does not reply.
The elf grins, "But pardon my manners, the name is Farad. I'm sorry, I didn't catch yours. Mind if I sit down?"
"Sasha. Yes."
He does so.
Sasha takes another long pull on her wine, and looks at Farad with a speculative gleam.
"I've also heard some disturbing rumors about this place. Seems this inn attracts trouble. Something about a demon was seen here not that long ago. I hunt demons, and would be greatly in your debt if you knew who summoned the creature."
"Just what do you want Farad? You seem to know a lot about all this." Sasha asks with interest.
Farad frowns. "I am an honest elf. I have told you exactly what I want. I want information about this drow and this demon. I am a hunter, and I make it my business that such chaos and evil does not thrive."
Sasha looks suspiciously at Farad. "Why? The drow had nothing to do with the demon. They were seperate events. Which do you hunt?"
"Since the drow is dead, and the demon departed, I must turn to a new endevour. I had not known the two were separate until you mentioned it."
Farad draws his silver gleaming sword, but slowly so as to not arrouse suspicion. "This I had specially made. It is a silver alloy, and is able to smite lesser demons."
"Well, that might be handy where we are planning to go. I suppose you will want to go with us ... not that your skills wouldn't be handy ... it is just fanaticism scares me. And you seem fanatic about demons and such."
Farad smiles. "You can trust me to use my energies only against those who are evil, and consort with demonic powers. Yes I take such matters seriously, because I have seen their evil first hand, and know it to be a serious matter. If ever you come face to face with such diabolic power, you would do well to remember that strong faith is a good defense. The powers of the underworld thrive on the faint hearted."
Sasha bristles again. "I am not faint hearted! I have a very strong faith!"
"Good. This I am glad to hear."
"But this is the second time you have mentioned that my skills would be useful. Just where exactly are you planning to go?"
"A place you would like - though you would not like the reason. You see, where you would immediately destroy evil out of hand - I also look to the other sidee - what evil can be turned to good. Destruction is the way of evil - not my way. Jaramir, for whatever reason, had a quasit - in my book, that does not make him unredeemable or whatever you may want to call it. I believe he can be saved and turned to good. I'm sure you would rather kill him ... but as I said, that is not my way. We are on our way to rescue his soul from the Abyss or whereever it is."
Sasha arches her brow, and looks mockingly at Farad. "So, do you still wish to accompany us then?"
Farads eyes light up. "A chance to go to the abyss itself. Yes, I will not miss such an opportunity. Unless of course you mean to attempt to convert the demons themselves to the ways of light and justice."
Sasha rolls her eyes. "No, I have no wish to convert them ... it is people I am interested in. Most people, though not all, can be turned to good. And that is what I would try to do ... there is much evil around ... too much ... and it truely pains me to see it .... but rather than destroy what could be saved ... I will do my best to convert them, by showing them how it could be ... " Sasha sighs again and shakes her head. "Well ... I think you know what I am trying to say."
Farad chuckles at this. "Not all evil can be turned to good. I have not knowlege of Jaramir and what crimes he has committed. I will go with you to the Abyss. Only if this mage continues his associations with demons will we have a problem."
Sasha nods. "I know ... if he can't change ... then I will have a problem too. But let me tell you this - right now ... it is very important to try and save him ... very important. Do not treat this lightly because you think ill of him now. Give me time to work with him ... "
Farad nods. "I am a man of my word. I will not touch this Jaramir so long as you say he is turning away from his evil acts."
Farad's eyes light up again, "Besides, I think I will be busy enough working to keep us alive. I hope your companions are many and strong, because the Abyss will mean our deaths otherwise."
He holds the sword so that you can see it. It is finely made, and inscribed with symbols of warding and power, although it does not seem magical. "I have bloodied it once with a minor demon, and hope to do so again." His eyes are again afire with passion. "Yes, I care not if I eventually die at their foul hands, so long as I am able to spend my life healing the world of their foul kind. Such chaos and evil cannot be allowed to live."
Sasha gives Bel a look, as if to say, 'what do you make of all this'.
Bel sighs and says, "Farad, if you are going to be so single-minded about things you are going to be of limited use to us. Rane is gone, beyond your reach, and he will not return. Our task is to fight evil, yes, but we have personal lives also. If you are going to go manic on us every time you see a Drow or suspect a demonic connection then you are a liability. If you die before you are able to attain a high level you will also rob yourself of the opportunity to be of truly great use to the world. A dead 3rd level character who died heroicly is a lot less use to the world than a live 10th level character who can prevent epic catastrophies. Are you willing to compromise enough to be of help to us and the world?"
Farad laughs. "I simply asked how the drow died. When one hears rumors of a drow and a demon being in the same place, its often because the two are linked. I am glad that such was not the case."
Farad than sighs. "Did I say I was going to walk up to this Rane and then lob off his head without talking to him first? Yes, I take seriously my call, but I have good reason too. I am glad that this dark elf is dead, but you do not see me digging up the body to make sure. I simply asked the how and the why, and what precautions you have taken. You take the subject of demons lightly, but I have seen their evil firsthand. All the evil in the world stems from their kind, either directly or indirectly."
Sasha then waves to the other elf in the bar, "Perhaps he would know more ... there sure are a lot of you about ... are the elves on the move or something?" Sasha asks curiously, looking at the other elf across the room.
Farad grins. "Not that I know of. I'm a lone traveller. A demon hunter. I have heard disturbing rumors about a drow and demon associated with this place, and often those two kind are linked."
Farad's eyes light up. "Yes, drow are worshipers of the fiends. I've seen them sacrifice innocents to their dark gods. If I had my way no more would their foul practices pollute our peaceful surface."
He looks directly at both of you, his eyes afire with passion. "I had a hunch that this place would be the one, and when I saw you two I knew it was true. Why do I feel that soon my services will be of aid to you? Can you tell me why? Do you think you and yours might soon meet with the underworld's minions or their hellspawned gods?"
Sasha laughs, "I think the fates are working in our favor. Perhaps my tween sent the word out after we were parted."
"What do you mean? Do you need my aid soon? Do you know of a time when you will battle more evil drow, or their demon masters?"
Bel smiles and says under his breath to Sasha, "Gotta deck of cards? I'm short of cash and can't pass up a poker-face like that."
Sasha leans in close and indicates her borrowed clothing. "I think you are fully aware of everything I have ... " She laughs.
Bel smiles and says, "And quite a fine collection it is."
Farad waves his hand again, "Honestly though, this one," nodding to Sasha, "mentioned that a drow once was here, but is no more. Tell me about him. How did he die? Or has he left the area? And was he the one that summoned the demon that was seen in this place a few months ago?"
"He is dead. This morning as a matter of fact." She says quietly.
Farad curses, but then smiles. "I had hoped to do the deed myself, but I am heartened that another of that foul race has departed the world."
He then grows concerned, "But have you taken precautions against someone raising the monster? If that one is a half-breed, as I have heard, then its possible a cleric could bring him back from death's fair hand. Do you know if he had any allies that might be able to do this? Tell me all about how he died."
Sasha snaps suddenly. "He was blown to bits by the high priestess. Okay?! Does that make you happy? Does it give you a thrill?" She slams her mug down and leaves the table, pacing near the fireplace.
Farad looks strangely at Sasha. "He is dead, that is all that matters to me. That the high priestess thought he needed to die simply proves that he was evil and merited such action."
"The question is, why are you so wounded by such an evil creature's death? Was this drow a friend of yours?"
Sasha throws her hands up in frustration. "No! He wasn't. But he could have been - had I seen his need and offered friendship. But I was too busy doing other things .... and so ... in the end ... he killed me ... In fact ... I have just come back from being brought back from the dead. I haven't even had a chance to put clothes on yet ... or had time to think ... or anything!"
As she paces angrily, you notice that indeed, she has not dressed, for the cloak parts and you see that is is naked as a new born babe beneath the cloak.
Farad nods. "He killed you, and yet you still have compassion for him. I do not understand you in this, but I understand your confusion. Evil thrives upon it. I will tell you one thing that may set your mind at ease. The fact that you never were able to see his need was probably not your fault. More than likely he hid his true self to you. I have found that many evil men look fair upon the surface, and one must look deep to see their hearts. If I had to guess, I would say that your drow companion shied away from opportunities where you would get to know him better, and kept much secret. Such is evil's way."
Sasha nods. "Yes ... I know. But I should have ... ahh... nevermind. You are right ... I must still think on it more."
"I, however, am as I have told you, dedicated to destroying evil incarnate and those who serve it. A paladin of order battling against those who spawn chaos."
Sasha gets that 'suspicious' look again. "A paladin?" SHe rolls her eyes. "I hope you are not going to be like Yuri - I'll warn you, if you ever try to make me drink milk - we will have to have some severe words. I absolutley despised that man. Thought he could force his ways on everyone! You aren't going to be like that, are you?" Sasha says, a frown creasing her brow.
Farad smiles. "When I said paladin, I did not mean it literally. But like them I am dedicated to a cause. But, I do recommend milk. It does the body good."
Bel says, "I know nothing of a summoned Demon, Sasha did something of that vein occur here?"
Sasha sighs wearily. "I really have no wish to discuss ... but it seems you are very persistant. No - they are not the same. Jarimar had a quasit, and when he was killed the quasit took his soul off to whereever it is they take such things. Rane was a member of our party, he was a dark elf, and now he is dead."
Farad grimaces, "A quasit. Yes, this Jarimar must have been a truly evil man, for only those with wicked hearts can attract minnions of such chaos and evil. A pure man would not have such a beast attracted to him when he called for a familiar."
"But this Jarimar is now safely being tormented in the abyss, where quasits call their home. For its service the lords of the abyss have now probably promoted the quasit into a more powerful form, that of a minor demon. But now that this demon has tasted the pleasures of the material planes, it will want to come back. If any of you had contact with this demon be wary, for it may hunt you down should it ever find a way to return."
While you are conversing with each other you note the wood elf by the fire watching you as he sips his drink.
Bel looks directly at the wood elf and says to Sasha, "Since that worthy over there seems to have a great interest in our conversation, should we invite him over?"
Farad laughs. "Perhaps he knows something you folks don't."
Turning towards the stranger, Farad waves. "Come join us friend. We are having an uplifting discussion about the evils of the world."
Sasha shakes her head helplessly. "Sure ... why not ... all I wanted to do was sit here and have a quiet drunk so I could think about everything ... but it is not to be.
Sasha gets up and walks over to the wood elf.
"Hi there. Would you care to join us? We are having a little party."
The elf returns with you.
"Yes evil is most prevalent. This town I have heard can be very deadly. And I personally have a score to settle with it.
Sasha raises a brow. "Indeed? And what kind of score could you have to settle agaisnt a whole towm?" Sasha chuckles, "Though I do have to say that I myself have a score to settle with a certain house!"
"What seems to be your problems with it?
"ohh yea sorry but my name is Kelar T'Alster. And who would all you be?"
"I am Sasha."
The grey elf introduces himself. "Farad is the name."
"And I agree. Evil is most prevalent in this town. I too am dedicated to stopping it, in all its forms, but especially the diabolic. We were just discussing rumors of a demon that was seen in this very inn."
Farad turns to the newcomer. "So, you wish to fight evil. Want to carry that fight to the source?"
"Evil is persistant in the world that is true. But to just start accusing people that they are evil because of what has happened ot them is wrong. Farad you can't tell me that you have never had anything bad happen to you. If you have then arn't you eveil and shouldn't you kill yourself because you must have been calling out with your evilness to have it happen to you. I do not blame this entire town for what happened to my brother but I do blame this town for not trying to get to the bottom of the trouble before it got out of hand. If you wish to help with this then that is good, I know that I wish to and Shasha if you will accept me I am more than willing to help you with what needs to be done
Farad frowns. "Have I accused anyone of evil actions that has not deserved it? I have mentioned only two. The first is the reason I came here, a drow. Sasha has said he was killed, this morning. Did she not also say that he was responsible for her own death? Does not a murderer deserve to die? Or did Sasha perhaps force him to kill her. You can not tell me that he bears no fault for his actions."
"And as for the second person, again his company betrays him. A quasit took this Jaramir's soul. If he was not evil, why would he have a demon for a familiar? Such actions are not forced. He had to call the creature into service. If he was a goodly man, a demon not only would not, but could not have become his servant."
Farad grins. "The only thing you can accuse me of is taking pleasure in my work. I rejoice in the slaughter of evil. You can call me what you will, but that is what I do. You'll find no better companion in the conquest of evil than me and my sword."
Farad turns to Sasha, "If your friend J'Harast is besieged by evil, I will aid you. If evil men are hunting for him, I will stand by him. I am loyal to those who fight against the evil of the world."
"You have mentioned that there is house that is causing this trouble. If you are all ready to set up a plan then I am willing to get started on it. If someone would fill me in on what types of things you have seen and any maps you have made."
Farad nods. "Yes, tell me about this evil house."
Meanwhile, Kelar summarises his thoughts.
"As I stated before I am right now only here to avenge my brothers death. If anyone knows anything about it I would like to know. Knowing him I assume that it has to deal with this house. It sounds like something that he would try and attempt. If his trail leads to the abyss I will follow with you as I believe he would if his path crossed with yours.
Farad asks, "Who was your brother, and how did he die?"
"I would like to meet with the rest of this party so I can at least have a base knowldge of everyone. I am not asking that you trust me right off but I would like to make it clear that I will trust anyone (even if it means that I will die doing it) if they show me that they are true friends.
"I can agree with that. Where are all of your companions, Sasha, Bel?"
"I agree with Sasha that if you are evil you can always become good again. Farad if you disagree with me that is your right but if it was my brother that had this happen to him I would do all I could just because I know him and I would do anything in my power to bring him back. I do not know the circumstances of his death, nor do I know for sure that he is dead. But if you try and bring blame on to him for being in this town and associating with these others who are wanted and have tried to kill members of this party (nodding towards Sasha) then you are probably not welcome. All you will do is cause dissention among a group who I am sure are trying to work on gaining each others trust.
Farad smiles, raising his hands in peace. "I came only hunting for the drow. That one has proven his vile nature, and I am glad he is now dead. As for your brother, I know nothing, and would not judge him guilty of some crime unless the evidence presented itself. Just living in an evil town is not a crime, for he may have been like us, and was one who hunted evil. I have not made judgements against any who have not deserved it. I am a hunter of evil. I do not create it so that it may be slain."
"If someone would know of my brother I would like to get to the bottom of this and figure out if this is the group I need to be with so that I can avenge my brother or if I need to keep looking."
Sasha pales suddenly. She grabs the edge of the table to steady herself.
"B-br-rother? Y-your b-brother? Who are you?" Sasha gasps.
"My brother... His name was Raith T'alster. We left our village about the same time but our paths differed. The last I had heard from him he had been rescued by some upper person and was traveling with him to this city to help with a friend of his daughter.
"I lost touch with him.. we are twins (not identical) and we have always had a connection. I have a feeling that the worst has happened and so I came here to see if I was right and to avenge him if that is the case."
Farad shrugs, "I am sorry, friend, but I have no knowledge of your brother. I wish you well in your search for him though."
Sasha gasps upon hearing the name and turns even paler. She gropes for the chair and sits, looking up at Kelar with tears in her eyes.
"I knew him ... and you are right ... he has passed on ... and it was my stupidity that caused it ... he went with me to that accursed house ... and we were attacked almost right away ... he was wounded ... but I couldn't carry him back by myself and looked for those we had followed to the house so they could help ... but then I was killed ... " Sasha is crying openly now, great heaving sobs. She holds her face in her hands and does not look up ...
As the four of you seat yourselves and make introductions, you note a young man standing in the doorway of the common room looking about. He wears a fine suit of leather armour and a cloak from under which pokes a sheathed sword, but otherwise there is nothing about him that stands out.
He stops the innkeeper as he walks by and whispers a question to him. Luthus replies, then motions to your table.
Sasha catches the interchange and laughs quietly. Then she looks up at the newcomer, "Come on over, seems we are having a party sorts. I'm Sasha ... and you are?"
Thanking the innkeeper, the young man walks over to the table.
"Damius. Are you friends of J'Harast?"
Sasha looks up with a frown. "Are you saying you are Damius?"
"Some people want him dead. You wouldn't happen to know what's he's been up to that would make them feel that way would you?"
Sasha pales a bit, "What do you mean? Who would want him dead? And what have you to do with it?" She asks with a puzzled frown. Then she looks around nervously.
"Could we talk elsewhere on these matters please." She gives Damius a pleading look.
The grey elf in the room turns to Damius. "The name is Farad.
"Who's this J'Harast? What's he wanted for?"
Sasha frowns. "He ... I would prefer it if you didn't discuss this at this point. You are awfully nosey. He has nothing to do with anything at the moment." Sasha's face is very strained.
Farad smiles, "A stranger comes in and announces that some friend of yours, I presume that to be the case, is wanted by several people. If I am going to be associated with you, I demand honesty. I will not have my name besmirched by your questionable actions. I am not a pawn in other peoples games."
"No one asked you to be a pawn! And you do not have to be associated with us. That is your choice. You can demand all the honesty you want - but you will get it from we when I am ready to give it. This is a personal matter at the moment. I do not air my laundry in public. I have known you for only a few moments - I have to spill my guts to you? I think not!"
Farad looks at Sasha, "I am not asking to read your diary. I do however want to know exactly who and what may be hunting friends of yours before I decide to travel with you to the Abyss. When we are there we will need to trust each other. A death mark is not a small matter."
Sasha nods, looking relieved. "I understand that."
Farad continues to look at Damius. "Speak, friend, who is after this J'Harast that you mentioned."
Turning to Sasha, he continues, "And who is J'Harast. Obviously a friend or companion, that you wish to protect." He then softens his voice, "I can be of help, for I believe you truly are a servant of good. Trust me in this, for I am as dedicated against evil as you are."
"Of course I am a servant of good. But my trust I do not give so readily. Let this matter be for now - at least until I can talk to Damius. Alone." She adds, pointedly.
"Talk with Damius, but then come back and talk to me. Secrets are the brewing ground for distrust, and I will not have that in any group I associate myself with."
Anger again flares over Sasha's fine features, but she checks it. Very calmly, she replies, "I will speak with Damius, and then I shall dress, rest, seek out my companions, then talk with you. In that order."
Sasha nods at Farad. "If you will excuse me, I need to see Damius alone for a moment. Bel, where is everyone? I am just going to speak with this man, and then perhaps we can organize ourselves and get on with this task."
"I'll be right back - don't go anywhere without me." Sasha says with a smile, grasping Damius' hand.
"Now, care to tell me what this is all about ... " You hear as Sasha walks away with the man.
Sasha steps aside with Damius. The latter, normally a quiet sort even at the best of times, seems to be completely overwhelmed by the verbosity of this group. Without a word, he hands Sasha a folded up note, then turns and leaves the inn.
She unfolds the note.
There is no writing on the parchment...only a large black spot.
Sasha frowns in puzzlement. She holds up the note, "What does this mean?"
Bel looks worried and says, "That cannot be good. What did Damius say to you? Did he give any clues about what his purpose was?" Without waiting for an answer, Bel runs to the door and trys to see where Damius has gone.
Farad looks at the note. "My guess would mean that your friend J'Harast has a death mark on his head."
Sasha pales. "But why ... " She shakes her head. "I guess I should be asking him ... I just don't understand."
Farad frowns. "Yes, you should ask him. If I see that Damius fellow again, I'll definately ask him what this is about."