Niari awoke in the same position as she had fallen asleep.  The 
first red beams of the sun flew though the open window and perched upon 
her eyelids, forcing a response.  Niari's eyes flutered open and were 
instantly closed again to sheild them from the light.  Raising her arm 
to cover her face, Niari rolled out of bed and stood up with a grunt.  A 
flash caught her attention and she turned quickly to face the new source 
of light.  It was only a bit of tarnished mirror hanging on the wall.
     "How sweet of Hugh," she thought, "to give me a room for a woman."  
Squinting into the mirror which still reflected the rising sun, Niari 
saw fine lines at the corners of her eyes.  "Well," she said under her 
breath, "sweet memories of birth to you as well."  The sacrastic tone 
was wasted on her reflection and Niari knew it.  Enough self-indulgence. =
 
It was time to get moving, birthday or no...
     She pulled a clean shirt out of her backpack and dressed quickly, 
donning only her breastplate and back guards for protection.  The rest 
would have to wait.  Her sword buckled at her waist, the money sack hung 
in the knapsack, Niari scooped up the saddle and went downstairs, 
locking the door behind her.
     In the common room of the Inn, she grabbed an apple and a thick 
slice of bread from the bar, winked at Hugh and walked out into the 
sunlight.
     The stable was easy to find as Hugh had said.  It was large and 
full of the smell of horses.  Niari breathed in, savoring the scent.  It 
reminded her of home.  As she stood there, a stocky man with broad 
shoulders called to her.  Niari made her intentions known and was shown 
a relatively large selection of horseflesh.  There was only one animal 
that suited her needs; a large chestnut-colored stallion with good 
confimation and a broad chest.  Niari tried the saddle on him and was 
pleased with the fit.  Springing on to his back, Niari was impressed by 
his feel and knew she had found her steed.  A short ride proved her 
right.  Returning to the stable, Niari haggled with the owner, finally 
settling on a price of 270 gold pieces, which included a decent leather 
bridle and bit.  It was more than she had planned but this was a worthy 
creature.  It would be fun to teach this young animal the way to behave 
in battle.  He was already broken and good-natured for a stallion.  He 
would prove to be a fine companion.
     She returned to the Inn on horseback.  Niari, tied the animal, 
which she had decided to name Kiha, in honor of her first horse, and 
entered the Inn to meet Lorendil and collect food for the journey...
---k
     The man Niari sought was sitting at a table near the fireplace.  He 
was gazing blankly into the flames, enjoying the rolling waves of heated 
air that he could see in the infrared.  Niari approached the table, and 
Lorendil saw her from the corner of his eye.  He stood and greeted her 
warmly, saying, "Good morning, m'lady!  I trust that the night was kind 
and provided a restful slumber, and that this morning's quest for an 
appropriate steed was a success?"
     She answered, "Yes on both counts, my lord."
     "Wonderful!" replied Lorendil.  "I have taken the liberty of 
ordering a hearty breakfast from Hugh in anticipation of your return.  I 
believe my timing was impeccable!  It should be served any moment."
     As he had predicted, a bountiful selection was arrayed before the 
two patrons.  Eggs prepared in many different styles, meats, sausages, 
bacon, breads of a variety of grains toasted...the morning feast was 
indeed impressive!  And to finish the meal, Hugh brought an assortment 
of breakfast pastries...and these showed the same skill and 
craftsmanship of the famous cinnamon rolls that had made the Inn such a 
popular place of late.
     Well sated, Lorendil turned to Niari (who hadn't quite finished her 
portion [never underestimate the appetite of a warrior!]) and jovially 
asked, "I trust the journey you will soon embark upon will allow you 
time to recover from this repast?"  He smiled broadly at the woman 
across the table from him.
---m
     Niari, still munching happily on a mouthful of bacon and egg, 
returned her companion's smile as best she could.  Her normally corded 
jaw and hollow cheeks were filled to bursting such that she resembled a 
child's cloth-stuffed doll more closely than a hardened warrior.  The 
look was terribly comical to Lorendil who decided politely not to 
laugh...with some difficulty.
     Swallowing, Niari replied, "In fact, my Lord Lorendil, I had not 
intended to consume so much.  I rarely eat before a long ride but since 
you were so kind in providing this farewell feast, I could hardly 
refuse!"  Her grey eyes sparkled as she hefted a mug of frothy apple 
juice to her lips to clear her palate.
     Catching Hugh's attention, she called, "Please bring the foodstuffs 
I've requested.  I want to be on my way."  As Hugh brought over the 
dried meat and fruit, loaf of bread, ball of hard cheese, and skins of 
clear well water, Niari wiped her mouth and stood to bid Lorendil 
goodbye.
     "I estimate the journey to take two days and a half," she spoke as 
she placed Hugh's offerings in a large saddle bag.  Swinging the leather 
bag over her shoulder and standing, she explained, "The ride will take a 
day.  I will feast with the n=C6Sete late tonight when I arrive in their 
camp.  I will tempt their warriors with your gold and tales of the Orc 
raids.  Their fury will fuel them to ride with me the next day.  They 
will need the morning to prepare and say goodbye to their families, I 
suspect, thus, the extra half-day.  I shall expect to meet you here in 
two days time when the fire is high in the sky."
     Niari extended her hand once again to seal their bargain...
---k
     Lorendil stood shortly after Niari had, and listened as she 
described the journey ahead of her.  When she offered her hand to shake, 
he reciprocated by extending his.  Her grasp was firm yet gentle, 
attesting to her skillful regulation of her brute strength to fit the 
situation...a skill very valuable on the field of battle, Lorendil 
surmised.  Underneath her rough, cool skin he could feel the harder 
tissue of muscle.  There was something serpentine to its feel, and 
Lorendil smirked inwardly at this.  Even her handshake was 
definitive...up, down, and break.
     "Tomorrow's tomorrow, then, when Bellatrix has risen to her highest 
point," said Lorendil.  "Until then, may the obstacles you encounter be 
challenges that strengthen you!"
     Niari smiled at Lorendil and turned to leave the Inn.  But before 
she had turned her back, she fixed Lorendil with her eyes.  Just for a 
moment she held Lorendil with her gaze.  Unknowingly, Lorendil was 
transfixed by her large, heavy-lidded, steel-blue eyes rimmed with thick 
black lashes. And then in an instant, she released him.  A few strides, 
and she was gone from view.
     Lorendil stood at the table for a few moments, staring at the Inn's 
door.  "Something about that woman," he thought to himself as he sat 
back down.
     Regaining his thoughts, Lorendil began to concentrate on the 
location of the Quiet One and the Strong One.  There was no singing, but 
Lorendil could make out a definite echo of a previous song.  The song 
bore all the markings of the Strong One, but was highly discordant and 
unorganized.  There seemed to be no coherent theme.  Lorendil was 
concerned.  He decided to contact the Quiet One to see if there was a 
problem.
---m
     Niari trudged out of the Inn and patted Kiha on the neck, admiring 
the stallion's shiny coat.  It was good to be employed again!  She 
checked the saddle bags once more and then strapped them to the back of 
the saddle.  Swinging into the saddle, she edged Kiha into an easy trot 
and loped out of town, admiring the morning sun, which glinted off the 
copper drain pipes and rooftops of the surrounding buildings in a bright 
farewell.
     As the road narrowed and Montfort faded in the distance, Niari 
kicked Kiha into a slow canter.  She hadn't allowed herself to miss her 
previous horse.  The loss had been unavoidable, another casualty of a 
life on the road.  It was good to have another, though.  Walking was 
simply not acceptable on a mission such as this...
     She arrived on the border of n'Sete land as the blazing sun was 
sinking in a fiery sky.  The clouds, edged with gold, rested on the 
horizon like an unattainable treasure.  The air had cooled considerably 
and a breeze blew over the grassy plain.
     Niari realized that she was now in danger from n'Sete arrows unless 
she identified herself.  Pulling Kiha to a halt, Niari threw back her 
head and opened her arms to the sky as an eagle's cry screamed from her 
lungs and was launched into the oncoming night.  Her horse balked from 
the sound but a pat from his rider assured him that there was no danger 
and he soon settled.  No sound was returned from the plain but the cry 
of a bird high overhead.  The grass rippled gently as Niari scouted the 
open land with her steely gaze.  It was getting cold and the air smelled 
of rain.
     The arrow just missed Niari's left ear.
     Leaping from the tall grass like wild animals, three n'Sete 
warriors threw themselves into a run from where they had been silent 
stalkers only seconds before.  Their leader, racing like the wind, 
arrived at Niari's side first and clapped his broad hand on Kiha's side. =
 
Looking up at Niari with dark eyes, his face split into a grin that 
reached from ear to ear.
     "It is good to see you so soon, s'Ora Niari!" he laughed as Kiha 
snorted and tried to sidestep and meet the new arrivals head on.  Niari 
held him in position and grinned back at the three warriors, now 
clustered around her.
     "Gi'iharu, Essaut.  It's good to see you, too!  I have a 
proposition for you that you will find very pleasing, but first we must 
get out of the rain."
     The plains warrior Essaut, growled in a pleased mannor at the woman 
and gazed skyward at the grey clouds now gathering in the West, "You 
never fail to surprize me, s'Ora.  Come, we will feast on Yza before the 
rain comes.  We have a small camp close by."
     "No, my friend, there is urgency, I must continue on to your 
ne'arhu.  There is war to the North and gold to be made from the 
battles.  I need many of your strongest warriors to fight.  I must reach 
them before they sleep to tell them of it.  Who will come with me?"
     In response, Essaut lept onto the back of the saddle, waved to his 
brothers and slapped Kiha on the rump.  The surprized horse shot forward 
and towards the n'Sete ne'arhu.  They arrived an hour later.
---k

     Therion slept fitfully.  His mind had wandered far this night, and 
his barony was not as it should be.  He could feel the unhappiness of 
the people;  yes, something was clearly wrong.  But what?  Soros was a 
competent administrator; yet, why would he have increased taxes so 
greatly?  And where was he, now that the Barony was being invaded by 
orcs?  It was Soros' job to defend the area...yet, Therion had just had 
to hire a mercenary captain...
     And, there were other dark stirrings as well.  The powers of evil, 
almost palpable in their newfound strength, were extending their grip 
over the land.  It could be seen in the aura around the people...even 
the children.  Normally, they should have been surrounded with a bright, 
clear light...yet, there were now signs of the negative emotions of 
fear, avarice, anger...even hate.  Nor was it in Chadwick alone that the 
problem existed.  The King's own provinces seemed touched as well.  But 
the wellhead from which this current flowed remained hidden from 
Therion;  and that was itself disturbing.
     Clearly, Therion had immersed himself too deeply in his art, and in 
study.  There was much work to be done...and perhaps very little time.  
Therion determined that in the time before Niari arrived, he was going 
to try to teach Vengar a few more tricks of mind magic.
---d
     Vengar awoke with a start.  He searched his mind for the nightmare 
which ended his slumber, but there was none.  But while he did not find 
a specific nightmare, he did find an overall feeling of dread and 
remorse that was not specific to any one dream or thought.  He looked 
over to Therion, intent on mentioning this to him and ask for an 
interpretation, but upon viewing the mindmage, something in Vengar's 
mind told him that something wasn't quite right.  He could not place a 
finger on it, but he was sure that he felt that something was amiss.  
(What Vengar didn't realize was that he had caught his first glimpse of 
a personal aura, that of Therion's, and for the first time he saw that 
all was not well with the man)
     Vengar began to see flashes of the his seascape, and allowed the 
image to solidify.  Lorendil was already there, still in his dragon form 
(Vengar wondered to himself why he chose such a form, and then wondered 
if it was, indeed, a choice).  Vengar greeted him.
     "Niari has just departed to recruit help for your fight, Quiet One. =
 
She should return to the Inn in two and a half days."
     "Excellent!" replied Vengar, when suddenly a light of recognition 
went off in his mind.  "Lorendil, by chance was this mercenary from 
Kioshu?"
     "I know not, Quiet One.  Is it of importance?"
     "Possibly.  Did she ever mention the name 'Captain Medusa'?"
     "Again, Quiet One, I am at a loss.  Have you met this person?"
     "I do not know," answered Vengar.  "Well, more exactly, no, I have 
not.  But I may have met her reputation, if the person you have hired is 
the same I am thinking about.  I suppose it will have to wait until she 
returns."
     "As you wish.  There is another matter that I must ask about, Quiet 
One.  I have noticed a disturbing echo in your area, and it bears the 
mark of the Strong One.  Tell me, is everything all right where you 
are?"
     "This time I have no answer for you, Lorendil.  But my instincts 
tell me that not all is as it should be.  When Therion awakens, perhaps 
he can explain the feeling that I have."
---m

     The day dawned bright and beautiful, and Therion awoke rested in 
body, but tired in spirit.  Seeing Vengar's look of concern, Therion 
said, "My friend, there are dark times upon the land.  Our problem may 
be greater than I thought...far greater than the orcs."
---d
     Vengar looked at Therion with an inquisitive yet concerned look 
upon his face.  He wanted to hear what was troubling the mindmage, but 
also dreaded it.
---m
     Therion paused and continued, "I must accelerate your training, 
Vengar.   There are risks...but their may be greater risks than those.  
Come, let us walk a little way, and talk."
     Away from the few remaining troops, Therion looked toward the 
sunrise and continued, "My spirit traveled last night, to Chadwick.  
Soros is nowhere to be found, the people are poor and afraid...and there 
seems to be a different style of clothing."  Therion grimaced.  "All 
black.  I also searched around the edges of the enemy's camp;  the mind 
magic used is not the strongest, but the overall power is great indeed.  
It is at least my equal..."  Therion's pause spoke volumes.  "The 
mercenaries must be brought with all haste, Vengar.  I must return to 
Chadwick, and set matters right."
---d
     "If I may be of service, I will join you in your journey to 
Chadwick," Vengar said supportively.
---m
     "Vengar, I do not believe I will be welcome when I enter Chadwick.  
There is an aura of hatred and fear that will not be easily dissipated.  
We may be faced with being treated as an army of occupation rather than 
returning liberators."
---d
     Words escaped the fighter at this grim revelation.  He could only 
nod solemnly in agreement.
---m
     "What have I done, Vengar, abandoning my people to Soros?  What 
have I done?"  Therion fell silent.
---d
     Vengar was silent for a moment as well, mulling over the situation 
that Therion had just relayed to him.  He had never seen the Baron so 
forlorn before!  This matter was weighing upon him greatly!  Finally, he 
spoke, saying, "Lord Therion, while we have known each other for but a 
few days, what I have seen of you has given me what I feel is a fairly 
accurate picture of your character.  I cannot imagine that you would 
have left Chadwick in the stewardship of Soros if you did not trust the 
man."
     Therion nodded slowly without saying a word.
     Continuing, Vengar said, "Then it stands to reason that the current 
state of affairs in Chadwick cannot be attributed to the Soros that you 
left in control.  I think, with your skills in mind magic, that you 
could not  have been fooled into surrendering the Barony to someone of 
such ill heart.  Instead, it seems to me that your steward has fallen 
under the influence of someone else.  You cannot blame yourself for the 
malice in the hearts of others.  We must dedicate our efforts to ridding 
the land of the evil that seems to have befallen it."
     Therion again nodded silently, his spirits lifting slightly.
     "If you would join me on the seascape, our friend Lorendil awaits 
in Montfort.  He is concerned about you."
     Shortly afterwards, Therion and Vengar were on the familiar beach, 
where Lorendil awaited.  After pleasantries were exchanged, the 
conversation turned to the serious matters at hand.  Therion described 
to Lorendil the situation that he found Chadwick in, and reiterated the 
urgency with which Niari would have to bring her mercenaries into 
readiness.  Lorendil assured Therion that he would hurry Niari when she 
returned to the Inn.  They ended their conversation on a sombre note, 
not sure what the future was to bring.

     News from the field was not good, and the activities of the night 
before were forboding as well.  Therion and Vengar seemed to be immersed 
in a growing sea of malice, the very sea which had crashed upon the Inn 
the night before.  How Niari had slept through all that commotion was 
amazing, and Lorendil had chosen not to bring up the matter when they 
had met earlier that morning.  She had a difficult and important enough 
mission as it was without the added burden of the growing crisis in the 
area.  Once she had completed her mission, Lorendil would inform her of 
the situation.
     Lorendil had heard Eldarion demand of Hugh any information 
pertaining to the whereabouts of Lord Therion.  That name hadn't quite 
registered in Lorendil's mind (he referred to the Baron as "the Strong 
One" almost exclusively), and even if it had, he wouldn't have 
automatically volunteered the information without first determining the 
nature of Eldarion's character.  For all Lorendil knew, the man could 
have been working against the Baron!  But after digesting the events 
that led to his demand, and the situation developing in Chadwick, 
Lorendil decided that the Strong One was in need of allies, and Eldarion 
and his comrades seemed to be clearly on the side against this Soros 
character.  There were not very many positive tidings regarding this 
person.
     Lorendil got up from his table and went over to Hugh.  "Greetings, 
my friend.  I have some information that I believe could be of use to 
one of your recently-departed patrons."
     Hugh looked at Lorendil with interest, wondering what sort of 
intrigue his friend was about to make him privy to.
     "I believe the man known as Eldarion was inquiring about the 
locality of the Baron of Chadwick, Lord Therion.  I have that 
information, and can relay a message to the Str...to the Baron if 
necessary.  How may I contact this Eldarion?"
     Hugh's eyes had widened to the size of plates at the sudden (and 
well-timed) disclosure of such a vital piece of information for his old 
friend Eldarion.  Excited to the point of almost not being able to 
speak, he struggled to say, "Wait right here, Lorendil!  I'll get 
someone you can talk to!"  Then, shouting to his barmaid, "Sera!  Run 
upstairs and fetch Elana!  Quickly, now!"
     Sera looked at Hugh with a confused look on her face, but she 
sensed the urgency in the man's voice, and hurridly complied with the 
request.  She set her tray on the bar as she dashed up the stairs.  
Quickly finding Elana's room, she knocked quickly but loudly at the 
door.  There was no answer.  She knocked again, louder.
---m
     Elana was more concerned than ever.  After coming back upstairs she 
had decided that the room was too warm, and decided to cool things down 
a bit.  She tried one of her more simple spells to accomplish this 
desire, and nothing happened.  She suddenly got very scared and 
attempted a basic light spell.  When she couldn't even conjure a little 
light, she became horrified.  It hadn't been that mat thing down in the 
cavern!  It was her!  She had lost the ability to use magic!
     She was so engrossed in thought that she did not hear the first 
knock at the door.  When she finally did hear it, she walked to the door 
and opened it a crack.  It was Sera.  Throwing the door open, she 
grabbed Sera by the wrist and drew her into the room.  "Sera, I've lost 
my powers.  My abilities!  My magic is GONE!"
     Sera didn't know what to make of her words, but could see Elana was 
in shock.  She hugged the elven-girl to her, and stroked Elana's hair.  
A moment later, Elana calmed down enough to speak again.  "I'll have to 
do some tests.  I have to figure this out.  If only Garrison were here.  
He'd know what to do!  I've *_got_* to find a way to get my powers back. =
 
I have *_never_* felt so ...naked!"
     "Elana, Hugh sent me up here to get you.  I think it has something 
to do with your brother.  Perhaps we should go see..." Sera nodded 
towards the door.
     Elana was frightened.  Truly frightened.  For the first time since 
she could remember, she had to face the world without her magical 
powers. Now she wished she had payed more attention to Eldarion's 
attempted lessons of self-defence.
     She looked at Sera, who smiled at her.  She gained strength from 
that smile, and motioned for her friend to go on ahead.  After locking 
the door behind her, she followed the waitress down the stairs.
---je
     Lorendil saw Sera return down the stairs, followed by an elven 
woman who had obviously been shaken by recent events.  As Eldarion was 
also elven, Lorendil assumed that the two must somehow be related.  
Besides, Hugh had asked Sera to fetch this person (Elana was her name?) 
after his request for reaching Eldarion.
     He approached the woman, who inperceptibly took a step backwards 
placing Sera between her and Lorendil.  In an effort to put the woman at 
ease, Lorendil bowed deeply with much flourish.  Returning to an upright 
position, he greeted the woman by saying, "Good morning, m'lady.  I am 
Lorendil, your humble servant.  And you are Elana, I presume?"
     Lorendil smiled broadly to reassure Elana of his common interest 
with her.  She could also see through his finely styled hair that his 
ears bore slightly elvish characteristics.
---m
     Though she was troubled by the loss of one of the things she did 
best, Elana quickly adapted by assuming the other thing she did just as 
well, which was charm and personability. She smiled and curtsied. "Well 
met, Lorendil. Yes I am Elana.  Elana Elessidel.  Sera tells me you 
wished to speak with me?  Perhaps we could sit and discuss your 
business, as well as have a glass of Tynntanglian wine," she said, 
noting Lorendil's ears.
---je
     "That would be lovely!" answered Lorendil.  "In all my travels, I 
do believe that I have yet to experience the pleasure of Tynntanglian 
wine."  Lorendil followed Elana and Sera as they led him to a table 
somewhat separated from the others.
---m
     After the two were seated at one of Hugh's 'private' tables (there 
were three tables along a wall well away from the majority in the common 
room), Sera brought a bottle of the wine, and poured them both a glass.  
Elana thanked Sera, who nodded and went back to speak with Hugh (letting 
him know what had occured upstairs, and her concerns for Elana).
     Elana then turned to Lorendil and once again smiled.  Tilting her 
head slightly, she asked, "So what is it you wished to speak to me 
about?"
---je
     Before speaking, Lorendil took a sip of the Tynntanglian wine Sera 
had brought. The flavor was like nothing he had ever experienced!  The 
taste swept over him like a wave of exquisite sweetness, and it caught 
him quite unprepared for a sensation of that magnitude.  He held the 
liquor in his mouth, savoring every morsel of flavor before swallowing.  
Even upon swallowing, the experience was not over, for the wine gave a 
gentle warmth once it had reached the stomach.  Lorendil felt much more 
relaxed and at ease after the first sip, and correctly surmised that it 
was another effect of the sweet nectar.
     Finally gaining his voice, Lorendil said, "By the stars, m'lady 
Elana!  I have never tasted the equal of this fine wine you have blessed 
me with!  I am in your debt for the wonderful experience!"
     Elana smiled and nodded, clearly pleased that Lorendil found the 
wine so enjoyable.
     Placing the wine glass back on the table, Lorendil continued, 
saying, "I could not help but notice the commotion that occurred here 
last night.  I also overheard Eldarion's request of Hugh for the 
location of Lord Therion.  I have been in contact with the Baron, and 
may be able to relay a message to him.  Forgive me for delaying until 
this morning, but I am afraid for the Baron's safety, and I am forced to 
move with caution when his fate is concerned.  Tell me, what business 
does Eldarion seek from Lord Therion?"
     As Lorendil awaited Elana's reply, he raised the wine glass to his 
lips for a second sip.  This time prepared for a fabulous sensation, he 
was not disappointed by the second sampling of the drink.
---m
     Elana shot to her feet. "What! You can contact Baron Therion?"  At 
Lorendil's nod, Elana calmed down a bit, smoothed out her dress, and sat 
back down.
     She leaned forward onto the table and began quickly speaking in a 
low voice.  "We have need of the Baron's help.  His vassel, Lord Soros, 
has been perpetrating many crimes against the royal family of 
Tynntangial.  In the latest incident, he has kidnapped my cousin, 
Zephillia Elessidel, and intends to do her ill.  My brother, along with 
our friends Garrison and Flanner, have gone to rescue Zeph before Soros 
can bring his plans to fruition."  Elana paused to let Lorendil digest 
what she had said so far.
---je
     These were ill tidings indeed.  Certainly not the proper behavior 
of a man left as the steward of a Barony.  It was one thing to neglect 
the proper upkeep of the land, and quite another to be directly involved 
in such heinous crimes.
---m
     "There is extreme danger here.  Should the Highlord learn his niece 
has been kidnapped by a lord of this land, I think we shall soon be 
seeing troops of the Tynntanglian army here.  And Tynntangial can ill-
afford to have the nation's attention drawn away from its coming 
conflict with the Dark One."
---je
     The Dark One?  This was the first time that Lorendil had heard that 
name in a long, long time.  Surely it couldn't be the same!  A chill ran 
down the man's spine at the thought that this great evil may be on the 
return.
---m
     "I think you can see the gravity of the situation.  Lord Soros is 
prodding a hornet's nest, to see if anything is inside.  I fear for this 
land, as well as Tynntangial, when he finds out.  I plead with you, give 
Baron Therion this information.  If he could intercede before events are 
carried too far..."
     Elana picked up her glass and took a sip of the strawberry wine as 
she waited for Lorendil's response.
---je
     Lorendil was silent for a long time.  Elana had raised her wine 
glass, sipped the wine, and slowly placed it back on the table before he 
made a response, and this long delay put her on edge, as it should have. =
 
Finally, Lorendil let out a long breath.  Then he spoke.
     "As I understand it, m'lady, the Barony of Chadwick is in a 
deplorable state of affairs, most likely attributed to the rat Soros.  
Lord Therion is terribly concerned about the welfare of his people, and 
is presently engaged in a battle against orcan invaders, a battle that 
he believes he is losing.  He has requested that I seek help in the form 
of mercenaries, and last night I succeeded in finding a skilled warrior. =
 
She left this very morning on a journey to recruit a small army of 
mercenaries, but I am afraid that this band will be sorely needed in 
Chadwick."
     Lorendil paused briefly, thinking to himself.  Then he added, 
"There may, however, be something that I can do.  I shall relay your 
request to the Baron.  Then, I must leave the Inn on some...business.  I 
shall return this evening.  Shall we discuss the current events, then, 
over dinner?"
---m
     Though Elana was still somewhat suspicious of him (and his 
motives), she gave Lorendil her most charming smile.  "Yes, I think I 
should like that."
     Elana stood, and Lorendil stood with her.  "Until this evening 
then," she said, nodding to Lorendil as she walked back to the stairs.
---je
     Lorendil bowed his head towards Elana in farewell.
---m
     Along the way, Elana noticed the same group of people from last 
night staring at her again. She had had enough of this, and stuck her 
tongue out at the group.  One of the more pitiful men in the group 
immediately stood and shouted, "A CURSE! She has placed a curse upon us! =
 
Oh woe, woe are we!"
     For a second, Elana was sure the man *_had_* to be kidding.  But 
she could tell from the dark looks the others at his table were giving 
her that this was *_not_* a joke.
     She turned and quickly went up the stairs, not staying to see the 
reaction Fawn and Sera gave the man.  "You just stop this nonsense now, 
Branton!"  Fawn said with her hands on her hips.  Sera stood right 
behind her, also diplaying a disapproving glare at the group seated at 
the table. "We'll have none of that talk here at the inn.  If you want 
to talk your church talk, take it outside."
     Branton swallowed hard and looked at his friends for support.  
Seeing them all nod at him, he did his best to sneer at Fawn.  "W..we 
all aren=C6t =E6fraid o'the likes of you, miss ghostee!"
     Fawn smiled and walked right up to Branton, putting her face just 
inches from his.  Looking him directly in the eyes, she warned him. "You 
should be, Branton!  You should be..."
     No one else at the table could see what Branton saw in Fawn's eyes, 
but he immediately backed away, tripping over a chair in his haste to 
get out.  As soon as he got outside, he began to scream, and didn't stop 
until he got home.
     Fawn turned to the rest seated at the table, who all began to 
examine the white foam floating in their ale.   Nodding to Sera, she 
went back behind the bar to dry some mugs.  Sera was less forgiving as 
she addressed the table.  "You six have been nursing those drinks for 
three hours!  If you bother any of our customers again, I'll see that 
Hugh bars you from the inn for years to come!"  She walked away to see 
to other customers, barely catching a whispered retort about how she 
would get her come uppance once the Redeemer came.
---je

     After Elana had departed, Lorendil turned and left the Inn, 
stepping into the Montfort street.  The bright light caught him off-
guard, and his eyes began to blink repeatedly.  "Bellatrix must be 
riding closer than usual today," Lorendil muttered to himself, his eyes 
still not completely adjusted.
     He walked quickly to the edge of town.  Turning towards a small 
stand of trees, he ventured under the boughs until he was well out of 
sight from the town or the road.  Checking to make sure that he was 
alone, Lorendil was satisfied that only Nature was there as his witness. =
 
He then closed his eyes and imagined the area where he had last seen the 
Quiet One and his companions.  Fixing the image in his mind, he 
gradually opened his eyes.
     He was no longer in the woods outside of Montfort.  The image that 
greeted his eyes was the same as the one in his mind!  He found it so 
much easier to travel in this manner than in the usual crude means that 
most of the lesser beings used.
     Suddenly there was a shout.  "Stand your ground!  Halt and be 
recognized!"  Accompanying the shout was a flurry of activity...sounds 
of men shifting position and readying weaponry.
     Lorendil answered.  "Go and tell your Lord Therion that Lorendil is 
here to speak with him."  He could now pick out several sentries that 
his abrupt appearance in the forest undoubtedly startled.  Tuning in his 
hearing to them, he could hear whispers saying, "I don't know!  He just 
appeared there!  One minute there was nothing, and the next there he 
was!" and "He knows the Baron's name!  Who is this 'Lorendil'?"
     One of the sentries scurried off further into the woods, presumably 
to find the Baron as Lorendil had requested.  He waited patiently, 
hoping that the delay would not be too long.
---m
     Therion was delighted that Lorendil had arrived so soon, and he did 
not have to wait for the guard to arrive to be aware of his presence.  A 
strong mental presence such as Lorendil's...unless actively shielded... 
could not have gone unnoticed to Therion;  he cast a glance toward 
Vengar, curious whether his friend had felt the arrival, too.
     He walked toward the approaching guard, and said, "Come with me;  
we must not keep our guest waiting!". The guards were all becoming a bit 
more comfortable with Therion's habit of knowing what they were going to 
say before they said it, and it was not long before Therion came upon 
Lorendil.
     Therion said, "Greetings Lorendil!  Your coming is most welcome.  I 
fear that haste is imperitive, else I would seek to offer greater 
hospitality...meager though it might be.  Shall I summon the small 
forces still here, or do you need rest?"
---d
     "Nay, nay, Lord Therion," replied Lorendil.  "I do not intend to 
stay long.  I have come to relay a message from the Dragon's Inn.  There 
are bad tidings in Montfort, and it seemed prudent that I deliver the 
message in person rather than risk being overheard."
     Therion nodded in agreement.
     Lorendil continued.  "I bring you tidings from an elf lady by the 
name of Elana Elessidel.  She has requested your assistance in rescuing 
her cousin, Zephillia Elessidel, captured by your steward, Soros.  I 
believe her brother, a man named Eldarion, is leading a rescue attempt, 
but..."  Lorendil's voice trailed off.  "...she has requested your 
assistance in the matter."
---m
     Therion sighed...deep down, he had known it would come to this.  
There was too much evidence of Soros' villany...his greed...his treason. =
 
But there was no help for it;  Soros had chosen the path.
     Therion said to Lorendil, "Yes, I will meet with Lady Elessidel, 
and will aid her so far as I am able." Therion's eyes flashed with 
anger, and an impression of deeply controlled fury escaped to those able 
to sense it.  "Soros has oppressed the people of Chadwick...he seems to 
have stolen money...he has slandered me, his lord...and now he is a 
kidnapper as well.  The King's laws are clear;  for Soros is, after all, 
no noble, but rather a second son.  It is my right to try him, to judge 
him...and, if he is guilty...to have him executed.  Let us meet near 
Montfort, and we will go to his villa, and there he will answer for 
these charges."
---d
     "That is well, Strong One," answered Lorendil, "but there is 
urgency in Lady Elana's request.  Surely you do not intend to journey to 
Montfort overland?  That should take at least a few days.  If you are 
unable to attain swifter transport, I shall provide you with some."
     Answered Therion, "We have what you see here...a few captured 
horses, dwindling supplies, and a handful of hardened men.  We do not 
have the resources to acquire any other means of transport."
     Lorendil then replied, "Very well, Strong One.  When I return in a 
short while, be prepared to leave.  You will sleep in Montfort tonight.  
Also, a word of caution.  Montfort is not itself lately.  It may be wise 
to hide your identity, perhaps even from Lady Elana, lest agents of 
Soros overhear."  Lorendil purposefully avoided mentioning agents of the 
Dark One as well.
     Therion agreed, and bade farewell to Lorendil, not knowing where he 
was going.  He then turned to Vengar and Lieutenant Addison to prepare 
for a departure.  Meanwhile, Lorendil walked deeper into the woods.
---m

     Joreen awoke as Elana unlocked the door and slid in.  "Hello, 
Elana," she said to her friend.
     Elana seemed startled, but quickly recovered.  "Joreen!  How are 
you feeling?  I was so worried about you!"
     Joreen was quite touched by Elana's concern.  Here is why the 
Elessidel's were the greatest ruling House in Tynntangial's long 
history!  Their genuine concern for the people!  "I feel fine.  I'm just 
a little tired.  Where are the others?"
     Elana quickly brought Joreen up-to-date on what had occured since 
she had been felled the night before.  Joreen looked at the large green 
scar at her side and tenderly probed at it.  "Seems to be fully healed!" 
she said when she was through examining it.  "So you are meeting this 
Lorendil for dinner tonight?"  she asked, raising one eyebrow over and 
over.
     "Yes, he ....Joreen!"  She laughed when she caught what her friend 
was getting at and was quickly joined in the laughter by the Legentor.  
After they both finished giggling, she continued  "Would that there were 
time for such thoughts." Elana looked off into space, thinking of more 
peaceful times.
     She shook her head, and looked back at Joreen.  "There *_is_* one 
thing I have left out" she paused, seeking the best way to word it.  "I 
seem to have lost my ability to spell cast.  I have tried everything I 
could think of but I am definately powerless where magic is concerned."
     Joreen looked as disturbed as Elana felt.  The two discussed it 
further, and at length.  Elana tried again to cast a simple illumination 
spell, to no effect.  Joreen then tried the same spell, and found that 
she also could not cast even the simplest of spells (being that Elana 
was quite near).
     Elana took little comfort in the fact that she was not the only one 
rendered blind in magic.  At least Joreen had her martial skills to fall 
back on.
     Joreen assured Elana she was well enough to continue.  They would 
leave early the next day.  Things were currently too disconcerting in 
Montfort.  Elana would keep her dinner appointment with Lorendil, but 
Joreen would be down there as well, discreetly sitting at another table 
and ready should more trouble occur.  Joreen strapped on her armour and 
weapons, than wore a heavy cloak over her Legentor uniform.  She went 
downstairs and secured a table where she could both keep an eye on the 
table Elana had reserved with Sera, as well as the front door of the 
inn.
     While Elana was upstairs getting ready, Joreen began to think of 
her brother, Eldarion.  What was her relationship with the Legentor 
Captain.  How did she feel about him?  How did he feel towards her?  She 
was so intent on her thoughts that she failed to notice the two standing 
next to her.
     "Hello, Joreen, you are looking better," said 'bush'.  Joreen 
looked at the halfling, and the cloaked figure next to him (Walks?).  
Joreen was not used to such sentiments, but pulled the halfling into a 
hug anyway.  "Thank you for what you did for me, 'bush'!  I owe you a 
great deal.  You are a true friend."  The three sat down together, and 
Joreen quickly brought them up to date on what had happened.  She 
stressed the meeting with this Lorendil, and the treatment certain 
townsfolk had given Elana.
     "We too had certain...difficulties in coming back to the inn.  Some 
townsfolk saw us coming out of the woods and started shouting that we 
were demons. They began to chase after us with rakes and hayforks, so I 
had to use the forest to send them on a wild goose chase.  They are 
probably still lost in there.  I then shaded my natural coloring as much 
as possible to a more pinkish hue.  Walks is okay so long as he wears 
his cloak."
     Joreen was quite disturbed by 'bush's news.  Fawn had just brought 
the three some Tynntanglian wine, and she quickly quaffed a glass.  "I 
thought you looked kind of pale," she said to 'bush'.  She looked up to 
the stairs and saw Elana coming down.  "We must keep our eyes open for 
trouble"  Joreen said.
     Once downstairs, Elana surveyed the entire common room.  She nodded 
to Sera and Fawn, then walked over to the private table she had 
reserved.  Joreen readied a dagger beneath her cloak, then remembered 
what Eldarion had told her about the magical wards of this inn.  "Damn!" =
 
she said to herself, as she slipped the dagger back into its sheath.  
Well, if the wards would stop her from aiding Elana during an attack, 
they should stop any such attack from occuring in the first place.
     Fawn brought Elana some elven wine, when suddenly the front door of 
the inn flung open.  Proctor John stood in the open doorway.  Fawn 
quickly whispered to Elana, "Take care, elf-child," and disappeared 
before her very eyes.  As everyone else at the inn was staring at the 
Proctor in the doorway, no one but Elana saw Fawn's exit.
     Hugh walked to the front door.  "Is there something I can do for 
you, Proctor?"
---je
     With a swish, that startled both men, Dardt flew into the inn and 
headed directly towards his master's sister.
     Once he recovered, Proctor John glared at the tiny dragon in 
disgust, but soon re-adjusted his expression for the benefit of Hugh.
---ds
     Proctor John smiled at Hugh.  "Yes indeed, my good man.  I am here 
to enjoy the services you provide.  I have a dinner appointment with 
my...assistant Proctor.  Proctor Albert.  If he is here, would you be so 
kind as to show me to his table.  If not, show me to a private table, 
and I will await his arrival."
---je
     The pocket lizard landed gently upon Elana's shoulder and began to 
whisper into her ear.
     "Very good."  She nodded and then sent the animal quickly on its 
way.
     The whole incident with the tiny dragon, brought more undesirable 
attention to the elven woman, who sat alone, awaiting Lorendil.
---ds
     Hugh led Proctor John to one of the 'private' tables of the inn.  
As he sat down, he had a shocked look on his face.  The look of shock 
turned to a look of pain, as Proctor John quickly scanned the common 
room.
     "Are you ill, Proctor?" Hugh asked politely, not that he really 
cared.
     Proctor John tried to speak, couldn't, so shook his head no. Hugh 
shrugged and left to get the Proctor his water.
     Proctor John continued to look around the room until his eyes fell 
on the female elf sitting two tables away, behind him.  It was her!  
This elven she-bitch was somehow draining his power.  It was all he 
could do to maintain his present form.  He stared into her face, and 
recognized her for who she was.  Though she definately had the upper 
hand, for some reason she had a look of fear when their eyes met.  No 
matter, he could not stand it any longer.
     Proctor John immediately got up from his chair and made for the 
front door of the inn.  He stopped at the bar long enough to tell Hugh 
that he had pressing business, and to have Proctor Albert meet him at 
the church.
     After shutting the door behind him, he strode towards the church, 
feeling better with each step.  So, the Elessidel bitch is a mage of 
considerable power!  To be able to drain the magics of others... His 
master had not informed him that such power existed.  No wonder he 
thought the Tynntanglians the most dangerous of their opposition.  Had 
he not made seduced Tynntanglian mages the core of the Darkguard?  He 
would have to be careful.
     By the time he reached the churchyard, he felt much better.  This 
Elana Elessidel had drained power from him similar in levels to what it 
took to bring the church to this city. She would have to be eliminated. 
Unfortunately, due to her power, this could *_not_* be a personal 
vendetta.  He would have to make use of his underlings.  He began to 
formulate a plan.
     Elana was dumbfounded.  First the black clad stranger came  into 
the inn.  Then Fawn disappeared with a warning.  Then the stranger sat 
two tables away from her and began trembling.  He turned, stared right 
at her, and then got up and left.
     "Scary, wasn't he?"  Elana jumped at hearing Fawn's words right 
next to her.  She turned to see the barmaid standing next to her again.  
"Who was that!"  Elana asked her.
     "He's the one I told you about earlier.  Proctor John.  Trust him 
not.  He is an evil man.  Strike that.  I don't believe he's human."
     Elana shuddered at Fawn's words.  She looked to the table where 
Joreen sat, and noticed 'bush' and Walks sitting with her.  The three 
nodded her way, making her feel much better.  This half of their party 
was together again.  She couldn't help but wonder about the other half:  
Her brother, Garrison, and Flanner's attempt to rescue Zeph.
     Her thoughts were interrupted when the front door to the inn was 
once again thrown open, and one of the local farmers rushed in.  Elana 
recognized him as one of the men who was staring at her before.  This 
time, he didn't even notice her presence, as he shouted out:
     "They got one!  The city watch have captured a warlock.  Or else 
he's a demon.  He killed a woman just outside of town!  They say he can 
turn himself into a dragon!  Must be a demon.  Come on...Proctor John 
will have his first case to judge."
     Several people, all locals, got to their feet and raced after the 
man.  Elana could hear much commotion on the street.  Sera walked over 
and closed the front door, muffling the sounds of excitement on the 
streets.
     Elana drained her glass of wine and refilled it.  Draining it 
again, she thought to herself that it was best that they left as soon as 
possible.  Events in this city had just taken a turn for the worse.
---je

     Once he was well out of sight of the Strong One's entourage, 
Lorendil stopped.  In a matter of seconds, a tail sprouted from his 
backside, his neck lengthened, the colors of his clothing faded to a 
dull gray, and a pair of reptilian wings grew from his back.  His head 
also began to metamorphasize into a more draconian image.  Skin and 
textile gave way to scales.  He had transformed into a dragon.
     Lorendil quickly looked about him to see if there had been any 
witnesses, his huge head swinging from side to side at the end of his 
elongated neck.  The proximity of the trees made this somewhat 
difficult, but he was able to satisfy himself that there was no one 
around.  Then, he sprung straight up, the powerful muscles in his thick 
legs easily lifting his body above the canopy of the forest.  Instantly 
upon breaking the surface of the branches, he thrust his broad wings 
outward.  Then, at the peak of his leap, he swept them strongly 
backwards, propelling his sleek body forward.  With a few more flaps, he 
was soaring above the treetops and gaining altitude.
     It was overcast, perhaps reflecting the mood of this part of 
Ifreann.  So much the better...it provided the best daytime camoflauge, 
the grayness of the sky blending with the grayness of his scales.  
Lorendil was taking a big risk exposing himself in dragon-form during 
the day, and he knew it.  Still, he did not see that there was much of 
an alternative to the situation.  Besides, what he had planned did not 
involve a serious engagement, and no one should be able to identify him 
specifically.  Or so he hoped.
     The cloud layer provided an excellent cover for the dragon.  He 
took advantage of the apparent inability of ground creatures to see into 
clouds to cloak his presence.  He, with his keen dragon sight, could 
easily see out of them.  It took little time to reach the cloud bank, 
and once there Lorendil began to search for his enemy.
     It did not take long.  Orcs have a nasty habit of burning almost 
everything they encounter.  There were several thin plumes of smoke 
twisting there way into the atmosphere a short distance to the 
northwest.  Lorendil made for that direction.  In a matter of minutes, 
he was above the area.  He casually circled the area, still in the cover 
of the clouds, while he surveyed the scene.  There were several 
different groups burning various structures and items, but in a clearing 
to one side was a large military formation.  What a perfect target!
     Lorendil continued to circle until his attack path would take him 
over the field first and then over the rest of the camp.  Then, he let 
out an ear-piercing shriek to let the orcs below know of their impending 
and inescapable doom (a modern analogy being the sirens on the German 
Stukas over Warsaw in 1940).  With that, he wheeled over on his left 
wingtip and began his dive.  He slowly began to bring his wings in 
closer to his body as he picked up speed, using minute adjustments in 
their position to fine-tune his trajectory.
     After the first shriek, all activity on the ground ceased.  He let 
out a second shriek, and it reverberated off of the mountains far to the 
north.  Now the orcs below located Lorendil, and they began to flee.  
The formation disintegrated as military discipline gave way to the 
primeval urge of self-preservation.  Lorendil was streaking down upon 
the quickly degenerating scene, his wings almost flat against his body.
     At a thousand feet, he thrust his wings outward.  The sudden impact 
of the air resistance almost pushed them back against his body, but he 
forced them outward anyway.  He then began to level out of his dive.  
When he had extended his wings, he also inhaled incredibly deeply, 
filling every airsac of his massive lungs.  Then, as he began to pull 
out of the dive, he exhaled forcefully, the muscles of his side 
tightening against his ribs, collapsing his lungs with incredible 
strength.  Simultaneously, he subconsciously injected that agent which 
made dragon breath so feared...and so lethal.  His mouth gaping wide, 
his breath escaped him not as an innocuous  puff of air but as a chaotic 
torrent of flames.  The incendiary discharge lasted but a few seconds, 
but at his tremendous speed it was sufficient to cover several hundred 
feet, roasting countless score of orcs alive.  A scattering of sporadic 
bowfire was the only resistence to his strike, and the poorly crafted 
arrows bounced harmlessly off of his scales.
     As suddenly as Lorendil had attacked the camp, he left, quickly 
disengaging from whence he came.  As he climbed back to the cloud bank, 
he lowered his head to look back.  A large plume of smoke was rising 
from the field he had attacked.  It would take the orcs there days to 
extinguish the flames and regroup sufficiently to again threaten 
Chadwick.  It was what Lorendil was counting on.
     He was soon back to the area where the Strong One and his group 
were.  Lorendil searched for and found a place away from the group where 
he could land unobserved.  He touched down gently and gracefully, with 
the same skill he employed when leaving.  Then, as quickly as he had 
transformed into his dragon-form, he changed back.  Walking towards the 
Strong One's encampment, he could here the busy sounds of men preparing 
to leave.  A sentry soon spotted Lorendil, and after identifying him 
directed him to Therion's location.
     When Lorendil's approach caught Therion's attention, he stopped his 
activity and stood to greet the elf.  "Welcome back!  We should be ready 
to move soon!"
     Lorendil answered, "That is good.  I cannot stress enough the need 
to use caution.  Montfort has changed for the worse.  I shall go ahead 
and make sure the way is clear.  Then I shall open a portal through 
which you can come to Montfort.  Be quick, for I dare not keep the 
portal open for long!"
     Therion nodded his understanding of the instructions.  Then, 
Lorendil gradually began to grow transparent!  It was subtle at first, 
but after a short while, it was obvious that one could see right through 
the man.  Soon, he was entirely invisible.
     Lorendil closed his eyes, and imagined the small copse of trees 
that he had left the Montfort area for here earlier.  Opening his eyes, 
he was there.  He quickly scanned the area to see if there was anyone 
about.  There were none.  As gradually as he had disappeared, he slowly 
grew more and more opaque, until he was back to his normal self.  He 
then created a small gray ring a few inches in diameter aprroximately 
twenty feet before him.  The ring began to enlarge, and through it could 
be seen the woods where Therion's group were waiting.  On that end, a 
similar ring appeared, through which could be seen Lorendil's woods.  
Eventually, the ring reached a diameter of five feet, and Lorendil 
called through it, beckoning the Strong One to come through.
     Therion stepped through the ring first, followed by Lieutenant 
Addison, and then the four Guardsmen, one by one.  Last was Vengar.  
When he was through, the ring snapped shut.  Lorendil led the group to 
the road that headed back into Montfort and to the Dragon's Inn.  It was 
surprisingly desolate.
     As they approached the Inn, Lorendil turned to Therion and said, 
"Perhaps it would be wise to hide your true identity."  Then he looked 
at him, head to toe to head.  He was hardly the picture of nobility that 
a Baron should be, the many days of field operations and combat seeing 
to that.  Lorendil chuckled, and then said, "On the other hand, maybe 
only those who know you well would recognize you as you are now!"
     Therion assessed his attire, and smiled meekly back to Lorendil, 
saying nothing.
     Before entering the Inn, Vengar stopped and spoke.  "Lord Therion, 
there is a definite evil feel to the area.  I think it would be prudent 
if we do not bring attention to ourselves.  To that end, I think it 
would be best that you and Sir Lorendil meet with Lady Elana, while 
Addison, myself, and the others just... mingle...in the common room.  
There would be no conspicuous gatherings, and yet we would still be 
close by."
     Therion thought briefly, and said, "That is good advice.  Feel free 
to...mingle!"
     Entering the Inn, it was clear to all that there was a different 
mood than was the norm.  There was no frivolity, no carousing, as had 
been expected.  Everyone seemed quietly interested in their own affairs. =
 
As Lorendil led Therion across the room to the table where he was to 
meet Elana, Vengar, Addison, and the Guardsmen melted into the crowd, 
settling at various tables, empty chairs, benches, and occasionally the 
bar.
     Lorendil approached the table, and noticed that the elven woman was 
already there.  She looked nervous, and turned quickly as the 
approaching men entered her peripheral vision.  She relaxed noticeably 
when she recognized Lorendil.
---m
     Elana smiled at Lorendil's approach.
---je
     Bowing politely, Lorendil said to Elana, "Good evening, m'lady.  I 
would like to introduce a friend of mine, but unfortunately his name 
escapes me for the moment."  Lorendil surreptitiously winked at the 
woman.  "I believe, though, that he will be able to offer you some 
assistance."  He had fixed his eyes on hers, conveying the notion that 
he knew full well who his companion was, but that it was imperative that 
she continue with the charade.
---m
     Elana turned from Lorendil to Therion, "Indeed!  Well, that is most 
welcome news.  Well met...friend!"  Elana smiled at the Baron of 
Chadwick and offered her hand.  She then motioned for her guests to have 
a seat.
---je
     Therion accepted gladly.  Ah, the pleasure of a real chair at the 
Inn!
---d
     Fawn brought another bottle of Tynntanglian wine, and two more 
crystal flutes.  Elana thanked her, and handed her a Tynntanglian gold 
sovereign in payment.  Fawn smiled, and said, "What would you like for 
dinner?  We have a special on stew today, but I must also recommend the 
basted ribs with spicey potatoes."
     Elana ordered her normal fruit salad, and Therion and Lorendil 
ordered their favorites.
---je
     Therion had never been able to resist the Steak Draconis, and after 
several days on short rations was particularly willing to accept Elana's 
idea!  Smiling, Therion said, "You are most kind!  It is said that 
hunger is the best spice, and I have developed new appreciation for the 
wisdom of that old saying."  Therion looked closely at Fawn...she hadn't 
been here when last he had visitied the Inn...and, after raising an 
eyebrow, he chuckled and said, "Glad to see Hugh has such a capable 
ally!  He should certainly be able to stop any fighting now!"
---d
     After Fawn left to fill their order, Elana poured the elven wine 
for her guests.  Taking his flute, Therion leaned in nearer to Elana. 
"Our mutual aquaintance here has informed me that you seek my 
assistance."
     Elana nodded, and in a soft voice related both the background of 
their mission against the Dark One, as well as the facts concerning 
Soros' interference and harmful actions.  "...and he has kidnapped a 
member of House Elessidel!  Highlord Eventyne's newly found niece.  The 
possible political ramifications alone are mind boggling.  Be that as it 
may, the fact remains that this Soros has tried to be a thorn in our 
side from the very beginning.  As his liege lord, can you not help us 
and take him to task?"
---je
     Therion nodded and replied quietly, "The crimes you speak of are 
but another in a series of villanies, all apparently committed by Soros 
- though such kidnapping suggests a new boldness.  I have come in haste, 
to try him for this and other crimes.  Soldiers who will aid us are 
nearby.  Soros has much to answer for...and, though rest beckons, I am 
inclined to act swiftly, to deal with Soros and all his treacheries.  
When shall we ride?
---d
     The door to the inn burst open and at that precise moment who 
should walk in but Lord Soros himself.  He seemed to be attempting to 
strike a flying reptile that seemed to be pestering him.
     Therion quickly turned around so Soros would not see him.  Dardt 
gave up trying to peck at Soros, and flew straight to Elana, landing on 
her shoulder.  Once again there were murmurs in the inn concerning Elana 
and the small dragon.
     Soros saw to whom Dardt flew, and recognized her as one of the 
women from the night before.  Remembering the wards of the inn, he 
posted his guards outside, and only had two walk with him to the woman's 
table.
     Some of his confidence was sapped from him as he passed a table 
where sat others he recognized from the night before.  They looked at 
him with hatred.  The female warrior seeming to be restrained by her 
fellows.  Nevertheless, he continued to the elven woman's table.
---je
     When Soros had entered the Inn, Vengar surreptitiously motioned to 
Lieutenant Addison to join him at a table near where Therion and the 
others were.  He saw Soros sneer at the occupants of another table on 
his way to the Baron's table, and Vengar thought to himself, 
"Good...allies."
---m
     The elven woman was sitting next to a wall of the inn.  Accross 
from her, along the same wall, sat another elf (this one male), and 
between them at the table sat a man with his back towards Soros.  
Looking at Elana, he saw a resemblance between her and his real quarry, 
the red-headed Zephillia Elessidel.
     Soros smiled wickedly at Elana.  "I am deeply sorry to have to 
inconvenience you, but it seems that I must place you under arrest."  
Dardt snapped at him twice as he spoke.
     Elana didn't answer Soros, but Lorendil did.  "Under whose 
authority do you arrest this lady?"
     Soros turned his wicked smile to Lorendil, "Not that it is any of 
your concern, but by the authority vested in me by Baron Therion of 
Chadwick.  I am Lord Soros, his seneschal, and have full authority in 
this realm.
---je
     Vengar did not know of the wards that prevented violence within the 
Inn, but was instead taking his cues from Therion.  As he made no 
attempt at attack, neither did he.  All the while, however, he had his 
hand on the pommel of his sword, ready to draw at a moment's notice.  
There were numerous moments that almost gave him that notice.
---m
     Therion stood, then turned and looked at Soros.  
---d
     Vengar thought to himself, "This is going to be good!"  Even in his 
battered and torn clothing, in his dirty and haggard appearance, Therion 
stood with the authority and demeanor of a true leader.  There was an 
energy that radiated from the Baron confronting his betrayor, the source 
of which was undoubtedly the controlled rage burning within the 
mindmage.  Was he using his magic to cast an appearance of strength and 
control, or did he naturally diffuse such an aura?  Whatever the means, 
the effect was undeniable.
---m
     Therion smiled a moment, then said, "Really, 'Lord' Soros?  Are you 
my seneschal?  The same 'Lord' Soros who raised taxes throughout 
Chadwick against my orders? The same seneschal who abandoned his post, 
leaving the people of the Barony vulnerable to attack...while I, 
Therion, had to take the field against the invaders?  The one who seized 
properties, again against my stated and well known wishes?"
     Therion paused, then continued, "And, I am informed you are a 
thief, as well...a thief who has stolen the taxes you did procure from 
the Barony.  You will be given the opportunity to answer these charges 
at your trial;  but, for the present, these matters are serious enough 
that your authority is suspended.  I warn you Soros, if you flee, I will 
declare you outlaw.  Now, Soros, be seated, for I have questions that I 
would have answered;  and this time, I will have the truth."
---d
     Soros took a step back, his expression was that of a man who has 
seen a ghost.
     Like a cat that always lands on its feet, Soros gathered his 
thoughts quickly and began to speak.  "Accusing me of these treacherous 
acts is a total fallacy.  It is because of *_you_* and by *_your_* 
orders that the people of Chadwick and subsequently the fine people of 
St. Varalan's and here in Montfort have suffered so!"  Soros kept his 
stare fixed on that of Therion and continued with his weaving of lies, 
making sure not to show any sign of the fear that was gripping his very 
being.  "For while in your absence, I have performed my duties 
specifically to your orders and no more!"  He pointed at Therion 
accusingly, "Twist the facts as best you can, but it is *_you_* who is 
presently cavorting with the enemies of the surrounding lands and its 
unfortunate people.  It is *_you_* and not I that has performed the 
traitorous acts that you have spoken of."
     He then motioned for his accompanying guards to place themselves 
between himself and the Baron and his group of allies.
     Without hesitation, Soros made his retreat from the inn, with his 
tail securely tucked between his legs.  At the door, he flung one more 
accusation at his ex-employer.  "By associating yourself with that 
*_witch_*," he pointed a finger at Elana, "and her *_dragon_* (Dardt), 
you have condemned yourself in the eyes of these fine patrons as a demon 
worshipper and a Dragon sympathiser.  The Church of the Redeemer and its 
followers will be the only judge my dear Therion, and it will be 
*_you_*, not I, who will be on trial!"  With that said he left the inn, 
a wicked smile expanding across his face.  "Hmmm, let us see you get out 
of this one.  I still have a few cards up my sleeve, my dear Baron," he 
chuckled softly as he mounted his horse and rode off, the threat of 
Therion's unannounced and premature return loosing its weight from his 
thoughts.
     The Dragon=C6s Inn took on a hushed and frigid atmosphere where the 
norm was quite the opposite.  Therion looked at his men then at his 
newly acquainted ally, Elana, and shrugged.  "Looks like we have our 
work cut out for us."
     Soros made haste for the Church of the Redeemer, his guards close 
behind. He needed allies, even if they were from a source that made his 
skin crawl.
---ds
     After Soros stormed from the Inn, half reacting out of fear and 
half reacting out of angry confrontation, Vengar stood slowly and 
approached Therion.  "Do you wish that he be pursued?  I should be able 
to track him easily enough."
     The Baron did not answer right away, the statements that Soros had 
made occupying much of his attention.
---m
     Zeph and Garrison had watched from the shadows and security of the 
trees.  Soros stormed out of the inn, and paused by his horse, in 
thought.  Then he got on his horse and rode off hell-bent towards town.  
They waited a few moments, then quickly made their way into the inn.
---je
     A powerful rage flamed inside Zeph=C6s soul at the sight of the 
villain.  It always did when she was in his vicinity.
---ds
     After allowing her eyes to adjust, Zeph quickly scanned the common 
room.  She noticed Joreen, 'bush' and Walks sitting at a table, and led 
Garrison to it straight away.
---je
     She smiled at Joreen.  "I'm so glad to see that you've regained 
your strength."
     "And I, to see you free and healthy," returned Joreen.  "And your 
cousin?"
     "He isn't far behind us.  We sort of took a short cut," she winked 
at the blind man, knowing he would sense the gesture rather than see it.
---ds
     It was after they sat down at the table that Zeph noticed her 
cousin Elana in deep conversation with two strangers at another table, 
although one of the strangers seemed somewhat familiar.  She was about 
to get up to go and greet her cousin, when she felt Joreen's hand on 
hers.  She looked up to see the Legentor shaking her head no.  Zeph was 
curious, but nodded her understanding.  The group then quickly filled 
each other in on the events since their separation.
---je
     Therion thought carefully about the situation.  From his mental 
excursions about his barony and other areas as well, he knew the Church 
of the Redeemer to be a powerful influence...and the power was growing 
rapidly.  To stand against it was perilous, and perhaps fatal;  or 
worse.  Throughout his life, he had devoted himself to living well, to 
study and learning.  He had governed with kindness and consideration, 
but times had been fortunate.  Now, there was a choice to be made.
     Therion said to Vengar, "My friend, my affairs have exposed you to 
much peril over the last few weeks;  and, though wisdom counsels against 
it, I find that honor demands that I protect Lady Elana so far as I am 
able.  I fear this will create many powerful enemies...
---d
     After about half an hour, the door slammed open.  Zeph looked up 
expecting to see her cousin Eldarion.  It wasn't him.  It was a man with 
the ruddy, sun-brown face of a farmer, but wearing black and white 
official looking robes.  The man had many soldiers behind him, and 
raised up two folded sheets of paper in his hand.  He then called out to 
the now quiet common room, "By order of the Witchfinder General and 
Magistrate of Montfort, I am here to take one Elana Elessidel into 
custody, under the charge of witchcraft.  Elana Elessidel, stand and be 
recognized for what you are!"
---je