"May I come in?" Nalia's tap on the door caught me unaware; stepping inside, she gently closed the door before I could object. It was her home, which gave her the right to go where she pleased. I was relieved she was not in her nightclothes, but she looked as if she had been crying again.

It was an hour or two past dinner; Korgan was still downstairs drinking with Minsc; Aerie and Jaheira had retired, as I thought Nalia had, and Edwin had chosen to skulk around in the library despite his earlier remarks. I was vaguely alert of the guard captain's absence at table, but I knew he was conducting the night's watch. Jaheira had visited the wounded before dinner, and I half expected her to make another set of rounds at any moment.

Of the aunt, there was no sign; nor did I expect there to be. From the harsh words they'd exchanged, it was clear her aunt thought Nalia had failed her father.

I said nothing; I should have been sleeping, but all I could manage was to stare at the flames. My only acknowledgement to the unspoken remarks at table had been to strip-wash and scrub myself with an entire bar of soap. The cloth was surprisingly soft and had come out black. I was instantly aware Nalia noticed my still damp hair, and her wordless approval. Inwardly, I sighed.

Taking my silence as an invitation, she straightened her dress, and took a breath, "What Aerie said… made me think. When you leave to find your sister tomorrow… take me with you."

I frowned.

"You'll need someone who knows the city – both the up and undersides; you're searching for her." The last was hurried; now, quietly, she slowed, "I heard about the guild war; I'm not as misinformed as you might think. I can help you. Please."

I wish I could have argued with that.

Her hesitation hung in the air, then decisively, she added, "Thank you… goodnight."

"Until tomorrow, Nalia." I found my voice; had I said another word, she would have stopped in her tracks. From the corner of my eye, I watched her go; she wavered at the doorknob, and I was certain she would say more. To my great relief, she did not unburden herself, but steeled her shoulders and stepped outside; my relief was audible. Outside the door, I heard her echo my sigh.

Why did I feel like I had just kicked a puppy?

The attack came after midnight.