Solace

Taken from the journal of Par Salain:

The Foundling entrée thirty-five

Solace I defy anyone to name a city that has more history or has had such a prominent place in the history of Krynn. Palanthas and Sanction my boast power, wealth, and might but Solace has a beauty, a magic that none of them can ever hope to best. The birthplace of Raistlin and Caramon Majere, the home of the Inn of the Last Home where the Heroes of the Lance first met and where the Blue Crystal Staff was found to be in the world again. With out Solace so many events in our history would never have come to pass.

Located at a cross roads it is the ideal place for those of all races to gather, eat, drink, and live peacefully with one another, whether they are merely passing through or taking permanent residence it matters not. It is to this place, to Solace that Rosemarta has at last turned her ever-wandering steps. I wonder if she imagines the fame of the place and the magic that it is rumored to reside there might hold the answers that she has been looking for. Whether she does or does not I think it is about time my experiment moved on to yet another stage.

I shall tell Morgen where she is and see what happens when they meet again. Her reaction to him will show just how much she has changed in these past two years and a bit. I might even go my self. The only thing that worries me is the fact that her still dormant powers, those that she inherited from her parents and that I apparently did not condition out of her as I had planed, as demonstrated by the duel she fought with the white robe, may resurface again and this time far stronger. But I shall deal with that if and when it happens.

On a side note as the day of the Test nears once more I find my self growing ever the more impatient, anxious as I am to see how Tarrin and Roent shall fare. I have not felt this way since Rosemarta took her test. But I have the feeling that this shall be twice as interesting.

After the passing of another new year and a few months since then so that now it was nearing summer again Rosemarta at last stood upon the ridge over looking the city of Solace. It was an hour or so past sun set and light flooded the windows of the homes set among the Vallenwood trees. The Inn of the Last Home was easy enough to find for it was the largest building in Solace and stood slightly above all the others. Rosemarta found her eyes drawn to it as all the stories she had heard came flooding to mind all the more breath taking because they had actually happened and they had happened right here. This was where the Heroes of the Lance had met and, more notably among them for Rosemarta, this was where Raistlin Majere had been born the most powerful black robe that Krynn had ever known. She cursed her misfortune at never having had the opportunity to meet him, what an honor that would have been.

The good few hundred yards or so of land that still stood between her and the famous tree top town was tattered and blood stained. There had been a battle here not long ago it seemed, perhaps as soon as earlier on that same day. Not that it was any concern of hers. However those storm clouds that were approaching from the southeast were of great concern to her for she did not fancy being soaked, not in the least. So, making sure that her pack was secure upon her shoulder, and that her hood was pulled low over her eyes, she began walking toward town.

When her eyes alighted upon a group of Paladin's walking in a group toward the Inn she immediately began to regret her decision and cursed the storm because it prevented her from leaving now. She knew enough of Paladins and their goddess to be weary of them. So, still walking, she brought to mind an arsenal of spells and made sure that her dagger could be easily moved to readiness.

The sound of merriment and celebration flooded from the Inn and she could hear it long before reaching the door. When she did come to the door she stood off to the side to take stock of the patrons, so as to decide from there whether or not she should go else where.

Her suspicion that the battle might have taken place earlier on that same day were confirmed when she saw that most of the patrons were still in their armor with weapons at their sides. Humans mostly, elves as well, one dwarf, that she could see, one kender also in the middle of the room dancing and creating a drunken ruckus, two Minotaur, one a dark mahogany and the other white who were seated with an imposiblely tall and muscular man at least twice the size of both of the bull men. There were many Paladins here, much to her dismay, but hopefully they would be far too occupied with their celebrations to bother too much over her. This in mind she walked up to the bar, where there were the least amount of customers and took a seat.

"You the bar keep?" she asked of a young half Elvin woman who stood behind the bar polishing glasses.

"That's right, what can I get for you?"

"A bowl of soup and a glass of wine please"

"Alright, say you know I don't think I've ever seen you around here before. You just get into town?" Rosemarta nodded and watched as the bar keep set to fulfilling her order.

"Yes and might I say that I've never seen such a motley bunch in all my life"

"Oh really? Tell me what kind of wine exactly were you looking for black robe?" there was such a malevolence placed in those last two words that Rosemarta felt her self stiffen momentarily before turning to face who had spoken. It was one of the Minotaurs, the mahogany, Rosemarta could see now the massive two-handed battle axe that was leaning against his chair. He stood before her now, a sneer upon his lips and his eyes cold with anger. Rosemarta felt fear grip her heart for the briefest moment before she gathered her self, knowing she had better answer or face a rather unfortunate end.

"I'm not particular. I like red and white equally but I tend to lean more toward Qualinesti. Now there's no need for any violence I only meant that I have never been anywhere where so many races can socialize in such peaceful harmony. That said if I offended you I apologize. I'll even buy you a drink if you like" she waited upon pins and needles for the Minotaur to reply. Before he could however the large man that still sat at the table that he had left spoke up.

"I do not think that my friend intended any violence he just misunderstood what you said my lady"

"Even so my offer still stands"

"All drinks are on me tonight lady mage" this from the dwarf she had seen from the door who had come up to the bar to get a refill. From up close she could see that the dwarf was aged with a long bushy gray beard and think eyebrows to match. When her eyes returned to the Minotaur she found the sneer gone, replaced by a smile that warmed his eyes.

"I appreciate the offer my lady but I must honor my friend Grails hospitality" Rosemarta nodded.

"I understand perhaps another time then?"

"Yes another time. What name do you go by? If I might ask lady mage"

"Rosemarta, Rosemarta Dasrenvair"

"Mine is Kalas, it's a pleasure" Kalas offered his hand and Rosemarta took it politely. His grip was iron, she could almost hear the bones in her hand cracking but she bit her lip and said nothing. When he did at last let go of her hand she lowered it to her side and rubbed it as discreetly as she could.

"The pleasure is mine I assure you" Kalas smiled, having noticed her rubbing her hand.

"Sorry about that. You see Minotaur women consider an infirm hand shake an insult, I sometimes forget that human women are not the same"

"Think nothing of it Kalas"

"The other two are my younger brother Khurn and our friend Mesai. I must return to them now, good evening Mistress Rosemarta" Kalas bowed before turning to retake his seat at the table. Rosemarta turned from him back to the bar where her soup and glass of wine waited for her.

"How much?"

"Ten copper" Rosemarta placed the coins upon the bar and watched as the bar keep walked away to tend to some of the other customers before setting to eating her soup. As she ate she found her eyes continually being drawn to Kalas. There was something familiar about him and his brother. There was something familiar about all of this but she could not quite place it. Her thoughts were interrupted when the kender gave a great halloo and leaped up into the air to do a double summersault. Rosemarta sniffed, there aught to have been a law against kenders drinking she thought. It made them even more annoying then normal and their tendency for borrowing things was also heightened. This now in mind Rosemarta checked her purse before returning to her soup, which was remarkably delicious. She doubted that even the cooks at the Tower could have produced such a melody of flavors. She now understood why the Inn had such a good reputation to go with its famous name. Once done her soup she pushed the bowl aside and took up her still half full glass of white Qualinesti wine and set to enjoying it.

She noticed the bar keep only when she leaned up against the bar in front of her.

"My name is Gems by the way"

"Rosemarta Dasrenvair, a pleasure"

"Like wise, was everything alright for you?" Rosemarta nodded.

"Yes I don't think I have ever had anything quite like it"

"Glad to hear it. So tell me how did you come by Solace? What brought you here I mean?" Rosemarta shrugged.

"I've been on the road for a very long time and I had heard good things from my fellow travelers. So with that storm riding on the horizon I decided it the perfect time to come and see this place for my self and I must say that so far all I was told has turned out to be true"

"How long will you be here?" Rosemarta was beginning to think that this young half elf female was asking a few too many questions then she was comfortable with answering. But, remembering her confrontation with Kalas and not too keen upon another one, she decided not to make an issue of it.

"As soon as the storm passes I'll be on my way again. I may decide to stay a day or two longer then that but right now I am undecided" Gems nodded.

"Alright, is there anything else I can get you?"

"Not right now thank you"

"If you change your mind just holler" Gems smiled and winked at her before standing straight again and moving to the other end of the bar again. Rosemarta watched her go before returning to her wine.

The evening was relatively quiet from this point on, none taking any further notice of her. She found her self-feeling both grateful and disappointed by it. But though none approached or made comment to or about her she could not help but feel that every eye in the room was upon her. She did not belong here. The light of Mishakal suffused this place and she was the one thing of darkness with in it. There was a target on her back, stronger here then there had ever been anywhere else. Coming here had been a mistake she was sure of it now. She sooner she was out of here the better. She drank the last of her wine and hailed for Gems.

"How much for a room?"

"Well its"

"Hold on a moment Gems" this from Kalas who stood up and came forward with a key in his hand. "This room's already paid for. It belonged to a friend of ours but he won't be needing it any more. You can have it if you wish Mistress Rosemarta"

"I….thank you Kalas that is most kind of you"

"I hope you will find it to your liking"

"I'm sure I will, thanks again" she took the key from his hand and allowed him a smile. He returned it before walking back to his table. With one last look around the common room Rosemarta shouldered her pack again and walked upstairs to her room. It was a fair size, clean and warm so at least her sleep, if nothing else would be pleasant. She placed a wizards lock upon the door before walking to the bed at the foot of which she placed her pack. She changed into her nightdress, placing her robes on top of the dresser before settling beneath the covers. She did not fall asleep for a long while, busy as she was chiding her self for her folly. She had never been more unwanted or out of place anywhere else but here. What had she thought? That coming here would somehow fix all of her problems? That her troubles would blow away in the wind like dust? Foolishness, even if she wanted to stay the Paladins here would see to it that she was gone with in a day.

"Magic indeed" she sniffed before closing her eyes and at last falling into slumber.

Rosemarta woke to the sound of relative silence and supposed that either the Inn was quite empty of patrons or they were all still asleep. If she listened closely enough she could hear the sound of pots and pans being moved about in the kitchen below and Gems and the other staff members made ready for the breakfast crowd. After a few moments of staring at the ceiling she sat up and moved out of the bed to retrieve her robes off the dresser. Once changed she brushed her hair and made her way down stairs, making sure her dagger was tight in place around her wrist.

She found the dwarf Grail sitting at a table in the common room, either having already eaten or waiting for his breakfast. Upon seeing her he smiled and waved.

"Morning Mistress Rosemarta did you sleep well?"

"Quite well yes, in fact I don't think I can ever remember having a better nights sleep"

"Ah well I'm glad to hear that. Would you care to join me? I'll even buy breakfast for you if you like"

"That's very kind of you, sir Grail was it not?" the dwarf nodded and stroked his beard.

"Yes that's right only leave off the sir part I'm only a simple dwarf I don't hold any titles" Rosemarta caught her self-smiling in spite of her self.

"Very well Grail" Rosemarta sat opposite the dwarf all the while trying to figure out what might possibly be behind this kindness. It could be that it was born out of fear rather then a wish for friendship, such a thing was not uncommon and Rosemarta was quite used to it. What ever the reason, kindness or fear it was just as well it meant that she could expect no trouble from him.

"Morning Mistress Rosemarta what would you like?"

"Ham and eggs sounds alright and a cup of tea please"

"The same for me Gems"

"Alright Grail, I'll have that for the both of you in a few minuets then" she smiled at the both of them before returning to the kitchen. Not long after this Kalas and Khurn entered. Seeing Rosemarta and Grail they waved and walked over to join them.

"Morning Grail, Mistress Rosemarta. Mind if we join you?"

"Not at all you two have a seat" while the two Minotaurs sat Grail turned once more to address Rosemarta. "Couldn't help hearing you telling Gems last night that you don't plan on staying here but for a few days. You wouldn't consider changing your mind on that now would you?" Rosemarta shrugged.

"What for? There's nothing for me here, what would I do?"

"Well we don't have a mage wears shop around here and I don't thing any of us would be sorry to see you stay"

"He's right Mistress Rosemarta"

"Your all very kind but I think" she turned toward the door as a pair of Paladin's walked in, "That there are some that would not share your opinion" the other three looked toward the Paladins as well and Grail sniffed.

"Ah I wouldn't worry about them so long as you don't cause any trouble they wont have any cause to take offence to you staying"

"That's right and besides one of the high standing members of their order is a good friend of Kalas and I. His name is Lucius. He's a good man and I'm sure if you were to talk to him he wouldn't have anything against you taking up residence here"

"On top of that a tailor and his family moved out of their home here not too long ago. Shops down stairs with the house up top, not too expensive. I could show it to you if you like" Rosemarta was bewildered what was all this? They had all three of them barely known her for a night but already they were acting as though they were fast friends of hers. On top of that they wanted her to stay here, form a business and take up residence, she a black robed mage that might murder them in their beds for all they knew. But she decided it would be rude to refuse such kindness out right, suspicious though it may have been. So she nodded politely and said,

"I thank you all and I shall think about it" when their meals arrived Rosemarta fell silent, listening absently to their conversation as she tried to puzzle together the mystery of what exactly might be happening. Not long after having finished her breakfast Morgen appeared in the doorway looking every bit his old slovenly self. Gray hair in a tangled mess, robes in bad need of cleaning and repair, and with the same lusty eyed look about him as ever she had seen it. At first she was surprised but it was soon replaced by anger as their eyes met, his brightened and hers grew cold.

"Rosy girl! How are you? It's been a long time" while saying this he was walking toward her with open arms. Seeing the coldness of her expression he stopped short and sighed, the look upon his face at once becoming somber. "Oh boy what did I do wrong this time?"

"What are you doing here Morgen?"

"Come now Rosy girl is that any way to talk to your father?"

"Your not my father" her voice was icy to match her eyes and it made Morgen shiver. She had most definitely changed a great deal since the last time they had met. There was a difference in the way she spoke, the way she sat, even in the way she blinked. It was the poison that resided within the black robes and no one could tell him otherwise. This was not the Rosemarta he remembered. Morgen gathered himself; he was not ready to give up yet.

"Well since I found you at the side of the road, gave you a new first name and my last name, and gave you a home I think that puts me as close to the mark as any don't you think?" while saying this Morgen took the liberty of taking a seat at their table and hailing for an ale. Kalas did not look kindly upon him for this.

"Is it not usually customary for one to introduce them selves before taking a seat at an occupied table? Or did they not teach you any manners that that Tower red robe?" Morgen raised an eyebrow at this.

"They taught me many things Minotaur but you are right I have forgotten my manners it seems. My name is Morgen Dasrenvair and I'm Rosemartas…um…well how would you describe our relationship Rosy girl?"

"Absolutely nothing and I told you not to call me that"

"Now that's cold Rosy" Morgen chuckled lightly and turned back to Kalas. "I have given you my name sir now what of yours?"

"I am Kalas and this is my brother Khurn"

"And I am Grail Fireforge master mage" Morgen took in all three in turn, placing a coin upon the table to pay for his ale when it arrived. He picked it up and took a drink before turning back to Rosemarta.

"I must say Rosy I never expected to see you here amongst such…oddly sorted company"

"And what is that supposed to mean?" grated Kalas through clenched teeth.

"You figure it out"

"I think its time for you to leave, allow me to show you the door"

"Not necessary Kalas, I have a better idea" while saying this Rosemarta rose to her feet, fists clenched. "Morgen Dasrenvair I challenge you to a wizards duel" a tension filled the room as all fell silent at the female black robes words. Morgen found it hard to find his voice for a moment or so; this was not what he had been expecting. The smile soon returned to his face however as he sat back in his chair and drank his ale.

"You realize Rosy that though I may not be in the best of physical condition I am still your senior mage and thus more experienced then you. You don't have a chance"

"I'll be the judge of that. Do you except my challenge or not?"

"I don't think you have the heart to fight me Rosy girl"

"Are you trying to provoke her? Is this some sort of test?" asked Kalas, who had by this time risen to his feet as had Khurn and Grail.

"You might say that. Sit down all of you nothing's going to happen she's all talk" when Rosemarta's expression did not change Morgen's eyes widened in astonishment.

"Good gods you're serious aren't you?"

"I am always serious Morgen you should know that by now" the two regarded one another silently for a space of time before the elder mage sighed and stood up.

"Alright Rosy girl have it your way. You're going to regret this"

"Not as much as you" Morgen sniffed and started for the door. Rosemarta looked to Kalas and the others. "Would you all act as my witnesses? I could use some help scraping what's left of Morgen off the road" she smiled and all three nodded.

"Lead on Mistress Rosemarta" she started for the door and they followed. As Morgen reached the door Mesai walked in, blocking the red robes path. The large mans eyes traveled from Morgen to Rosemarta and his friends who stood with her.

"What's going on?"

"None of your damn business out of the way" hissed Morgen. Mesai's eyes settled upon him.

"Everything that happens around here is my business old man and if your causing any kind of disturbance my friends and I will give you a free flying lesson, right out the door and over the railing" to emphasize his words Mesai punched his right fist into his open left hand.

"That will not be necessary sir, if anyone's going to deal with Morgen it will be me" said Rosemarta, stepping nearer to Morgen to make her point.

"Morgen? You mean Morgen Dasrenvair? The red robe who cares more for his ale and women then he does for his magic?" A half smile turned up the corners of Rosemarta's lips as Morgen's fists clenched.

"One and the same"

"I see" Mesai looked to Kalas, "You had best keep an eye upon him Kalas my friend, if what I've heard of him is true he wont be above using a dirty trick to win" his eyes narrowed upon Morgen again.

"Don't worry Mesai if he does we'll deal with it, right my brother?" said Khurn as he placed a hand to his sword. Kalas nodded.

"Right" Morgen turned to face them.

"I'd like to see you try it" Kalas bared his teeth and pulled his axe from its place upon his back.

"Your fights with me Morgen not…" Rosemarta's words were cut short as she beheld the axe, which had now begun to hum and glow. Everyone else fell silent as well and Kalas held he axe up at eye level with him.

"What's happening?" asked Khurn. Kalas shook his head.

"I don't know"

"Where did you say you got that axe from Kalas?" this from Grail as he stepped closer to inspect the weapon.

"From a weapons shop in Balifor. Everywhere I turned there it was almost like it was following me. I had no choice but to buy it. I named it Honors Face, after the one carried by Kaz"

"Is that all?"

"No, the dealer said that it would be able to recognize its maker" Kalas looked to Rosemarta, a sudden idea coming to mind. He took a few steps back, away from Rosemarta, the glow grew fainter and the humming quieted. He walked back going closer to her then before, the glow brightened the humming grew louder. All eyes turned to Rosemarta who shook her head.

"Don't look at me like that I have never seen that weapon before in my life"

"Mistress Rosemarta do you remember anything of your parents? Would they know about this weapon? Would they have told you?" asked Mesai. Rosemarta shook her head again.

"Both my parents are dead sir. They died when I was just a child, I hardly remember them never mind anything they might have said about a weapon if they said anything about one at all" Rosemarta's gaze shifted to Morgen. "Do you know anything of this Morgen?" the old red robe shook his head.

"No" he replied simply before walking out the door and making his way down to the street. Kalas looked to his axe then back at Rosemarta.

"Are you sure you know nothing of this?"

"Yes I am sure. I have never seen that axe before. This is as much a mystery to me as it is to you" another silence came then and Kalas shrugged.

"Very well but though you cannot remember your parents Mistress Rosemarta, this is proof enough to me that your ancestors had a hand in making this axe and so I am bound to you. I shall be at your side where ever you go Mistress Rosemarta" Kalas smiled at her and bowed. Before Rosemarta could reply to this she was interrupted by Morgen calling irritably.

"If you've changed your mind tell me so Rosy girl, if not get down here. I'm not getting any younger" Rosemarta sighed.

"We'll talk about that later Kalas right now lets not keep that impatient old bastard waiting any longer" she smiled at all of them before turning and walking down the stairs that led into the street below. Seeing the two mages facing off and making ready for a duel all other civilians hurriedly cleared the street but stayed close enough to watch. Kalas, Khurn and Grail stopped at the foot of the stairs leading to the Inn and watched as Morgen drew his dagger.

"Any time your ready Rosy" Rosemarta drew her own dagger and leaped forward, Morgen did the same, their blades met and the duel began. The two traded blows, Morgen throwing his whole weight into it and bearing down upon Rosemarta who shouted the words of a light spell, which worked to effectively blind the elder mage who was moments later knocked back a good few feet by a shock wave. He tumbled end over end before finally laying still. Thinking the duel over Rosemarta sniffed, turned her back, and made to sheath her dagger when.

"Not so fast Rosy!" this was followed by the words of a spell that caused a ball of black light to strike her full force in the back, sending her up and into the trees, where she struck her head upon a branch and would have fallen back to the ground if not for her left hand taking firm hold of the branch above her. Morgen had meanwhile pushed himself to his feet and now stood brushing him self off. Looking up at Rosemarta he sighed and started toward the stairs leading back up to the Inn only to find his way blocked by a wall of flames.

"Where do you think your going Morgen?" the old red robe turned to face Rosemarta as she made her way down from the tree.

"To arrange for a bed for you at the infirmary unless you would rather a funeral service. In which case I can oblige"

"I'm not so sure I would do the same for you" Rosemarta smirked and motioned Morgen forward. "This isn't over yet old man. Come on" Morgen growled and ran at Rosemarta, their blades met again. They traded blows and met in a dead lock, both shouted spells and were enveloped in white light and a cloud of dust. When the dust cleared Morgen lay on the ground unconscious. Rosemarta stood slouched over breathing heavily, dagger in her left hand as her right arm now sported a deep gash that was bleeding so that her right hand was slick with it. She looked over her shoulder at Kalas and the others and managed a weak smile.

"Would one of you fetch Morgen before he causes an accident? I don't want to have to pay for damages to a wagon. And I may need a hand up the stairs" at this point she dropped to her knees.

"Humph, mages" grumbled Grail who turned and started walking up the stairs. Khurn walked over to Morgen and hoisted the old red robe up over his shoulder as if he were a meal sack full of potatoes. Kalas knelt next to Rosemarta, placed an arm about her shoulders and helped her to her feet.

"Thanks"

"There is more to you then meets the eye it seems Mistress Rosemarta" Kalas smiled at her and he two started up the stairs. Reaching the Inn Kalas walked her to one of the nearest tables and helped her into a chair. Rosemarta slumped forward on the table, letting go of her dagger and groaning at the pain in her right arm.

"Would you like me to take a look at that Mistress Rosemarta?" asked Kalas. She nodded weakly.

"Please" Kalas nodded and walked to the bar to request a bowl of water, a clean washcloth, and a length of cloth bandage. Rosemarta watched as Khurn walked in and placed Morgen upon the couch in the privet sitting room before walking over to join her at the table. She looked upon Morgens body for a while before heaving a sigh and shaking her head.

"I've done it this time. Par Salain will have my head"

"Why do you say that Mistress Rosemarta?" asked Khurn, beating his brother to the punch as he returned with the bowl of water, cloth, bandage and knelt to roll up Rosemarta's sleeve.

"Because wizard dueling is forbidden as a rule, or rather a law. It's a law that many chose to flaunt but their smart enough not to get caught. I was and what's more I almost killed my opponent. I was sentenced to half a year's imprisonment in the dungeons of the Tower of Wyreth. The only reason I got out before then was because Par Salain came to me and offered me a choice. He made me swear never to duel again but if I ever broke my word I would face a harsher punishment. Meaning that when he finds out about this I'll either be locked up for the rest of my life or bared from using magic. If the later happens I might as well be locked up anyway"

"Do they really have that much control over your life?" asked Kalas as he finished cleaning away the last of the blood and began wrapping the bandage. Rosemarta nodded.

"Yes unfortunately"

"But how will they find out? We were the only witnesses and we wont say a word to them. And him" Khurns eyes went to Morgen. "Surely you could reason with him?" Rosemarta laughed weakly.

"Not a chance. Morgen is one of Par Salains friends, practically lives in his pocket. Though I don't think he'll be too forth coming about a defeat at my hands. But make no mistake one way or another word will get to Par Salain about this and then it will be the end of the line for me" Kalas had finished with the bandage by now and had rolled down Rosemarta's sleeve. He placed a hand upon her shoulder.

"Not if we're here. If he wants to get to you he'll have to go through us first, right Khurn?" the white Minotaur nodded.

"Right" Rosemarta smiled.

"Thank you" her smile slipped and she groaned again. "I feel sick"

"It's the blood loss, come on" Kalas wrapped an arm around her shoulders again and stood up, "I'll help you to your room"

"Thank you" Kalas nodded and helped her walk up the stairs to her room. Once she was safely in her bed he came back down again, making sure the door was shut, and it was only then that he realized that she had forgotten her dagger on the table. He shrugged, picked it up, and slipped it into his belt.

"Guess I'll hang onto it until she feels better"

"Good idea" in the other room Morgen groaned and stirred, nearly falling off the couch. "Heads up I think that piece of ogre waste is waking up"

"Let him just don't tell him where Rosemarta is, right?" Khurn nodded his agreement and Kalas hailed for two ales.

Morgen placed a hand to his head and pushed himself up with the other, shaking his head to clear it. She beat me, I can't believe it. That spell she cast, I didn't even know the words. She may have changed but the road could not have told her the words of such a strong spell. What the hell has happened to her? Morgen's train of thought was interrupted when he noticed that the one they had called Mesai was looking at him. Realizing that his presence had been noticed, how could anyone possibly miss him, the giant shrugged and walked to join his friends, the two Minotaurs at their table. What ever it was that might have happened to her while she was out on the road it didn't really matter right now. What did matter was the trouble she would be in when Par Salain found out about this, which he would if he did not already know already. She had broken her word to the head of the Conclave; there would be no deal this time. Punishment would be severe and carried out to the letter, no exceptions. But knowing the way she was now perhaps it would be better that way. He had to find her; he had to speak to her.

This in mind Morgen got to his feet and walked out into the common room. Setting his gaze upon the two Minotaurs and the giant he walked over to them.

"Where is Rosemarta?" no answer, none of them even turned to face him. "Did you hear me? You were the ones with her right?" the one called Kalas nodded.

"Yes"

"Well where is she?"

"Why should we tell you?"

"Why? I'm her father goddamn it! Despite what she might say or think to the contrary I am her father and there for free to see her when ever I damn well please. Now tell me where she is" Kalas looked him up and down before shaking his head.

"Nope, not going to happen" he took a drink of his ale. Morgen's fists clenched and his eyes narrowed.

"Alright if that's the way you want to play it fine. In that case I'll just start blasting everything with in the immediate area until I get the answers I want. Looks like most of the people here are still asleep maybe it's about time they woke up" Morgen walked to the center of the room and placed a hand with in one of his pouches.

"Hold on there Master Morgen, I have a better idea" said Mesai as he turned to face Morgen.

"I'm listening"

"What say you to an arm wresting contest? If you win I'll tell you where your daughter is. If I win you promise to leave this Inn and this town. What say you?" a smile curled Morgen's lips and he removed his hand from the pouch.

"I say you have your self a contest sir"

"Step up then" Mesai motioned him forward and Kalas evicted his seat so that Morgen could have it. Both Kalas and Khurn were hard pressed to contain their laughter when the old red robe finally realized that Mesai's arm was longer then his by a good ten or so inches. Not one to be deterred from a challenge once he had accepted it Morgen rolled up his sleeve and set his elbow upon the table.

"Right ready when you are"

"And just a warning red robe you try anything funny anything at all, you'll be dead before the first word passes your lips" this from Kalas as he and his brother stood to either side of Morgen, ready to strike him down if he attempted to cast. Morgen nodded and just before he and Mesai were about to begin a fair skinned blond haired woman came up to them from behind the bar.

"Now wait a minuet. You know the rules no fighting, take it outside" Morgen sighed.

"I would hardly call an arm wrestling contest a fight young woman. All I want is to see my daughter but these fellows wont tell me where she is so this is the only way for me to get the answers I'm looking for. Now you go on about your business young woman

"Oh so that's how it is, is it? Well listen here you old sod why don't I just go upstairs and ask her if she wants to see you?"

"Now my age is of no concern to you however if you would do that for me I would be obliged"

"Right then" she turned and started up the stairs. Morgen shook his head.

"She has quite the temper for one so lovely doesn't she?"

"If you knew what Arial's been through mage you would do well to mind what you say," said Kalas as he sat. Morgen shrugged and removed his arm from the table.

"Looks like our contest will have to wait for another time my friend"

"Yes so it seems" Mesai smiled and winked at Kalas and Khurn who chuckled and took up their ales again. Arial returned down stairs moments later.

"You can go up to see her now, first door on your right when you go up the stairs" Morgen sprang to his feet.

"Thank you m'dear" Morgen walked up the stairs and entered the room to find Rosemarta seated upon the bed. "Hello Rosy girl, glad to see I didn't hurt you too badly"

"Just say what you've come to say Morgen and get out" Morgen sighed.

"Alright have it your own way Rosemarta. Your in a lot of trouble, you know that don't you?"

"No more so then you Morgen. You didn't have to accept my challenge, you could have backed out if you wished but you were a willing participant in that duel the same as me. When I stand before the conclave you'll be right there next to me" Morgen shook his head.

"I am afraid I will have to disagree with that Rosy. You see I'm not the one who broke my word to Par Salain but you are. So I think there is a good chance of me being over looked because you know that's exactly the way Par Salain operates" a tight-lipped sneer pulled at Rosemarta's lips.

"And who's going to tell him Morgen? You?"

"No not me Rosy girl but you know he'll find out just like he did the last time. And just like last time he'll be sending someone to fetch you along to the Tower. You could avoid that however by allowing me to take you in instead. Wizard dueling as against the laws of the Conclave Rosy girl and on top of that you broke your word to the head of the Conclave. The rules are in place for a reason Rosy, we have to live by them" Rosemarta couldn't believe her ears. Here was Morgen the Drunken Fool, a man who cared more for his food, drink, and women then he cared for his magic, and a man who spat on the rules on a regular basis, telling her to obey the rules. She rose to her feet, her anger seething.

"You gods damned hypocrite! How dare you talk to me about the rules? Like you ever followed them even once in your life!" Rosemarta drew her dagger and advanced upon Morgen.

"Put down that dagger Rosemarta. Now hold on a moment. Just listen to me. I said put that" what ever else Morgen might have been about to say was cut off when he found him self tumbling end over end down the stairs into the common room where he finely came to a stop laying flat out on his stomach. He knew he had been backing up with Rosemarta advancing upon him but he had not thought to look behind him, if he had he might have stopped and avoided this. With one hand on his aching ribs he pushed him self up to his knees with the other. Through the thrumming in his head he could hear Rosemarta coming slowly down the stairs.

"Now you listen to me Morgen Dasrenvair. I want you out of here and I don't care where you go. You can sleep in a ditch tonight for all I care so long as it's far away from me and you pass this message on to Par Salain. You tell him that if he wants me he can come and get me him self. If he sends anyone else I'll be ready and waiting for him or her. I wont go back to that Tower and I wont have him policing my life. Your to blame just as much as me for the events that transpired today and I wont be hung double to cover your ass. Now get out" Morgen nodded weakly as he struggled to his feet, still fighting to regain his breath. Once he was standing again he turned to face her.

"What the hell happened to you Rosy? I don't know you anymore"

"You never did know me Morgen now get out"

"Fine, and I'll pass your message along too. They'll come Rosy, perhaps even Par Salain him self, you can count on that" still holding his ribs Morgen walked slowly out of the Inn of the Last Home, passing Grail as he did so. Rosemarta placed her dagger back in her sleeve and walked to the door to watch the elderly red robe as he made his way through the rope bridges toward the market at the center of town.

"If they do come for you Mistress Rosemarta they will have to come through us first. Right Kalas?" said Khurn as he and his brother came to stand either side of her. Kalas nodded.

"Right"

"Same goes for me as well lass," said Grail as he stroked his beard.

"Thank you, all of you. But I must ask you not to do anything foolish. I don't want any of you dead because of me"

"As you wish Mistress Rosemarta," said Kalas. Rosemarta smiled at him and turned to walk back to the common room.

"Now that that's done with I think I'll go back upstairs to my room and take a nap"

"Alright"

"Yes you do that lass and while you do that I'll go around and take a look at that house I told you about earlier alright? Check the price and see if its to your liking" the dwarf smiled at her, she returned it.

"Thank you Grail, I appreciate it"

"Will we see you for the dinner hour Rosemarta?" asked Khurn.

"Perhaps if I get the rest I need" with this she started up the stairs. Arriving at her room she replaced the lock upon her door before falling onto the bed. The nausea was back and with it there was dizziness. Blood loss Kalas had said, she knew he was right, meaning these things were only temporary and would be gone by the time she woke again. As she drifted off to sleep her thoughts were of Morgen, the trouble she once again found her self in, the cells below the Tower that might become her permanent home soon despite her proclamations to the contrary, and the kindness of her new found friends. She also had the strange feeling that she had seen all of this, this town in the trees, the Inn, and the crowd, before.

"Magic indeed" she smiled and at last surrendered her mind to sleep.

Upon a large rock upon the ridge overlooking Solace a Paladin in bright armor sat with a lit pipe clamped between his teeth and a smile on his lips. Behind him, hidden in the rocks shadow, an old battered hat sat atop gray robes and an old wooden staff. For long hours he sat quiet, blowing smoke rings until at last he tapped the ash out of his pipe and stood up, taking his pack from his back as he did so. In the pack he placed the hat, robes, and his pipe, the staff he would have to carry. He re placed the pack, picked up his staff and began walking toward Solace.

"Welcome home Rosemarta Dasrenvair"