Disclaimer--I do not own the forgotten realms setting, but I do own the characters used within the story. In other words, DON'T EVEN THINK ABOUT TOUCHING THEM! I SWEAR I'LL SIT ON YOU!
AIDEN'S FLAME
Chapter 5
Aiden was awakened the next day by a messenger- escort sent by the captain of the guard.
Aiden's presence was requested at his earliest convenience. Aiden quickly changed as he realized that Zenalic had gone. There was a simple note on the bed, reading "Gone. I will return."
The guard who had been sent was a dwarf, who answered only to his nickname, "Hammer" -- for the huge battle hammer he wore on his back. He was an interesting one, of typical dwarven spirit, but humorous, nonetheless. Their conversation was so entertaining that by the time Aiden and Hammer reached their destination, Aiden was entirely lost and realized that he had been for some time.
Before Aiden stood a huge building, with multiple sentries at the door. One started toward the pair, but the dwarf simply touched his gauntlet, turning the guard's attention to the First Sergeant rank insignia on it. The sentry nodded once and returned to parade rest. The pair walked straight through the doors and took multiple pathways in silence, until at last they reached a room that the dwarf didn't turn away from. He opened the door and Aiden entered.
It was merely the general's reception room, and the dwarf stated only "Wait here," before disappearing through another door.
He returned a few moments later and said, "The general will see ya now." Aiden nodded and walked into the room.
There were four men standing and waiting for him there: Faridim, Flamecaller, and two men he had not seen before.
He nodded to both the men he had met, then faced the other two. One was a rather large man carrying a scimitar on each hip and standing behind the other. The second was obviously a warrior, but he was much smaller and had an air of command to him. So, the general had a bodyguard. Interesting.
Aiden bowed to the man he assumed to be the general.
"Welcome, Aiden! Please, have a seat. I am General Aquilus. Captains Faridim and Flamecaller have told me of you and the aid you've provided. I would have summoned you even if you would not have requested an audience," the man said.
All of the men, except for the guard behind the general, took seats.
"We were just discussing the drow," the general said. "Do you happen to have an opinion as to why they ventured into Waterdeep last eve?"
"I believe they are testing Waterdeep's defenses before the attack," Aiden replied. "But I must know, what have you learned from the two drow who survived?"
"I am afraid they attempted escape and were killed in the battle," the general responded. "I am curious why you think the drow will attack us? Do you have some evidence?"
"I have only the word of a single lady whom I trust," Aiden said, not overly shocked at the news of the drows' death. Drow didn't give up easily. "I would request permission to join with your forces and assault the drow."
"I cannot assault a foe I am unsure poses a threat, elf," the general said. "Without proof, there is nothing I can do."
Aiden nodded. He had expected as much. "Then I must go," he said. "I have plans to draw."
"Surely you do not plan to assault the drow alone?" asked the general, half laughing.
"I do indeed," Aiden stated.
"Then you shall die, my friend," Faridim said, speaking for the first time.
"So be it. I am honor bound to fight, and so I shall," Aiden replied.
"Sir, I request permission to assemble my unit and accompany him," said Flamecaller.
"As do I," Faridim stated. "If there is no threat, then we will return unscathed. And if there is…Then at least you will know."
"You would risk your lives for an elf?" General Aquilus asked, more of shock than insult.
"He has saved mine, and now tries to defend our city. I will not allow any to stand alone in the defense of my city!" Flamecaller stated, allowing his passion for the topic to seep into his voice.
The general looked over the trio for a moment, rubbing his temple. He was clearly having difficulty deciding, which Aiden and the others understood entirely.
After a few silent moments, he began to nod and said, "Very well. But the men go on a voluntary basis. Not a man will go who chooses not to. Is that understood, captains?"
"Yessir!" intoned the two.
"Dismissed, and good luck," he replied.
All three stood up and walked out, realizing that they may have just condemned not only themselves, but all the men who served under them, to death.
A.N.--OK OK, it's a BIT too dramatic, but not too much... R&R please.