I remember it as if it were only yesterday, though I'm sure it's been quite a long time since that night. The late evening I found myself wandering the sleepy streets of Waterdeep. I'd just slipped out from a window and out into the ebony midnight. The cool night air tugged at me with it's gentle breeze as I stepped out onto the ledge of the manor. With the heels of my boots scaling the catwalk I'd found, I looked up to see where I was in relation to the roof and the ground below. High enough, I thought while trying to locate a better way down. My gaze fell upon the garden wall reaching, around the side of the elaborate mansion. A smirk curved my scarred lip as I gripped the stone at my fingertips a moment, and then pushed myself into a leap. Crouching into the fall with the grace of a cat, a soundless laugh emerged from my throat.

With a quick scan of the area around and below me, I crouched down still as I crept along that wall. Guards patrolling the courtyard and gardens were none the wiser to my presence. So I kept my attention on the path ahead of me. Once I found the ledge that dropped off into the shrouded streets outside the manor, I was safe.

After the last guard turned back to walk to where I'd come from, but on the ground, I hopped over the gate and strolled away with the pouch on my belt a bit heavier with the gems and gold I'd acquired.

A bit away I allowed that laugh to be heard by the dark night accompanying me in my brisk walk, "That was a bit too easy!"

Continuing further down the cobblestone, being mindful of wagons at my right to keep out of their path, I was drawn towards the pleasant sounds of the local tavern deeper into the city. Lively music, drunken laughter to distract from their pockets being picked here and there, and of course a lady to charm into a giggle to steal a kiss or two? Why not? My job was done for the night after all.

Soft rain began to greet me, cooling my brow after such a task. However, as I returned my gaze to face forward from this light shower, I would notice something odd catching my eye. Down the other end of the street, crossing over to duck into an alley, a blur of ebony and burgundy fabric swiftly went in and out of view. As I gave a curious chase, I would hardly notice the clearing sky above with the drizzling clouds retreating.

I'd slipped around the corner when I found them under the lamplight. Coming to a wall that would be difficult to scale up and hop over from it's height, they turned around to try and find another way. A dark cloak and mask obscured their face from my sight, and the black and burgundy fabric blended with the night around her. With them backing against the wall, they quickly drew the blade from their side. Upon hearing the alerting sound of boots thundering against the cobblestone, I immediately I drew my own, but stayed back to say, "I wasn't lookin' for a duel. Curiosity lead me to follow?"

"I suggest you go back where ever you came from," a young woman's voice warned from under the hood she wore.

"I can't do that," was all I got a chance to say in return.

It was then that we suddenly heard the rushing footsteps drawing nearer. She looked passed me, while I turned to see as well. Two men with blades of their own were at our heels, their darkly dressed attire bearing an emblem of a chilling vibrant eye of violet. One I quickly recognized, along with their twisted swords they charged at us with.

"Sorry, Miss Viper, but you've gained the wrong sort of attention from our boss," the brute of a man sneered when he drew close.

Eyeing me, his kenku partner laughed, "Have you come to do our job for us? Looks like you caught all the wrong sort of attention!"

As she lunged towards us, "En guarde then!" I side stepped out of the way of the saber she was wielding in her grasp.

The human brute of a man would block the swift attack, while the crow like being leapt out of her blade's fury. The ebony feathered fellow then swung at her from the right to try and catch her off guard. Hearing him, as well as me stepping closer, she dodged the curved blade she'd made contact with. Her hood remained up as she then turned and knocked back the kenku's attack. With another whirl around, her cape twirling with her rather thin frame, our blades met with a ringing clash striking the air. For the briefest moment, I caught sight of the blue eyes sparking with energy behind her mask. A slight smile curved the corner of my scarred lip, one of delighted intrigue, as I stepped back slightly.

It was then that I noticed the human lunging at her from the left. Disengaging from her, I quickly turned and blocked his blade from striking her. This kept her at my right, quite likely a tad bewildered by my shift in attack. I heard she had little time to question this however, as she turned to engage with the crow-like being, grabbing for her hand and swiping at her again. He managed to slip her glove from her hand before she pulled it back and blocked his next slash at her.

"It's warm!" he snickered while holding the article of clothing against his feathered cheek,

"A shame you'll probably never know the comfort of the real thing," I mocked with disgust drawn out from my throat.

Blades clashed with blades, neither of us receiving a single cut of a sword, or bruise from a kick or hit. With another turn and sidestep, I found myself hopping away to line up back to back with her.

"Not bad," I laughed while steadying my stance.

She didn't say a word, likely focusing on the foe before her.

"What a waste of potential," the kenku snickered, "If you'd helped us get rid of her, we'd have recommended you to the guild."

"I'm flattered, but fightin' with three against one isn't my style," I said while following the human rogue's steps closely.

"What a pity," he mocked, "More credit for us then!"

"I wouldn't count on that jus' yet!" I scoffed with a lunge forward to meet his.

As our blades clashed, I would only hear from my right as the young woman went to deflect another attack. Until I heard someone stepping to the side, bypassing the other. I couldn't turn to see as I was still fending off the bulkier foe, my blade catching the lamplight as I fought. Only when I just managed to shove him back onto his rear and disarm him, did I turn my head to see as she quickly spun around to swing at him. Her blade slashed at his side, causing him to abruptly cry out and pause in his attempt to rend me through, "Curse you, you little wench!"

He would then be met with a harsh glare from me as I said, "You should watch what ya say to a lady!"

With him unable to recover his stance, it was rather easy to lunge forward. With a twist of my wrist, our blades became entangled, until I managed to pull his hilt from his feathery grasp.

"I suggest ya go runnin' back to Xanathar!" I hissed while holding my saber firmly in my grip, my gaze narrowing harshly as I looked down at them both, "Unless ya have other plans for them?"

I glanced briefly at the hooded figure to see her shake her head. She too held out her blade in warning. My boot had remained firmly planted over one of their swords to keep them from retrieving it. While the other one she had retrieved as a trophy perhaps? Either way, they weren't getting it back.

"You'll regret getting in our way, boy!" the human spat boldly.

"I'd worry more about what your leader will do to ya," I mentioned a tad coldly.

"We'll be in touch, Viper!" the crow snickered, un-phased by my warning as they both ran off.

I waited until I was certain they weren't going to come running back. At least I was going to, until I heard her starting to run off. Turning quickly and sweeping up the tossed aside glove, I followed after my fellow rogue down the street, "Wait!"

Despite calling after her, I was actually quite surprised to see her pause in her run. The cape of her cloak floated ever so slightly behind her, and now fell back over the woman's thin frame. She then turned carefully to face me as I caught up with her.

"...Hey...?" I said, catching my breath, "I...I jus' wanted to ask if you were hurt at all?"

"No, thank you," she said while keeping her hood secure as she looked up at me.

"I also wanted to thank you for savin' my skin back there," I mentioned, my voice genuine with gratitude.

"Why did you switch sides?"

"What's that?"

"During the scuffle, weren't you after me too?" she asked.

"Not exactly. I was tryin' to engage one of those creeps when ya blocked me instead," I admitted, "I wasn't lyin' when I said that sort of thing wasn't my style."

"Why jump in like that? This wasn't your fight?"

"Ya needed help," I shrugged as though it should have been obvious.

When she stood looking up at me in a bit of surprise, I ventured a step nearer to her. I retrieved the glove I'd quickly tucked into the pouch of my belt and held it out to the young woman, "Here?"

"Th-Thank you?" she said while taking the clothing piece from me.

"Of course," I said with a slight bow of my head.

Though it was still quite dark around us, the full moon light made it a little easier to make out her frame. I was nearly a foot taller than her, causing me to look over her a moment or two. Taking note of her thin, but curved figure. She was sure to keep that ebony hood up to hide most of her pale skin, it's detailing of burgundy throwing in a dash of color. I realized we were wearing similar shades, just arranged differently. A bodice of the two hues, mostly black with burgundy lining was worn over a fine cloth shirt. The under-tunic was of gray and burgundy, the sleeves having vertical strips down it's belled sleeves. Her black, form fitting leggings reached down to her ankles, going over the soft soled boots she was wearing. I realized now that her leather gloves had protective spines up along the forearms of them. It was a wonder the crow hadn't been caught by them when he grabbed for her. Buckled in place around her thin waist was a well made belt to hold pouches and the scabbard of her saber now resting against her right hip. Hiding her face from the cheek bones and up, was that mask. This and the hood made it difficult to identify her, which I suppose was the point.

My own burgundy tunic was belted at the waist to show my own lean, but strong stature. My long black hair was pulled into a messy, short ponytail at the base of my neck. Though some of my wild bangs, including those that were prematurely white, was swept over to frame the right side of my high cheek-boned face. Beneath my tunic was an ebony, form fitting shirt of leather armor, and black leggings to go with it. My dark soft soled boots reached up to my knees. I too wore leather gloves in the same ebony shade. Along my belt were a few pouches and small satchels for tools and such. At my left hip was my own sheathed saber. However, it was my face that I realized she was examining as she watched me. For I didn't wear a mask or hood to hide my hazelnut skin, or the vertical scar on my upper lip. It was easy to see that my eye color was a deep brown, as well as the fact that I only had one to look at her with. Over where my right one should have been was a simple eye-patch. I'd already caught the glimpse of pain in her furrowing brow as she saw this. I gave a casual shrug as I assured her, "I've grown used to it."

Then I asked her, "Is there somewhere I can escort ya?"

When she hesitated, I offered instead, "Or at least get ya close? I realize a thief needs to keep their home hidden. I jus' didn't want those cretins tryin' to get the jump on ya while you're tryin' to get there tonight."

"You've done enough, really," she said, "If it's for earlier, you jumping in to help makes us quite even."

"It has nothin' to do with bein' even," I insisted carefully.

Looking over her attire again, I then realized with a charming smile curving my lips, "I see the legend of the Black Viper still goes on? I haven't heard of anyone takin' on her mantle in a long while."

"It's kept me hidden so far," she said, before glancing up at me with a raised brow, "Who are you though, if I may ask?"

With that smile still on my face, I gave a swift bow to her, my one hand over my heart and the other offered to her, "Duke L'Orange, at your service, sweetheart."

To my continued surprise, she placed her un-gloved hand in my grasp. As she did, I swept it up to briefly brush my lips over her warm, soft skin. With this, I quickly glanced up to see a touch of pink gracing her cheeks. I couldn't help but chuckle as I asked her while I stood up, "Was that your first kiss I jus' stole?"

Her silent, slight nod was my answer. She then slipped her hand from mine to replace her glove.

"Are ya sure there isn't somewhere I can escort ya to?" I ventured, "I really wouldn't mind. When we get close enough, jus' tell me to leave an' I will?"

"I don't want to risk you getting caught," she pushed back a little.

"Don't ya fret over me like that. No one's been able to catch me yet," I assured her with full confidence in my tone and expression.

Still she hesitated, but curiosity tugged at me further.

"So what did ya do to get Xanathar after ya?" I finally asked, "Or is it somethin' ya wouldn't want a fellow thief knowin'?"

"I guess, let's just say, I keep taking things their after," she was willing to share quietly, "To hold..." she paused quickly and said, "It's important to hold him off from taking control of the city."

"Ya think he's tryin' to usurp Waterdeep?" I asked in a bit of alarm.

"I wouldn't be surprised, but so far he can't gain any sort of footing for power. From what I understand, he's too paranoid to do anything too drastic without it," she replied.

"You're protectin' the crown then?" I questioned, "Why risk your neck like that? Shouldn't the Cezanni's be takin' care of this?"

She gave a shrug, "I just thought I could help somehow. They may be unaware of Xanathar's influence on the city while they take on other troubles. Regardless, I'd hate to see him come to power in their place."

"I guess ya have a good point there," I admitted thoughtfully.

"How do you know of Xanathar, by the way?" she then asked me, "He's rather careful to not catch too much attention while he works from within his guild?"

"A master thief has to know the competition in town," I smirked.

"Is he the one that...?" she ventured while looking up at me, glancing at where my eye should have been.

I shook my head, "Nah. He never even saw me when I decided to visit his hideout one night. Though I wouldn't suggest goin' in there. I shouldn't have been in there alone."

Looking up at me with some concern showing in her eyes, she realized, "They'll tell Xanathar about you helping me, and they saw your face."

"Seriously, don't fret over me so much, Lady Viper," I insisted.

She looked to me, clearly thrown off by how I addressed her. I gave a light laugh, "If ya prefer somethin' else, jus' let me know?"

"Viper's fine," she replied in a soft, but humored tone.

"Alright then, Viper?" I played with it to get a good feel for how it sounded, "I guess it'll suffice in place of your name."

"She then smiled, while taking a step back and to my right, "Good night, Duke."

"Leavin' already?" I asked with disappointment touching my tone.

She'd already vanished by the time I turned to face where her voice had come from, "Sorry."

With a bit of a reluctant sigh, I decided it would be better to head back to my own dwelling.

"Did you ever learn her name?" I asked the ever lingering fog.

"Of course, I did," he chuckled from within it's embrace, "I'll never forget it."

"There's more to tell then?" I ventured.

"Much more, if you're still willin' to listen?" he admitted with his light laugh still in his throat, "Or should I jus' take that heart of yours now before it breaks from my tale?"

"I believe we made a deal," I pushed, "Or is there truly no honor among thieves?"

"It is the deepest honor there is, darlin'," he assured in a chilling voice somehow blended with charm, drawing me to continue listening.

"What was her name then?" I inquired, a bit eagerly to hear him answer.

"It would be a number of weeks, nearly into two months, before I learned it," he admitted.

He went on to explain, "I would on occasion see the Black Viper while out on my own jobs. Never did she lower her hood, or unveil her face from behind that mask. Still, curiosity spurred me to aid her from time to time..."

Such as on the night of a full moon two months after first meeting her.

"Another!" A boisterous bug bear laughed with his orange furred cat-folk companion hanging on his arm, purring against his cheek.

In the corner of the room I found a rather loud bard singing of his supposed exploits to entice the local ladies, the ones not otherwise taken. This only ended with a glass of wine splashed in his puzzled face as she stormed off.

Shaking my head, I offered him a drink to actually sip rather than wear out of pity I think, "Ya try way too hard, friend."

"I am the Great Zeldino! I aim to impress and sweep a lovely lady off her feet with my tales of grand heroics!" He accepted and regaled me with a tale of strong friendships beginning over a single drink such as this.

To which I gave a polite laugh and excused myself.

I would then take a seat at a lonely table for a little while. That is before I noticed the bugbear looking over and catching sight of me. As he approached, he would find a change in my appearance since we'd last seen one another. Still I asked in good humor , "It's been a while, hasn't it Bump?"
"Mistah Bump, mah friend, and it most certainly has been," The hulking figure replied as he approached the table, a dark cloak hanging from his wide shoulders.

Taking a seat, the shaggy furred man eyed me, and placing a hair claw on his scraggly chin, mocked pondering for a moment, "Dere's somethin different bout ya, did ya go get ya hair cut or someding?"

Sitting at the table, wearing a ragged black cloak and leather armor, was a large and imposing figure. At least seven feet tall, this reddish brown shaggy furred brute nursed a mug of ale, letting the booze slip past his sharp teeth. His hairy knuckles sat on the table, ending the arms that were long and lanky for a humanoid, but to be expected from his goblinoid kin. Yellow eyes surveyed the room, and his free hand scratched at his pale green skin. To the common folk who never seen his kin before, he looked like a strange mix of \ursine and gorilla, but most only whispered rumors to scare their children into behavior with threats of his kin snatching them up and tossing them into boiling pots... the bugbears.

I smirked with some pride, "Somethin' like that. I might actually be lookin' to rebuild my crew a bit after just recently weedin' out some twisted roots. Ya interested friend?"

"I need at least one person I know I can trust. Even Trent's gone now, he sorta needed a break after helpin' me recently," I mentioned with a grim smile twisting my jaw a bit, "We may be able to find him eventually, but for now I'd better not."
With his knuckles on the table, the lanky armed goblinoid took a few moments to consider, "Can't say I'm not intrigued. I'm sure ya got someding in mind, but, care to share it with me... and I mean more dan da whole 'all for one' bit."
My more good natured smile returned with a light laugh, "An' one for all?"

"I don't have a job jus' yet, sorta recruitin' at the moment is all," I admitted, "I figured I'd ask ya while you were here though. I'll let ya know when I figure out our first target. Besides, we don't need the attention quite yet. Have ya seen how things are out there?"

The bugbear nodded, "A lot of fuss I suppose with some big to-do at the castle comin' up. Lots of armored guard dogs patrolin' da streets, and deir bitin' at what ever dey can."

"While I don't mind a challenge, I'm not exactly lookin' for that sort of risk right now," I admitted, "Though I am intrigued on the notion of venturin' into the festivities to see what all the fuss is about?"

"For dat, you'd be on you're own, Duke. I can't exactly hide in plain sight like you can," Mr. Bump laughed.

"I suppose ya have a point there," I chuckled myself, "I guess I'll let ya know if anythin' interestin' happens!"

"Anyone else you're lookin' ta recruit?" Mister Bump then asked.

"I do have someone in mind, the problem is findin' her," I mentioned while playing with my drink a bit.

"Is dat so? Must be good if you're havin' trouble findin' 'er," the bugbear gave a playful grin.

I gave a shrug before asking, "I don't suppose you've heard any rumors in regards to the Black Viper, have ya?"

"Da Black Viper? It's been a long time since I've heard that name. It wouldn't be the one we heard of as kids?" he questioned in surprise.

I shook my head, "Nah, this one's more than likely inspired by the last one. She's been getting' some attention from Xanathar, an' I'd love to have that sort of skill with us. It would probably benefit her to have some allies as well."

"I'll certainly keep an ear out for anythin'," he promised, "'Specially if the guild of the Eye is involved. Wouldn't want a fellow honest thief getting tangled up with dem!"

"It's appreciated, friend," I replied cheerfully.

He then looked up, finding the feline from before, and gave a more bashful smile. Taking a swig of the last of his drink, he got up and said, "Well, you know where ta find me!"

"Have fun," I encouraged as he went over to her, rubbing the back of his head sheepishly as he did.

Looking around with my own glass still untouched, I found my legs itching to move as well.

"Maybe I should head back for now?" I pondered, before spotting a few ladies across the room and walking over to one.

She was a glistening skinned half elf, with amber eyes glowing in the warm light of the bar. Her lavender hair cascaded down over her right shoulder. She had a rather curved frame encased in crimson velvet and a pink maiden's tunic that left her shoulders and neck bare. Her matching skirts hung from her hips down to her knees as they were tucked up a bit to show her knee high heeled boots.

"Evenin', sweetheart. Might I ask for a dance from such a lovely lady?" I offered a hand to her.

She giggled with her eyelashes fluttering as though she'd done this a number of times before. Then again, so had I. To this, I gave a charming smirk as she took my hand as I pulled her into step with the music. With a quick twirl she stepped to my right side as I turned to catch her, "Tryin' to slip away are ya?"

"Not at all," she mused while I spun her into me.

Yet just I went to draw closer to her, I would notice something dashing by the window and further into the night. I suppose it was training to notice such things in my line of work, but I immediately grew curious. This time she wasn't being chased, but she was in a hurry.

"Speak of the...?" I breathed in near disbelief, before clearing my throat and stepping away, "Forgive me, darlin', but I'm afraid I have to end this dance for now."

Before she could protest, I slipped away from her grasp and out the door. Luckily I could still hear her racing footsteps from a bit a ways. Though it was difficult to hear where she was with some soldiers patrolling near by. The very same ones I needed to avoid. So I took to the skies, as it were, and climbed up to the roof of the inn to get a better look, but out of sight. The full moon gave me some light to examine the streets with, and the roof fixture sticking up from the main of it provided me cover with it's shadow cast over me. When I didn't see her at first, I carefully crept along the rooftop while listening intently.

"Ah-ha! There ya are!" I whispered into the night air while hurrying along the rooftops heading to the right of the street.

For nearly disappearing around the corner of the next road, I would see the tail end of her cape floating along after her. I decided to speed up my run a bit, luckily moving fast enough to not catch any attention from the guards below. When I reached the end of the row of shops, I would look down to see her running up along the side road.

Luckily it wasn't that steep a jump, and there was some blocks of hay to land on. Hopping down onto them, I would catch her attention. Years of such acrobatics had taught me how to land with a cat's grace, crouching down in that swift motion. Sticking that landing, I gave a smirk as she had turned to face me with a bit of a jump," Hey?"

"Hey?" she remarked while biting her lip in an attempt to not smile at my pun of a greeting.

"Everythin' alright?" I asked when I noticed her hand hovering near her satchel.

"I know I'm a fellow thief, but I wouldn't steal from you, Viper," I assured her, but she didn't ease her positioning at all.

"It's not you that I don't trust, Duke," she said.

"Is someone after you again?"

"I don't think so," she replied while looking around to be sure of that statement.

"Then why are ya so jumpy?" I pushed carefully.

She would then look passed me as we both heard the heavy boots of a soldier drawing near. Quickly, I grabbed a hold of her hand and pulled her behind the short tower of hay. Crouching down with her, I shifted my frame just enough to cover hers. My hands rested against the early spring night cooled wall. Both of us seemed to hold our breath as we waited for the footsteps to recede. I was looking over my shoulder, watching the end of the street to see if anyone was coming in. I lowered one hand to place it near the hilt of my saber in case it was needed.

However, a breath of relief would be allowed to slip from both of us as we heard the guards wander off. I eased my hand away from the blade at my hip. Though before I pulled the other away from the wall, I did steal a glance of the woman still kneeling in front of me.

I didn't dare venture an attempt to lower her hood, or remove her mask. What I did get a glimpse of, were her eyes. What seemed like sapphires glistened even in the dark as she looked up at me. I couldn't even recall hearing of a gem elemental having such eyes, so I couldn't help but wonder aloud, "What are ya, sweetheart?"

She flinched as though in some pain over the question as she tried to back away from me.

Before she remembered there was a stone wall just behind her.

"Easy, Viper," I assured softly, "I was only curious."

Nonetheless, she got to her feet, with me doing the same. As I did, I attempted again, "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to offend ya if I did."

"As far as I know, I'm human," she replied, "but I've been told there was something in my bloodline that gave me eyes like this."

"They remind me off sapphires?" I remarked in peaked curiosity.

"In any case, I'm glad I got to see them, even if only once," I added before she could turn to leave, "They're quite beautiful."

I couldn't help but smile when I found I'd caused her to blush once more.

"So what are ya tryin' to hide, or rather, do ya have a place to hide it?" I inquired, "Maybe I can help?"

"I'll admit I hadn't thought that far ahead. Just getting the item was difficult enough," she replied.

She then glanced up at me, as though weighing her options, "I can't exactly bring it home right now."

"Is it dangerous?"

She shook her head, "Not the item itself, but those looking for it can be."

"Does it have to do with what ya told me before?" I ventured, "About the city and Xanathar?"

Her hesitation to tell me was answer enough.

"Let me help ya?" I offered.

"Duke, you don't want to get involved with this. I believe your kindness, but I can't ask this of you," she pushed back.

"Then why did I offer to help?" I argued.

Still she gave pause as she pondered over what to do. Her gloved hand was balled up against her lips as she did.

With a sigh, I then stepped back, "Look, I get why ya don't want to rely on another thief. Especially one that isn't an outlaw for the right reasons. However, I can say there are others far worse than me, that don't have a code of any sort of honor. I would not take somethin' so important, unless I thought it was in the wrong hands. I don't believe it is though."

"The deepest sort of honor?" she echoed while looking up at me.

"Of course, Viper," I assured.

It was easy for me to see how nervous she was still, with her arms folded over her chest. Her hand still rested against her lips in careful consideration. I half expected her to try and get away again at this point. Until she reached a hand out to me, "Alright."

A delighted smile curved my scarred lip as I shook her hand, "Partners, then?"

She nodded, "At least for now?"

"I guess I'll settle for that," I sighed with a bit of a chuckle, not willing to push it further.

"So you're lookin' for a place to hide what you've taken?" I asked.

"Yes, I tried to reach the lighthouse, but it was too heavily guarded to risk it. With all the nobles arriving in the city for the ball coming up-"

"A ball?" I picked up quickly as she quickly closed her mouth.

"Is that what's happenin' at the palace? They're gettin' ready for a ball?" I asked.

"I heard it from the merchants earlier, they've been trying to use the volume of visitors to gain some extra coin," she replied, "I mean, it's not that surprising, is it?"

"I guess not," I shrugged.

We'd begun walking down along the street while we went back and forth like this for a bit.

When we came into a more open street, where the taller buildings could be seen as we walked, I gave a bit of a smile, "I have a place you can hide it."

She followed my gaze up towards the massive clock-tower in the center of the city. A structure as old as the eight walking statues that were claimed long ago to roam our fair home. It looked over our city with it's unsleeping eye facing towards the castle.

"Follow me," I instructed with enthusiasm as I began weaving through the streets with her.

After a while, we would find ourselves at the base of the massive tower. The entrance had been boarded off for quite some time now. However, the clock inside still functioned without any sort of maintenance.

The woman beside me quickly picked up on my idea as I started climbing up the side of it with the aid of it's neighboring building. With a bit of an ascent to about half way up the tower, we would find an opening in the side window. The remnants of boards used to close it off were lying on the floor just to the side of it. Inside, Viper would also find signs of some sort of life within the tower. Though there was a lot of dust, there was also several footsteps left in it. Higher up some steps when we got in seemed to be hidden away compartments made into rooms of some sort. The highest one up the way was where I was guiding her.

"It'll be safe here," I promised as I pulled back a ragged edged curtain.

"Duke, is this...?"

"Somethin' like that," I shrugged, "It's as good a home as I've ever had at least."

"What about the other compartments?" she asked.

"I was the leader of a gang that disbanded some time ago, but we're in the works of reformin'," I said with a reviving smile, "I was actually lookin' for ya in regards to that."

She looked to me a bit thrown off by this attempt at an invitation, "You want me to be in a thieve's guild?"

"I was goin' to ask in a better way than that, but that was the idea," I said.

"Duke..." she said, sounding a bit disheartened, "I am flattered,...however I can't join your gang...I understand if that dissolves our partnership, but-"

"That wasn't our deal, was it?" I reminded her quickly.

She looked to me a bit surprised, even as I said, "Our deal was I would help ya. I never said join my gang or I wouldn't. This will be safe here, whether you're in this as one of us or not. Our partnership for this will be completely separate."

"You really are a wonder of a thief?" she remarked, only fueling my pride as she did.

"Don't be afraid to reconsider as things go," I ventured with a playful smile that she shook her head at.

"Do ya want me to see what it is?" I then asked.

She shook her head, "I'm sorry, but it might be better that you don't know. It's not that I don't trust you..."

"Hey, that's why I asked ya? I understand," I assured her while gesturing towards a corner of the room, "There's an empty compartment behind that plank of wall. Go ahead an' put it in there, an' I won't see it."

"Are you sure?" she inquired.

To demonstrate, I turned to look the other way. I kept the corner at my right as I promised her, "It'll be safe, sweetheart."

I listened as she cautiously crept over to the space I'd directed it to. Following this would be her feeling along the wall until she slid a piece open. I didn't dare turn around as I heard her opening her satchel and retrieving the item to then tuck away again. Only when the plank was put back in place, and she'd stepped back, did I face her again.

"Duke, what I'm trusting you with..." she started, pausing as though she were debate over something.

Then she shook her head and said, "Please, don't break it. Keep it hidden, even from yourself."

"Of course," I swore.

Her somewhat relaxed nature setting in told me she believed me. Even before she said to me, "Thank you."

Before I could reply, she then looked out at the larger chamber of the tower. The ever turning gears pushed the hands along. Layers of dust rested on most surfaces, with unattended cobwebs hanging from their corners.

"You've been up here this whole time?" the young woman asked.

"Sorta, I come an' go. Though I am the only one who visits here. It's not exactly a place most people would want to call home. I almost find comfort in the turnin' gears at this point," I said with a shrug.

"An' anyone that did show up, would have to know where to look to find that treasure of yours, so don't worry," I added quickly.

"I believe you," she assured while stepping out of the tucked away room.

I followed her as she looked out at the endlessly running gears. Then she looked through the window we'd crept through to get in, her gaze falling upon the cityscape before us. Again, I wondered who she really was. However, I knew better than to try and find out.

"I'd better go," she finally said.

"Do ya want me to escort ya part of the way home?" I offered.

"No, I can get back safely from here," she insisted while heading over to the window.

"It's not just about what's safe," I mentioned as she went to venture out of it.

"I'm sorry, Duke...but I'm already risking a lot for you by being here. If Xanathar's guild found out, and then you...as well as what's hidden here...I simply can't," she pushed back firmly.

Before I could protest further, she was gone again. Leaving me looking out the window in vain to catch another glimpse of her, "Whatever it is you're doin', be careful, Viper..."

"I thought for sure you would have learned her name by that point?" I ventured with barely cautious curiosity.

The thief, once known as Duke, gave a soft chuckle, "Nah, I would have to wait 'til our next meetin' to find out who she was. Lucky for me, that wasn't much longer after that night."

"And you were really this patient? So trusting of someone that wasn't willing to even show their face to you?" I asked.

"It's not so strange when ya grow up as a rogue. Our line of work forces us into brief an' long lastin' partnerships alike. I've aided strangers in heists before an' never saw 'em again. Besides, it was clear she had somethin' important to hold close to herself. I respected that," he replied with a wistfulness in his voice.

"Then how did you ever discover who she was?"

"When we didn't know the other would be there," he chuckled at the memory as though it were playing out in his head, "She was quite the gem herself, an' with a lovely name too."

"Are you sure you remember it?" I questioned with more care in my tone now.

"Of course, I do," he insisted firmly, "I'd forget my own name, before hers slipped away from memory."

"What was it, if I may ask?" I pushed a little more.

"Why are ya so curious? You're not jealous are ya?" he taunted a bit.

"Your story is just a bit fascinating to me, and wish to know the other characters that played their role to get you here?" I replied firmly in tone.

"Well then, let me tell ya about her if you're so willin' to hear?" he offered.

"Her name then?"

"Sorry, but I can't get ahead of the story, or it might get jumbled up," he teased as he continued.

"This is insane, even for me," I laughed to myself, as I scaled the castle wall.

With all the nobles flowing through the entrance, pulling the attention of most staff in the palace, it was easy for me to get around unnoticed. Almost too easy. Though I wasn't going to complain.

Dressed in the finest clothes I could have made, in exchange for a job I'd done for the tailor some time ago, I found I fit right in. Word around town had made this easier, as I'd found out it was a masquerade ball, complete with masks. This allowed me to comfortably hide my face. The elaborate half one I wore was placed over my right eye, allowing my patch to blend in with it perfectly. It was of ebony silk, with gold detailing etched along the border. To go with it was a fine overcoat with burgundy sleeve cuffs and inner-lining. The vest matched the deep wine shade, worn over my black undershirt. The sleeves of the silk shirt were flared at the end, to mask any scars that may have been noticed on my hazelnut skin. My dark slacks were tailored to fit my lean and flexible frame, allowing me to climb up the wall with ease. Even in boots that the burgundy cuffs went over my knees of. Around my neck was a laced, layered collar. I couldn't help but wonder if I might have looked like some sort of prince, minus entering over the wall, of course.

Hopping through the window of an empty room, I made my way out into the hall. I slipped out the door with great ease and practiced poise. For it was time to pull off one of my biggest jobs yet. I'd come here for information, and a bit of a payday. If I could find out what all the fuss was about, and maybe make a little money on the side, I would be sitting well for a while. First part was convincing the staff I wandered by.

Lucky for me, they didn't seem to bat an eye at a wandering noble acting as though I'd simply gotten lost from the crowd. For some guests appeared to have been staying at the palace, and they couldn't recall who was who behind these masks. Even my dark skin tone didn't give me away as I made my way along the hall. Following the collecting voices, including the announcer that I couldn't fully hear from down the hall still, I would finally come to a stairwell, looking down over the vast gathering of silk gowns and well tailored suits. Jewels and precious metal glistened for my attention, masks hid the faces of their soon to be disgruntled owners. I chuckled in my throat as I reminded myself that my own visage would be hidden from them as well. Nor would they even know it was me when I wove from dance to dance, collecting their dearest heirlooms as I exchanged partners to gather gossip as well.

I paid little attention to the older woman sitting on a throne to left of the two at the center. Her demeanor cold and rigid as she watched the guests dance. Her dress was very old fashion in nature, the shades of velvet a deep plum shade with silver accenting to grace it's sleeves and central lining of lace and ribbon down along her thin waist. Her hair was an aged gray from what was once autumn red at one point, and pulled back tightly away from her wrinkled face. She wore the crown a duchess would, still nice in it's own right as it bore shimmering rubies and diamonds upon it's frame.

However, what I also noticed, it's sister or brother was not worn beside her. For on the right side of the two thrones, was an odd sight of a woman indeed. At least, I'd never seen anyone like her before. A rather tall, generously proportioned lady, bearing fluffy alabaster fur all over her skin, leaned back comfortably in her own seat to watch the party. Her short fair blonde hair reached her shoulders, swept to tease her right shoulder with it's curling. Her piercing pale blue eyes remained focused on someone among the dancers, I quickly realized. Her tail rested along her arm like a boa to go with her flowing formal gown of deep crimson. In her hand was a half full wine glass that a staff member was offering to fill up for her. She gave a nod with a pleasant, but worried smile upon her feline featured face.

I'd made my way down to the dance floor by the time I looked to try and find what she was focusing on. There were several couples sharing the enchanting evening together, all of them dawning their masks to hide their blushing faces.

I seamlessly slipped into the crowd gathering in the main hall of the manor. Taking a quick breath, I began working my magic. Giving quick bows to the ladies nearby, slipping off their rings and bracelets, while giving them flattering words in exchange. A few I even gave in and danced with, so I could relieve them of a few heavier necklaces weighing down their hearts. Some of the men I sparked conversations with, and padded their shoulders to liberate their cloak pins and other ornaments as they shared their stories, from one masked stranger to another.

After taking a brief breather, and making my way to the ballroom again, I was prepared to find a few more dancers. Yet as I stepped onto the marble floor again, I felt a chill run up my spine, causing me to pause where I stood.

Turning around I found no one I knew to be there.

However across the hall I did see someone standing against the alabaster stone wall. She was dressed in a deep, dark blue shaded gown that brushed over the floor. Her red burgundy hair was woven into a braid that was swept over her shoulder. The fabric of the dress was that of soft hemp it seemed. It was styled to be held up at the shoulders, but with thick straps rather than sleeves. The waist of it was cinched with a matching cord tied into a bow at the back, showing her small, but curved frame. Over her eyes was an ebony mask of elaborately woven lace, adorned with silver flare near the eyes and corners.

Facing her from across that hallway, I noticed her keeping me in sight. For a brief moment, I wondered if she had seen what I was doing. Yet if she had, why not call a guard or alert the party goers?

Shrugging off the growing paranoia creeping up my spine, I strolled over to her with a confident smile curving my scarred lip. Giving a deep bow to her, with a hand over my heart, I looked up and spoke to her, "Good evenin' sweetheart, I couldn't help but notice ya watchin' me?"

Her pale flesh remained as such, nor did her lips curve in any certain way. Though she did remain looking to me, as I stood up and offered a hand to her, "Was it a dance you were after? I'd be happy to-"

"I have nothing for you to take," she replied quietly.

I smiled still, but I wasn't foolish enough to lie to her either, "That doesn't mean you're not worth dancin' with, Miss?"

"...Heart Cezanni," she gave in with a slight hesitation.

In that moment, I knew just who I was talking to. I didn't need to see the elegant feline behind us watching our conversation to know. My remaining eye widened a bit, before I quickly gathered my composure, "That would be Lady Cezanni, of course?"

She gave a nod that I didn't need to see for an answer.

"Even without the title attached, Heart is a lovely name," I said as I swept up one of her hands, "An' I think there is somethin' I can take from this."

With that I brushed her fingers with a kiss and watched as she attempted to hide her faintly pink cheeks with her other hand.

"I'd say stealin' a lady's first kiss is far more satisfyin' than any gem ya might wear," I gave a charming grin while telling her this, and releasing her hand, "Though I wonder, if ya know what I'm doin', why not say anythin'?"

She gave a slight shrug, along with an unsure expression over her face. While watching her, I couldn't help but feel how familiar this all seemed to be.

However, I also noticed other masked humans, gnomes, elves, dwarves, and others starting to take notice of us talking. Heart grew more rigid as they drew near at first, but eased up a bit as one of them asked, "Are you alright, Lady Cezanni?"

"I am," Heart replied.

"This fellow isn't bothering you, is he?"

I froze, remaining casual in my stance, as I awaited her answer. She smiled slightly, "No, he isn't. He was just asking me to dance."

She looked up at me to confirm this, "Right?"

"Of course," I answered with another graceful bow given to her, as she placed her hand within my offered grasp.

Seeing this, the masked guests exchanged varied expressions of amusement, bewilderment, and possibly contemptment? However, I ignored them for the moment and lead Heart to the marble ballroom floor. Then, while slipping a hand to her side, and still holding her hand, I began sweeping her off her feet into a waltz.

"They're other lords and ladies of the court; fellow nobility I've known for a few years now," Heart then explained, "I think they were just concerned?"

"I see?" I replied while glancing towards them with a raised brow of my own.

"So why cover for me then, Lady Heart?" I asked her carefully as I spun her away from me.

Heart looked around the room, as though making sure no one was too close as well while I pulled her back into me. Her expression maintained that of someone looking from a distance when she spoke, "I'm not sure. Regardless, I won't turn you in...Duke?"

My remaining eye widened to hear her guess so directly, and on point. Then she offered, "Your name is known through the city, but not your face. Tonight, with so many masked figures, it would be easy for you to slip through, wouldn't it?"

"It was," I smirked with some of my confidence returning, "I wonder why my name would catch your attention? Do my stories intrigue ya, darlin'?"

She bit her lip in an attempt not to smile at this. Taking a quick breath, she then replied, "I'm sorry, but I have nothing of note to trade for this dance,let alone a story."

"As I said, consider that first kiss to be what I took from ya in exchange," I assured her as we paused in our dance along with the abrupt end in the music.

Keeping my hand at her side, I slid the other to her cheek. My thumb brushed the corner of her mask ever so slightly, teasing the notion of removing it as I added, "I could steal your first real kiss?"

It was at this moment, standing so dangerously close to the daughter of the king, that I noticed something odd about her. Or rather, her deep blue eyes. For they were glistening, almost like sapphires watching me...? Didn't I know those eyes from somewhere...?

However, before I could really react to this, she lifted her hand to mine, and pulled it down from her face. Then, while grasping my hand in both of hers, she shook her head, "I've taken enough of your time tonight, and I don't want more attention drawn to you."

This admittedly stunned me a bit. Seeing this, Heart gave a weak smile before quickly pulling away from me. As her hand slipped from my own, I watched her pause ever so briefly, and then disappeared back into the crowd of dancers. Or at least she tried to, but I could see her attempting to talk with other court members, including a few from earlier. Yet I was not the only one to see this, as a few other court members murmured nearby.

Stepping casually I drew closer to these vague whispers that gradually grew more focused.

"That's the girl?" One asked, "Lady Heart, there with her friends of the court?"

"It seems so," another gentleman, "What a shame, she's so young."

As they spoke I felt the room beginning to spin around me. Unease washed over me as I tried to shake away dizzying memories that were not my own. Shaking my head, I backed up against the wall trying to catch my breath, and jumped when a hand grasped my shoulder. Turning my head sharply, I found an even more surprising sight beside me, as a stern set of green eyes found me, "What are you doing here?"

A rather pale skinned elf with dark hair pulled into a long, somewhat messy ponytail, stood before me. He was dressed in the deep forest green I'd known him to where while growing up with him. His silver spectacles would help give away the slightly alarmed expression still on my face.

"Trent?" I asked quietly, before my attention was pulled back towards Heart.

Seeing I was growing a bit pale, my old friend asked, "Are you okay?"

I shook my head again before looking to Heart from across the room, "I know her."

"Just because you dance with someone doesn't mean you know them, Duke!" he commented while trying to pull me along, "Come on, you look a bit pale sir!"

I continued to watch Heart, as she smiled with those around her. In this second, I could see the difference between that genuine joy curving her lips, and the painted face she wore now.

"I know her..." I breathed before he yanked me aside.

"Lady Cezanni?" Trent questioned while glancing back over his shoulder, "Duke, you need to be careful about who see you now!"

"I realize that," I said while pulling away from him.

"Then what do you mean, you know her?" he hissed with concern.

I shook my head, finally asking, "Where did you even come from? I thought you'd tucked yourself away when ya left?"

"I've been hired as a doctor, seeing how I have so much experience," he commented while looking me eye to eye, "I've made a decent name for myself, and was asked to attend in case anyone fell ill or injured themselves."

"Now, how do you know Lady Cezanni?" he asked.

"A lot's happened since ya left the gang," I mentioned with a shrug before he pulled me out to one of the balconies, "For starters, there is no gang at the moment...but I'm in the process of recruitin' skilled partners."

"Duke, you really shouldn't be here. Skill or not, if you're caught here, I can't save your skin this time!" Trent pushed.

To which, I responded with a light-hearted smile, "Don't worry so much, Trent."

"Don't worry, he says? I promised Aster I would look out for you, but this is asking a lot," he retorted, sounding exhausted after already talking to me a few minutes.

"It's fine," I promised while trying to see into the ballroom still, "If I thought it was too much of a risk, I'd be gone already. I have learned a bit since ya last helped me."

"Like how to not get recognized by nobility that could lock you up, if not have you executed?" he questioned.

"If she were goin' to have me arrested, she'd have done it by now," I pointed out confidentially.

"How do you know her anyway?" he finally asked, giving up on pushing me out.

I shook my head, allowing a soft laugh to emerge from the surprise of it all. However, I found myself sealing my lips with barely a word, "I jus' do."

"You're hopeless, L'Orange!" he hissed in a breath, "Please, leave while you're ahead for once."

"Trent, you're the only one makin' a big deal out of this-"

"Because I know what could happen to you, and I don't want to see it!" he pleaded.

"Then look away," I teased confidentially, "but no one's been able to catch me...yet?"

As I was turning around, I would find Lady Cezanni at the door, barring our way back inside. I froze with a prideful smile still traced over my face, "Lady Heart?"

"I'd like to speak with you, if that's alright?" she ventured.

"Lady Cezanni, shouldn't you be on the dance floor? I'm sure there are a number of dashing princes and nobility hoping to catch your attention for a little while, if not your heart all together?" Trent tried to insist in a friendly, but stern tone, "This gentleman was just on his way out for not feeling so well."

He nudged my arm, but I simply glanced at him with a slight, irritated glare. Before giving the princess another pleasant smile, "I think I might be feelin' much better, actually. The night air helps, doesn't it?"

"What are you doing?" Trent whispered as I walked up to her and gave another bow.

"Ya wish to speak with me, my lady?" I asked.

"If it's alright?" she replied.

"Of course, it is," I assured while following alongside her, only looking back to say, "Good night, Trent."

He simply shook his head, muttering a prayer under his breath as he did. Something about looking out for my skinny neck, as I'd heard often enough from him before.

"I apologize if I'm taking too much of your time," she began as we slipped behind the pillars.

I looked out from the side of one to see the two older women in velvet and jewels trying to keep track of the princess. Heart waited for a few taller dancers to go by when we darted across and out the main door to the ballroom. I found I was at her mercy to follow, not wanting her to decide to call a guard if I chose to try and slip away. Then again, I found I didn't mind so much.

"Not at all, Lady Cezanni," I insisted, "I'm jus' surprised."

"I was worried what might happen if those courting me would do if they happened to recognize you. So I had to shake them off a bit first. There was a particular baron that wouldn't leave me alone unless I danced with him," she explained.

"You'd think these lords an' princes would know how to approach a lady?" I commented while trying to stifle a bit of a laugh.

I soon realized that the guests seen were becoming few and far between the further we went from the ballroom. Occasionally we would come across a guard, and Heart would make sure to have me talking face to face with her as they went by. After the fourth time of doing this, I couldn't help but smile appreciatively when she looked away.

"Was there somethin' ya wanted to talk about?" I ventured, "Isn't that why ya pulled me aside?"

"It was," she admitted as she slipped into a tucked away room.

Together, we stood alone in a hidden chamber from the party goers. Within the library, there was a wall behind the tallest row that Heart slid open. This unveiled a pocket of a room that we stepped into before she put the wall back in place, and turned to a door of deep violet that Heart opened while I looked on in surprise. Looking around, I would find a study of sorts, possibly that of the king's. A leather, wing backed chair of velvet cushions sat behind a desk. The desk itself was of mahogany, with a map to the city rolled out upon the surface. Beside it was a book of legends, and another of spells and magic. Upon the wall behind the chair was a mounted sword that I could see was still well used, but wasn't the one I'd seen her wielding out on the streets. This was possibly how she kept her skills with a blade sharp.

Once we were inside together, and I was taking in my surroundings, I would hear a certain click at the door.

"Is this your way of tryin' to catch me, Viper?" I couldn't help but ask now as I turned around to face her.

"It's actually my way of keeping you from being caught," she replied while slipping the key hanging from a silver braided chain between the cleavage of her breasts.

"So...this is the real you?" I asked while looking around the room.

"Not exactly," she said while walking over to the desk to look over the map.

"What is then?" I ventured with growing curiosity, "An' why bring me in here?"

"I'm not exactly sure...I guess I just wanted a chance to talk with someone who does know at least part of the real me,,,,if only for a short while?" she tried to explain.

"Does Xanathar know?"

She shook her head, "No one, save for you, knows."

"Are ya askin' for a truce of some sort then? You don't have me arrested, an' I don't tell who ya are? I wouldn't have said a thing either way," I guessed.

"I know that, Duke; and no, that wasn't my plan. I really did just want to talk with you," she insisted.

"Won't someone come lookin' for ya?" I asked.

"Only one living person knows about this place, and she's back at the party," she mentioned.

"The duchess?" I ventured as Heart shook her head.

"My mentor, Madame Lucille. She used to advise my parents when they were alive, and has been using this space to teach me away from the eyes of my aunt," Heart explained.

"Why hide from her?" I inquired with a raised brow.

"Aunt Victoria means well; but she's busy running things until I'm ready to take the throne. She doesn't really approve of my wanting to know of magic, and she would be furious if she knew who I really am."

"So then you gettin' in Xanathar's way, it's to protect your own crown?"

"More importantly, it's to protect the people of Waterdeep," she said, "And that is part of why I wanted to talk to you, I'll admit."

"I'm listening', Lady Cezanni," I assured her.

She looked a little thrown off as I referred to her this way. So much so, that I couldn't help but ask, "Is somethin' wrong?"

"Not exactly...I guess I prefer it when you don't use formalities with me," she sighed.

"You are the princess," I pointed out.

"I realize that..." she said, sounding almost disappointed by this fact.

"What would ya prefer, my lady?" I gave in a little, wanting to raise her spirits at least a little, "At least while we're in here? I can't risk what I know ya by."

"Perhaps, just use my name?" she suggested.

"Heart?" I asked.

She nodded her head, with a slight smile trying to break through,

"Heart?" I asked curiously.

"Yes," he replied, as though hearing the name brought a sort of pain to his voice, "Heart...the one that slipped away from my grasp..."

"How so?" I ventured gently, "Please share your story?"

"I...I will...but I need some time to gather my memories...it's been so long...if only I knew her side of the story...to know what she thought through those first few meetings...?" he tried to say.

"Wait...Heart..?..Heart Cezanni?!" I then exclaimed.

"Yes...?"

"I...I think I have something that can help you!" I realized aloud.

"You're not tryin' to escape our bargain, are ya? Or is it that your heart is startin' to break, an' can't stand it anymore?" he hissed with growing venom in his tone.

"No! You see,... in my adventures, I uncovered something! Please," I insisted while rummaging through my pack.

"What did ya find?" he questioned while trying to keep a patient tone, but he didn't venture past his veil of mists.

My heart leapt to my throat when my hand clasped the edge of something. Tightening my grip on it, I carefully pulled it out by it's worn leather spine. The pages were woven tightly with it's cover, every ebony inked word clinging to the parchments they were painted on. My other hand grazed the front cover, as though admiring the craftsmanship, or knowing what was inside to be found. Upon it's deep burgundy front was the etched design of a dragon protecting it's secrets within. With tears brimming my eyes, I took a breath and released it, before offering for him to see, "In my travels...I found this within a castle far from these mists. I didn't recognize the name until you'd said it, and I had time to recall why it was so familiar."

"What is this?" he asked, as though he were almost afraid.

"I-...I believe it was Lady Heart's journal?" I ventured while opening the cover to show the name engraved inside.

"That...was hers?" he asked without stepping forth still.

"I believe so, do you want me to read from it?"

"What do you ask for in return? Your heart to not be stolen?" he wondered aloud.

"I only ask to ease some of the pain I hear in your voice? To share with you the words of a lost princess, so that I may also know the complete story?" I insisted carefully.

"Wait...lost..?..Heart is...?" he asked with some alarm emerging from his previously cooled voice.

"I'm not sure, but perhaps these pages will give us some answers?" I prompted gently.

"Share them with me then?" he requested, "An' perhaps we can piece the story back together?"

With a nod of my head, I replied, "Of course." Before opening the cover again, and beginning to read the words written out in ebony ink.