General disclaimer: I own nothing, even Maiyn generally decides her own path.

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Preparations

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A scream tore through the De Arnise Keep, pouring out from the large, open oaken doors and causing Coran to leap from his seat in surprise. It took him a moment to clear his head from the swirl that Renal's note had left; the realisation that it might be Nalia's voice penetrated his mind, and he dashed towards the source, finding her running down the dark passage of the castle; her hands clasped around her mouth and her eyes wide with surprise.

"What is it?" he asked with concern, his hands holding her by the shoulders as she shook slightly. "What's wrong?"

She moved her hands from her face, looking up to him as she tried to control her breathing -- she didn't appear to be scared, however, much to his confusion. She waved her hands behind her, pointing towards the large library at the end of the corridor and the elf arched an eyebrow.

"It's Edwin?" he asked. She nodded vehemently. "Is he hurt? Has something happened to him?"

She shook her head, letting out an almighty snort that sounded suspiciously like an attempt to hold back laughter, dragging him back towards the scene with her. Some of the De Arnise guards had appeared, wondering what was causing their lady such distress, and at Coran's nod, they followed the duo down the passage.

Soon enough they arrived at the carved library door. Nalia nodded to him -- Coran was sure he could see a look of amusement in her eyes, which was enough to unnerve him as he reached out, slowly turning the large handle of the door. It had barely opened an inch when another ear-piercing scream erupted, sounding strangely like the previous one. He looked over at Nalia. Her face had become a picture of delight as she roughly elbowed him to the side, throwing the door open and laughing at the spectacle before them.

Coran gaped; the woman glaring back at them had long, raven coloured hair and ill-fitting red coloured robes -- she was also undoubtedly angry beyond words at having her privacy interrupted; the sniggers coming from the guards behind them were only fuelling her rather passionate outburst, which in turn only managed to further encourage Nalia's laughter. Eventually, people managed to compose themselves enough for the elf to take a step forward, carefully averting his eyes from the rather stretched robes up near the woman's bosom. Slightly nervously, he cleared his throat.

"Ah... Edwin?" He ventured. The woman snorted. "I must say," Coran continued, warming up to the task, "that you look simply... amazing today." He grinned as Nalia dissolved into more giggles behind him, and he narrowly managed to duck, avoiding the heavy book launched at him by the newly feminine Thayvian wizardess.

"Get them away from me!" she shrieked, waving at the bemused guards. "Away! I will not have them staring at my chest! (Even if it is rather ample and well proportioned, if I say so myself.)"

Coran signalled for them to depart, though he noticed that they dispersed much slower than he'd have expected. He turned back to Edwin, trying not to let his own amusement show too much. "So..." he said slowly. "Something magical went... wrong?"

"This was not meant to happen!" Edwin hissed, stalking around the library with a dark glare aimed at Nalia. "It is... it is a temporary measure, that is all. (Yes, temporary.)"

"Can you change back?" asked Coran curiously.

"I... require some time."

"Need a hand dispelling it... Edwina?" Nalia asked.

"I don't need the help of a snivelling apprentice!" Edwin shrieked. "And don't call me that!"

"Come now," interrupted Coran soothingly. "If you're going to be wearing this guise for a while, perhaps it is best to adopt a fitting name to go with it, to avoid any... suspicious looks from people who don't know better. And really... is it so bad to adopt a female name, considering your very female body." Edwina seemed to calm down slightly, letting Coran approach her. "There, there," the elf continued comfortingly, patting her shoulder. "It could be much worse -- after all, you've been blessed with a very delectable body -- and if you have any curiosity as to how it works, I may even be persuaded to help you experience it!"

Edwina burst into tears.

-----------------------

Maiyn awoke to Imoen insistently shaking her arm. "Come on, lazy bones!" the thief exclaimed. "Jaheira went downstairs a while ago, and we have a lot to do today!"

The ranger grumbled, forcing herself to sit up and stretch, shrieking slightly when her clothes flew across the room, and landed on her face as Imoen tossed over what she'd need. Groggily, she dressed, raising an eyebrow at Imoen's bemused stare.

"You're not washing?"

Maiyn shook her head lazily. "Will do it... later," she mumbled, idly discarding the hairbrush that her sister had held out to her. Imoen rolled her eyes.

"You look a mess," she concluded as they left their room.

Maiyn shrugged slightly and tried to stifle a yawn. "Who cares? I'm not the one who has a hope of romance any time soon."

Imoen snorted. "And I am?"

The elf gave her an incredulous look over her shoulder as she led the way to the stairs. "Young Anomen, no less, is very attentive of you, and I refuse to believe someone as nosy as you hasn't noticed it. It could even be argued that it's completely mutual..." Imoen reddened but remained silent as they descended. Maiyn caught her arm as they paused at the landing in the middle of the stairway, and pulled her closer conspiringly. "They'll all be downstairs by now, and you can tell me! Do you like him?"

The human girl shuffled her feet slightly. "He's nice," she replied, slightly awkwardly. "But we're really different."

"So?" Maiyn grinned. "Opposites attract, and all that!"

"Like you an' Xan?"

The ranger grumbled. "Well, perhaps not always. But anyway -- we're talking about you! You and Anomen! Do you think he knows you like him?"

Imoen shrugged. "Like him in that way? I have no idea -- we're pretty good friends, with all that happened with the fish-folk and stuff, I guess. I mean, I've had a lot on my mind, and so... well, I guess that if he does really like me, he'll be ready to wait for me to get everything else out of my head first."

Maiyn nodded thoughtfully. "I think he will -- he seems to be a good guy. Really loyal. And, for what it's worth, I think you'd be good for each other; you'd teach him how to be less serious about everything, and he'd maybe show you how to be a bit more grounded. And it looks like we'll be in the same company for a-"

A small cough interrupted her. "If you would excuse me, ladies." A bright red Anomen slid past them on the narrow platform, quickly continuing his descent towards the Coronet's common room as the two girls stood in an awkward silence for a few minutes. Eventually Maiyn began giggling. Imoen glared at her.

"That is so not something to laugh about," the thief hissed, slinking down the steps with an aghast expression as she peered into the tavern's lounge. Most of their companions had gathered beside the unlit fireplace, and Anomen was perched at the end of a bench, trying desperately to look interested in something Minsc was saying.

Maiyn just grinned, looping her arm into Imoen's before the thief could protest, and wheeling her out into the open as she strode over to the table. She wished the assorted companions a good morning, then glanced over towards the bar, where Kivan and Jaheira were standing, studying something intently. Her heart immediately lurched, and she let go of Imoen's arm, not even hearing the girl's mutters. Slowly she began to head over to them.

They noticed her approach, offering small smiles. Wordlessly, Jaheira held out an unfolded piece of parchment and Maiyn took it into her trembling hands, allowing her eyes to drift over the writing.

My Lady Jaheira,

Your letter arrived here in Baldur's Gate safely; though I admit that I felt no small amount of surprise when I received it. I will begin by answering your queries regarding the health and well-being of myself and Namara. We find ourselves well and in modest standing within the city. Our home is always warm and safe, and we could want for little more than we already have. I do appreciate your care and concern; from what I have determined, Coran was fortunate to fall in with adventurers of such nobility as his companions have displayed.

As for him... I am surprised you have not found out about his recovery from his own mouth. I noticed the reply address for your note was a tavern in Athkatla -- the very place he set out for many weeks ago, his intention to find your location, and especially that of Maiyn, whom I believe he was missing dearly. If your paths have not crossed yet, I can only urge you to keep your eyes and ears open for any sign of him -- you know as well as I do that he is someone who can, on occasion, draw undue attention to himself, and I am sure that even in a large city there would be some sign of his presence.

I can affirm that he was well when he departed from my company, but I have heard nothing from him since then. If you do manage to find him, please persuade him to send some word to myself. Foolish as he is, I would regret losing all touch with him.

I hope this letter finds you in the best of health, and should you be visiting the Gate at any time in the future, be aware that my home is always open to you, and your companions.

My very best wishes,

Brielbara

She was vaguely aware of Kivan helping her into a nearby chair as the letter drifted from her grasp and floated to the ground. Jaheira knelt by her side, asking if she was all right, but all she could do was nod, dumbly, trying to stop her head from swimming. He's here... he could be here... Imoen was beside her, an arm around her shoulder as she asked what had happened. Minsc was holding the letter, wondering what it said -- allowing Anomen to take it from him and read it aloud. Imoen squealed, seemingly with delight as Coran's travels were made known, and Minsc roared with happiness. Xan drifted past -- a hazy flash of purple that walked away, despite her hoarsely, faintly, calling his name. Then Jaheira and Kivan again, helping her to drink from a glass of water that Bernard had fetched. Maiyn leant back and closed her eyes.

Too much -- it was all becoming too much again.

-----------------------

"I cannot go back to the city like... like this!" Edwina was adamant that she would not move from the Keep until she had reversed the curse that had engulfed her from the Nether Scroll. She'd eventually admitted to unearthing it in her trip to the Athkatla Graveyards on the day Coran and Nalia found her wounded in the temple, though the Thayvian had neglected to mention any details regarding his accomplices. Coran had also discovered, much to Nalia's annoyance, that Edwin had placed a charm spell on the cook to prevent the true nature of his gender becoming public knowledge for several days. Nalia had immediately dashed off to dispel the cantrip, telling Coran she'd meet him outside when he was done.

"Well, you have little choice," said Coran firmly. "We are heading back there immediately, because I have... business to attend to."

"Then go and attend your business!" Edwina shrieked, snatching the sewing kit that was offered to her by the timid scullery maid. The young girl ran off immediately, despite Coran's apologetic smile. The elf sighed.

"And what are you going to do?" he asked, trying to stay patient. "Stay here?"

Edwina seemed to ponder this for a moment. "Yes. (Yes, I shall stay here and work out the enchantment I need while they go and run their pathetic little errands.)"

Coran threw his hands in the air. "Fine! Stay here. But I will make sure that the Major Domo and Captain Arat keep a close eye on you in our absence."

The Thayvian looked outraged. "Simian! You dare imply that your precious hovel, here, is worth my attentions? And to further insult me that those monkeys you employ would be able to stop me if I did, indeed, decide to take it as my own?!" The door was slammed shut on Coran, and he could only just hear Edwina's continued mumbled rantings. "(How dare they! They will be without the excellence of my magical abilities, and it serves them right! Leaving me here in this deficient shack in the depths of the backwaters of this accursed country!)"

He shook his head, making his way outside to where Nalia was standing. Captain Arat was by her side, holding the reins to their freshly readied horses, and Coran quickly explained Edwina's continued insistence that she would stay behind.

"Keep a careful eye on her," he advised the Captain. "She was volatile enough as a man -- who knows what levels she might achieve as a woman..."

Arat nodded knowingly, and then they both hung their heads in slight shame as Nalia gave them a reproachful look. The thieves then mounted their horses, bid goodbye to the Captain once again, and rode across the drawbridge, heading towards the main road that would lead them to Athkatla.

-----------------------

It had taken almost an hour for Maiyn to get over her shock and compose herself enough to go about the business she needed to do before their meeting with Aran. Kivan had sat beside her in that time, holding her hand as she stared at a knot in the table; looking more like the young girl he'd met outside High Hedge than he could remember in recent times.

Jaheira had discretely mixed some calming herbs into her water, and they seemed to have worked. Imoen still seemed to be quite concerned over her, but their leader had dismissed any concern, quickly arranging what was needed to be done and who would sort out what errand. Eventually it was decided that he and Anomen would go to the Order's building, to try and enlist whatever help was available for a battle later that day. Maiyn and Minsc were going to the Promenade to stock up on whatever magical bullets and arrows they could find, while Jaheira and Imoen visited the vendors nearer to the Bridge District. Xan had skulked off somewhere, and Maiyn had simply shaken her head when she got to his name, deciding to allow him time to think.

So now, the ranger was walking alongside Anomen as they made their way towards the elaborate temples of the Athkatla, just as he had when Anomen went to face his test... what seemed like a lifetime ago. So much had changed in the little time that had passed, and so many things had been survived. He was content, however, with it all -- knowing Deheriana was watching him, approving of his actions. He was doing what Fate had wished and it was more pleasant than he could have imagined a future without his beloved wife to be.

For although there was nothing there past friendship, his kinship with Jaheira had grown steadily as they shared each others company. He had taught her how to begin to come to terms with her grief, and she had been a large factor in showing him that there was life beyond loss to be lived. And then there was Maiyn -- the girl continued to fight whatever effect her tainted blood tried to inflict upon her; but without her soul, she was slowly losing, slowly changing. Despite that, however, he felt his loyalty to her as strongly as ever -- to the entire group, really. Imoen had returned to their fold -- slightly less effervescent than before, though her old humour was beginning to surface again in the security of the only family she knew. And now with Minsc as her guardian -- loyal Minsc, right to the end and with a heart of gold -- the ties that drew them all together were stronger than ever before... especially considering the level of emotional attachment that was shared between their leader and their enchanter.

Though that particular relationship troubled him -- if only because of Brielbara's letter. There were a number of issues that the three would have to deal with when the time came, and Kivan wasn't sure if any of them were strong enough to cope with the possible outcomes -- not even Coran. But there was little he could do except be there, supporting them as he did, letting them know he cared. They'd sort through it themselves, and soon enough all uncertainty and concern on that particular issue would be resolved. Matters of the heart were simple enough, he thought, when people actually got around to dealing with them.

A flock of worshippers made their entrance to the temple district difficult, converging in large groups on the walkways between the canals, as they exchanged pleasantries and shared tales about sermons they'd attended. Kivan listened to snippets of the conversations as he made his way past, smiling to himself as the unity of the worshippers warmed at his heart slightly, for the first time in an age. Silently, he offered a brief tribute to Sehanine as they walked, glad of her acceptance of his faith once again.

Eventually they arrived at the large doors to the Order's building, and Anomen briskly walked in, nodding pleasantly to the younger squires and stablehands that they passed. They'd barely passed into the large hall when a voice called out to them, causing the knight to pause and look around for the owner.

"Sir Ajantis! What a pleasant surprise."

Kivan recognised the approaching man as one of the knights they'd worked with in the Windspear Hills, and he smiled amiably to him as they shook hands in greeting. The paladin turned back to Anomen and beamed.

"I understand congratulations are in order, Sir Anomen," the paladin said. "How does it feel to have passed the Test?"

Anomen bowed his head slightly in gracious acceptance. "Very good," he replied. "To know I serve Helm under the banner of the Order is a dream come true."

"I am glad to hear it!" Ajantis exclaimed. "But tell me -- what brings you here? Are your other companions with you?"

"They are running their own errands at this moment," said Anomen hesitantly. "We are actually here to ask a boon of the Prelate."

Ajantis raised an eyebrow. "That sounds serious, indeed. Is it something you can tell me about?"

"Certainly," nodded Anomen, starting to walk towards the corridor that led to the Prelate's office with Ajantis by his side. Kivan followed behind them, content to let the holy men make their arrangements.

-----------------------

"Minsc thinks that the robes would look very good on Xan," said the berserker thoughtfully. He was standing beside Maiyn as they regarded the set of robes that the mage had so wistfully gazed upon before they'd embarked on their journey to Spellhold. In the elf's hand was a pouch of gold that she'd raised by selling most of the contents of her bag of holding; so far they'd collected some plainer robes for Imoen, and a set of rings that were enchanted with slight cantrips to increase her nimbleness and awareness. Minsc was also laden with bullets and arrows of all different varieties, most of which he'd chosen himself, some gauntlets and bracers, a few girdles and belts and one pair of boots.

Maiyn waited patiently for Ribald to fetch down the long, black robe. Eventually it was passed to her, feeling amazingly silky in her hands. She could almost see the magical properties radiating from it. "I think so too," she said softly, adding it to the berserker's collection and leading the way back to the counter as Ribald followed. When business was concluded, they had a brief wander around the other stalls and shops in the vicinity, but found nothing else of interest. Briskly they walked back in the direction of the Copper Coronet.

"Boo says he is excited about the thought of seeing colourful Coran again," said Minsc suddenly, causing Maiyn to feel slightly sick with worry at the prospect. "Minsc is too -- but he thought little Maiyn would be happier than she is."

She smiled weakly. "It's complicated, Minsc," she said sadly. "I thought he was dead -- I really did think I'd never see him again, and I... I moved on when I shouldn't have."

Minsc nodded understandingly. "Little Maiyn likes the gloomy enchanter. Boo told me. But Boo says that little Maiyn should not worry so much about it all -- she should just look inside herself to find out what she really wants, and then it will all become simpler. And if that does not work, perhaps you could ask Verya?"

Maiyn grinned. "That's not a bad idea," she replied. "I'm sure she couldn't be any more confused by it all than I am, anyway."

Minsc's arm went around her shoulders. "I am sure it will all work out," he said reassuringly. "Boo is certain that it will, and he has never been wrong before."

Maiyn smiled, letting herself lean into the tall berserker's frame as they made their way along the street. For a blissful moment everything felt as if it had the potential to go right -- assuming, of course, that they survived the encounter with Bodhi. But the gentle words from her loyal companion were enough to make the possibility of everything turning out all right seem even more achievable. The feeling was quickly dashed, however, as a man stepped out before them, causing them both to pull back instinctively.

"Ah, yes -- I am sure you are the right one," the green-robed tattooed man said, peering carefully at the elf. "Maiyn, isn't it? Your face is familiar, I think -- the large oaf at your side is certainly unique enough to be recognisable -- and I am sure I remember him also."

Maiyn stared. "Xzar?"

The mage sighed in exasperation. "Must I be faced with such displays of crude surprise whenever I encounter the simple mindsets of adventurers? Yes, it is I, Xzar, and I have been waiting for your return to this city. I need your help, and I am sure you will be willing to help me."

Maiyn frowned slightly, looking around. "Where's Montaron?"

Xzar scowled. "That is the reason I need your assistance. Your minute mind cannot possibly hope to cope with the tale in full, but suffice to say; he has been... captured, yes, by the vampires you seek to destroy. I require him to be freed, and I shall offer my invaluable assistance in destroying their lair with you, if you in turn assist me in recovering Montaron. And he must be alive."

Maiyn returned to staring at the mage. Minsc was frowning.

"Minsc and Boo remember the strange magician," the berserker said thoughtfully. "But he is acting very oddly now -- more than he did before."

Maiyn nodded slowly in agreement. "Do you feel all right, Xzar? You seem to be... different."

"I am fine," he snorted. "You may not be, though, unless you agree to help me."

Maiyn raised an eyebrow, letting a small smile cross her lips. "I see you are as charming as ever, despite your obvious lack of insanity," she said airily. "Feel free to come with us, if you want," she continued, ignoring his thunderous glare, pushing past him and continuing on her way, Minsc by her side as he gave Xzar a dangerous look. "We'll see if we can find Monty while we're down there, but you'll do what I say when we get to the crypts, or you'll stay away. Understand?"

Xzar ignored her, letting her turn back to the road ahead, going back to her gentle conversation with Minsc as he followed behind. Slowly he began to mutter to himself, his fingers searching out the components in his pouch as he spoke. His eyes never left her form as he invoked the enchantment -- the license he'd found in Prebek's home would prove to be useful, after all. With one last, discrete hand gesture, he let the spell fly towards the elf's back and waited.

A few steps on, she paused, suddenly wrapping her arms around herself as she trembled violently. Minsc immediately dropped the bags he was carrying, reaching out to help the girl stay on her feet as she clutched at her chest and stomach, her eyes closed tightly in pain. Xzar didn't even break in his stride, throwing her an emotionless look as he passed.

"Stomach pain, hmm? Should be careful of what you eat in a city like this."

-----------------------

Imoen and Jaheira discovered that there was little in the way of worthwhile equipment for them to pick up from the traders by the bridge, except for one older lady who would introduce herself only as Mrs Cragmoon. In her secluded little corner, Imoen found a stack of wands and potions that were heaped into their packs after the young thief managed to barter out a very good deal for them. Another quick look around revealed no other hidden merchants, and they'd resigned themselves to returning to the others back at the Copper Coronet, when Jaheira paused and looked over to a cloaked figure.

"Der... Dermin? Is that you? It has been some time."

The man she was addressing turned slowly to face her. He'd been leaning over the bridge parapet, gazing down at the flowing waters below, but the sight of Jaheira did nothing to cheer his sad expression. Instead he sighed, his face creased with lines of worry and concern, making him appear older than Imoen thought he was.

"Indeed," he said quietly. "It has been a very long time."

"What is the matter, Dermin?" Jaheira asked softly. "You would not have let me walk on by, would you? I know we did not always see eye to eye, but I assure you the respect-"

"I may well have let you pass, for there is no joy in our meeting today," he sighed. "Jaheira, do you remember the lessons I taught you?"

The druid swallowed hard. "Of... of course, you were the one that introduced me to the Harpers."

"Yes, yes, but the lessons?" he asked, seeming to be slightly exasperated. His brown eyes were fixed to the half-elf -- he seemed to have barely noticed Imoen standing slightly behind her, and the young human stood quietly, not wanting to interfere.

"What... what are you getting at, Dermin?"

"I am not here, talking to you, to rehash our friendship." He sighed heavily, his hand brushing aside the edge of his cloak to reveal a sheathed sword. "Jaheira... I have been sent to kill you, or otherwise seek your downfall -- and I do not relish the duty."

"I see." Jaheira straightened herself, her more familiar stern expression replacing the hurt look she'd allowed to cross her face. "And what power has decided that I should be killed? I serve nature and protect the good of the land through my work as a Harper. Who have I offended?"

"Who...?" Dermin looked at her incredulously. "Jaheira, you travel with a killer of Harpers -- even if she is not with you presently, we know you still remain a part of her group. I do not wish to think you had any complicity in those acts, but she is still alive."

"I have washed my hands of the incident in the Harper Hold," Jaheira said coldly. "Galvarey was in the wrong and brought his fate upon himself."

"We know nothing of this. There is only the fact that you... you and your friend were the cause of many deaths. This cannot be ignored."

"He was in the wrong!" she cried. "Of that I am certain! Galvarey sought to imprison Maiyn for his own gain and I took the side of right. I could do no other!"

"It is not seen that way, Jaheira," Dermin explained. "'Exact the necessary justice.' That is the only route to redemption for you. The others... will not accept you otherwise."

"This is wrong, Dermin. This is not the right solution." The druid's grip on the handle of her club grew tighter.

"I cannot see this ending otherwise, Jaheira," the Harper said, shaking his head sadly. "Your own have died. What do you intend to do about it?"

"Dermin... I..." Jaheira paused, her voice hoarse and strained. Imoen placed her hand gently on the half-elf's shoulders, gaining a glance from Dermin for the first time. His eyes widened slightly, but he said nothing, returning his gaze to the druid as she continued. "Dermin, I cannot do as you ask. You are in the wrong, as was Galvarey. I was right to choose Maiyn's side, and it is your loss if you cannot see this."

The man inhaled sharply. "Consider carefully what you are saying, child. You have a duty to justice."

She shook her head. "This is not justice. This is revenge for a lie, a falsehood that none seem bothered to find the truth behind. If this is Harper justice then I..." She faltered, trembling slightly under Imoen's touch.

"What are you saying, Jaheira?" he asked.

"If this is the justice you represent then I... I renounce you. I renounce... I renounce my life as a Harper."

Dermin gasped. "Jaheira, you cannot mean... Think this through."

"It would seem I am the only one that has thought any of this through," she snapped. "You do not, Galvarey did not, and now the Harpers out for blood do not." Her tone softened. "I... I mourn many fellows of the Harp, but they died fighting for balance and truth. Galvarey did not, and this matter cheapens their loss. I will not be party to it."

The man stepped back slightly. "So be it then. I will take your words to those that will listen. Do not expect your life to be peaceful with this choice."

"It shall not be peaceful, but it is clearer than the course you are on. Goodbye Dermin." Without another word, she turned away and moved off briskly towards the slums. Imoen dashed after her in an attempt to keep up.

"Gosh, are you sure of that?" the young girl asked. "I mean-"

"Do not concern yourself," the druid replied brusquely. "This was the only course open, even if... I... I wish to not talk of this. This matter is... is behind me." She looked over to the thief, and offered a weak smile. "Come -- we have much to do, and it is time to return to the others."

-----------------------

Maiyn and Minsc found themselves the first to return to the Copper Coronet -- her pains had ended, eventually, though Boo had suggested to Minsc that Xzar was not to be trusted at all in the aftermath of the elf's sudden illness. Maiyn was reluctant to agree, but knew that logically the hamster had a point.

Xan was still missing, and she assumed he was upstairs in his room. After ensuring that Minsc wouldn't harm the necromancer, she pulled one package free from the bundle, and left the berserker to sort through the rest of their new purchases while the mage sipped disdainfully at a glass of mead. She went upstairs, knocking gently on the door of the room the enchanter was sharing with Kivan; it took several attempts before Xan answered, looking pale and drawn. He wordlessly retreated into the gloom, the shuttered windows blocking out the light, leaving her free to enter if she wanted.

Boldly she entered, advancing on the window and throwing it open to allow fresh air and light in. Xan sat glumly, completely ignoring her as she turned and watched him, hands on hips, her foot tapping slightly.

"What's wrong?" she said, unable to think of anything else to say.

He gave her a strange look. "Was that the best thing you could come up with?"

"Actually, yes," she admitted, sitting herself down beside him, package on her lap with her hands folded across it. "Look... you and me -- well, whatever that is... I mean, we've decided, more than once, I thought, that you and me simply... wasn't."

He sighed heavily. "It would be pointless," he agreed.

"And back in the gnome village, you seemed to be, well... happy that we'd gone back to being just friends."

"Of course," he said dourly.

"So," she said gently. "Why were you so worried about me in Adalon's cave?"

He tensed, cautiously looking up to her. He raised an eyebrow.

"Don't look at me like that -- it might have worked before, but it won't now," she chided. "Imoen told me that you were stroking my hair, sitting beside me. And in the Underdark, you wanted me to stay with you when... when..." She sighed heavily. "Xan... what happened there?"

He recoiled from her slightly, shaking his head.

"You don't really think I'm going to tell everyone, do you?" Her expression was one of hurt.

Another sigh. "No," he relented. "I... I'd like to believe you wouldn't -- not maliciously, in any event."

"Then will you tell me?"

He looked at her. "Why, Maiyn? What possible use would it do? Would you get some perverse pleasure from hearing the details? Or do you need to know what happened in order to feel some sympathy for me, to continue your misplaced affections?"

She stared at him for several moments, then stood abruptly. "This is for you," she said quietly, putting the package down next to him and moving towards the door. He groaned.

"Maiyn, wait -- I'm sorry. I didn't mean that."

She paused, but didn't return to him. "It's fine," she lied. "It's not my place to pry, and if you ever decide to talk about it... well, you know where I am. Open the bundle -- it might come in useful for facing Bodhi."

She closed the door gently behind her, and he closed his eyes, his fingers pressed together, making a frame for his face to lean on. Many minutes passed before he did as she'd asked; staring at the fine robe within the papers wrapping it, the very one she'd seen him staring at before. More time passed as he sat, simply staring at it, before he was able to change into it, letting its softness caress his skin as it flowed around him. With a sigh, he went to stand beside the window, looking out at the city bustling below; he had a bad feeling about the battle they were slowly preparing for, but it would not do to reveal his worries to the others, unfounded as they were. Instead, he took a little more time to try and compose himself -- not only was he doing this for Elhan and the elves of Suldanessellar, or even for the Greycloaks back home. He was doing it for Maiyn, and Imoen -- and only when Irenicus fell, after Bodhi, would he feel that he could leave them with his honour intact and his promise fulfilled.

He'd wait for that day -- though it caused him pain to think of their parting, he knew now his days with the group were numbered. To consider travelling with them beyond then would be unbearable.

-----------------------

"You did what?" Maiyn stared at Jaheira for a long time. The druid shifted uncomfortably.

"They left me with no choice," she said calmly, glancing over to the table behind Maiyn, her mouth dropping open in surprise.

"Xzar?" she asked in a fierce whisper. Maiyn sighed and nodded. "Those... those Zhents are here?"

"Ah, no," replied Maiyn quickly. "Montaron has been... captured by Bodhi's vampires, apparently."

Jaheira couldn't suppress a snigger. "My heart bleeds," she remarked dryly.

"And, well, I said we'd help Xzar to free him while we were down there..."

All trace of amusement left the half-elf and she glared stonily at Maiyn. "I see."

"They won't stay with us," Maiyn assured her. "And we're going down there anyway."

"The group is yours to command as you see fit," Jaheira said emotionlessly. "Do not make me think, however, that I have made the worst decision in my life, child."

Maiyn frowned as the druid stalked away to aid Minsc in his equipment sorting. Imoen sidled over to the ranger's side. "Don't be mad at her," the thief said. "She's just a bit stressed."

"Aren't we all?" muttered Maiyn darkly, her scowl lifting as she saw the inn's door open once more and Anomen appeared, Kivan and another figure following him. "Sir Ajantis?" she asked, recognising the paladin, and holding out her hand, allowing him to bring it to his lips as he smiled. "My dear Lady Verya," he said, his eyes twinkling. "Or should I say... Maiyn?"

She flushed slightly. "I'm sorry about that-" she began.

He cut her off with a wave of his hand. "Now, there's no need," he beamed. "I understand. But pray tell -- who is this lovely young lady with you?" He took Imoen's hand, kissing it as he'd done with Maiyn's, and the young girl blushed slightly.

"This is the Lady Imoen," said Anomen quietly, his brown eyes showing a remarkable tenderness as he spoke the girl's name. Maiyn watched with amusement as Ajantis introduced himself, while Kivan made his excuses, and wandered over to work with Jaheira and Minsc.

"Sir Ajantis is one of several knights who will meet us at the graveyard tonight," explained Anomen to Maiyn. "He will come with us to the meeting with the thieves, as well, if you will allow it."

Maiyn nodded hesitantly. "I don't see why not," she said slowly. "Though, if we are to meet Aran, they might be uneasy with a paladin learning of his true location..."

"Worry not, my dear lady," Ajantis assured her. "If they are unhappy with my attending, I will be happy to wait somewhere for you -- but should they trust me to be in your company, I can give you my word that I will not use any knowledge of their base in the future. It would be most unsporting, especially if they are to be our unlikely allies in the battle with the fiendish vampires!"

"Quite," smiled Maiyn. "I am sure you will be... tolerated," she grinned. "But now, we must see to our equipment and head to their hall -- the day is getting late, and Sime will be awaiting our arrival. Come, Sir Ajantis, Sir Anomen -- peruse the goods Minsc and I discovered in our venture to the Promenade... who knows what you might find amongst the trinkets!"

"A word with you, my lady, if you'd humour me?" Ajantis asked quietly. Maiyn nodded, allowing him to draw her to the side, feeling slightly relieved as he smiled at her. "I need to talk to you about a friend of yours -- his name is Coran..."

Maiyn's eyes widened. "Coran?"

Ajantis nodded. "I travelled south with him when he first arrived here, in Athkatla -- a pleasant fellow, though he has been trying hard to find you, and missing you at every opportunity! I only realised your true identity too late when we last met, and alas, it was also too late for him to reach your assumed location."

"I see," she replied quietly. "Is he... he is well?"

"He was... struggling with your departure to Spellhold," said Ajantis solemnly, "when I last saw him. But I am sure he will be most pleased to learn of your arrival back in the city. I took the liberty of sending a message to the usual taverns for him, informing him of your presence here -- I hope you do not mind?"

She shook her head. "No... no, not at all. Though... I do not know how long we will be here," she explained. "We... we need to return something that Bodhi has stolen, to Tethyr..."

The paladin frowned slightly. "Well, hopefully he will get the message soon enough, and you will be reunited once more! And if not, I can always let him know where you've travelled onto, yes?"

Maiyn nodded weakly. "Yes... yes, of course." Ajantis beamed at her, moving off to converse with the others as she sat down heavily in the nearest chair. He'd sent a message to Coran... there was a good chance she'd see him before they left the city again.