Sorry for the delay in posting, life just seems to get in the way.
Bondari, thank you as always for the feedback it is very much appreciated.
I am glad you like how I write Nalia. She has a lot of potential as a character.
Bit of a long chapter here but I did not see a good place to split it up.
On with the show.
Disappointment Chapter 6: Under new management
Two days of riding at a comfortable pace returned the party back to the city of coin at dusk. Nalia rode in silence for the entire trip, speaking only when absolutely necessary. That first night on the road Jeral was standing the second watch and heard the young woman quietly sobbing into her cloak as she mourned the loss of her father and her home. Nalia's suffering reminded Jeral of Gorion's death and he understood the pain of loss she felt. Sadly, Jeral knew of nothing that could relive her of her suffering save the passage of time and finding something, or someone, to fill the void. Jeral had learned through hard experience that avenging the death of one's father did not lessen the sense of loss.
Jeral had watched as Imoen killed Sarevok and ended the threat to their lives so many months ago in the underdark beneath Baldur's Gate. That next morning Jeral woke and missed Gorion as much as he ever had. With a bitter taste Jeral realized that revenge would not change anything, it would not make the pain fade. Jeral also realized that even if it would not make the pain go away revenge was sometimes the only way forward. Then Sarevok had to die; now Irenicus had to die. Sometimes it was just that simple.
Jeral was pulled out of his reverie as the party halted at the city gates. After a cursory wave from the soldiers the six rode into Athkatla. They dropped of Nalia's horses at the stable nearest the city gates and continued further into the city on foot. The wide cobblestone street wended its way through the city and led to the merchant's district. Yoshimo smiled as he looked at the crowded streets and the hundreds of merchants and customers milling about busily as they looked to complete their errands and business before the sun set and darkness covered the city.
"Ahhhh, it does my heart good to see such activity in the city of coin. Jeral, allow me to go with Minsc and sell our excess items. We can meet you at the Copper Coronet in a few hours for a late dinner."
"Excellent idea Yoshimo. The rest of us will head to the inn and secure some rooms, see you in a bit."
"Shall I procure a new set of chain armor for you?"
"No thank you Yoshimo. I prefer to shop for my own armor. I will look into getting myself some on the morrow."
"Very well, Minsc and I will ensure we get a very good deal from Ribald."
Jeral watched the pair weave through the traffic as they headed to the Adventurer's Mart. Turning, he led the remaining quartet through the crowds as they headed towards the slums district. As the shadows lengthened he watched as the last remains of the sun dipped under the horizon. With the arrival of darkness the streets quickly emptied out as everyone hurried home in an effort to be off the street before the onset of full darkness. Jeral had heard rumors in the Copper Coronet about the dangers on the street after dark, dangers that sounded beyond those normal to any large city at night.
Jeral noticed a thin pale woman heading directly for the group. She was dressed in flowing red robes of the finest silk and wore matching sandals on her feet that laced up to the knee. She was pale skinned, of indeterminate age, and very attractive. She strode right up to Jeral and halted inches from him. She was almost as tall as Jeral and looked him in the eye as she smiled a tight closed lipped smile.
"Good evening Jeral, I am Valen, I come bearing a message from my mistress. She has valuable information for you and welcomes the opportunity to meet you."
"What information is that my lady?"
Valen shrugged her shoulders and continued to stare at Jeral.
"That I do not know sire, my mistress bade me to bring you this message and nothing more."
"Where am I to meet your mistress should this interest me?"
"That is as easy as falling asleep. Just come to the graveyard any night after dark and she will find you."
Jeral formally faced the woman and nodded his head respectfully.
"Thank you for the message, I will consider it."
"Consider it well; for you do not want to upset my mistress, that would be… unwise."
With that last ominous statement hanging in the air she swiftly walked away.
"Boo says she is evil and not to be trusted."
"Thank you Minsc, and thank you as well Boo. But I really did not need anyone to tell me that. Anyone who wants to arrange a meeting in the graveyard at night is not to be trusted, that is pretty much common sense."
Jeral put the odd conversation out of his mind and continued towards the slums district and the Copper Coronet. Viconia placed a hand on Jeral's forearm and he slowed his pace as Nalia and Anomen moved ahead.
"Jeral this city may not be safe for you."
Jeral chuckled at the drow. "Living has not been safe for me for some time."
"Listen fool. That woman was unnatural, and very dangerous. Stay away from her and her mistress."
Viconia removed her hand from Jeral's arm and quickly strode away to catch up with Nalia and Squire Anomen leaving a very confused bard in her wake.
The companions settled into a table at the Copper Coronet. The bar was hot, crowded, and noisy, but it felt very cozy to the entire group. Bernard came over to the table to greet his guests.
"Ahhhh, it is always nice to see repeat customers. What can we get you fine folks this evening?"
Jeral leaned back in his chair and pulled a small pouch heavy with coins from his belt.
"Food, drink and three of your best double rooms please Bernard."
"Of course sir, happy to oblige."
"Here is a down payment on the rooms. Please hold them for us until the money runs out. Also I would like us to run a tab."
Any concern Bernard had about running a tab disappeared when he felt the weight of the coin purse Jeral had tossed him.
"Of course sire. Just give me a second and I will have Malinda come over and take your order. It is always nice to have quality customers; sadly that is all too rare an occurrence around here."
Viconia snapped her hand imperiously. "And prepare baths for two in one of the rooms. Unlike the men at this table we women require a bath before food and drink."
Bernard nodded at the drow's order and commanded a passing serving maid to have the kitchen heat water for a pair of bathing tubs.
Nalia patted Bernard kindly on his forearm as she rose to depart the common room. Touched by the kind gesture Bernard headed back to the bar with a broad grin on his meaty face.
Viconia and Nalia quickly disappeared upstairs to bathe and freshen up while Anomen departed to check in with the Order. After placing his gear in one of the bedrooms Jeral returned downstairs and ordered a pitcher of ale, a wheel of cheese and a loaf of bread. Jeral drank deeply and enjoyed the strong dark ale as he waited for Yoshimo and Minsc to return from selling their excess equipment and treasure.
I wonder how Imoen is?
Jeral worried about his sister's fate as he drained his mug and poured himself a second. He drained that as well and his mood darkened as he imagined Imoen in captivity. It started to eat at him and Jeral felt his blood race as he swore to himself yet again that he would free Imoen and have his revenge on Irenicus.
"Why does Jeral look so sad? It is because little Nalia lost her home and her father?"
Jeral looked up into the concerned face on the large ranger. Standing to the side was the bounty hunter, and unlike Minsc he looked as if he did not have a care in the world. He was fighting to hold back a smile as he looked at the troubled bard.
"You two did not take long. I trust the visit was successful?"
Yoshimo smiled broadly as he slid into a chair across from Jeral. Yoshimo leisurely poured mugs of ale for himself and Minsc. He then tore off large hunks of bread and sliced the wheel of cheese into manageable pieces. He even put together a small pile of bread crumbs and cheese for Boo and everyone watched as the furry rodent scurried across the table to gorge on the food placed before him.
"It was very successful Jeral. The items we sold earned top prices from Ribald. All told we earned slightly in excess of nine thousand gold after expenses; so split five ways…."
"Six ways Yoshimo, Nalia is one of us now."
"Of course Jeral. As I was saying split six ways it is just over fifteen hundred coins each."
Jeral nodded approvingly, "that is a sizeable sum of coin. Well done Yoshimo."
"Indeed it is Jeral, and I would like to donate all of mine save fifty gold, to the cause of rescuing your sister."
"That is very generous Yoshimo. Why would you do that? You hardly know Imoen."
"I understand the love of a sister and in the short time I have spent with Imoen I can see her true goodness. So long as I fight at your side I will aid in your quest in all ways."
"Minsc will do the same as the brave Yoshimo. Minsc has few needs and will do everything he can to help free Imoen."
Yoshimo quickly counted out 50 gold coins and tucked them into his coin purse. He did the same for Minsc and then started to sort the money on the table into six equal piles. Jeral noticed many stealing covetous glances at the massive pile of money and fixed Yoshimo with a quizzical glare.
"Yoshimo, it is wise to be so open with these funds?"
"Jeral, the Copper Coronet is run by a fellow named Lehtinan. He is accustomed to very wealthy visitors and ensures their safety, for failure to do so would ruin his business."
"Is he a thin fellow with long greasy brown hair? Usually trailed by a pair of huge bodyguards?"
"How could you possibly know that Jeral?"
"Because I think he is approaching the table right now."
"Excuse me."
The group turned to see a small man with greasy hair standing by the table.
"I am Lehtinan, the owner of this fine establishment. Bernard informed me that you wished to open a line of credit for lodgings, food and beverage. If you are interested, and if you have the coin, I have other avenues for distraction and entertainment for discerning and discrete customers."
"Well then my good Lehtinan, let us not remain strangers, I am Jeral, this is Minsc and Yoshimo. Our other companions are indisposed at the moment."
Greetings were exchanged all around. Jeral leaned back in his chair and clasped his hands behind his head. "So what other types of entertainment can you offer my good man?"
"Herummm, well we have companionship, games of chance, blood sport and even some black lotus should you like to partake."
"Well I am a big fan of companionship; in fact I can never pass up a good woman, or maybe two good women for it has been a profitable week."
Minsc stared open mouthed at Jeral's comments; fortunately Lehtinan was not paying any attention to him and remained focused on Jeral.
"Excellent, we have pleasure slaves upstairs, see Madame Nin at your convenience. I will grant you all access to our exclusive entertainment options."
"Wonderful. Thank you Lehtinan. I think we are all tired from travel tonight but tomorrow night I for one would like a good woman and perhaps some black lotus."
"Until tomorrow night then." Lehtinan have a slight bow and headed back to the bar.
The trio returned to their drinks as the waited for the others to return to the group. After a little while Anomen returned to the table and quickly slid into a seat at the table. His face was flushed red and he looked angry.
"Does something trouble you good Helmite?"
Anomen glared at Yoshimo and took a deep breath of air that he slowly let out. Shaking his head slowly he smiled weakly at Yoshimo.
"A fair question friend. This should be a wonderful evening but it is not."
"Did things not go well at the Order?"
"Quite the contrary Jeral, the Order is pleased that I am traveling with you. They are aware of your nature and hope that I can ensure you do not stray from the light. I was concerned that they would forbid me to travel with you so this is very welcome news. Very welcome indeed. This will assuredly aid me in advancing in the Order."
Jeral sat up straight in his chair and eyed Anomen through narrowed eyes.
"So you are spying on me?"
"Jeral, I have committed to serve and follow you to rescue your sister but I will not forsake my vows to the Order or to Helm. I have a requirement to report on our activities. I see no conflict between those two priorities."
Looking to head off an argument Yoshimo quickly chimed in, "So what has caused you such distress then Squire Anomen?"
"Ahhhh, I received a message from my father. He heard that I had joined a group of adventurers and he has commanded me to deliver my earnings to him so he may salvage his merchant house."
"You are a good son Squire Anomen. I am sure you father is very proud of you."
Nalia trailed a gentle hand across Anomen's shoulders as she seated herself between Minsc and the Hemlite. Distracted by Nalia's appearance Anomen lost his train of thought and stared at the young mageling. Nalia wore a simple mage robe of dark green and had a black towel wrapped around her shoulders as her dripping wet hair hung unkempt around her face. Nalia took an ivory comb and slowly started to work it through her hair as Anomen started open mouthed.
"Helmite, has not your precious Order taught you any manners at all? It is considered poor taste to stare at a woman."
Anomen and Nalia blushed furiously as Viconia strode up to the table. She was clad in her black dressing gown trimmed in purple and had a green towel around her shoulders. She pulled out the one remaining chair at the table and sat down between Minsc and Yoshimo.
"So I take it your relationship with your father is complicated Anomen?"
"Complicated is not the word for it Jeral. My father is a horrible drunk and a bitter man. Were it not for my sister I would have disowned him and broken off all contact long ago. As it is I suffer him as best I can for the sake of my sister."
"Anomen, we have each earned 1500 in gold for our trek to Nalia's keep. I hope that those funds will help your sister and family in some small way."
Yoshimo wordlessly placed one of the large piles of coins in a well made sack and handed it to Anomen. He then repeated the process sliding heavy pouches towards Nalia and Viconia.
Yoshimo then slid the remaining coins on the table into a large backpack. That he placed in front of Jeral.
"This should hold approximately 4500 gold coins, which is a sizeable down payment towards Gaelen Bayle's fee."
"Indeed it is Yoshimo. Do you think Gaelen would be up for visitors at this late hour? I would love to drop off these monies with him so we are no longer responsible for them."
"What are you doing with all of your wealth Jeral?"
"Nalia, I need to free my sister, she was taken by the Cowled Wizards. I need to pay 20000 before the Shadow Thieves will reveal their location."
"That is terrible. Take my gold."
"Thank you but no. You need to rebuild your life, you will have need of that coin."
"Jeral I intend to stay with you and the others here. I need friends and a purpose right now, so this is my home. I will keep 500 for spell components and donate the other 1000 towards your sister's rescue."
"You have my thanks Lady Nalia that is more than generous."
"Spare me from weak willed surfacers and their idiotic notions of generosity. Still I am somewhat fond of Imoen, she was always kind to me. I will donate 500 to the cause." Viconia sighed heavily as she watched Yoshimo claim the coins.
Yoshimo quickly scooped up the additional coins and added them to the pack on the table.
Anomen looked ashamed as he stared at the backpack.
"Jeral, I.I.I.I…"
"Squire Anomen, you have your own family to care for. Take your share to your family with my compliments. Your strength in battle is more than enough to aid our cause."
Anomen nodded glumly, bid everyone goodnight, and excused himself from the table.
"Yoshimo, please take these 6000 coins to Gaelen Bayle."
"Minsc and Boo will escort the good bounty hunter." Yoshimo strapped the pack to his back and the pair quickly left the tavern. Jeral was confident that they would manage the short walk to Gaelen's house without incident.
"So Jeral, how did your sister draw the ire of the Cowled Wizards in the first place?"
Jeral took a deep drink of his ale and leaned back in his chair as he thought about how best to respond.
"Well Nalia, that is a very long story but suffice it to say that it is all my fault."
"Jeral, I find that hard to believe. You love your foolish pink haired sister and would never do anything to endanger her."
"Trust me Viconia this is my fault. I have placed Imoen in danger and I fear that any who travel with me are in constant danger as well."
Jeral paused as he considered how much to tell the pair of women.
"You both deserve to know the truth. A little over a year ago I was forced to flee my home in the middle of the night. I was repeatedly set upon my assassins and pursued by those who were interested in my parentage and wanted to ensure my death. Any who traveled with me became targeted"
Viconia and Nalia both leaned forward in their chairs, transfixed by Jeral's tale. Jeral looked around the crowded tavern to ensure no others were listening before he continued.
"In the course of fighting for my life Imoen and I met Minsc and Viconia and traveled with each of them for a time. To my eternal shame I allowed Viconia to be forced from the party by an intolerant paladin named Ajantis. You have my deepest apologies Viconia of House de'Vir."
Viconia smirked and raised her goblet of wine as Jeral continued.
"After Viconia departed Minsc, Imoen and I traveled with the mage Dynaheir, the paladin Ajantis, a dwarf named Yeslick and eventually a man named Niklos. In caverns under the city of Baldur's Gate I encountered a man named Sarevok who was attempting to bring war to the Sword Coast."
"And you killed him, well done Jeral I am impressed."
"No need to be impressed Viconia. The truth of the matter is Sarevok was a great warrior. Stronger than Minsc, faster than you, and very well skilled he fought with a heavily enchanted two handed sword. We fought and I nearly died. In fact, Imoen was the one who saved my life. He ignored her at his own peril and she killed him while he was trying to kill me."
"Typical surfacer male, he forgot that the female is always the more dangerous one."
"So you and Minsc are the heroes of Baldur's Gate? Tales of your heroics reached us in our lands my father was very impressed by your heroics."
"Well there was nothing heroic about it Nalia. We fought to survive and tried to help those who needed it along the way."
"So what brought you south?"
"We departed Baldur's Gate in the depths of winter to return to Candlekeep. Along the way we were ambushed and taken prisoner. We were held for months and brutally tortured by a powerful mage named Irenicus. They killed our mage Dynaheir who was Minsc's witch, he has not fully recovered from her loss."
Nalia stifled a sob, "that poor man."
"Irenicus also killed Niklos, he was Imoen's husband."
Nalia struggled to control her sobbing , wiping the tears from her eyes as she continued to listen to Jeral's tale.
"How did you manage to escape Jeral? And why is there not a scratch or blemish on your skin? Minsc bears dozens of scars from his captivity yet you are unblemished." Viconia leaned forward and eyed Jeral critically.
"Some unknown group raided the mage's lair and we managed to escape in the confusion. During the escape we encountered Irenicus and Imoen attacked him. The Cowled Wizards arrived and took Irenicus and Imoen into captivity."
"I have heard tales of the Cowled Wizard prison Jeral, your sister will be in grave danger there. One thing of note that may aid you in your quest Jeral. I have a license to practice magic in the city. So long as you travel with me it will cover you as well. My father purchased it for me a number of years ago when I came of age."
"Jeral, there are parts of the story that are missing. Why did this mage capture you and your companions? Why do you bear no ill effects from your imprisonment? I know when a surfacer is avoiding the full truth."
"While in Baldur's Gate I learned that Gorion was not my father. He raised me from infancy but my true father was Bhaal."
Viconia raised an eyebrow as she continued to appraise Jeral critically.
"Jeral, are you saying that the Lord of Murder is your father?"
Jeral nodded grimly as he eyed the young mage. "Nalia that is exactly what I am saying."
"So you are one of the children from the prophecies of Alundo?"
"Yes."
"This is very hard to believe Jeral. Those prophecies are told by mothers to make their children go to bed. They are nothing more that legends and mist."
"Nalia, the fool speaks the truth. The time of troubles was real, Gods walked the land in mortal form. The prophecies are true. I have heard rumors of them since arriving on the surface. Since our first meeting there was something about Jeral, some hidden strength that set him apart from other surfacers. At times Jeral flashed glimpses of incredible speed and strength so his half divine blood could explain it. I suspect you have the ability to heal as well and that would explain the lack of scars."
Jeral only nodded.
Viconia crossed her arms and leaned back in her chair as she grinned broadly.
"I am traveling with a Bhallspawn, this should prove very interesting."
"THAT EXPLAINS IT!"
Jeral whirled to see Yoshimo staring open mouthed. His face paled in shock and Yoshimo looked deeply unsettled.
"Are you ok Yoshimo?"
Quickly regaining his composure Yoshimo waved a hand dismissively as he slid back into his chair.
"My apologies for the outburst Jeral but I wondered why the Shadow Thieves has such interest in you."
"Fear not good Yoshimo, Jeral is a force of goodness."
"Thanks for the words of support Minsc."
"Does Squire Anomen know?"
"He does Nalia."
"Will the Order force him to depart your company?"
"Actually the Order wants him to spy on me so he will be sticking around." Jeral could not keep the bitterness out of his voice. He did not notice that Nalia brightened up noticeably at the news that Anomen would remain with the group.
"Do not be naïve Jeral. Anomen is more open minded that you think."
"Viconia, I would not expect you to speak in support of a Helmite from the Order given your past experiences."
"Ajantis was a fool, and let me be very clear on this point; I chose to depart, he did not drive me out. I would have killed that child easily. As for Anomen, he surprisingly thoughtful for one of his ilk. I believe he has prayed on this matter and his Watcher God likely approves of his traveling with you and with me. I assure you that he and I may disagree at times but I should have no reason to kill him."
"Well that is good to hear Viconia."
Jeral stood and looked at each one of them in turn.
"Please understand all of you, the path I am on is a dangerous and bloody one. I am going to find this Irenicus, free my sister, and kill him. Any who travel with me will be in grave danger. I will not fault any of you for departing."
"Minsc and Boo have a debt to pay as well. We will see little Imoen free and fight by Jeral's side!" Minsc stood up and wrapped Jeral in a massive bear hug as he lifted him off the floor.
"While I am not going to hug you I too will travel with you Jeral. You did a tremendous service to me and I owe you a debt. Having lost my father I understand how important family is. Until Imoen is free I too travel at your side."
"My thanks lady Nalia."
"You have my katana at your service as well. I will see you reunited with your sister, this I swear."
"Thank you Yoshimo."
"This is all very dramatic. Stirring even. Despite the melodrama I too will travel with you Jeral. You have saved my life on two occasions so I am in your debt. Perhaps I will live to see your true power emerge."
Jeral just nodded at the drow as he freed himself from Minsc and returned to his seat.
The five ordered dinner and ate heartily. After dinner the party slowly drifted to bed until only Yoshimo, Jeral and Viconia remained seated at the table.
Yoshimo leaned back in his chair staring intently at Jeral.
"What can I do for you Yoshimo?"
"I apologize for staring. I have never been this close to one of the Gods before."
"HA! This one has a long way to go before there will be any trace of divinity within him."
"Thank you for the support Viconia."
"So Jeral am I to understand you plan to rescue your sister and challenge our captor?"
"Yes Yoshimo, I am going to find him, kill him, and free Imoen."
"Based on what I have seen you will need powerful friends, and great power yourself, to succeed. In my estimation, and I say this with the deepest respect, you need to learn how to fight in close combat to maximize your power and value to this group."
Jeral stared at Yoshimo in clear shock.
"What are you talking about? I know how to fight."
"Your sword fighting skills are lacking. You are as strong as any fighter, and faster than any I have ever seen yet you lack any true measure of martial skill."
Jeral forced himself to count to ten before he replied. When he did he spoke slowly and softly.
"Yoshimo, I sense that the words are spoken to aid not injure, so I take them for the helpful advice that they seem. I was educated my the greatest mage in the realm. My knowledge of tactics and military history is without peer. While in Baldur's Gate I trained under one of the finest blade masters in the land."
"Despite that your time in captivity has dulled your edge."
I suppose that is true enough Yoshimo. I would welcome the combat lessons from one such as you."
Bowing slightly the thief continued, "I hope I have not overstepped my bounds. But for you to succeed, for this group to succeed it is clear that it needs a third strong warrior. I would also suggest you train at times with Minsc and Anomen to get familiar with different opponents and fighting styles. I suspect you will learn to best me very soon so they will provide more of a challenge in the future. "
"Yoshimo is right. Your parentage ensures that you will always be under threat. Therefore you need to gain power to ensure your survival and to protect those closest to you."
"So do you agree with Yoshimo then about my martial prowess?"
"Absolutely. You have limited arcane ability so your weapons must be your power. You need to forsake the long bow and focus on close combat for archery is inadequate against the more powerful threats. If you improve your skills and master fighting with two blades you should become an adequate combatant."
"Well let's hear it for adequate."
"Jeral, mock me if you will but if you want to rescue your sister and survive then you must become strong enough to defeat anyone or anything that crosses your path."
"The drow speaks truly Jeral. From what little I know of this Irenicus only the very strongest have any hope of standing against him. For your sister's sake you must master the blades."
"Well who am I to argue with the two of you. I will sell the long bow and focus on the blades. I will need better swords at some point."
Viconia stood up and languidly stretched. Jeral could not fail to notice that every man in the tavern eyed her form underneath the silken dressing gown. She leaned in close to Jeral and whispered in his ear.
"I have claimed you male, and when I deem you worthy I will welcome you into my bed and show you delights that you cannot imagine. Also, never touch that accursed elvish long bow again. Hands that touch elven equipment shall never touch me." She nipped Jeral's ear lobe and then majestically strode off to bed.
Jeral flushed as he watched Viconia walk away. Realizing that Yoshimo was smirking at his discomfort Jeral quickly regained his composure and eyed Yoshimo.
"You speak wisely bounty hunter and I look forward to my first lesson. But not tonight. I am sharing a room with Anomen so you get Minsc."
With a smile and a wave Jeral headed upstairs to bed.
The following day found the party all grouped together in the common room for a late breakfast. The large chamber was almost deserted as most patrons had already departed the inn for the day.
Yoshimo and Jeral were the last to join the group at the table. The pair entered the common room drenched in sweat and covered in hay and dirt. Jeral and Yoshimo sat down at the table and started peeling off the layers of rags that covered their blades during their sparring practice.
Nalia wrinkled her nose as the pair settled down at the table.
"Not that I do not enjoy your company but you two reek of the stables."
"My apologies Nalia. Our sparring got a little intense, neither of us likes to lose."
"Well for all of our sakes go bathe and then come back."
Chastened by the mage Jeral and Yoshimo departed to bathe. When they returned to the table they found the remains of a large breakfast on the table and the other four were engaged in a lively discussion over steaming cups of mint tea.
"I fail to see the problem," Viconia said shaking her head, "slavery is a common enough occurrence throughout the land, both above and below ground."
"Slavery is illegal in Athkatla and it is also immoral," Anomen replied sharply. "Although I would not expect a dark elf to know anything about morality."
"Spare me your pious judgment Helmite. The strong will always lead the weak; it is merely a matter of the form of the leadership. Some societies use slavery, others nobility, feat of arms or government. The result is always the same, the strong and the smart rule over the rest, that is the way of the world."
Viconia quickly continued before anyone could get upset with her words.
"However, if you wish to intervene in this case, I have no problem killing slave masters and freeing the slaves here. In fact it could be quite profitable."
"Can I ask how this conversation started?"
"Minsc informed us that the proprietor of this fine establishment introduced himself to you, Minsc and Yoshimo last night. He also implied that this establishment had a brothel and a fighting pit. The Order has heard rumors about fighting pits that use slaves as combatants but has never been able to locate one. It seems you have already made more progress than the Order."
"Well Anomen I have no taste for slavery so I am willing to investigate."
"Nalia what do you think?" Jeral inquired.
"As much as it pains me to admit it I do see some merit in Viconia's words for the commoner will always be ruled one way or another. However, we must free any slaves that are held here. It is our moral obligation."
"Jeral the slavers in this city are powerful and have many friends. We must tread carefully for they are not to be trifled with."
"Well we have heard from our bounty hunter, what do you think Minsc?"
"Boo says anyone who keeps others in cages is bad. Minsc and Boo both hate cages. We must deliver the boot of justice to the foul slavers!"
"Well who can argue with a hamster and a ranger? Let's take a look around then shall we? Everyone head up stairs and grab a small weapon, spell book, whatever you can carry without looking too intimidating. We are supposed to be looking for good time, not trouble." After a few short minutes the party regrouped. No one was wearing armor. Nalia had a dagger on the belt of her robes while everyone else had a single weapon hanging on their belt or back. Minsc was the notable exception for he carried Sarevok's massive warblade in a scabbard on his back. Together they headed towards the guarded back rooms. A pair of burly bouncers clad in boilder leather tunics, short swords at their sides,blocked their way.
"I am Jeral and these are my friends. Lehtinan granted us access to the back rooms last night." The two large men looked over to Bernard for confirmation. They received a slight nod in response and stepped to the side. The party entered and faced stairs to their left and doors straight ahead and left.
"Well Minsc, you are the tracker in the group. Which way does your sense of direction tell us to go?"
"Minsc does not know but Boo says we should go upstairs."
"Very well, lead on Minsc." The party carefully walked up a flight of stairs. They opened the door into a large room that was brightly lit, carpeted and furnished with numerous small tables and a small bar in the corner. A small bell rang as they opened the door. An older heavy set woman in a gaudy blue dress entered on the far side of the room and moved quickly towards the group. A cloud of perfume and powder followed her across the room.
"Good morning ladies and gentlemen. I am Madame Nin, what kind of companionship interests you today? I have men, women, boys and girls. Whatever you want Madame Nin can provide, for a suitable fee of course. As my first customers of the day I am happy to provide you with a substantial discount as well." She opened a silken fan and fluttered it in front of her face as she smiled through heavily colored lips.
Jeral politely inquired. "Can we see what you have? Hate to pay for anything sight unseen."
Madame Nin smiled and clapped her hands together twice. Within a minute a dozen scantily clad women slowly walked in the room followed by four shirtless men wearing very tight pants. They lined up in a row in front of the adventurers. A few smiled but most looked listless and resigned to their fate.
"So how much?"
Madame Nin smiled and rubbed her hands together.
"Well you can pay for companionship by the hour or for the entire day and night. An hour costs 10 gold, while the entire day and night costs twenty five. Prices are the same for the men and the women. Since you are my first customers of the day I can give you your first hour for say, six gold."
"Madame Nin, you are most gracious. However, we are in the mood to celebrate for we have recently come into an extremely large sum of money. We will take all of them for an hour and will pay no more than 75 gold." Jeral stood up and counted out 75 pieces of gold.
"Do we have a deal?"
"Of course sire," Madame Nin quickly scooped up the coins into the folds of her dress.
"Good, now leave us so we can enjoy our companions. You may return in one hour, and not a minute before."
Madame Nin turned over an hourglass and quickly shuffled out of the chamber.
"Jeral, I thought you were a force for goodness, explain yourself."
Anomen stood stiffly, red faced, and glared at Jeral.
"Yes Jeral, I agree with Squire Anomen, this is a side of you I have yet to see. I for one do not like it. These types of activities hold no interest to me."
Viconia stared at Anomen and then Nalia.
"Fools, can you not see a lie when it is given? Particularly from one as obvious as Jeral, he could not fool the slowest drow child. He clearly wants to investigate the slavery in the back rooms here and needed to lie to convince Madame Nim of our unsavory reputations."
Anomen and Nalia both looked at Jeral for confirmation.
"Viconia speaks truly. Sometimes one needs to be a little dishonest for a greater good."
After a few minutes of hushed conversations the party had determined that the concubines were all slaves. They were taken violently from their home villages and forced into prostitution and received only food and lodging while Madame Nin and Lehtinan kept all the profits. Most of the slaves were kept imprisoned in various back rooms. Those who did not make enough money from the customers were sent to the fighting ring to fight one another and various beasts. Dozens of new slaves came weekly to replace those killed in the pits.
After listening to their plight for five minutes Jeral held up a hand to silence the slaves.
"Effective today this place is closed. I do not like slavery. I do not mind prostitution-in fact I kind of like it, so long as everyone is willing and well paid but that clearly does not apply in this case. Stay here. We are going to check out the cells and see what we can do about closing this place down. We should be back before the hour glass runs out."
Jeral and the others headed back down the stairs and headed for the back rooms. Viconia noticed two doors concealed along the left wall. The first opened onto a Black Lotus den where soiled cushions and low tables were strewn across the room. The den was currently empty but smelled of sweat, black lotus and alcohol. The second door led to a flight of stairs heading down. The smell of sewage was clearly noticeable. The party ignored both doors and the group continued on to a large, metal banded door at the end of the hallway. Jeral tried the door and found that it was unlocked.
"Okay folks, better get ready for trouble, the concubines warned us that half a dozen guards are always on duty back here."
Jeral tucked his hands in his belt, started whistling and shouldered the door open. The party strode into the guard room. The far wall was lined with cages that were full of dozens of men and women, they looked ill fed and all were dirty and clothed in rags.
"Hey, no one is allowed back here." A deep voice growled a warning at the party.
Jeral turned and saw a large man wearing splint mail and holding a bastard sword walking down a flight of stairs. Another half dozen guards were seated at a large table at the top of the stairs, they looked at the group with disinterest and continued playing cards and eating their mid day meal.
"We are guests of Leinthan and are just looking for some action." Jeral replied.
"That does not matter. This area is off limits to guests, you had better leave, or else."
Smiling Jeral turned to face the guard.
"Actually I am putting this place under new management. So if you want to keep your job and your head you will hand me the keys to the cells."
"Fat chance of that boyo. Guards! To me!"
The first guard raised his bastard sword and lunged at Jeral. Jeral wiggled his fingers and jets of flame leapt out into the guards face. The man fell to the ground screaming in pain as the smell of charred flesh accosted Jeral's nose. Minsc and Anomen raced past Jeral and sprinted up the stairs to engage the remaining guards. Yoshimo started flinging daggers he had tucked in various hidden spots in his clothing as Nalia cast magic missiles at the guards on the platform. Viconia walked past Jeral and put the burned guard out of his misery with one swing of her enchanted war hammer. Jeral raced up the stairs to assist Minsc and Anomen. By the time he arrived upstairs the surviving two guards were battling Minsc and Anomen. Jeral drew his long sword and joined in. The two guards quickly joined their colleagues in death. Anomen and Minsc had a number of minor wounds that Viconia quickly healed. Yoshimo methodically searched the corpses. Smiling he stood up.
"They were well paid guards, over thirty gold between them."
"By the Gods man, have mercy, can you not free us?"
Jeral turned to locate the sound of the voice. In the central cage stood a large man of late middle age, Taller than Jeral and almost as broad as Minsc. He was heavily muscled and his body was covered with hundreds of massive scars. That is one tough looking warrior, Jeral mused.
"Of course we can free you; I have no taste for slavery. I am Jeral of Candlekeep and these are my friends. Who are you?"
"I am Hendak. I have been a captive here, fighting in the pit for years. I am what passes for a leader amongst the slaves here and I do what I can to protect them from Lehtinan and his guards."
Nalia bent down to examine the lock on his cage.
"Yoshimo, please take a look at this lock. It is unlike any I have ever seen."
The bounty hunter strode over and knelt down next to Nalia. "Ah, Nalia, I have rarely seen locks such as these. They are normal locks that have been magically enchanted to render them all but impossible to pick. There must be an enchanted key for these locks."
"You are right sire, the Beastmaster holds the key to our cells." Hendak said. "You can find him with his animals in the pens on the far side of the fighting pit."
"Very well, we will be back for you and your companions as soon as we get the key Hendak."
"May the battle Gods bless you and your blades Jeral."
The party left the guard chamber and entered the fighting pits. The large fighting ring was framed by bleachers on one side and kennels on the far side of the pits. There they were accosted by a winter wolf; before they could attack it Minsc walked forward, knelt down, and started talking to the beast. After a moment the wolf started wagging its tail and walked alongside Minsc like an obedient puppy. Jeral walked towards a long row of animal pens. A human voice could be heard at the end of the pen.
"Stay here," Jeral ordered.
"Hail master of the beasts, I am Jeral of Candlekeep. Lehtinan bade me to fetch the key from you. He is selling me some of the chattel that he keeps here."
"Did he really? Well Jeral of Candlekeep I sincerely doubt that."
Sneering the Beastmaster took a step back and slid a metal lever on the wall to the side. On both sides of the corridor, cages noisily started sliding open. Jeral caught glimpses of bears and a panther before he turned and started to run back towards the rest of the party.
The Beastmaster cried, "Feed my pets! Fresh meat today!" and pulled an arrow from his quiver.
Jeral felt an arrow skim by his head, that was close. The thought had just entered his head when a second arrow tore into his left shoulder, quickly followed by a third that embedded itself in his left buttock. He bit back the scream that rose in his throat and continued to stagger towards his companions.
How is he firing so quickly? Jeral wondered.
Jeral tripped and stumbled to the ground at the feet of his companions.
"Guess we will have to do this the hard way," Jeral mumbled.
Jeral reached back to his shoulder and used his limited healing powers to stop most of the bleeding.
Nalia stepped forward and launched a cloudkill spell down the hallway. The roar of animals in pain could be heard from within the billowing mass of poisonous vapors. A black bear lumbered out of the cloud, followed closely by a black panther. Minsc, Anomen and the charmed winter wolf stepped forward to attack the wounded animals and they were quickly dispatched. A large Minotaur lumbered out of the cloud roaring in anger. He was wielding a serrated double headed axe and swinging it blindly. Yoshimo's daggers and Nalia's spells had the Minotaur bloodied and weakened before he could reach Minsc and Anomen. The beast fell to a final mace blow from Anomen.
"We do good deeds this day for Helm surely smiles upon us!" Anomen roared with pride as he stood over the fallen minotaur.
An arrow shot out of the mist and struck Anomen squarely in the throat. Normally such a strike would not penetrate the high metal gorget Anomen wore to protect his neck as part of his set of full plate mail. However, unarmored as he was the arrow met no resistance as it tore into the Helmite. A geyser of blood spurted from his throat and he fell to the floor. Nalia screamed in rage and quickly launched a fireball into the cloud towards the unseen archer. A scream of pain followed by the sounds of someone burning alive verified that she hit, and incinerated, her target. She then dropped to the floor and cradled Anomen's head on her lap.
"Viconia, please help him for he is dying."
Viconia walked over and knelt down beside the fallen cleric. She quickly turned his head from side to side so she could fully assess the man's wound.
"Do not worry child, the fool will live. Minsc, hold him down. I must do this carefully to avoid any additional damage. If I slip he may never speak again."
Minsc obeyed while Yoshimo kept watch on the poison clouded hallway. Viconia broke off the end of the arrow near the fletching, grabbed the shaft of the arrow, and pushed it fully through Anomen's throat. Flesh and blood poured out of the wound as Viconia removed the arrow head from the Helmite's neck. Anomen moaned and Nalia passed out. Viconia cast a healing spell and closed the wound at the front of his throat. She then rolled Anomen over and cast a second spell on the back of his throat. With his wounds closed, his breathing soon returned to normal.
"Can I get some help here?" Jeral asked.
Viconia, Yoshimo and Minsc all looked over to see Jeral pulling himself up off the ground and starting to limp towards them. Blood trailed in his footsteps. Viconia moved towards Jeral while Yoshimo walked down the newly cleared hall towards the cages. With little preamble Viconia ripped out one arrow and then the other from Jeral's skin. She used her remaining healing spells to close his wounds and Jeral's ring quickly took care of the remaining damage. Yoshimo came walking out of the hallway carrying an ornate short bow trimmed in electrum and a large bronze key. He tossed the short bow to Jeral.
"I think the fair lady Nalia would like this once she awakens. It survived the fire so it must have a heavy enchantment upon it."
"Please go unlock the cages Yoshimo. Free Hendak and the others, they look tough enough to handle the guards without too much difficulty. Minsc, go with him. We will stay here while we catch our breath and wait for Anomen and Nalia to wake up."
Yoshimo, Minsc and the wolf left the room. The sound of opening cages was soon replaced by shouts of joy and then the sounds of fierce combat as the freed slaves engaged Lehtinan and the guards throughout the Copper Coronet.
Nalia and Anomen awoke at about the same time. Jeral helped Anomen slowly get to his feet and then the Helmite gallantly extended a hand to Nalia to do the same.
"What happened?"
Nalia answered the priest before anyone else could, "you were shot in the throat, Viconia saved your life, else you would have bled to death."
Anomen scratched his beard and he slowly rubbed his aching neck.
"It seems I owe you a debt of gratitude drow. My thanks. You do continue to surprise me."
Viconia merely nodded. The four slowly headed back to the common room of the Copper Coronet. They passed the now entry slave cages and entered the common room of the inn. A couple dozen bodies were strewn across the room. Most were guards but a few of the freed slaves had been killed fighting for their freedom. The common room was quiet. Hendak and his fellow slaves had killed Lehtinan and all of his guards. The winter wolf lay on the ground dead from multiple arrows. Minsc and Yoshimo were speaking with Hendak and Bernard by the bar. Bernard clearly had no qualms about the death of Lehtinan.
Hendak saw the remainder of the group approaching and a broad grin crossed his face.
"Our saviors, you have our thanks."
With that a cheer arose in the bar as the newly freed slaves and concubines all applauded and shouted their thanks.
"I have decided to keep the Copper Coronet open, under new management of course. I always wanted to own a bar. Bernard and the kitchen help have agreed to stay on for a nice raise in pay so I expect things to run here smoothly despite the change in ownership."
Smiling the heavily scarred gladiator handed Jeral an ornate long sword and a large bag of gems.
"This is from Lehtinan's private stock. The sword is called the Blade of Roses; it was Lehtinan's prize possession and he spoke of it often. It is a very powerful weapon, and I am told it helps one with the ladies."
Upon seeing the scowl that crossed Viconia's face Hendak hastily added, "not that you would ever have need of such assistance. You will also get a substantial discount on all future stays and purchases here. By the way," he added winking at Jeral, "the brothel will remain open. Staffed fully by volunteers of course. I expect better quality at a lower price now."
"Our thanks Hendak, we were happy to help."
After taking a deep breath Hendak spoke again.
"Despite all you have done for us I have another request. There are more slaves in the city. I do not know where their facility is located but they would often bring slaves here through an underground corridor located by the slave cells in back. The passageway should lead you right to them. They kept the children there, we must free them as well."
Jeral nodded wearily as he made his way towards the stairs.
"We will do what we can Hendak. Let us rest for a few hours and we will then take a look."