Alexander had some preparations to take care before he could meet up with his adventuring companions the next day. Knowing his luck, he would end up dragged into some sort of trouble and might be late to pick up Silana from her tutoring. Fortunately, it was a simple solution to pay her tutor extra gold to watch his daughter in case he was late and the matter was settled. It wasn't the perfect solution but it would work in case he came upon any trouble.
Then he had to decide what to do with Verik. Alexander wasn't sure what the Temple of Sarenrae had in mind for what kind of community service they expected from Verik until the two returned to the house and found that the clergy had delivered Verik's belongings, among them his bow, spear, and armor. It was at that moment that Alexander recalled a new philosophy in the Temple of Sarenrae where criminals wanting reformation were partnered up with adventurers to work together against greater threats.
"It's a bit of a shame that your adventuring days are behind you," Verik said with a humorless chuckle.
"For what it's worth, you might have an opportunity," Alexander said. "Get equipped. We'll be meeting some of my friends."
The two men spent several minutes putting on their armor and holstering their weapons with Alexander grabbing his flail and shield. With the Korvosan Guard receiving less funding, crime was starting to rise, and it was Alexander's hope that being armed would ward off any potential gangs wanting to rob the two. He wasn't sure if it was a good idea to bring Verik along with him, but between Zellara's suggestion and that he wasn't ready to leave the former criminal alone, he decided it was for the best. In addition, Alexander also whistled for Duke to join them. The mastiff needed to get out of the house more often anyways.
Alexander had a rough idea of where his companions were. As it so happens, many of them lived in the southern portion of the city close to his home. Previously, he had visited both Griffin at the Vossler estate and Viera at the Pantheon of Many. He also learned that Falenas' clinic was set up close by as well. It would only take less than an hour to visit the three each and try to arrange a meeting. Takota was the outlier of the group, and after joining the Sable Marine Company, likely lived in the dorms of the Endrin Military Academy in Old Korvosa, which was located on the other side of the city. Although it may take more time, it would be best to find Takota first and bring him back to the others as he felt they would have more privacy at Griffin's home than anywhere else.
It took around an hour to travel to Old Korvosa and the time was spent answering Verik's questions. He was curious as to what the group that had arrested him was up to despite having only met Alexander and Indigo, Griffin's masked alter ego. Alexander answered Verik's questions to the best of his ability, explaining their dealings with Devargo at Eel's End, chasing Trinia at the shingles, and recovering body parts in the Dead Warrens. Although Alexander tried to be honest, there were some details that he had to leave out. He wasn't ready to reveal to Verik that Griffin and Indigo were the same person or that his companions plotted to free Trinia from her execution, but fortunately what Alexander did say was enough to satisfy him.
The two men and the dog finally arrived at the Endrin Military Academy, a series of white-stoned buildings that served as barracks and as a training area for the Sable Marine Company. This was the first time Alexander visited the academy and he wasn't sure how best to find Takota. After asking around the offices, the pair are directed to an open-yard archery range in one building which the two entered with Duke staying outside. A row of trainees stood together, shooting at targets across a small field with crossbows. A middle-aged man with graying blond hair oversaw the training, and when Alexander and Verik stepped into the archery range, the man turned and approached the two.
"You must be Alexander Fletcher," the man greeted. "One of the staff at the offices you were at sent word of your arrival."
"I take it you've heard of me then," Alexander commented, surprised at the fact.
"Field Marshal Kroft spoke highly of you. I'm Commandant Marcus Endrin. I'm in charge of the Sable Marine Company. Who's that with you?"
"My name's Verik," he introduced, purposely not mentioning his surname. "I'm helping Alex out with something."
"That's why we're here, actually. If Field Marshal Kroft mentioned me, she no doubt told you about my companions, including Takota."
"Her recommendation was one of the main reasons I agreed to take Takota as a recruit," Marcus nodded along. "I take it you need his services for whatever reasons."
"That might be the case," Alexander said. "We're still assessing the severity of a potential threat and I thought it would be best to meet together."
"I see," Marcus stroked his chin in thought. "I'll grant Takota a leave of absence. Truth be told, I think he needs it with how his training is going."
Alexander blinked in surprise. "Really? I thought that Takota wanted to become a Sable Marine. He would take his training seriously if so."
"And indeed, that is the case, but as hard as he does train, there are areas he struggles in," Marcus noted. "He excels at hippogriff care and can hold his own in melee combat but it's his archery that he struggles with."
"That doesn't make any sense. Takota's one of the best archers I've seen."
"With a longbow, yes, but it's difficult to shoot a longbow while flying on top of a winged beast. That's why we train with crossbows. Crossbows are a little more complex than a typical bow and there's a learning curve. Takota has mastered the basics of using a crossbow but the Sable Marine Company expects more from our recruits than just the basics."
"I see," Alexander nodded in understanding. "And you think that a break would benefit him?"
"I do," Marcus answered. "He's been frustrated and I think that seeing some of his friends would help clear his mind. Give me a moment to grant him a leave of absence. Takota!"
Marcus stepped away from the two as one of the crossbowmen turned and saluted toward the commandant. Alexander was surprised to see how much Takota has changed over the weeks since they've last seen each other. The archer's long hair was now cut short in a buzzcut much like the other trainees and he wore the uniform of the Sable Marine as noted with his shoulder pads adorning their symbol, a red anchored with feathered wings on its side. His demeanor had changed and the warrior was quick to note that Takota was more professional and confident in his stance. Even with the changes to his appearance, his complexion still showed that he was of Shoanti descent, which did lead to problems back when he was with the Korvosan Guard.
It only took a few moments for Takota to spot Alexander after being informed of his break. Although Alexander briefly noted there was some lingering frustration, the sight of a friend brought relief to the Shoanti. The two friends approached each other while Marcus returned to oversee the other recruits. Alexander extended his hand outward and clasped Takota's hand firmly.
"It's good to see you, Takota," Alexander said with a smile. "You look different."
"Long hair and flying doesn't get along," Takota explained with a hint of a smile. "It's good to see you as well."
"I'll explain more later but we need to get the others," Alexander told Takota. "It's a long explanation."
"Does he have something to do with it?" Takota asked, glancing towards Verik. "He looks familiar."
"I think you might have been too injured at the time but we've met at All The World's Meats," Verik admitted, awkwardly rubbing the back of his head. "For what it's worth, I'm trying to move on from that part of my life."
Takota glared at Verik silently and Alexander intervened. "It wasn't my idea but the magistrates put him in the custody of the Temple of Sarenrae and now he's with me."
"I see," Takota said with a grunt. "I'll trust your word on this. Where are the others?"
Leave it to Takota to get to work as quickly as possible. "I wanted to find you first since you were the farthest out. Everyone else is to the south."
"Then let's get to them."
Takota walked past Alexander and Verik to leave the archery range. Alexander couldn't help but smile at his friend's mannerisms as he and Verik followed after him. No matter how different he looked, his dutiful nature remained the same within and that's what mattered to his friends.
On the way back to the south side of Korvosa, Alexander was thankful that Verik was more interested in talking with Takota. He thought that since they were both archers, they would have plenty to talk about. Yet, Takota remained mostly silent throughout the journey, only offering a few words in response to Verik's questions. Given that he nearly died fighting the Cow Hammer Boys, Alexander could see that Takota wasn't comfortable with Verik, a feeling that he shared with the Shoanti. It was this idea that may have influenced him to seek out someone who may be more considerate of the matter.
It felt like ages since Alexander first arrived at the Pantheon of Many along with Silana and the rest of the orphans Gaedren put to work as his pickpockets. It was Viera's idea to bring the freed children to the temple which she lived and worked at. As the group entered the building, Alexander knew that finding Viera would be simple enough. There was little doubt in his mind that she was at the shrine dedicated to Iomedae, the goddess the priestess dedicated her life to.
Alexander's hunch proved to be correct as the trio spotted the aasimar tending to the shrine. Unlike Takota, little had changed about Viera. Her white hair had grown longer past her shoulders but that was about all that changed. She still wore her armor and had her longsword holstered across her back as the warrior she proved herself to be. When she heard the approaching footsteps, Viera turned toward the group and smiled widely at Alexander and Takota. It was only when she stepped closer that the warrior saw another change in his friend, noting the dark bags that were under the priestess' eyes.
"Alexander, Takota!" Viera greeted the two with a hug each. "It's great to see you both as well."
"You as well, Viera," Alexander said, unable to help himself but smile. Even though Takota nodded without a word, he did brighten up to see Viera again.
"It's good to see you as well, Duke," Viera bent down to pet the loyal mastiff hound before finally noticing Verik, who stood back respectfully. "Do I know you?"
"We haven't met officially but you've heard of me," Verik said with a sigh. "Verik Vancaskerkin. Let's get this over with."
Although Verik was expecting some hostility, Viera was anything but. "You're performing community service with the followers of Sarenrae, are you not?"
"Uh, indeed I am," Verik answered, taken aback by her knowledge. "Alex is in charge of that for me, so here I am."
"The shrine of Sarenrae here at the Pantheon of Many has seen plenty of visitors with a similar deal in the aftermath of the riots," Viera explained. "Although it isn't the judgment I would expect, it is not one I disagree with. As long as you stay on the path you're on, I'm willing to forgive you of your crimes, especially since it wasn't as vile as the rest of the Cow Hammer Boys."
At this, Verik smiled. "That means a lot to me. Thank you."
"Viera, I'm trying to get our old group together for a quick meeting," Alexander told the priestess. "Something important may be coming up. I'd explain more but I think such an explanation is best left for when we are all together."
"Then I shall come with you," Viera said with no hesitation. "It's been a slow day at the shrine anyways. No one will mind if I take a break from my service."
It came as no surprise to Alexander that Viera would immediately agree to the meeting. When the group they formed was close to dissolving, it was Viera who tried to find a way for her friends to stay together even though it was not meant to be. It made sense for the priestess to be so willing to come back.
As Takota and Verik took the lead in leaving the Pantheon of Many, Alexander slowed his pace and pulled Viera aside. There was still something on his mind that he'd like to address and figured that she would be more willing to speak of such problems with no one else listening.
"Viera, are you alright?" Alexander asked, and as the priestess opened her mouth to answer, he quickly continued before she could get a word out. "And be honest with me. I don't want you to lie about your health if you aren't feeling well. It's just a meeting, nothing more."
Viera let out a sigh without any hostility. "I'm not sick but I've been struggling to sleep lately. It's nothing serious, just some bad dreams."
"Are you sure?"
"I'm certain," Viera answered with a nod. "I won't let a few missing hours of sleep keep me from joining you and the others tonight. We should catch up with Takota and Verik now."
Viera didn't waste a moment and picked up her pace to leave the temple. Once again, Alexander wasn't taken back by her reaction, knowing that Viera placed doing what was right before herself. Still, he knew that she wouldn't lie to him, and if it was just nightmares that kept her awake, he was inclined to let her come to meet with the others.
Going back and forth to different ends of the city took a good amount of time and by the time the group arrived at Wayerden's Alchemical Goods, the afternoon was close to coming to an end as evening approached. Alexander was disappointed to see a sign on the clinic door, stating that Falenas was currently away on a house visit and that the clinic was closed in his absence. With no way to track the alchemist down and it growing closer to time to pick up Silana (unless anything happened between now and the coming harrowing), Alexander made the decision for the group to make their way to the Vossler estate and find Griffin. If it came to it, they would have to find a way to catch Falenas up on what he missed.
During his time spent adventuring with his companions, Griffin's home was one of the places he spent the most time at, only behind Citadel Volshyenek. The group met frequently to have meetings with Griffin and it was at the manor that Tiran watched Silana while Alexander was busy working for the Korvosan Guard. Both of the Vossler brothers were men that the warrior trusted. When he knocked on the door of the two-story manor, an elderly maid answered the door.
"I apologize but the Vossler estate isn't taking any visitors," she said sternly.
Alexander couldn't help himself but frown. "Is there any way we can schedule a meeting? We're friends with both Tiran and Griffin Vossler."
Before the maid could respond, a familiar voice called out from within the manor. "Is that Alexander? Let them in!"
The maid sighed, and at the behest of the scion she served, stepped aside and opened the door fully for the group. Alexander led the way inside the building and made his way to the den, where Tiran Vossler was waiting, seated on a couch. The noble was still dressed in fine red clothing with the only noticeable difference being that Tiran had grown a beard that was neatly trimmed. He stood up from his seat to greet the group, even though most of the adventurers were focused on his guest seated across from the noble.
No one was expecting to find Falenas already at the Vossler's home but it was there that they found him. Very little had changed about the elf, from his work clothes to his blond hair tied back into a ponytail. Falenas turned to face his friends with a nod of acknowledgment as he took a sip from a teacup he held in his hands before setting it back down on the table. Unlike Tiran, the alchemist remained in his seat as he took a moment to assess the situation.
"It's so wonderful to see all of you," Tiran said, gripping Alexander's hand for a handshake. "I was wondering when you would all be together in one place again."
"Good to see you as well, Tiran," Alexander smiled.
"It's been a long time coming," Viera agreed with Tiran. "Your beard suits you by the way."
"Thank you,Viera " Tiran hugged the aasimar briefly before turning to face Takota with a quick nod. "You look great with short hair, Takota."
"I suppose so," Takota said, not entirely convinced.
"You have someone else with you," Falenas spoke up for the first time. "Who are you?"
"Verik. I'm kind of working with Alexander now."
"You're in good company, Verik," Tiran told the man, completely unaware of his past actions.
"There are worse people to work with," Falenas agreed with a subtle wink.
"If you don't mind me asking, but Falenas, what are you doing here?" Viera asked. "We stopped by your shop and found it close."
"If you've read the sign, you would know what I was up to," Falenas reminded his companions. "As it so happens, my house visit was with Tiran."
"I wanted to make sure that I was in good health before tomorrow," Tiran added to Falenas' story. "I'll be competing in the annual Korvosan Duelist Tournament tomorrow outside of Castle Korvosa. Queen Ileosa herself will be watching, and this year, I intend to claim victory, not unlike last year when I was sick."
"I think I speak for all of us when I wish you the best of luck in your competition," Alexander said.
"I hope that you'll do more than wish me luck. It would be an honor to have you watch. Alexander, you could bring Silana if you want. The tournament is designed to be a bloodless affair and I imagine that she'll be entertained."
"I'll have to consider it," Alexander noted, thinking that it might very well make for a fun outing with his daughter.
"You can count on me coming," Viera told Tiran while Takota remained silent.
"But enough about me," Tiran waved his hand dismissively. "You're not here for me but for my brother. He's upstairs in his study. I believe you know the way. I'll leave you all to discuss whatever business you have while I should get some rest. Take care, all of you, and I hope that you all do come by."
Tiran stepped out of the den and Falenas stood up for the first time. "Let's put off any questions of what we've been up to for now. I'd hate to sit through hearing the same stories when Griffin is upstairs and you can tell us all at once."
Practical as always, Falenas was the first of the adventuring group to leave the den and made his way to the stairs. The others followed behind him with Alexander finding himself smiling. Although he preferred a stable life of working a job and returning home to his daughter, he realized how much he missed his friends. Adjusting to life after the riots ended proved to take up more time than he expected and it was difficult to meet up with his companions even though he knew how best to find them. Although he dreaded the trouble Zellara saw approaching, the warrior was glad for a chance to meet up with the others.
Upstairs, the group found the study door ajar with Falenas pressing it open and stepping inside. The others followed, and at the desk, Griffin looked up from his book to smile at his friends. Very little had changed about the half-elf, although it came as no surprise that was the case. Griffin already lived two lives, one as the adopted noble son and another as a masked vigilante, and any change he wanted to make with one life had to be a careful one as to not draw attention to the other. He gestured for his friends to step inside with Alexander closing the door behind them.
"This is a pleasant surprise," Griffin said with a smile. "I've already talked with Falenas today but I wasn't expecting the whole gang to be back together."
"It was Alexander's idea," Viera explained. "I imagine that it's something important since he wanted all of us together to explain."
"Hold on a moment," Verik said, drawing Griffin's attention to him for the first time. "I know you from somewhere, don't I?"
Alexander processed what Verik said and realized that Verik had seen Griffin's face while he was Indigo. It was a tactic that worked to talk him into surrendering at the cost of potentially revealing the noble's identity. It wasn't something that Alexander considered when he decided to have Verik come along to keep an eye on him and he hated how he may have accidentally outed Griffin's actions as Indigo.
For his part, Griffin didn't miss a beat when it came to Verik's question. "That's because I was there when you were arrested. As patron of the group you find yourself among, I wanted to be there to help, even if I couldn't fight."
"You know, I think I remember seeing you with the field marshal when I was arrested," Verik nodded, accepting the solution. "And then I saw that one night Trinia was taken from the citadel."
"I take it that since you're free and traveling among my loyal friends, that you've reached some kind of deal," Griffin said with a shrug. "Very well. Alexander, what is the reason for our reunion?"
"It's a bit of a long story," Alexander said, tapping his chin in thought. "Something's threatening Korvosa but I don't know the details."
"And how exactly did you find out about this threat even though you don't know the details?" Falenas questioned with a frown.
Alexander sighed. "Could I get a little help, Zellara?"
Zellara flickered into existence by Alexander's side. "That would be a good idea."
The appearance of the spirit caught everyone but Alexander in surprise. Takota's eyes shot up in surprise as he stepped back, being the only member of the group unarmed. Verik gasped in surprise and nearly stumbled down in shock. Falenas placed his hand on his bag of holding that stored his bombs while Viera reached for her sword's hilt. Even Griffin reached for his cane although he chose not to pull the hidden sword out and remained quiet. He was the first one to speak.
"What is the meaning of this, Alexander?" Griffin asked, unable to keep his voice down with how surprised he was. "Did you not tell us that Zellara was dead?"
"That was her idea," Alexander said, shifting his gaze to Zellara for help.
"Indeed it was, and it's the truth," Zellara told the group. "Now, we have a lot of catching up to do…"
A/N: And with that, the main cast is back together. It's the second day of NaNoWriMo and I've exceeded my daily word goal once again. With 7,300 words written for this story, I imagine that at this rate, I'll be at 10,000 words in another chapter or two, which I consider to be a really great start.
Next time, the group receives a harrowing of the events to come.
Until next time.