Magister's GAmbit part 8

Unintended allies

4th of Mirtul 1479
The city of Derlusk, once famous for its shipyards; now stands a half day's ride from its ports. The road to the city from the Lake of Steam is well traveled by merchants and rare book seekers as those seeking adventure arrive to the city's gates.
Entering the city, the majority of the group stops outside a tavern Shieta asks around the many merchants to see if they have seen a man meeting the description of a Tethyran named Ryck. Deciding to split up inside the city, they move out for their individual shoping.

While the majority of the group moves out to get various items and not needing any herself, Faeril heads alone to wait inside the tavern.
****

Sitting in a tavern drinking a Maiden's Kiss Brandy, the attractive elven woman sits back as someone comes up to her and looks her up and down. Looking back at the man, Faeril states," I'm not for sale human; go look somewhere else for your pleasure."
Laughing as he continues gawking at the wild elven rogue's leather clad torso, the man says," Oh you will provide me with some entertainment girl." Pulling out a razor sharp dagger, the man leers at the elven woman as he reaches for a strap on her leather armor. Dodging his grasp and kicking him, Faeril smirks as she pulls out a dagger of her own and then grabs the stein she was drinking out of and as the man gets up bash the metal cup across the man's skull.
Watching the man fall, Faeril states," Next time, wait till I'm 3 sheets to the wind," and then  gets on her knees and promptly pilfers the unconscious man's coin purse and adds," This is for my drink."
****
Watching the incident with the wild elven woman while sitting at a corner table, a wizard sits while rubbing his chin while many onlookers watch the elf's attitude. Taking note of the woman the man thinks to himself that the elf may be good company.
Standing up as the wild elf turns to leave after paying for the stein, the wizard says," Lady elf, may I have a word with you?"
Turning her gaze to the man in an elaborate orange and yellow wizard's robe; Faeril smiles as she walks over to the man. Looking at the man in his brown eyes, the elven rouge says," As I told him, I'm not for sale."
Waving his hands is a manor suggesting that isn't what he wanted, the man explains," My dear girl, while you do look like a fine example of your people, I actually wanted to talk with you," and points back to his table. Looking at the man and feeling at ease, Faeril takes a seat and hears the robed man out.
****

After conversing with the wizard Faeril states," Draq, was it," and as the rogue continues," I'm already going south west with some friends and if they don't mind, I'm sure they'll let you come along."
Nodding, Draq says," Still since your escapade with the drunk there, we should leave before he wakes and tries you again." Nodding in agreement, Faeril tags along with Draq depart the tavern as the drunken man starts to regain his consciousness.
***
Showing Faeril the way to the town square, he and she talk a bit until they arrive at a fountain. Watching the people in the  square, Faeril states," My friends said that we would meet up here in a few hours," and with a childish grin, the elvish vixen adds," so I decided to go get a drink."
Draq chuckles," And then you met up with a drunk looking for a good time and then me."
"That's about it Draq," Faeril states," What's your story anyway." Smiling Draq explains his situation while they wait.
****
Approaching the town square with Drendar, Gareth notices the green haired elven rogue talking while some humans give them both dirty looks and send slurs at the elf. While shaking his scaled head, Gareth sneers," Humans with their arrogance and self righteousness never cease to agitate me."
"Ha ha," Drendar laughs," We both know that not all humans are like that, but it's true, those who think they are better than us non humans are more bland than they realize."
Turning back to the Faeril and the stranger they watching a large man surrounded by 5 men approach the two. Drendar shouts out warning Faeril and she draws two daggers as she and the wizard are surrounded by the 6 men.
***

With the large dark haired man seemingly sober looking man stands before them branding  a longsword, he smirks as he taunts throwing a rude hand gesture," So elf, you think you can just knock me out and rob me."
Shaking her head, Faeril smirks," Humans, and I told you I was not for sale and you wasted my drink."
Interrupting them both Draq states," I'm a wizard of no small power and Caroth you should leave the lady elf be."
Leering dangerously at the elven female, the large man states," So wizard, you know who I am, Caroth the local crimelord, and no I won't ," between glances to his men Caroth continues," That elf is going to be entertainment and nothing you say will change that wizard."
The square soon empties as the majority of the populace gets the idea that one of its crime lords is after an elf. Not running from the danger, a dwarf and a dragonborn are seen flanking the members of the thieves' guild. Turning around 2 of the criminals notice the two as they flank them, one of the rogue states," Leave at once, this doesn't concern you two."
Viciously snarly the dragonborn insults the human and readies his halberd.
****
Standing out on a balcony overlooking the emptying square, two leather clad men watch the commotion below. One of the two men head back inside and returns shortly with 2 light crossbows. Tossing the 2nd crossbow to his friend, the man takes aim into the arguing crowd below.
***
Reaching for the female elf's body, Caroth sneers," You will come with me." Dodging his grasp, Faeril leaps backwards into the fountain behind her.
Keeping her footing and managing to land on her feet after her summersault, Faeril smiles," Don't bet on it foolish human."
"Boss," One of the rogues accompanying Caroth says.
"Not now, "Caroth angrily says,"and get the girl."

"But boss..," the man says as he feels two bolts in his neck and stumbles over.
Turning around at his recently killed man, Caroth yells," Archers, fall back," and looks at the elven woman," I'll still get you as entertainment she elf." Running off as Faeril sheaths one of her daggers to pull out a shuriken.
Throwing the weapon, Faeril says," Drop dead." As the weapon hits the man's thigh, the elven woman climbs out of the fountain looking for where the bolts came from as Caroth and his men that are still capable of walking limp away while clutching their own wounds.
"Faeril are you all right and who is this," Gareth holding his halberd bluntly asks pointing at the man.
"I'm soaked, been called entertainment twice, otherwise I'm fine," Faeril smiles while ringing out her hair," and as for the wizard here he's…"
"My name is Draq currently under the employ in the Coinguard out of Fyghran's Hold, and your names," the wizard says.
"I'm Gareth and this is Drendar Axegrinder," Gareth states as Drendar finishes pulling his weapon out of the dead rogue's body.
"An honor," Draq says and asks," So what brings you three here anyway?"
"We're all headed that way, you might as well tell him and then find where the two bolts came from," Faeril says.
"By Torm, elf," Drendar states shaking his bearded head," Well Draq, it seems a adventuring group of the Shadow Thieves out of Amn have come to the Border Kingdoms and joined up with a murderer from Cormyr."
Interrupting the dwarf, Gareth says," Sorry to interrupt, but we have company and we should continue this elsewhere."
Looking at the two armed newcomers approach, Drendar grins with recognition   as he notices one of the two Tethyrans coming out from a nearby inn. Sheathing his weapon, Drendar extends his hand saying," Greetings Ryck, we were looking for you."
While shaking the dwarven cleric's hand, Ryck says," Ilmater's blessings to you Drendar and where is Sheita?"
"Buying rations as usual," Gareth says and adds," This must be Seark I presume."
Nodding the avenger states," I came here to head back to Tethyr and then up to Baldur's Gate and did not really expect to run into Ryck."
" I repeat that this is not a good place for this discussion," Draq says," so if you don't mind coming to my brother's abode to tell me."
"We have another with us besides Sheita, Draq so we'd have to find him too," Gareth states. Smiling warmly, Draq tells them that is okay, it only takes one to tell the story and Gareth states," Drendar, Seark guard the elf and tell the wizard what he wants to know.
***
The city's streets still bustle with its citizens as Draq escorts the small group to his brother's mansion.
Arriving at a 3 story manor house with a tower looming from the back of it, Draq looks at the multi storied brightly painted building and says," Welcome to my place, well my brother's actually," and with a grin adds," He was sick for a while so I came to visit."
The front hall of the mansion; with its paintings of family members and various cities along with other decorations greets them as they enter the house. A well dressed butler greets them," Greetings Lord Draq, guests I see?"
Draq nods replying," Yes and possible trouble down south, so I may be heading south sooner." Giving it some thought Draq adds," I will be taking them to the third floor guest sweet and they have others that will join us later." Nodding the manservant returns to his duties as Draq leads them through the mansion explaining about his brother's house.
***

Inside the guest sweet, Draq shows them a table in front of a large pool. Looking at the half soaked elf, the wizard says," While your friends tell me what's going on you are free to bathe in the pool to remove whatever grime might have been in the fountain."
Laughing the green haired wild elf says," I don't exactly have another set of clothes good sir, but a bath would be welcome." Taking off her sword belt, various sheathed daggers and her short bow off her person, Faeril leaves them in the sight of Drendar and walks over to the pool and starts untying her leather armor as the wizard watches her.
"Ahem,"Seark coughs," I know her elven figure is easy on the eyes and all, but we do need to tell you."
Blushing, Draq says," Yes please start with the tale."
Grinning Faeril drops her leather cuirass on the floor and then starts on her leggings. Wearing her tunic, Faeril turns around  and exposes an opening in the attire, that shows off her cleavage, Faeril says," I don't suppose you have any spare clothing around here?"
Looking at the elf's revealing attire Draq says,"  Ummm you turned around on purpose, don't you have any shame?"
"I'm an elf Draq," Faeril says," Unlike you humans, well regardless; my question still stands."
"I can get you a set of clothing later Faeril," the human says," Now the tale before I become infatuated with the elf again." Laughing Drendar starts the tale as Faeril turns back around and removes the last of her attire and enters the pool.
*****
Rendezvousing at the fountain with Hat, Sheita the eladrin monk asks," So Hat, where do you think they are at, now that I've got the supplies?"
Sitting down on the fountain's edge, the pale skinned wizard says," Don't know unless they ran into trouble or found your associate Ryck."
Looking over her shoulder, the monk smiles," Knowing Faeril, they likely ran into trouble."
Chuckling himself, Hat says," Aye, that one has always had a bad run of luck at attracting attention to herself even when she does nothing at all."
"Well now, you two are not easy to find," A voice says from behind them on the far side of the fountain.
Turning around and reading herself, Sheita exclaims," We have company." Reading a spell, Hat notices the dragonborn Gareth with a human he hadn't seen before. Reading Hat's face, Sheita says," Going to get in a lot of trouble Ryck one of these days for doing that," and between a friendly chuckle adds," Ryck this is Hat, Hat this is Ryck."
Taking the avengers hand has he offers it, Hat says," Well met Ryck."
"Likewise Hat,"the avenger states shaking the wizard's hand and adds," I knew by the dream to expect Sheita and the others but not you and the elf and we need to get going  to Draq's  residence to catch up with Drendar."
"You already know most of it Ryck but do you have any other questions? ,"Sheita says as the four of them follow Ryck out of the square.
"True, but not why Hat and Faeril tagged along with you here," Ryck states.

Laughing as they follow the avenger, Sheita explains in detail the connection between Faeril and the rod of wayward doom's creator and keeps her opinion on Hat's real name out of it.
***
Reaching the Draq's brother's mansion; Sheita, Ryck and Hat, run into a man wearing the colors of a mercenary unit. Catching his breath as they bump into each other at the manor's gates, the man says," Excuse me good folk, but I'm in a hurry and I need to get in to speak with a resident of this house."
With her hands at her sides, Sheita looking imposing for an eladrin asks," What brings you here in such a hurry?"
Panting the man says," I volunteered as a runner to inform the wizard Draq that the Fyghran's Hold as been taken."
Looking at his dragonborn companion and then at the eladrin monk, Hat says," It seems things may be more amiss that we believed."
"True Hat," the monk states as she enters the manor behind the runner and Gareth.

***
Inside the manor, the runner is escorted along with the others to the guest wing. Finding Draq he tells him about Fyghran's Hold, and the wizard sits back in a chair rubbing his chin. Looking at his guests, the wizard says,"It seems that I'll need to be returning south sooner than I expected."
"Appears so Draq," Faeril states from the bathing pool across the room," Misery loves company too."Wearing a borrowed shirt and catching the runner's eyes , Faeril continues," My clothing should be done by tomorrow right?"

"They will be Faeril," turns to the runner," her adopted mother is the wizard back at the hold, so getting any ideas and your toast," Draq states. Standing up at a knock of the double wooden doors, Draq stretches as he says," Yes?"
Opening the door, the butler says," Greetings Lord Draq, Will your guests be staying the night?" Draq nods and the butler says," Very well sir and dinner will be ready in a few hours."
"My brother won't mind extra company, but just the same; keep it down," Draq says as he walks out of the room and over his shoulder adds," I don't quite know what Caroth had planned for you Faeril, but I recommend you stay in this room over night."
****
The next morning, as the sun starts to burn the darkness away, Draq and his guests wake from their slumber by Faeril wanting to get underway early. Stumbling to awake they gather their belongings before  they each enter the dining room for a quick first meal before heading out.
The Concerns of Wayward
7th of Mirtul

Running from your destiny,
may have you running toward it-Astrid the Seer Mirtul 1108

Selune's gaze upon Faerun is at its zenith, as a large group of mercenaries walk into a small town in the Border Kingdoms. Catching the mercenaries, a member of the watch shouts at them to identify themselves. Stepping forward their leader steps forward.
"Greetings night watchman,"   Randar states as Aishia walks up behind him," I'm Randar, Capt. Of the Coingguard mercenary unit that was hired to guard Fyghran's Hold."
Nodding, the man asks them to wait here and goes after his superior.
***
Returning with his superior, the night watchman introduces him and returns to his duty, the senior man on duty says," So Randar your contract or so I hear doesn't end for another 2 months."
"Randar spits," That place was a death trap and only the Thayvian wards were keeping the place up and well I've got some bad news for High Priest Trueblade and the town leaders."

The sergeant nods saying," Well they are asleep right now and the Helm's Watch Inn is closed for the night," and then recognizes the woman behind him  and says," Lady Aishia, did not expect to see you come back until," and then returns to Randar," Must be worst than what you claim then." Rubbing his chin before the mercenary captain can respond, he adds," There is some bad news here too, but it can wait until morning."
Randar nods," Well boys and girls, it seems we'll be sleeping under Selune's watchful gaze tonight."
" I think I'll go knock on Jessibel's house and see if she can let Alustra spend the night," Aishia states.
Shivering in the night, a female half elven wizard laughs," You know too well that she'll let you spend the night too Lady Mistcloak."
"True Alustra, but one of my spells can keep 50 of the Coinguard out of the cold," Aishia states.
***
After awakened by several pebbles on her window; Jessibel gets out of bed and looks out the window.  Wearing a nightgown, the young priestess opens her window and with a  yawn she starts to tell off the female wizard below. Shaking her head as she notices the woman below, Jessibel says," Aishia, didn't expect to see you back yet and who are they?"
Looking up at the cleric and pointing at the man beside her, Aishia says," Good to see you too Jessibel, and this is one of your cousins, Randar; Captain of the Coinguard mercenaries."
"Take it then you are hoping to use my house as an inn Lady Mistcloak," the woman asks down to them below.
"If I may interject cousin," Randar says," but the hold was taken and I have only a hundred and fifteen men left…"
"Aishia's spells can house fifty men," Alustra says as she turns toward the tower," and I can go to my quarters in the tower."
Yawning, Jessibel shakes her head  and says," I'll be right down."
***
Dressed in her Nightgown, Jessibel opens her front door and lets them in. After discussing it with them, Jessibel allows Aishia to cast Mordenkainen's Magnificent Mansion allowing 48 of the Coinguard to take up a room in her living room .
After the spell is cast, Jessibel yawns,"Aishia, I'm going back to bed now and daddy will want to talk with you in the morning." Telling the woman good night, Aishia, Randar and 48 of the Coinguard enter the extra dimensional space.
***
With the rising of the sun, and several hours already passed in the morning, Aishia dressed in a one sleeved blue traveler's attire appears out of the extra dimensional mansion as Jessibel Trueblade walks down from her second floor bedroom.
Looking at Aishia, Jessibel looks supprised and says," Aishia, I thought you always dressed like a tramp and I didn't know you had such a fine outfit."
Aishia laughs and turns to the young woman saying," Just because I prefer those I meet only once to have a poor opinion of me, does not mean I don't have a decent wardrobe."
Chuckling at her own blunder Jessibel says," Randar and the other members of the Coinguard left an hour ago to see my father, Granny Aishia."
Raising an eyebrow at the priestess Aishia says,"What did I say about calling me that you young wiper snapper," and then turns to walk out the door.
"You said not to and the rod was stolen Aishia,"Jessibel says causing Aishia's eyes to go wide as she stops and turn around to face the Tormite cleric.
"What," Aishia asks .
Repeating what she said, Jessibel then says," That's likely what father wants to tell you, and I put it one of my cubby holes."
"Someone watched you place it there I take it," Aishia says as she puts her right palm to her face shaking her own head.
Looking defeated, Jessibel says," Some of the recent draftees in the watch have also gone missing and lets go see Sergan and let him tell you."
Turning back to the door and while opening it, Aishia says," Lets go see Sergan and get it over with."
*****
The early morning wind is blowing out on the overgrown trail from Derlusk. The first rays of dawn soon have the appearance of a group breaking the long silence by discussing the length of time that it will take to get to Wayward.
Dressed in a traveler's robe and still wearing his fancy hat, Hat remarks," We can use magic to shorten the trip."
"No offense Hat," The Coinguard runner Jerome states," but I know how powerful  Draq is, but I have no clue about you or what magics you can deal with."
Shaking his head, the orange robe wizard states," Nice for the voice of confidence Jerome, but this man reminds me of a man I once read about."
Turning around to Draq, Jerome states," Yeah, you keep telling us how important history is, but outside of the City of Shade I fail to see what importance history is."
"Not to get involved in a redundant argument , but I can cast Mordenkainin's Magnificent Mansion, and that is no fireball spell," Hat crosses his arms declaring.
"And as for the history part," a feminine elven voice states ," You never can tell when something lost to antiquity can come back to bite you in the arse."
"Very true Faeril," Shieta states turning to the two wizards and the ranger adds," Now I don't care how fast we get there, but the sooner the better."
Not wanting to admit defeat the ranger throws up his hands as Hat smiles and turns around and waves his arms in the air casting a ritual.
*****

Brought to the Grand Temple of the Triad, Aishia meets with High Priest Sergan Trueblade in his office inside the cathedral. Shaking her head as the aging man in priestly robes says," The Wayward Shield is not required to magically check for intent Aishia and both of us know most of that magic is long gone."
"I know Sergan,"Aishia replies," but that rod is still a threat in anyone's hands that can unlock even a fraction of its power."
Looking at the concerned wizard, Sergan smiles," The good news at least, I have seen you well dressed and not showing it off as much," and then start to chuckle at Aishia's expense.
Scowling at the cleric, Aishia states," Says the man who forgets that I could persuade even his own daughter to do something she normally wouldn't do."
Looking  at the agitated woman as she starts to get up, Sergan stops laughing states," That's not all Aishia, I met with Randar before you arrived and I have a good idea where it is and who has it, but there is bad news along with it."
Aishia sits back down and motions the cleric to continue and asks," How bad?"
Getting up the old man goes to his door and opens it and looks outside into the carpet hallway and sees nothing in the corridor save the portraits and vases along the walls. Closing his door and locking it, Sergan turns to face the dark haired wizard. "It's very bad, you once told my grandfather that the rod of Wayward's Doom could enslave even yourself, and at this point it might still be able to do it." Aishia shakes her head and mumbles that this can't be good as Sergan continues," It seems that  Na'hris has the rod and those recent recruits that have gone missing have convinced him to join them."
"That fool will not be able to get all the powers of that the rod currently contains nor is he potent enough to use it to be a threat to me,"Aishia states as Sergan shakes his head.
"Many in the Tower of Arcane Twilight have heard him state that  he has the satin gloves known as gloves of Sherack," Sergan states," A lost legendary artifact that most of us Borderers thought were merely a old wives' tale."
"I've heard the tale about the gloves Sergan, and tales of them under other names," Ashia says and adds," I also known that they're supposed to maximize the power of any spell cast from the wearer of the gloves or any object that casts spells."
"It would seem that Na'hris might of found a way to get you to tell him how the rod works then," Sergan states and looking grim the old man adds," It also seems that  Jangor may of joined them, one of those recruit's remains were found cut up like meat."
"Like the reports  state of Jangor the Butcher up in Cormyr," Aishia heavily concerned  says as she looks at Sergan.
"The exact same Aishia," Sergan states has he grasps Aishia's shoulder, and adds," My family has always considered you a good friend and I doubt he would forgive any of us if we let harm come to you." Stealing a kiss from the woman he adds," Though I bet most trouble that comes your way my dear, you'd be able to handle."
Pushing the cleric away ,Aishia smiles," Like your grandfather, always trying to get a kiss and more out of me," shaking her head she adds,"If Na'hris even found a way to even use one of that rod's powers, it would not bode well for me or anyone else."
"Yes, well I'm my grandfather's heir and you are as beautiful now as you were back in his day Aishia,"Sergan jests and then adds," I will have the holy warriors here assault the hold and take back the rod at least, but assuming he can use the rod; what is the worst possible outcome?"
"You are your grandfathers heir, you sons are your father's son and your late wife was one of my line,Aishia states and with a glum look adds," Worst case, Na'hris uses the rod on me and gets the abilities to use all of its powers, he then either uses the rod to force me to surrender myself to Jangor, or he uses the rod on Jangor, and this; Lord Trueblade is just for starters."
"I knew that my late wife, Torm rest her soul; was of your line as I almost mistook her for you when I met her," Sergan states with a warm smile while distracted thinking about his late wife," She told me that she was and it did not stop me from falling for her, however it did make me forcefully get my children from wanting to force you to keep your word." Looking at his locked door Sergan says,"It will take some time though, and it would be best for you to sleep in the Temple or the Tower of Arcane Twilight rather than my daughter's house."
"And if I decline," The wizard asks.
"Nothing will come of it Aishia," Sergan states," It was a suggestion and the town council will want to talk with you later on about what happened at the hold." Nodding Aishia gets up and starts to leave as Sergan unlocks and opens his office door, stating," But before you go, let me get you your things for you."
Thanking him as he hands her things to her, Aishia takes her non descript bag of holding, and leaves the high priest's office and out of the temple itself.
***

Long after Aishia leaves the town meeting and late in the evening, a group of adventurers is stopped by the Waywardshield's gate keepers as they approach the town after sunset.
A burly Turgish sergeant looks at the party containing a dwarf, an eldarin, five humans, a dragonborn and an elf." What's your business in Wayward at these hours?" The sergeant inquires with a stern look on his dark skinned face.
Stepping forward and dressed in robes matching the recognizable colors of the Coinguard, the man says," Greetings, this runner from the Coinguard reached me at my brother's house and so I accompanied these adventurers for the journey here."
"Are you Draq," the Sergeant asks looking at the nodding wizard. Looking at the others, the Sergeant recognizes Seark and points," You have nerve to come here thief."
Before he can call the guards; Seark pulls out a hold symbol of Ilmater and says," Been undercover to find a way to nail the adventuring Shadow Thieves of Amn known as the Daring Daggers."
"Just the same, Seark; I must take you into custody," the Sergeant says ," Plead your case with Trueblade."
Handing his gear to Ryck, Seark says," See you guys later," and the surrenders himself over to the Waywardsheild. Having his men take the man into custody, the Sergeant says," The remnant of the Coinguard showed up here yesterday night and they are still here."  
The greenhaired elven woman pipes up," Was there a pale skinned woman with black hair with them?"
"What's it to you elf, but if she was dressed trampy there was one,"the man says as he lets them pass.
Putting her hand on the elf's shoulder, Sheita states," We'll find her Faeril, but lets check in at the local Tavern first."
"Aye, that would be the Stone Hole tavern," Draq states," I know where it's at."
Following the wizard, the group goes into Wayward's square and enters the tavern.
***
Entering the tavern, the adventurers notice that the patrons are busy drinking the night away. A drunken patron walks up to the group and tries to move in on an Eladrin woman as she enters. Grasped by the bouncer, the man is hastily thrown from the tavern. Approaching the eladrin, the bartender smiles as he offers his hand, and with a smile says," Greeting and welcome to the Stonehole Tavern, I'm sorry about the drunk, but he has his own problems at the moment."
"Ilmtater help him, Shieta says as she takes the Goliath's hand and asks about the current state of affairs.
Inside the Stonehole Tavern they split up to look around the patrons looking for either Randar or Aishia until Faeril notices a man and a woman sitting at a table  and overhears the half elven woman mention Aishia's name. Deciding to eavesdrop further on them, Faeril sits not far away and vanishes from sight amongst the drinking patrons.
Watching the green haired elf sit at the bar, Draq follows her and recognizes the man sitting next to a half elven woman not far away.
***
Draq watches the gold garbed man wave his hand motioning the wizard to join him. Nodding at the man, Draq smiles and raises a finger.  Going back to his female companion, the man continues talking with the half elven woman as Draq heads over to Faeril.
***
Walking up to the table where Faeril is sitting, he wizard asks," Hear something of interest Faeril?"
Looking at the wizard with her almond shaped eyes, Faeril says," I heard one of those two over there mention Aishia," and points with her thumb at the human and half-elf.
Laughing , Draq whispers into her ear," Elf, it's not polite to eavesdrop on the conversation of others and there is a good reason to why you heard them mention Aishia," and helps the elven maiden up saying," Come with me."
**
Joining the two at the table, Draq states," Greetings Randar, your runner made it to my brothers house."
"Very good Draq,"Randar says looking at the elf,"So you trying to up one on me with the elf?"
Draq laughs as Faeril blushes and then laughs herself. While they laugh, they are soon approached by Hat and the others. Looking at them underneath his hat, the wizard says," Don't make a spectacle of yourself Faeril."
As Faeril starts to reply ,Draq states," Sorry to interrupt you Faeril, but allow me to introduce you all to my boss Randar and Captain of the Coinguard."
They each introduce themselves to Randar and shake the man's hand. Standing up, Randar states," This lovely lady here is Alustra Ravensong."
"A pleasure to meet you," the half elf says and with a glance at Faeril adds," A wild elf I see."

"Aishia, where is she," Faeril bluntly asks the two.
Looking at the elf, Randar asks,"Who is she to you elf?"
Raising her hand, Alustra quietly inquires ,"Might I presume that you are the Lockmistress Faeril?"
Faeril nods as the young woman continues," She is in the tower of Arcane Twilight."

Randar asks," So might I inquire about what brings your guests here?"
Stepping forward, an eldarin woman, wearing  a monks robe adorned with the bound hands symbol of Ilmater; replies," We are here doing the work of the Triad and won't divulge it here."
"Very well, if I may guess it has something to do with either this rod of Wayward Doom or you are after that Shadar-kai  Jangor fellow," and Randar then adds," I agree, lets take this elsewhere right after I pay my tab." Paying his tab with the  tavernkeeper, RAndar  returns to the group," Faeril, I'm sure Aishia will tell you what's going on, " and while pointing at Alustra adds," Alustra here will take you to her."
Faeril nods  as Alustra says," Sit down for a moment while I finish my meal." FAeril sits next to the half elf as Hat sits next to her," If you don't mind me joining you."
"Not at all,"Alustra smiles wondering to herself about her instructor's friends.

***

The tower of arcane twilight looms overhead as three people approach the massive wooden doors of the tower. The wind blows through the surrounding trees as they are greeted at the door by an apprentice of the tower.  After greeting her fellow apprentice, Alustra escorts the two visitors up to the 4th floor into Aishia's room in the  Spellhand's quarters.
***
Reaching Randar's large tent, where the town council allowed the Coinguard to set up their camp, those sent by the gods of the Triad look around the mercenary army camp. Catching their attention, Randar says ," The Hold where we were hired to defend for  3 years; was taken from us," Opening the flap to his tent, Randar continues," Now If you all will join me inside, we can exchange the details."

Selune finishes her watch over Faerun for many hours after both Aishia and Randar bring each of their guests up to speed on the recent most events.  
**
Waking as the ray's of Amuanator's light starts to creep over the eastern horizon, Sheita approaches Randar outside his large tent."So you'll see about Seark, Captain," Sheita asks Randar yawns and stretches out his arms.
Watching the sunrise, the Amuanatiri states,"I can ask for him to be released, though he will likely be questioned about his dealings with the Daring Daggers."
The Sun elf nods and leaves the area to begin her morning practice as the mercenary captain walks away from his tent to where his unit's cook is starting up the fire.
***
On the balcony on the Tower  of Arcane Twilight's upper levers, a male wizard wearing a large brimmed hat and grey robes stands looking out over the small town.

Walking outside to her friend, Aishia looks behind her and says," Morning my friend."
As he glances at the approaching woman, Hat states," Good morning Aishia." Turning back around, Hat looks out over Wayward. " I can see why some people like to go and find the most out of the way locations for their homes."
"Your home was always fallen Illusk, Kronus; mine was my ancestor's enclave and then my demi plane," Aishia states deliberately stating Hat's surname.
"Without a doubt Mistcloak,"Hat states with a grin," but time took its toll on Illusk, and the city has never fared well for it."
As Aishia finishes her discussion with her oldest living friend and starts looking out over the city, a female elf sneaks out behind them and looks out over the city. "This place grew since we both were here last mama."
Looking at her adopted daughter, Aishia smiles and hugs the elven rogue saying," It did, but it's still closer to your ancestral homeland than mine."
After looking out on the town herself, Faeril smiles sadly," True, but it ceased to be my home after my family was murdered on this site."
"Home," Hat says," is where the heart is, mine is still up way north and in even still, time and space will still find a way to call one home."
With a musical sounding laugh, Faeril replies," Myth Drannor became home for me," and is cut off at a knock at the door brings one of the tower's High Lord Keepers out to the Spellhand's balcony.
"I hope I'm not disturbing you this fine morning, but Lord Trueblade bid me to remind Aishia that the town council wanted to talk with her before mid day," the man states before turning around and returning to his duties.
**

The chambers of the town council are decorated with statues to Amuanator, and his two subordinates; Waukeen and Siamorphe. Wayward's council and the citizens along with delegates from nearby villages and towns converse in the building drawing up battle plans and other arrangements.  Heated opinions rise as they debate on how the best  way to take the keep back from the army of bandits.
Slamming his fist against a table, a man  states," That fortress is only be kept up by age old wards and spells from the long departed Red Wizards and the best way to defeat them is to knock the walls down."
Agreeing with him a delegate says,"I agree, but we all know that another stronghold would have to be built along that route."
Many voice opinions over the time and costs of rebuilding, an eldarin makes her voice heard stating, "We could disable its wards, and the fortress might or might not come down, would it not do better to try to take it back and then drop the fortress?"
When the crowd of individuals turns to face the aging eladrin woman  wearing a suite of chain mail, a warrior from one of the hamlets remarks," To do that we'd need a way to sneak in the fortress ."
"Luckily," Sergan smiles," We have the design plans and maps of the Fyghran's Hold."
Shaking his head, a man dressed in the colors of the Coinguard says," Many of those passages are going to be in disrepair, collapsed and will be under watch."
Turning to the man, Sergan says," And even a few more than you'd know that, Randar and you know where each tunnel's exits outside the Fyghran's Hold grounds.
Sighing Randar takes a pen and marks on the map where each tunnel's entrance is and says," Believe it or not, there are 5 in the Lake of steam and in the hamlet's ruins."
A woman dressed in a blue robe standing next to a shifter perks up interest at the recent admittance and asks," Tell me, Randar, where do each of those 5 tunnels show up in the Fyghran's Hold?"
Turning around, Randar replies," My dear, the three in the ruins open up into rooms underneath the hold's armory and the two  in the lake are both underwater and  any trying to enter those routes will need to be able to breathe underwater and  those two passages, one opens up into a latrine pit; climbing out will be a pain," and Randar marks the entrance on the map of the lake of steam and adds," I've sent someone down that tunnel and the man reported that it collapsed some time before we took it over."
"And the other," The female wizard asks.

Looking back at the woman, Randar says as he marks the location down," That one Aishia, its entrance is 9 feet underwater, and it's crumbling  and may soon collapse and be useless, but this one actually opens into two places, one is under the hamlet's docks 5 feet underwater, and the other opens up into a room underneath a large room in the fortress," and looks up and with a warning look on his face, Randar adds," This tunnel mind you is completely flooded save the room underneath the large room, however you'll be wet up to your knees in that room."
Walking toward the table with the maps on it, a robed Eladrin woman notices that the exit of the flooded tunnel dock portal is close to one of the 3 inside the ruins, and says," My fellows and I were sent to bring several individuals to justice, but by my reckoning; I can lead a small group through the hamlet's ruins and enter one of the tunnels.
Sergan nods," Pick those who you want to go with you, but I must remind you that one of them murderously hates fey."
The eladrin monk nods," That would mean that he would single me out and attempt to kill me." The old cleric nods as the eladrin monk continues," I will take those trained in stealth starting with the avengers Ryck and Seark."
Laughing, a dwarven cleric alongside the monk says," My best wishes to you Sheita, but I suggest you enter the ruins at night and use hit and run tactics," and after rubbing his chin pondering  he adds," If you manage entering Fyghran's Hold, don't endanger your group senselessly."
Nearby a man dressed in leather nods I agree with Drendar, Sheita, and you would need to choose one more."
Nodding and turns around to Sergan, Sheita says," Do you have any recommendations on a fourth infiltrator, your grace?"
Nodding the old Tormite cleric says." I will get him to you later, and I will recommend you enter the ruins by boat."
Shieta nods and looks at Ryck and Seark as Aishia pipes in," Those leading have it in for me, and I will take it to them, I'll take the passage in the lake."
" That route may not function all the way inside Lady Aishia," Randar reminds her and points  out a close by tunnel on the map and says," I know you have some capable magic at your disposal, but just in case I  suggest this passage if your chosen route fails."
Looking at where Randar pointed at on the map, Aishia nods," Very well."
Watching the beginning of a battle plan, the High Priest of Torm; Sergan Trueblade says," I can lead the army to assault the main gates of the fortress, but even I know that if your two groups are planning on sneaking in to open the gates or damage the place from within ten men will not likely be enough."
Nodding , Randar states," That is true, your grace that is why I am taking a group of 25 as well and entering  through this tunnel," and points toward a spot where he marked east of the hamlet's ruins.
Looking over Randar's shoulder, a wizard wearing a large brimmed hat looks at a spot to the east outside of the hold just inside the Shaar Desolation and asks," What of this one Randar?"
"Hat, was it,"Randar says," That one is a little harder to get to, and it enters the hold right inside the entrance hall's  fountain."
Hat states," I can take a group and enter that one."
"Very well, but I should warn you that it's big enough to take a small force of 20 men," Randar states.
An emissary from Theymarsh states," Still it will take a few days before the requested troops to arrive from Theymarsh and other holdings within the Border Kingdoms."

"True," Sergan remarks,"and thus we will have the groups travelling to Fyghran's Hold leave in the morning and head there by boat."
The emissary nods and states that he will be returning to Theymarsh to pass on the information to his city's leaders.  Before ending the meeting, Sergan blesses them for the coming battle and says," I hope you infiltrating have a plan to rendezvous safely inside Fyghran's Hold." Using a gavel, Wayward's mayor ends the meeting.
***

Walking together , Aishia, Randar, Hat and Shieta head out from Wayward's town hall down to the Tower of Arcane Twilight. Entering the tower, they head up to the fourth floor and enter the lounge of used by the Spellhands .  Finding Faeril talking with Alustra out on the balcony connected with the lounge, Aishia says," It's a nice day, hope you two weren't in all day."
Turning around, the wizard and rogue both shake their heads and Faeril says," Couple of out of town human nobles thinking because they have a title they can do whatever they want with whoever they want."
Hat smirks as Shieta shakes her own head and says," Don't forget that we came here to discuss the minor details."
Nodding, Aishia says," I have not," and Randar states that he hasn't as he places the map of the area in question on the table inside the lounge.
Entering the lounge connected to the balcony, Faeril asks," So what kind of infiltration will be required?"
Randar looks at the wild elf and with a small chuckle says,"Well looks like I lost that bet Aishia," and then fills both Faeril and Alustra in on what was discussed during the meeting.
****
After the two are informed Looking grim, Shieta says," I know the two avengers will come with me, Drendar and Gareth will likely prefer a more direct path."
Hat smirks and rubs his chin saying," They can come with me."
Looking at Randar with wanting eyes, Alsutra smiles," I'll go with you in your group."
Looking up and completely red, Randar says," Two bets I lost, and glad to have you come with me, but I must warn you Alustra; it's not going to be easy."
With a knock at the door, Hat turns to crack it open and looks behind.  Seeing the captain of Wayward's guard along with Ryck and company, the wizard opens the door and lets them in.
"Bahamut's blessings to you all," The aged dragonborn paladin smiles as she enters the room with a halberd at her side.
"Selune's blessings to you as well Lady paladin,"Aishia says as the female paladin enters.
"Thankyou," The plate wearing dragonborn says," I wish to join you on your raiding Fyghran's Hold."
Looking at the aged paladin, Randar states," Gerata, I've known you long enough not to tell you no."
Gerata bellows with a deep throated laugh catching the half elf off her guard. Stumbling never hearing the Captain laugh before. Looking at the half elf stumble, the veteran dragonborn laughs even harder as the woman hits the floor.
Helping Alustra up, Gerata smiles," Really ALustra, you think I'm that stiff necked not to laugh every now and then?"
  "I never heard you laugh before Gerata," Alustra states.
"Ahem," Randar states," Which one of the strike teams did you wish to go with Gerata?"
"What are my options," the dragonbron asks, with the rest of Shieta's associates backing up the question. Motioning them all to have a seat, Randar says," Since the council meeting was closed to others; allow me to tell you."
Facing the wall, Gerata punches the wall and with a wide toothy grin says," I'll tag along with Hat, since my armor will weigh me down."
Hat nods and Randar says," We'll be heading north and headed there by ship."
"So when do we leave," Faeril asks while standing near the door.

Standing up from where he was sitting, Rand states,"We'll have the best chance in the morning."
***
Half a tenday passes as the multiple groups arrive on the southern banks of the lake of steam. Entering the small village there, they make their way towards the docks at the small village.
The sun starts rise at its zenith as the infiltrating groups board multiple Coastboats and start to head east on the Lake of Steam.