Adrian: Baldur's Gate

Adrian had to admit, at least to himself, that the foyer of the Iron Throne building was impressive.

It was a vast chamber done in pale aquamarine. Statues and paintings everywhere. Very cultured, very civilized. The blue-green feel was enhanced by the magelights hanging on chains from the ceiling, emitting their own blue glow. The floor was tiled, save for the huge Iron Throne symbol on the floor, which was, of course, Iron. Thouh Adrian wondered if it was trimmed with silver. Save for the symbol itself, the floor had luxurious couches scattered around. Merchants quietly chatted in groups.

What Adrian could not say aloud, Edwin could. "They certainly clean up well, do they not? (The color scheme is all wrong of course, and does not approach the elegance of Thay, but still.)"

"Rich pickings," Kagain agreed.

"I wonder what Besheridan would make of it, were he still with us," Adrian mused.

"Tiax thinks the Iron Throne would make a good throne to rule from."

Adrian glared at him. "If you're even thinking of betraying us, Cyricist..." he began.

Tiax threw his hands up and waved them in agitation. "No no! Remember, Adrian, that Cyric is not at all pleased with your...ah...kindred."

Adrian nodded slowly. But he wondered, privately, how long Tiax's loyalty would last after Sarevok fell.

Always assuming it was Sarevok who fell, and not himself.

Shaking off these thoughts, Adrian led the party on into the hallway, his bootheels clicking on the tiles, then ringing on the throne symbol.

"You there, who are you?!?" A warrior demanded. He wore well polished (magical?) chainmail. His thinning brown hair framed angry black eyes.

Adrian shrugged. "We're mercenaries seeking employment."

His bluff failed. "I beleive you not! You shall die!" He raised his sword.

Edwin's fingers twitched. "Surely not?"

The Throne warrior's blade faltered. "What? I....."

"We can seek a comission without being molested?"

"Yes...er...."

"Good. Run along then."

The bemused guard marched off.

"Well done Edwin," said Adrian sincerely. "But he'll recover his wits soon, and sound the alarm."

"So what do you propose?" Xzar giggled. "Storming the tower?"

"Ergh, nay," Adrian grimaced. "We've done enough of that, I think. I'm just planning to find out what I can, and get as high up as I can."

"Then do it with a bit more cunning, lover," said Viconia, stepping in front of him. "Let us use our wiles and secrecy. You are a fine tactician when you apply yourself."

Adrian shruged. "I'm oppen to suggestions."

Viconia grinned. "Well, funny you should ask..."

Above them, Sarevok turned on the rooftop tower. He had not been here long, having come directly from his inner sanctum. Reiltar had been here as well, until very recently, within the penthouse. Now, of course, he was leaving the city. And Winksi was at hand.

"Ah, brother..." Sarevok's eyes glowed a brighter yellow than normal. "The time is not yet ripe. But come to me, nonetheless. Yes, this should be interesting."

The party had moved into the shadows, and at Viconia's directive, all save Tiax had been made invisible. That worthy had simply remained in the shadows.

They marched up the stairs, higher and higher, till they came to an open, well apointed suite, where some of the higher-ups were discussing things.

"Now," Viconia whispered.

Tiax left the shadows and approached the merchants...