Adrian: Baldur's Gate

The next day they headed back, stopping first at the High Hedge estate of Thalantyr. Adrian was tempted to slay his guardians then and there, but they would need the man's help yet for some time to come.

First they identified those two tomes, and Adrian found to his surprise that they would make him more charismatic and agile. He read them immediately.

Then he bought some magical and poisoned crossbow bolts. Thalantyr lacked any magical crossbows, but told him such could be bought from the Blacksmith in town. Xzar and Edwin also bought some more spell scrolls.

Passing through Beregost, they stopped first at the temple on it's far side, to collect the bounty on Bassilus. Both Kagain and Safana's eyes fairly glowed at so much gold.

Adrian was impressed when they entered the Blacksmith's. "I can make whatever you wish for just a wee bit more than me competition," the workman had said, and Adrian believed him.

"Oooh, Adrian," Safana purred. "See that slinky black leather number?"

Adrian squinted at it. "Aye."

"How'd you like to see me in that, hmmm?"

"Rather see ye in nothing at all."

Safana chuckled. "Oh, I know. But it's enchanted. Shadow Thieves made it, by the look."

"Aye," said the smith. "I bought it off one last year."

"We'll put it on the shopping list," Adrian said.

"But I want it now, Adrian," she said.

"I'm sorry Safana, I really am. But my priority is that Crossbow of Speed. We'll get you the Shadow Thief leathers next time we have the money."

Safana pouted. "Then you won't have any fun with me tonight."

"So be it then."

Safana blinked. "What?"

Adrian smiled thinly at her. "I know why you're blessing me with your flesh, dear. And it isn't because of my charm. I appreciate it, and respect your sensual power. But I refuse to let it control me. Understand?"

Safana stared at him for maybe a full minute, then smiled. "Oh very well. I did say I liked strong men, didn't I?"

Adrian grunted, and bought the crossbow.

Viconia had watched this whole by play with intense interest. All of the party had been aware of it, of course, except Xzar, who was too busy brooding. But Viconia had watched very closely, indeed.

True to her word, Safana did not entertain him in bed that night, and true to his, Adrian handled it well. He had never had much luck in that line in Candlekeep, and was used to it's lack. It was a pleasure he would take as it came, and live without when it didn't.

They gathered around the Burning Wizard's main floor the following morning for breakfast, at a big table. Viconia was still learning about surface world food, as it both puzzled and irritated her. Edwin had made an attempt to educate her in the differences from Underdark fare, which had almost got his note broke for the trouble. Now he ate his eggs and hash in sullen silence, while Viconia smirked.

"What now," Kagain asked between mouthfuls. "Collect some bandit scalps for Vai and hit their camp?"

"Unless someone else has another suggestion," said Adrian. He was eyeing Safana, but to his surprise it was Xzar who spoke.

"Well, actually..." he began, and hesitated.

"Speak, wizard," said Viconia.

"Yes," sneered Edwin. "Share your thoughts with us, if such they can be called."

Adrian caught Edwin's eye. Edwin shut up abruptly.

"Well....there is a halfling village, not far from here, called Gullykin. We might see if they have any commissions for us." Xzar said.

"Pfagh!" said Edwin.

"For the memory of Montaron, eh?" Adrian asked Xzar quietly.

"Yes," the mage whispered, staring down at the table.

"That's what we'll do, then," said Adrian, surprising everyone.