Adrian: Baldur's Gate

They came across another ship later that day, a minor merchantman independent. The crew put up no resistance, and the pirates took their gold and let them go. A few of the poorest members of the other crew were given the chance to improve their lot, and agreed to join the pirate crew.

"How do you know you can trust them?" Adrian asked Zavrian.

"Well watch them while on ship. When we get back to the Kingdom, the will be checked with spells."

Adrian nodded. "Zavrian, this has been fun but..."

"Ye need to get back," Zavrian nodded. "We're headin that way anyways." He clapped Adrian on the shoulder. "Ye be a good fighter. I hope one day ye join us."

The sun was setting when Safana approached Adrian. Viconia moved to stand between them.

"Adrian," said Safana softly. "I know we are done. But surely joining the Pirate Kingdom would suit you better than this pointless feud with the Throne."

"Perhaps," said Adrian. "But this golden-eyed fellow is obviously another Bhaalspawn, and if I don't confront him, he will eventually come after me on HIS terms."

Safana sighed. "Don't bother with him! Stay with us, we can help you fight him, should he ever come after."

Adrian shook his head. "This trip has been an amusing diversion for me, Safana. But that's all it is. I must return."

Safana nodded. "I will not go with you."

"Good," said Viconia coldly.

To both the ladies' surprise, Adrian laughed. "I knew that the first night aboard this ship, Safana. And I think Coran will stay with you."

Safana rolled her eyes.

"He loves you, Safana," Adrian said, softly. "Don't throw that away."

The next day, they docked at the Gate. Adrian's party, minus Safana and Coran, stepped off the boat, into a rowboat.

Tiax was already in the boat, ostensibly to row them to dry land. But he eyed Adrian. "Tiax would travel with ye. Cyric favors it."

Adrian looked at him for a bit, considering. Then he nodded. "I'll need your thieving skills."

They rowed away from the boat, and Adrian was pleased to see Coran come up behind Safana and embrace her.

"Now we return to our primary gameboard," said Edwin.

"Yes," Xzar agreed. "My superiors will be eager for us to continue against the Throne."

"We did well with the gold," said Kagain. "And now we can kick some arse."

Viconia said nothing, staring into the darkness. Adrian reached out and took her hand.

Tiax, rowing along with a couple of pirates, smoked a pipe and smiled his little evil smile.

"Farwell, friends!" Zavrian bellowed from the boat, and Bexira waved. "May we meet again."

The rowboat reached the dock proper, and Adrian resumed his quest for his brother's head.