Adrian: Baldur's Gate

The mission the Shadow Thieves and the Halruaan offered was simple enough; a rival mage, Shandalar by name, had either stolen or swindled the neccesary components to make a Halruaan skyship for himself and the Gate's Dukes. His daughters would be guarding the components in his house. Adrian and his troupe were to get them back, by any means neccesary. They had been promised 40,000 gold for this favor. Adrian and Kagain had jumped at it.

As they left the building, Adrian asked, "What troubles you about the mage, Edwin?"

Edwin lowered his eyes a moment before answering. "In Thay, magic rules. But in Halruaa, they say, magic is everywhere. Even the lowliest slave knows a cantrip or two to make their labors easier."

"You know not for sure?" Viconia asked.

"None has ever crossed their borders and lived to speak of it, but their skyships can be seen. They float in the skies above the cities. Our Halruaan friend doubtless came from one. I hope we do not see it."

"Edwin," said Xzar hesitantly, "I may owe you an apology."

Edwin stopped and raised an eyebrow at him. "You're not the sort to back down."

"Indeed, and if it were just the Shadow Thieves I would not. But a Halruaan is another matter entirely. I agree with him on this, Adrian. Be on your guard."

Adrian nodded, thoughtfully. "I'll bear that in mind. Tonight we observe the house. Tomorrow night we strike."

Lothander bowed to Reiltar.

"Did the Dwarf take the offer?" he asked in a bored tone.

"Nay, master. Adrian must've bribed him well."

Reiltar spat, then shrugged. "His loss. Gather Marek and the poisons you need."

Lothander bowed and left.

Behind Reiltar's throne in the darkness of the Throne building, Sarevok's yellow eyes narrowed and watched.

Waiting.

Far to the south, the shadowy figure was joined by another, female form.

"Not yet?" she asked him.

"Nay. Another spawn approaches form the north, and many factions are marshalling at once. Now is not the time to strike."

"If we don't move soon, Sarevok may succeed in his plan. To try to grab him in the middle of a war, and to find another..."

"Patience, sister," said the male. "We shall strike when the time is ripe."

Imoen left the city to the north, by the Black Dragon gate, flanked by Khalid, Jaheira, Branwen, and three pikemen that served the Harpers.

"What is this threat?" she asked Jaheira.

Jaheria looked nervous. "Someone is coming. Someone that must be stopped."