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A Long Shot, and Maybe in the Dark 5.1

Linvail Cormyr Pirates Thieves Aran Suzail Baldurs Gate

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#1 Guest_MorningGlory_*

Posted 08 March 2013 - 07:54 PM

A/N:  Sorry this is late, but r/l cutting in front of the queue.  

 

 

 

A Long Shot, And Maybe In The Dark

 

 

 

Chapter 5.1   Cat On A Hot Tin Roof, and Maybe a Snake or Two

 

 

 

There was only a ripple of a breeze in Suzail Harbor that afternoon, just enough to fill the single raised sail that slowly pushed the Lark into view of those at the docks and the watchtowers.  Lewis had made sure that the makeshift white flag was clearly visible, that no one could mistake the intent of the ship and her Captain, crew, and whom they would soon recognize as his distinguished guest.  Early on, he and the Princess stood on the top deck at the hull smiling and waving for the benefit of those viewing from the watchtowers' scopes, but more importantly, they watched for any signs of the Cormyte Navy rushing to defend from this possible threat.  A few intrepidly curious sail boats made their way close, and a few yells of  "The Princess has returned!" and "The  Princess is on deck!!" were heard, but no official dispatch was sent from the port.

 

"Interesting.." Lewis said.  "We have either arrived before the news of your escape, your Highness, or your nemesis has decided to flee before the proverbial feces hits the fan."

 

"Perhaps..," she murmured, all the while smiling and waving.  "In any case, my personal Royal Guard will be notified of my arrival and we should be met by them shortly after we dock.  Then, we'll march through the streets to the Palace.  It's important that my people see me in the flesh."

 

"That could be very risky, your Highness," Aran, standing nearby, interjected.  "If Lionel knows of your escape,  he would likely anticipate your arrival and he'll just as likely send an assassins' squad as a desperate last-ditch effort."

 

"Then I suppose you being an assassin, yourself, you'll just have to outthink them and protect me from the obvious, won't you?" she grinned. "There's still that matter of you needing an adventurers' Charter, as I recall."

 

"Madam, you give me far too much credit," he replied as he shot Lewis a worried look.  He really didn't think of the Princess as being reckless, yet her blatantly open foray to the Palace would be a foolhardy move and one from which he knew she would not be dissuaded.

 

"Yes, I know what you're thinking.." she began and glanced at them both.  "From the concerned looks on both of your faces, you're thinking this poses an unnecessary danger, and were the circumstances different,  I would agree with you.  But inherent risk is part and parcel of being an Obarskyr, and has been for centuries -- from worrying if our dinner is laced with an untraceable lethal poison, to if we'll see the  'morrow because the new lover in our bed might be planning to do away with us in our sleep.

 

"But this…  This is different.  There are no play books on how to quash a palace coup -- except common sense says to regain control as quickly as possible, and as quietly as possible.   It's also prudent that everything on the surface appear as though it's business as usual with nothing out of the ordinary until the threat is controlled and eliminated.   The people  need to know firsthand that I have returned and hopefully that will be enough to quell the rumors and fear that have been sweeping the city.  The details of the discovery of Lionel's treason can then be shared with them after we have the situation in hand.  So, yes, it is a high risk, but a necessary and acceptable one.  After all, gentlemen..  it is my ass on the line."

 

The thief couldn't really argue with her logic, and nodded.  "Very well, your Highness."

 

Aran looked to Lewis and could see that his thinking processes were already tackling the possibilities at hand.   "I know the city, Aran, and I believe that we can devise a route to the Palace that is both unexpected and would be relatively easy to defend should the need arise."  He rubbed at the scruff on his chin.  "There's a small armory that the Purple Dragons maintain at the wharf where we can get any supplies and armament we need."

 

The thief turned to the Princess, a grin slowly spreading over his mouth as he spoke.  "Madam, I hope  this armory also has a supply of healing potions..   Say, the normal sort -- green bottle, smells like mint…"

 

The Princess laughed and Lewis turned slightly pink at the reminder.

 

 

~~~^~~~

 

 

They had berthed the vessel without incident, and while the crew went about tying down the ship, a small group of the dock's workers gathered on the pier.  A few minutes later the gangway was extended, the insistent Princess the first to disembark with Lewis and Aran following her down the ramp, a few paces behind.  .  Recognizing her, the throng of commoners all immediately bowed to the Regent.

    

"Arise," she ordered impatiently as she set foot on the pier and looked about.  "I see the Harbormaster didn't see fit to greet me personally," and she then pointed to a young lad in the back.  "You there -- Blonde One, go fetch him.  Now!"  The shaggy tow-haired boy nodded obediently then dashed toward the large central building to the back of the wharf.

 

A grizzled old man cautiously stepped from the crowd to approach her, head lowered and cap in hand.  "Your Highness.. You be a sight fer sore eyes,"  he said.  "We were all worried, ma'am, that somethin' untoward happened to ye.  Thank the gods our fears were for naught."

 

She reached out and put her hand on his shoulder.  "What's your name?" she asked and smiled.

 

"Me name's Jarvis, your Highness," he nervously replied, his eyes still lowered.

 

"Well, Jarvis, as you can see, I am fine.  A few things I have to set to right, but I have returned so there is nothing more to fear.  Understand?"

 

"Yes, ma'am."

 

"Now, Jarvis, I have a task for you and your fellow workers here."

 

"Yes, ma'am.  As ye command, so it will be," he replied.  "We be yer loyal servants."

 

"See that dwarf up on the gangway behind me?  He and all the others aboard this vessel are the reason I am here safe and sound, so I'm going to charge you and your fellow workers here to finding them a safe place  until I can get to the Palace.  Can you hide them all from prying eyes until I send for them?" The workers nodded and mumbled among themselves.

 

Jarvis quickly glanced to the group behind them.  "Aye, your Highness, we can do that," he said, looking up at the Princess, a broad smile on his near toothless mouth.  "Iffin' they don't mind bein' holed up in the basement of the warehouse." He lowered his voice and leaned in toward her.  "And, there be a tunnel nobody be knowin' about -- just in case a quick leavin' be needed.."

 

"Sounds perfect," she grinned and patted his shoulder.  "It shouldn't be long, so they shouldn't mind."  She turned and motioned to the dwarf to join her.

 

"Oreman," she said as he came beside her.  "Jarvis, here, and these fine dockworkers are going to take you and the others to a safe place, while Lewis and Aran are going with me.  As my loyal subjects, they've been commanded to secret you all away until I send for you.  That will keep you, Mather, Sangmon and the Lark's crew out of harm's way for the next few hours.  However, if someone hasn't come to fetch you by midnight, you must take this ship and get everyone out of here, understand?  That's a command.  And, Jarvis, you and the others here would be wise to accompany him if it comes to that.  Does everyone understand?"

 

"Aye, your Highness," came the mixed voices.

 

"And, your Highness," Oreman began.  "Just where would I be takin' the lot of us -- iffin' it comes to that, I mean.."

 

"Captain Oreman, you're a resourceful man of the sea," she grinned.  "As the newly-appointed Captain of this vessel, I'm sure you will be able to find a place in the Fallen Stars that will welcome you all as brothers."

 

"Aye, madam.  That I can do," he returned a knowing grin.

 

"Then off with all of you," she brusquely ordered. "Don't tarry.  And, Oreman, when I send for you, you'll know the message is from me."

    

Aran remained silent as he watched Jarvis and the dockworkers lead the others across the pier to a stairwell leading to what he assumed was the bottom level of a secondary warehouse under the wharf.

 

"Your Highness, I'm not convinced that was the best idea," Aran ventured as he and Lewis exchanged worried glances.

 

"My soil, my rules," she shot the thief a taunt grin.  "It's just in case this all goes to hells..  Someone needs to be able to get out and tell the story of what has happened here.  And, these are all innocent men and not even Cormyte.  I can't expect them to put their lives on the line anymore than they already have."   She put her hands on her hips and Aran watched as the Harbormaster and the lad sent to fetch him emerged from the main building and began racing toward them.

 

"You.. your Highness," the rotund, breathless master bowed as they neared.  "It is good to see you safe and sound, madam."

 

"It is good to be safe and sound," she curtly responded.  "Did you send someone to fetch my Royal Guards?"

 

"Ye..yes, your Highness," sputtered the Harbormaster and nervously bowed again.  "The moment I recognized you aboard the ship, I dispatched a courier to Commander Dargon.  Your Guard should be arriving momentarily, madam."

 

"Very good," she huffed.  "Before they arrive, I wish to have access to the Dragons' armory and I need a city map.  You have a key, I presume?"

 

"Of course, your Highness.  Let me fetch it from my office and I will be happy to escort you."

 

"Well, don't just stand there, man.  Get it!" she growled. "We'll meet you at the door."  She motioned toward the small building bearing the crest of the Purple Dragons above the door.

 

The squat little man cowered at her command, bowed yet again and backed away to quickly return to the main building in search of the key.

 

"Your Highness?" The young boy looked lost.

 

"You come with us.  We may need your help," she nodded and started for the small building set apart from the main complex, the others following closely behind.

 

~~~^~~~

 

They found the armory well-stocked for any weaponry required of melee battle.  What was in short supply was a selection of ranged weapons stocked in a small side room.  Aside from a modest collection of both short and long bows  with a decent complement of arrows, there were various sized and bolas and a wide selection of exotic shuriken.  Real throwing daggers, which Aran was most familiar, were in short supply. 

 

"The Dragons just don't have much use for other than the bows.  They patrol the city, the King's Forest and the mountains, and of the latter two, the biggest threat are orcs.  They use the bolas to bring them down, then close in to finish them off with swords -- like we did with the giants up in the Clouds," explained Lewis as he, Aran and the lad rummaged through the displays in the small ranged room.

    

"You were always the one with the talent for tangling their feet or wrapping their necks, Lewis.  I was abysmal at it," Aran admitted as he picked up a spiked, star-shaped shuriken to examine it.  "But, I was fairly good with these… but unless they're tipped with poison, they're damn near worthless compared to a dagger."

 

Lewis chuckled.  "Well, those are not worthless, and do be careful, as the stars have a wicked paralysis spell on them -- good for a minute or more after planting in your opponent's skin.  Marvelous for toppling someone, or something, from a tree limb -- or off a building roof."

 

"Ahhh... Then these would be ideal for our purposes."  The thief was sure he could still plant the stars where he wanted them.

 

"Precisely," grinned the pirate.  "We don't have to kill anyone, per se, as the fall will likely do it for us."  They both laughed.

 

"Sir.." interrupted the boy.  "I'm pretty good with a bola -- and a shuriken.  Maybe I could come and help?"

 

"It's dangerous, lad," Aran smiled at the blond-haired boy who had said nothing until now.  "And if we run into anyone, they won't be an amateur just out for an afternoon's stroll."

 

The lad nodded.  "I know, sir, but I know the rooftops in the city -- been runnin' 'em since I was eight years.  And you need someone who knows the 'tops and can be a guide -- I'm best with a bow, but I can throw good, too..."

 

Aran looked at the boy for a long moment before he spoke, his tone unintentionally cold.  "How old are you, boy, and how do you know we'll be on the rooftops?"

 

"I'm fifteen years, and it only makes sense, sir," the boy nervously replied, Aran's question intimidating him.  "I don't have much schoolin', sir, but I ain't dumb.  Her Royal Guard can handle anything on the ground just fine -- I seen 'em do it -- but they'd be near useless if someone attacked from above.  I figure that's where you two come in."  The lad grew more bold.  "And, if you're goin' to be looking after the Princess from above, you're goin' to have to be on the roofs and you're goin' to have to have throwin' weapons.  A bow don't work so well if you're climbing around in a hurry, dodgin' things, and trying to chase someone down.  I know."

 

"What's your name, boy?" Lewis asked.

 

"Lemuel," he replied.  "Lemuel Booth, sir, but most just call me Lem."

 

"Related to Cartor Booth?"

 

"He was my older brother, sir."

 

Lewis frowned.  "The blond hair..  I thought maybe so.  I knew your brother, Lem.  Cart was one of the best archers I have ever met and he was a valiant, brave soldier."

 

"He was the one that learnt me all this, sir, before he was killed in the Horns."  The boy looked sadly at the floor.  "Were you there, sir -- when it happened?  When he died?"

 

"I was.  You can be proud, Lem… Your brother died a hero's death in battle,"  Lewis nodded but didn't elaborate.

  

"Tell me," Aran began, his curiosity piqued.  "Why do you frequent the city's rooftops?  Sounds like a most unusual past time for a young lad."

 

The boy looked instantly uncomfortable and scuffed the toe of his shoe against the planked floor, as though deciding whether to offer an explanation, or not.  "Well, sir.. We got a huge cat problem in the city..  People hire me to get rid of them that be botherin' them -- 'specially the feral ones that night fight, keeping everybody awake." He frowned. "It's all illegal, sir…  We got laws 'bout killin' cats here, but most don't care and just want the wild ones gone."

 

Lewis threw his head back and laughed.  "So you're the Exterminator?" 

 

Aran looked puzzled and the boy blushed.

 

"Aye, that be me, sir.  Since my mother, little sister, and me didn't have no money comin' in after Cart died, and I was too young to join up in the military, I took it on for the coin -- just so we could buy food.  The bloody cats were eatin' and my family was starvin'.  Didn't seem quite right."

 

Lewis grinned, looked at Aran and nodded toward the boy.  "One of Suzail's most wanted criminals.. The Exterminator -- wears a black hood, carries a short bow with homemade arrows, works at night, usually disposes of his kill, and has never been identified or caught." He looked to the boy.  "You're something of a local folk hero, you know.."

 

"No, sir, I ain't no hero -- just lookin' to keep my family fed, and my sister out of the brothels.  She's only twelve and don't belong in no brothel.  I'm still too young to join the military, so I have to do whatever I can to earn money, and I'm bloody good at killin' cats.  You won't tell nobody, please, sir?"

 

Lewis shook his head.  "No, Lem, I promise we won't, er.. let the cat out of the bag.  And, if Aran here has no objections, I think you would be a worthy addition to our endeavor.  Just bring a short bow and quiver from here and don't wear your hood -- don't want to tip anyone off to your alter-ego…"

 

"No objection from me," Aran said.  "We need a guide, and someone good with a bow.  But tell me, why would you want to even do this -- go with us, I mean?"

 

The boy looked momentarily puzzled.  "She's my -- our -- Princess, sir.  I owe it to her," he explained, his tone indignant that the thief would even ask.  Aran knew there was no arguing for, or against, blind loyalty.  It just was.

 

"And, sirs, when you look at the map and are decidin'," Lem added, almost shyly.  "Binders Way is likely the best street to the Palace right now.  Most of the 'tops are flat, and the sun will be at our backs.  If we run into anyone up there, we'll see them before they see us."

 

"Duly noted," Lewis said as he and Aran began to sort and pack up several of the small weapons, Aran laying claim to the singular belt of throwing daggers.

 

The Princess stuck her head in the door.  "Gentlemen, my Guard have arrived and we need to review the map with my Commander."

 

Aran and Lewis left the boy with instructions on finishing the packs, and joined the Princess with Commander Dargon at a large table back of the armory, a map of the city spread out before them.

 

Aran wasn't personally familiar with Suzail, but it wasn't difficult to quickly grasp the lay of the city with the Harbor bordering the western edge and the motte-like palace and royal residences set like jewels on a small hill in the center.  The legendary royal gardens and orchards that fanned from behind the main Castle to the eastern fringe of the city's edge were reputed to be a horticulturist's dream, according to what he had read of Volo, with many one-of-a-kind flora protected within the extensive walls.

 

As he examined the detail more closely, he could see that the immediate palace grounds were ringed with a high curtain wall, fortified with intermittent towers and battlements, and on the inside of that wall, a  moat-like ribbon of a lake.   This was contrary to strongholds and keeps in the east of Faerun, as moats were considered a first line of defense.  He reminded himself he was looking at the sum total of many centuries growth, development, and tradition by a singular ruling family.

 

A wide boulevard, the Promenade, closely bordered the public side of the curtain wall, with all of the major thoroughfares connecting to it like spokes to a wheel hub. He quickly found Binders Way, a secondary, more narrow street that lay just northwest of the main boulevard running from the Harbor to the Palace.

 

"We're presently here," Dargon said, pointing to a small building at the edge of the wharf. Drawing his fingertip over to the most direct avenue to the Palace, he said, "I think we should go via Court Close Way, the main ingress to the Castle Gate.  People need to see you, your Highness, and after so long an absence, and once the word spreads, they'll gather on Court Close expecting you there."

 

"It's the main thoroughfare to the Palace," objected Lewis.  "No disrespect, Commander, but your enemies will be expecting to see her there, also."  He turned to the Princess.  "What say we surprise them, your Highness?  I suggest we drop over and follow Binders Way to the Promenade, then cut across to the guard's entrance to the Palace grounds and avoid the main gate."  He ran his finger the length of the avenue.  "Binders will be easier to defend from above, and no more difficult for your Guard on the ground -- and, the people will still get to see you."

 

"You two will be on the rooftops?" the Commander asked and raised an eyebrow at the pirate.

 

"Aye.. We and the boy can protect from above, so keep the Guard bowmen trained at the street level," Lewis nodded.

 

"And, the boy?" the Princess asked, mildly surprised.

 

"He's an expert archer, madam, as was his brother with whom I served under Azoun IV, and he knows that street very well," Lewis explained without offering any reasons as to why the lad was so knowledgeable.  "He will guide and should the need arise, he can ably assist."

 

"Very well," she thoughtfully nodded.  "If traveling Binders gives us some additional advantages, I'm going to agree.  We go via Binders to the Promenade then across to the side gate and through to the Palace grounds.  Now, are we ready to proceed?"  Her decision made, her impatience was immediately evident.

 

"We're almost ready, your Highness," grinned the pirate.  "Give us a few minutes to get into place."

 

 

~~~^~~~

 

"Here…"  Lem waved the two towards him as he stood in the narrow alley aside Binders Way.  Approaching, Aran could see a near-invisible ladder tucked neatly into a back crevice of the corner building.  The boy pulled and braced it against the house's jutting storage cellar and ambled up the rungs, motioning them to follow him.  He then pulled it up and steadied it against the ledge of the second-story roof and began his ascent, the others following after he disappeared over the short stone wall that edged the top of the building.

 

"The ladder?" Aran asked, as they huddled down out of sight on the rooftop.

 

"Just leave it, sir.  I'll fetch it back later," said the boy and raised up a few inches to catch a view of their skyline landscape.  Seeing nothing out of the ordinary, he motioned for the two men to stand.

 

"There," he said and pointed to the Palace gleaming white and gold in the distance.  "It's beautiful, isn't it.." the boy said wistfully.  "It sits on a hill…  Someday I want to go in there to see what it looks like."

 

"That opportunity might arise sooner than you think," grinned the thief.

 

Looking at the Palace, Aran figured the distance to be two kilometers or more from where they stood, but as the boy had said, most of the rooftops were flat, or near flat with the need for steep inclines like Athkatla being unnecessary.  Snow was a rarity, and what they called rain here was little more than a fine, misty spray.  Most of the buildings appeared to be adjacent to each other, which would make them far easier to quickly traverse.  Added to that, a good line-of-sight and the sun now hanging at their backs, would-be assassins could be spotted and quickly dealt with, especially if they weren't expecting any company.

 

"What buildings are accessible to the public between here and the Promenade?" he asked the boy.

 

"There's a couple of shops, and the 'keeps live above their stores.   But the Thelmar Inn is right where Binders Way meets the Promenade -- it sits between Binders and Court Close and fronts on the Promenade.  It's a fancy place across from the Palace grounds for rich merchants and the like..  And it  has an attic with a real door to the roof.  I've had to pick the lock and use it a couple of times to get off the 'tops in a hurry."

 

Aran and Lewis exchanged glances.  "If we have a problem, I would guess it will be at the Inn," Lewis said.  "Or at least, originating from there."

 

"Agreed," said Aran.  "We'll stay ahead of the Princess and get there early enough to dispose of any possible trouble.  And, speaking of her Highness, we should let her know we're in place,"  and the thief traversed the roof to the street side of the building, quickly followed by Lewis and Lem.  From where they stood, they could see the Princess and her eight Royal Guards and the Commander emerge from the side track that connected with the Harbor.  She looked up and seeing them, gave a discreet wave of acknowledgement.

 

"We'll keep them in sight, but we'll stay far enough ahead that we can clear any trouble we come across,"  Aran said.  "And, Lem, before we get to the inn, you fall back behind us and stay out of sight -- just in case.  Your mother wouldn't appreciate Cormyr claiming her remaining son in service to his Princess.  Understand?"

 

"Yes, sir," he nodded.

 

 

~~~^~~~

 

Aran was impressed with the rooftop trail the boy had devised.  For the buildings that weren't butted together or easy to jump, the boy had made single-plank bridges of  lightweight, sturdy cypress, inconspicuously placed where they wouldn't be readily noticed from the ground.  And, watching the lad gracefully navigate the flat and the not-so-flat rooftops made the thief wish he had a dozen just like him back home.  Lem was heads-above the recent applicants to the Guild in both skills and instincts, and Aran could always spot the rare, talented ones.    

 

They were almost halfway to the inn when they caught sight of the first interloper.  Aran spotted him immediately as he stepped from behind a large chimney two buildings in front of them, but the small man didn't see him.  The thief very slowly squatted down.

 

The gnome carried a short bow in one hand as he crept to the roof's wall to peak over the edge. Turning his back to the thief, the would-be assassin slowly hunched down against the wall and from what Aran could see, began to nock an arrow into the bowstring.

 

Wasting no time, the thief stood and silently pulled a throwing dagger from the belt.  Gripping the well-honed metal between his thumb and fingers, he pulled his arm back straight and aimed.  In a fluid forward blur, he launched the shiny razored steel, sending it hurtling end-over-end toward the man, the dagger faintly whistling as it sped through the air.  Not a moment later, the point drove neatly through the back of the archer's neck.  Without a sound, the hapless assassin instantly crumpled into a lifeless heap, his hand still clutching the bow and the arrow nocked in the bowstring.  The three strained to listen and see if others would follow, but no one appeared. 

 

"Not bad, Linvail.. Not bad at all," Lewis half-whispered as they traversed the tops to the fallen gnome.  "It appears Lionel is throwing a welcome-home soirée for her Highness after all.  I doubt our erstwhile assassin is the only one he's invited, also.  But I can't figure why he's here and all alone."

 

They looked down at the slack-jawed, wide-eyed corpse, the bloody tip of Aran's well-delivered blade protruding through his throat.  "Greed.  I'd wager there's a bonus for the one who kills the Princess, so he decided to arrive early  and get the jump on his companions," the thief said as he squatted down to reclaim the dagger. He pulled it loose and wiped it clean on the victim's shirt, then slid it back in the chamber sheath in his belt.

 

"But, the real party is gathering at the inn even as we speak,"  he said as he rifled the gnome's small waist pack.  He pulled a coin purse from it and gave it a slight shake.  "Here, Lem.  Feels like there might be twenty or thirty lions in there.  You and your family eat well tonight," and he tossed the bag to the boy.  "And, take his quiver and bow.  The purple stain on the tips of the arrows appears to be poison, and from the runes on the bow, it has some enchantment that might come in handy on your next feline expedition."

 

"Ohh…  Thank you, sir!  That more gold than a full month's wages!" and the lad's face lit up.  "And the bow.. I.. I could never afford such a fine beauty!"  The boy scrambled to scoop up his spoils.

 

"He won't be needing it where he's going, so it's yours now, lad.  You earned it."

 

Aran stood and put his hands on his hips, looking ahead, thinking.  "Maybe we should spread out now.  Lem, you take the rear -- keep just a bit ahead of the Princess, and keep an eye on the 'tops of the other side of the street and any alleyways we come across.  If you see anyone suspicious, take them out with your new bow and one of those poison arrows.  Lewis, you take center, and stay a couple of buildings in front of Lem and one  behind me.  I'll front until we get almost to the Inn.  Everyone try to stay within sight of each other, but if any of us runs into a problem, give an owl call.  They do have owls here, correct?"

 

"Oh, yes, sir.  Not so much, but sometimes a snowy one gets blown in from a storm in the Horns and they raise a mighty ruckus because they're lost," the boy said as he slung the quiver's strap over his head and adjusted the leather sling to rest on his shoulder.

  

"Good.  Then we'll do the same," the thief nodded, knowing how the white owls in the Clouds reacted when their bucolic world was sent topsy-turvy.  "Lewis, you have my back.  Keep those bolas and the star shuriken at the ready."

 

"That I can do," the pirate affirmed.  "Did I mention I can still wrap the neck of a snake at fifty paces with a bola?"

 

"Only about ten times in the last hour," the thief grinned.  "It's consoling to know that we'll be well protected if we encounter any snakes -- especially the remarkable ones residing here atop Suzail's skyline.."  The boy looked puzzled.  "A sarcastic response to a braggart's boast," Aran explained, nodding toward Lewis.

 

"The fact is, I really am that good," Lewis winked at the lad.  "Aran is obviously envious because he lacks the skill to garrote someone at fifty paces.  He still has to do it the old-fashioned way -- up-close and personal."  The boy had to stifle a laugh as the thief shook his head.

 

Aran cautiously moved ahead, glancing behind to make sure he could see both Lewis and Lem.  At the street level, he could see people spilling from the buildings to gather along the sidewalks to catch a glimpse of the Princess.  The sounds of erupting applause and warm greetings echoed up between the buildings to the skyline as she and her entourage slowly marched center of the avenue.

 

As he approached each new building, the thief quickly investigated each nook, cranny, and chimney for hidden threats, then checked for access from the structure's interior as well as possible paths leading up the exterior from the adjacent alleyway.  Stylized tradition dictated that the simple structural designs had few, if any, ornaments added to the facades of the pastel-colored boxy buildings -- nothing for a skilled climber to grasp onto for a vertical ascent to the skyline.  In contrast to Athkatla's diverse and often ornate architecture, the comparison was like day and night. And, from a master thief's perspective, Suzail's seemingly banal land- and skyscapes provided little in the way of escape routes, being far too easy for the authorities to both give chase and ultimately corner and capture someone.

 

He was two buildings short of the Inn where he slipped behind a small chimney, his vantage point giving him a birds-eye view of the closed door that accessed the attic of the hotel.   No one was on the roof that he could see, and all that could be heard were the twitterings of disturbed birds in nearby trees and the ever-growing crowd's enthusiastic welcoming of the Princess who was still farther up Binders Way.

 

"Anything?" Lewis whispered, taking up a spot next to Aran.

 

The thief shook his head.  "Not yet.  Any minute now.."

 

They both knew the routine.  A minimum team of two, possibly three, assailants could be expected.  And, as with the gnome, all expert archers.  They would spread out, each in the team taking a successive rooftop, with the first assassin targeting the main objective.  The second would then either complete what the first might miss, or if the first was successful, then the second would take out the secondary target, in this case, the Commander. And, if there was a third, he would stay on the Inn's roof with a longbow, hoping that numbers one and-or two were successful and he could take his lesser, but safer, cut as backup.  It was all professionally systematic.  

 

"You don't think he would send amateurs, do you?" Lewis murmured.

 

"For something this important?"  The thief shook his head.  "Not very likely.  He'll send a team.  At least three, maybe even four -- counting the gnome.."

 

"That sounds foolishly like overkill," Lewis said, slowly shaking his head.

 

"Maybe.. But he's desperate and he's a novice at this.  He doesn't know that 'less is more' when it comes to something like this.  We'll just use his ignorance to our advantage," the thief shrugged and paused. "You take down the first after he gets past us to the next building top.  By that time the next one should be almost in front of us and I'll take him.  If there's three, you tangle the third before he can leave the Inn or get a shot off.  That will give us enough time to get over there and finish him."

 

"And if there's more?"

 

The thief paused and grinned.  "Then pray that we're as good as we once were."

 

They heard the faint creak of the hotel's door hinge then pulled back behind their cover.  Aran drew his hood up and slowly peaked around the edge of the chimney.  He watched as they filed onto the rooftop, bows in hand and all dressed in dark leathers head to toe.  As the last assassin closed the door behind him, the thief leaned back and holding up three fingers, nodded to Lewis. He strained his ears to listen for the padding of leathered feet he knew would be coming in their direction.

 

The first bowman was partly crouched when he moved past them toward the next building, his attention drawn to the street below, Aran knew he was engrossed with assessing the overall situation.  As the assassin  reached the other rooftop, the second passed immediately in front of them.  With shuriken in hand, Lewis stood and rapidly hurled the shiny star toward the back of the first archer, planting it firmly in the assailant's shoulder.  The weapon's paralysis took immediate effect and the would-be killer froze in place, toppling over to his side.

 

Before the second assassin could grasp what had happened, Aran tackled him from behind, felling him to the rooftop with a dull thud.  He quickly drew his dagger and before assassin-number-two could react, the thief planted his blade in the assassin's spine.  He spasmed once then lay dead. 

 

As Aran rolled off the archer's corpse, he heard an arrow fly overhead toward the pirate.  He raised his head just in time to see Lewis hoist the other assassin's body just enough to catch the projectile.  Behind the pirate, he then saw Lem emerge  from behind the chimney, his 'new' bow readied with an arrow.  The lad quickly took aim, pulled back the bowstring and launched the shot in the direction of the hotel.

 

Aran was almost afraid to look and see if it found its mark.  From three buildings away, it was not a guaranteed hit with a short bow.  Aran hoped the enchantment was enough and that the lad was as good as he had said he was.  The thief waited and heard nothing in return from the hotel.  He then saw Lewis and Lem leisurely walking over to him.

 

"Laying down on the job, Aran?" Lewis chuckled and offered a hand-up to the thief.  The thief grabbed his outstretched hand and leveraged himself to standing and looked at the hotel's roof.  The assassin had attempted to escape, but the boy had caught him in the attic's doorway.

 

"Good shot, Lem," Aran nodded.

 

"Wasn't nothin'," the boy said.  "Compared to shootin' a runnin' cat up here, he was an easy target -- ten times bigger and ten times slower."

              

"Good shot, nevertheless," Lewis chimed in.  "Now, what say we check out the bodies and see if we can identify this bunch of failures.  Might be some more booty, too, Lem."

 

The boy's face lit up again.  "More?"

 

"Go see.  Anything you find is yours.  And don't forget the bows -- you can always sell them if you don't want to keep them," Aran said as he pulled his dagger and wiped it on the corpse's trouser leg.

 

"This is better than Mid-summer's Eve!" exclaimed the lad and dashed to other building to rifle the first dead assassin.  Lewis and Aran leisurely proceeded to the hotel.

 

Aran squatted down tried to pull loose the arrow, but  Lem's shot had lodged it firmly and squarely between the man's shoulders.  The thief finally snapped the shaft that he could roll the corpse out of the doorway.  He paused as he looked down at the frozen face.

 

"You recognize him?" Lewis asked.

 

"Yes..  His name is Kaothin.  He is -- was -- a freelancer from Neverwinter.  He was once with the Soft Claws, but they disassociated him after rumors he took a side contract on a child.  After that, he became known for taking the jobs no one else would."  Even respected assassins had a scruple, or two -- children being one of them.

 

"An independent with no boundaries.." said Lewis thoughtfully.  "How did you know him?"

 

"He came to Athkatla looking for work, came to us," Aran replied as he pulled the dead man's waist pack from his belt.  "Simon checked him out and decided he was too tainted and sent him on his way.  Guess he found a home with Lionel."  Aran didn't want to voice what was running through his mind about what might have been the hunchback's future plans for the toddler Crown Prince.

 

The excited boy interrupted them.  "Oh, thank the gods!  I found more than a hundred lions on them!" he gushed.  "And that last one had a sapphire and a better short bow than the gnome!"

 

"There's at least another hundred lions in there, I think," Aran said and handed the pouch to Lem. "And, that long bow of his might be worth keeping."

 

"My mother, my sister, and me thanks you, sir!  I won't have to be sleeping on the floor no more!  I'm gonna buy me a real bed, and I'm gonna buy my momma and my sister new dresses!  Fancy ones with ruffles!  And some shoes!"

 

"You earned that and a lot more, Lem.  I'm sure her Highness will take care of the debt she owes you," the thief smiled and stood up.  "If we're all finished here, I suggest we make our way down through the Inn and meet up with the Princess.  She'll be anxious to hear what happened here."

 

~~~^~~~

 

 

Alusair paused long enough in front of the Inn to listen to their abbreviated telling of events on the rooftops, the growing throng of people still amassing along the sides of the avenue, her guards barely able to keep them at bay.

 

"I want to know all the details once we're inside -- it should be safe getting into the Palace now," she nodded.  "While you were wrestling atop the roofs of Suzail, Dargon sent one of his lieutenants ahead to pull a small contingency of Dragons Knights to meet us in the Bailey.  He's also been instructed to take a host of armed guards to arrest and remand dear cousin Lionel and that spineless wizard of his to the dungeons.  But, I want you three to accompany me the rest of the way."

 

"Ma'am?  Are.. are you sure?  I mean.. me, too?" the boy sputtered and blushed.  "I'm not important, your Highness. I'm just a commoner.."

 

"You are important, Lem.  You went far beyond being just a loyal subject -- now allow me to be a grateful sovereign and come with me," and she put her arm around the boy's shoulders.

 

"And, Lem..  we need to later discuss all of this illicit cat-killing you've been engaging in over the past year," and she grinned as she waggled her finger in his face.

 

How could she possibly know that, Aran thought as he and Lewis looked at each other.

 

 

To Be Continued…


Edited by MorningGlory, 23 March 2013 - 03:27 PM.


#2 Guest_Blue-Inked_Frost_*

Posted 22 March 2013 - 08:42 PM

I know the feeling about R/L - and I'm sorry that I've neglected replying to this until now. :)  I *very* much enjoyed this chapter - the Steel Princess living up to her name and doing some fun things.

 

 

There was only a ripple of a breeze in Suzail Harbor that afternoon, just enough to fill the single raised sail that slowly pushed the Lark into view of those at the docks and the watchtowers.  Lewis had made sure that the makeshift white flag was clearly visible, that no one could mistake the intent of the ship and her Captain, crew, and whom they would soon recognize as his distinguished guest.  Early on, he and the Princess stood on the top deck at the hull smiling and waving for the benefit of those viewing from the watchtowers' scopes, but more importantly, they watched for any signs of the Cormyte Navy rushing to defend from this possible threat.  A few intrepidly curious sail boats made their way close, and a few yells of  "The Princess has returned!" and "The  Princess is on deck!!" were heard, but no official dispatch was sent from the port.

 

"Interesting.." Lewis said.  "We have either arrived before the news of your escape, your Highness, or your nemesis has decided to flee before the proverbial feces hits the fan."

 

"Perhaps..," she murmured, all the while smiling and waving.  "In any case, my personal Royal Guard will be notified of my arrival and we should be met by them shortly after we dock.  Then, we'll march through the streets to the Palace.  It's important that my people see me in the flesh."

 

 

Good strategy to keep it all public and win the people's support.

 

 

"That could be very risky, your Highness," Aran, standing nearby, interjected.  "If Lionel knows of your escape,  he would likely anticipate your arrival and he'll just as likely send an assassins' squad as a desperate last-ditch effort."

 

"Then I suppose you being an assassin, yourself, you'll just have to outthink them and protect me from the obvious, won't you?" she grinned. "There's still that matter of you needing an adventurers' Charter, as I recall."

 

"Madam, you give me far too much credit," he replied as he shot Lewis a worried look.  He really didn't think of the Princess as being reckless, yet her blatantly open foray to the Palace would a foolhardy move and one from which he knew she would not be dissuaded.

 

"Yes, I know what you're thinking.." she began and glanced at them both.  "From the concerned looks on both of your faces, you're thinking this poses an unnecessary danger, and were the circumstances different,  I would agree with you.  But inherent risk is part and parcel of being an Obarskyr, and has been for centuries -- from worrying if our dinner is laced with an untraceable lethal poison, to if we'll see the  'morrow because the new lover in our bed might be planning to do away with us in our sleep.

 

"But this…  This is different.  There are no play books on how to quash a palace coup -- except common sense says to regain control as quickly as possible, and as quietly as possible.   It's also prudent that everything on the surface appear as though it's business as usual with nothing out of the ordinary until the threat is controlled and eliminated.   The people  need to know firsthand that I have returned and hopefully that will be enough to quell the rumors and fear that have been sweeping the city.  The details of the discovery of Lionel's treason can then be shared with them after we have the situation in hand.  So, yes, it is a high risk, but a necessary and acceptable one.  After all, gentlemen..  it is my ass on the line."

 

 

She has very good points here - the benefits seem to outweigh the risks, though no doubt Aran is not used to operating in full view of the public.

 

 

 

"Sir.." interrupted the boy.  "I'm pretty good with a bola -- and a shuriken.  Maybe I could come and help?"

 

"It's dangerous, lad," Aran smiled at the blond-haired boy who had said nothing until now.  "And if we run into anyone, they won't be an amateur just out for an afternoon's stroll."

 

The lad nodded.  "I know, sir, but I know the rooftops in the city -- been runnin' 'em since I was eight years.  And you need someone who knows the 'tops and can be a guide -- I'm best with a bow, but I can throw good, too..."

 

Aran looked at the boy for a long moment before he spoke, his tone unintentionally cold.  "How old are you, boy, and how do you know we'll be on the rooftops?"

 

"I'm fifteen years, and it only makes sense, sir," the boy nervously replied, Aran's question intimidating him.  "I don't have much schoolin', sir, but I ain't dumb.  Her Royal Guard can handle anything on the ground just fine -- I seen 'em do it -- but they'd be near useless if someone attacked from above.  I figure that's where you two come in."  The lad grew more bold.  "And, if you're goin' to be looking after the Princess from above, you're goin' to have to be on the roofs and you're goin' to have to have throwin' weapons.  A bow don't work so well if you're climbing around in a hurry, dodgin' things, and trying to chase someone down.  I know."

 

"What's your name, boy?" Lewis asked.

 

"Lemuel," he replied.  "Lemuel Booth, sir, but most just call me Lem."

 

"Related to Cartor Booth?"

 

"He was my older brother, sir."

 

Lewis frowned.  "The blond hair..  I thought maybe so.  I knew your brother, Lem.  Cart was one of the best archers I have ever met and he was a valiant, brave soldier."

 

"He was the one that learnt me all this, sir, before he was killed in the Horns."  The boy looked sadly at the floor.  "Were you there, sir -- when it happened?  When he died?"

 

"I was.  You can be proud, Lem… Your brother died a hero's death in battle,"  Lewis nodded but didn't elaborate.

  

"Tell me," Aran began, his curiosity piqued.  "Why do you frequent the city's rooftops?  Sounds like a most unusual past time for a young lad."

 

The boy looked instantly uncomfortable and scuffed the toe of his shoe against the planked floor, as though deciding whether to offer an explanation, or not.  "Well, sir.. We got a huge cat problem in the city..  People hire me to get rid of them that be botherin' them -- 'specially the feral ones that night fight, keeping everybody awake." He frowned. "It's all illegal, sir…  We got laws 'bout killin' cats here, but most don't care and just want the wild ones gone."

 

Lewis threw his head back and laughed.  "So you're the Exterminator?" 

 

 

What fun!  :)  No doubt too many cats can be nearly as bad as too many rats.

 

 

 

 

Aran looked puzzled and the boy blushed.

 

"Aye, that be me, sir.  Since my mother, little sister, and me didn't have no money comin' in after Cart died, and I was too young to join up in the military, I took it on for the coin -- just so we could buy food.  The bloody cats were eatin' and my family was starvin'.  Didn't seem quite right."

 

Lewis grinned, looked at Aran and nodded toward the boy.  "One of Suzail's most wanted criminals.. The Exterminator -- wears a black hood, carries a short bow with homemade arrows, works at night, usually disposes of his kill, and has never been identified or caught." He looked to the boy.  "You're something of a local folk hero, you know.."

 

"No, sir, I ain't no hero -- just lookin' to keep my family fed, and my sister out of the brothels.  She's only twelve and don't belong in no brothel.  I'm still too young to join the military, so I have to do whatever I can to earn money, and I'm bloody good at killin' cats.  You won't tell nobody, please, sir?"

 

Lewis shook his head.  "No, Lem, I promise we won't, er.. let the cat out of the bag

 

I suppose someone had to say it.

 

 

 

They heard the faint creak of the hotel's door hinge then pulled back behind their cover.  Aran drew his hood up and slowly peaked around the edge of the chimney.  He watched as they filed onto the rooftop, bows in hand and all dressed in dark leathers head to toe.  As the last assassin closed the door behind him, the thief leaned back and holding up three fingers, nodded to Lewis. He strained his ears to listen for the padding of leathered feet he knew would be coming in their direction.

 

Assassins and all their conspicuous, pretty, shiny black leather.

 

 

Aran was almost afraid to look and see if it found its mark.  From three buildings away, it was not a guaranteed hit with a short bow.  Aran hoped the enchantment was enough and that the lad was as good as he had said he was.  The thief waited and heard nothing in return from the hotel.  He then saw Lewis and Lem leisurely walking over to him.

 

"Laying down on the job, Aran?" Lewis chuckled and offered a hand-up to the thief.  The thief grabbed his outstretched hand and leveraged himself to standing and looked at the hotel's roof.  The assassin had attempted to escape, but the boy had caught him in the attic's doorway.

 

"Good shot, Lem," Aran nodded.

 

"Wasn't nothin'," the boy said.  "Compared to shootin' a runnin' cat up here, he was an easy target -- ten times bigger and ten times slower."

 

 

Good training!  Perhaps Aran should incorporate cat-killing into the Athkatla thieves' guild.              

 

 

"Good shot, nevertheless," Lewis chimed in.  "Now, what say we check out the bodies and see if we can identify this bunch of failures.  Might be some more booty, too, Lem."

 

The boy's face lit up again.  "More?"

 

"Go see.  Anything you find is yours.  And don't forget the bows -- you can always sell them if you don't want to keep them," Aran said as he pulled his dagger and wiped it on the corpse's trouser leg.

 

"This is better than Mid-summer's Eve!" exclaimed the lad and dashed to other building to riffle the first dead assassin.  Lewis and Aran leisurely proceeded to the hotel.

 

Rifle...

 

 

Alusair paused long enough in front of the Inn to listen to their abbreviated telling of events on the rooftops, the growing throng of people still amassing along the sides of the avenue, her guards barely able to keep them at bay.

 

"I want to know all the details once we're inside -- it should be safe getting into the Palace now," she nodded.  "While you were wrestling atop the roofs of Suzail, Dargon sent one of his lieutenants ahead to pull a small contingency of Dragons Knights to meet us in the Bailey.  He's also been instructed to take a host of armed guards to arrest and remand dear cousin Lionel and that spineless wizard of his to the dungeons.  But, I want you three to accompany me the rest of the way."

 

"Ma'am?  Are.. are you sure?  I mean.. me, too?" the boy sputtered and blushed.  "I'm not important, your Highness. I'm just a commoner.."

 

"You are important, Lem.  You went far beyond being just a loyal subject -- now allow me to be a grateful sovereign and come with me," and she put her arm around the boy's shoulders.

 

"And, Lem..  we need to later discuss all of this illicit cat-killing you've been engaging in over the past year," and she grinned as she waggled her finger in his face.

 

How could she possibly know that, Aran thought as he and Lewis looked at each other.

 

 

Nice one, Princess. :)


Edited by Blue-Inked_Frost, 22 March 2013 - 08:46 PM.


#3 Guest_MorningGlory_*

Posted 23 March 2013 - 03:11 PM

I know the feeling about R/L - and I'm sorry that I've neglected replying to this until now. :)  I *very* much enjoyed this chapter - the Steel Princess living up to her name and doing some fun things.

 

R/L does have a knack of intruding right when you don't really want it to..  Right now it's most demanding so things are not getting posted as quickly as I would like.   I'm very happy that you enjoyed this one -- I enjoyed writing it, and found myself often smiling at the lot of them. 

 

There was only a ripple of a breeze in Suzail Harbor that afternoon, just enough to fill the single raised sail that slowly pushed the Lark into view of those at the docks and the watchtowers.  Lewis had made sure that the makeshift white flag was clearly visible, that no one could mistake the intent of the ship and her Captain, crew, and whom they would soon recognize as his distinguished guest.  Early on, he and the Princess stood on the top deck at the hull smiling and waving for the benefit of those viewing from the watchtowers' scopes, but more importantly, they watched for any signs of the Cormyte Navy rushing to defend from this possible threat.  A few intrepidly curious sail boats made their way close, and a few yells of  "The Princess has returned!" and "The  Princess is on deck!!" were heard, but no official dispatch was sent from the port.

 

"Interesting.." Lewis said.  "We have either arrived before the news of your escape, your Highness, or your nemesis has decided to flee before the proverbial feces hits the fan."

 

"Perhaps..," she murmured, all the while smiling and waving.  "In any case, my personal Royal Guard will be notified of my arrival and we should be met by them shortly after we dock.  Then, we'll march through the streets to the Palace.  It's important that my people see me in the flesh."

 

 

Good strategy to keep it all public and win the people's support.

 

Yep.  She's a born Princess through and through, and imho one of the more fascinating characters in Forgotten Realms.    

 

"That could be very risky, your Highness," Aran, standing nearby, interjected.  "If Lionel knows of your escape,  he would likely anticipate your arrival and he'll just as likely send an assassins' squad as a desperate last-ditch effort."

 

"Then I suppose you being an assassin, yourself, you'll just have to outthink them and protect me from the obvious, won't you?" she grinned. "There's still that matter of you needing an adventurers' Charter, as I recall."

 

"Madam, you give me far too much credit," he replied as he shot Lewis a worried look.  He really didn't think of the Princess as being reckless, yet her blatantly open foray to the Palace would a foolhardy move and one from which he knew she would not be dissuaded.

 

"Yes, I know what you're thinking.." she began and glanced at them both.  "From the concerned looks on both of your faces, you're thinking this poses an unnecessary danger, and were the circumstances different,  I would agree with you.  But inherent risk is part and parcel of being an Obarskyr, and has been for centuries -- from worrying if our dinner is laced with an untraceable lethal poison, to if we'll see the  'morrow because the new lover in our bed might be planning to do away with us in our sleep.

 

"But this…  This is different.  There are no play books on how to quash a palace coup -- except common sense says to regain control as quickly as possible, and as quietly as possible.   It's also prudent that everything on the surface appear as though it's business as usual with nothing out of the ordinary until the threat is controlled and eliminated.   The people  need to know firsthand that I have returned and hopefully that will be enough to quell the rumors and fear that have been sweeping the city.  The details of the discovery of Lionel's treason can then be shared with them after we have the situation in hand.  So, yes, it is a high risk, but a necessary and acceptable one.  After all, gentlemen..  it is my ass on the line."

 

 

She has very good points here - the benefits seem to outweigh the risks, though no doubt Aran is not used to operating in full view of the public.

 

Her father, Azoun IV, taught her well.  She never aspired to a lofty place in the government but fate (and he) dictated it after his death.  As for Aran, very true -- just not his nature or his style -- so to be drawn into a very public drama puts him outside his comfort zone, at best.  

 

 

"Sir.." interrupted the boy.  "I'm pretty good with a bola -- and a shuriken.  Maybe I could come and help?"

 

"It's dangerous, lad," Aran smiled at the blond-haired boy who had said nothing until now.  "And if we run into anyone, they won't be an amateur just out for an afternoon's stroll."

 

The lad nodded.  "I know, sir, but I know the rooftops in the city -- been runnin' 'em since I was eight years.  And you need someone who knows the 'tops and can be a guide -- I'm best with a bow, but I can throw good, too..."

 

Aran looked at the boy for a long moment before he spoke, his tone unintentionally cold.  "How old are you, boy, and how do you know we'll be on the rooftops?"

 

"I'm fifteen years, and it only makes sense, sir," the boy nervously replied, Aran's question intimidating him.  "I don't have much schoolin', sir, but I ain't dumb.  Her Royal Guard can handle anything on the ground just fine -- I seen 'em do it -- but they'd be near useless if someone attacked from above.  I figure that's where you two come in."  The lad grew more bold.  "And, if you're goin' to be looking after the Princess from above, you're goin' to have to be on the roofs and you're goin' to have to have throwin' weapons.  A bow don't work so well if you're climbing around in a hurry, dodgin' things, and trying to chase someone down.  I know."

 

"What's your name, boy?" Lewis asked.

 

"Lemuel," he replied.  "Lemuel Booth, sir, but most just call me Lem."

 

"Related to Cartor Booth?"

 

"He was my older brother, sir."

 

Lewis frowned.  "The blond hair..  I thought maybe so.  I knew your brother, Lem.  Cart was one of the best archers I have ever met and he was a valiant, brave soldier."

 

"He was the one that learnt me all this, sir, before he was killed in the Horns."  The boy looked sadly at the floor.  "Were you there, sir -- when it happened?  When he died?"

 

"I was.  You can be proud, Lem… Your brother died a hero's death in battle,"  Lewis nodded but didn't elaborate.

  

"Tell me," Aran began, his curiosity piqued.  "Why do you frequent the city's rooftops?  Sounds like a most unusual past time for a young lad."

 

The boy looked instantly uncomfortable and scuffed the toe of his shoe against the planked floor, as though deciding whether to offer an explanation, or not.  "Well, sir.. We got a huge cat problem in the city..  People hire me to get rid of them that be botherin' them -- 'specially the feral ones that night fight, keeping everybody awake." He frowned. "It's all illegal, sir…  We got laws 'bout killin' cats here, but most don't care and just want the wild ones gone."

 

Lewis threw his head back and laughed.  "So you're the Exterminator?" 

 

 

What fun!   :)  No doubt too many cats can be nearly as bad as too many rats.

 

In some ways, cats could be much worse.  I would love to find out the backstory on this canon part of Cormyr lore.  Contrary to what Dharva told us (hearsay) in an earlier chapter, it's likely that they're protected for practical reasons -- they keep the rodent population down thereby lessening the threat of plague and disease.  So Suzail's populace has a lower disease rate but suffers from sleep deprivation because feral cats are fighting for territory.  Go figure... :rolleyes:   

 

Aran looked puzzled and the boy blushed.

 

"Aye, that be me, sir.  Since my mother, little sister, and me didn't have no money comin' in after Cart died, and I was too young to join up in the military, I took it on for the coin -- just so we could buy food.  The bloody cats were eatin' and my family was starvin'.  Didn't seem quite right."

 

Lewis grinned, looked at Aran and nodded toward the boy.  "One of Suzail's most wanted criminals.. The Exterminator -- wears a black hood, carries a short bow with homemade arrows, works at night, usually disposes of his kill, and has never been identified or caught." He looked to the boy.  "You're something of a local folk hero, you know.."

 

"No, sir, I ain't no hero -- just lookin' to keep my family fed, and my sister out of the brothels.  She's only twelve and don't belong in no brothel.  I'm still too young to join the military, so I have to do whatever I can to earn money, and I'm bloody good at killin' cats.  You won't tell nobody, please, sir?"

 

Lewis shook his head.  "No, Lem, I promise we won't, er.. let the cat out of the bag

 

I suppose someone had to say it.

 

Mea culpa..  I couldn't resist..  In a moment of mirthful weakness, I gave in..   :P  

 

They heard the faint creak of the hotel's door hinge then pulled back behind their cover.  Aran drew his hood up and slowly peaked around the edge of the chimney.  He watched as they filed onto the rooftop, bows in hand and all dressed in dark leathers head to toe.  As the last assassin closed the door behind him, the thief leaned back and holding up three fingers, nodded to Lewis. He strained his ears to listen for the padding of leathered feet he knew would be coming in their direction.

 

Assassins and all their conspicuous, pretty, shiny black leather. 

 

Maybe not shiny..  But definitely something that allows them to meld with the shadows. 

 

Aran was almost afraid to look and see if it found its mark.  From three buildings away, it was not a guaranteed hit with a short bow.  Aran hoped the enchantment was enough and that the lad was as good as he had said he was.  The thief waited and heard nothing in return from the hotel.  He then saw Lewis and Lem leisurely walking over to him.

 

"Laying down on the job, Aran?" Lewis chuckled and offered a hand-up to the thief.  The thief grabbed his outstretched hand and leveraged himself to standing and looked at the hotel's roof.  The assassin had attempted to escape, but the boy had caught him in the attic's doorway.

 

"Good shot, Lem," Aran nodded.

 

"Wasn't nothin'," the boy said.  "Compared to shootin' a runnin' cat up here, he was an easy target -- ten times bigger and ten times slower."

 

 

Good training!  Perhaps Aran should incorporate cat-killing into the Athkatla thieves' guild.              

It's not inconceivable that the Guild might have sewer rat patrol instead (although those green blobs that hurl acid bombs likely keep the sewers pretty clean).  It could provide a public service as well as training in a similar vein.  

 

"Good shot, nevertheless," Lewis chimed in.  "Now, what say we check out the bodies and see if we can identify this bunch of failures.  Might be some more booty, too, Lem."

 

The boy's face lit up again.  "More?"

 

"Go see.  Anything you find is yours.  And don't forget the bows -- you can always sell them if you don't want to keep them," Aran said as he pulled his dagger and wiped it on the corpse's trouser leg.

 

"This is better than Mid-summer's Eve!" exclaimed the lad and dashed to other building to riffle the first dead assassin.  Lewis and Aran leisurely proceeded to the hotel.

 

Rifle... 

 

Oops..  Thanks!  I thought that looked wrong when I did it!   :lol: 

 

Alusair paused long enough in front of the Inn to listen to their abbreviated telling of events on the rooftops, the growing throng of people still amassing along the sides of the avenue, her guards barely able to keep them at bay.

 

"I want to know all the details once we're inside -- it should be safe getting into the Palace now," she nodded.  "While you were wrestling atop the roofs of Suzail, Dargon sent one of his lieutenants ahead to pull a small contingency of Dragons Knights to meet us in the Bailey.  He's also been instructed to take a host of armed guards to arrest and remand dear cousin Lionel and that spineless wizard of his to the dungeons.  But, I want you three to accompany me the rest of the way."

 

"Ma'am?  Are.. are you sure?  I mean.. me, too?" the boy sputtered and blushed.  "I'm not important, your Highness. I'm just a commoner.."

 

"You are important, Lem.  You went far beyond being just a loyal subject -- now allow me to be a grateful sovereign and come with me," and she put her arm around the boy's shoulders.

 

"And, Lem..  we need to later discuss all of this illicit cat-killing you've been engaging in over the past year," and she grinned as she waggled her finger in his face.

 

How could she possibly know that, Aran thought as he and Lewis looked at each other.

 

 

Nice one, Princess. :)

 

She never ceases to surprise..  And, if she didn't have her hands full with what's going on in Cormyr, she would probably want to go on with them.  We may not have seen the last of her, in any case..   ;) 

 

Thanks so much, BIF, for reading and commenting.   Glad you enjoyed.  Next up, an accommodation of schedule, getting to Eveningstar, and a very interesting reunion with the lovely drow Istona.  :D   



#4 Weyoun

Posted 26 April 2013 - 08:16 PM

Ah, finally got off my arse to comment on your story. And one step closer to sexy-drowness! :D


 

 

"Perhaps..," she murmured, all the while smiling and waving.  "In any case, my personal Royal Guard will be notified of my arrival and we should be met by them shortly after we dock.  Then, we'll march through the streets to the Palace.  It's important that my people see me in the flesh."


 
Bold... It's as if there's no danger to her at all. :/

 

A grizzled old man cautiously stepped from the crowd to approach her, head lowered and cap in hand.  "Your Highness.. You be a sight fer sore eyes,"  he said.  "We were all worried, ma'am, that somethin' untoward happened to ye.  Thank the gods our fears were for naught."


 
Well, at least someone missed her. :)

 

"Ye..yes, your Highness," sputtered the Harbormaster and nervously bowed again.  "The moment I recognized you aboard the ship, I dispatched a courier to Commander Dargon.  Your Guard should be arriving momentarily, madam."


 
If wonder if that means everybody already knows of her arrival.

 

"Ahhh... Then these would be ideal for our purposes."  The thief was sure he could still plant the stars where he wanted them.


 
Laska: *hisses* Just be sure that you don't put them up the front of your y-fronts. That would be potentially painful!

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Tell me," Aran began, his curiosity piqued.  "Why do you frequent the city's rooftops?  Sounds like a most unusual past time for a young lad."


 
Sounds like a promising future thief or assassin, then!

 

"Aye, that be me, sir.  Since my mother, little sister, and me didn't have no money comin' in after Cart died, and I was too young to join up in the military, I took it on for the coin -- just so we could buy food.  The bloody cats were eatin' and my family was starvin'.  Didn't seem quite right."


 
Laska: Don't tell me they actually ate those cats.

 

"No, sir, I ain't no hero -- just lookin' to keep my family fed, and my sister out of the brothels.  She's only twelve and don't belong in no brothel.  I'm still too young to join the military, so I have to do whatever I can to earn money, and I'm bloody good at killin' cats.  You won't tell nobody, please, sir?"


 
TnT Viconia: Just stay the hell away from my spider and we'll get along fine.

 

Aran was impressed with the rooftop trail the boy had devised.  For the buildings that weren't butted together or easy to jump, the boy had made single-plank bridges of  lightweight, sturdy cypress, inconspicuously placed where they wouldn't be readily noticed from the ground.  And, watching the lad gracefully navigate the flat and the not-so-flat rooftops made the thief wish he had a dozen just like him back home.  Lem was heads-above the recent applicants to the Guild in both skills and instincts, and Aran could always spot the rare, talented ones.


 
Scouting for recruits, eh? Looks like Lem might have a big future in any thieves' guild.

 

"That I can do," the pirate affirmed.  "Did I mention I can still wrap the neck of a snake at fifty paces with a bola?"


 
I bet that would make for a very surprised snake. :P And, possibly, a very annoyed snake-charmer. :)

 

"Wasn't nothin'," the boy said.  "Compared to shootin' a runnin' cat up here, he was an easy target -- ten times bigger and ten times slower."


 
Hah! Good shot!

 

 

"And, Lem..  we need to later discuss all of this illicit cat-killing you've been engaging in over the past year," and she grinned as she waggled her finger in his face.


 
How could she possibly know that, Aran thought as he and Lewis looked at each other.


 
Hm, how indeed.

TnT Enhanced Edition: http://www.fanfictio...rds-and-Tempers

---
Sith Warrior - Master, I can sense your anger.

Darth Baras - A blind, comotose lobotomy-patient could sense my anger!

---

"The New Age? It's just the old age stuck in a microwave oven for fifteen seconds" - James Randi

#5 Guest_MorningGlory_*

Posted 30 April 2013 - 02:08 PM

Ah, finally got off my arse to comment on your story. And one step closer to sexy-drowness! :D

 

She's on the radar and just in sight at the end of 6.1..  :D     Hopefully, I'll get 6.2 posted this week -- r/l is being pesky about getting in the way..  

 

"Perhaps..," she murmured, all the while smiling and waving.  "In any case, my personal Royal Guard will be notified of my arrival and we should be met by them shortly after we dock.  Then, we'll march through the streets to the Palace.  It's important that my people see me in the flesh."

Bold... It's as if there's no danger to her at all. :/  
Bold she is, but she is very aware of the danger, too, as she explains right after that.  

 

A grizzled old man cautiously stepped from the crowd to approach her, head lowered and cap in hand.  "Your Highness.. You be a sight fer sore eyes,"  he said.  "We were all worried, ma'am, that somethin' untoward happened to ye.  Thank the gods our fears were for naught."

 
Well, at least someone missed her. :)
She was fairly popular with the general populace, and with the old Queen also gone at the moment, I think Jarvis typified the average Cormyrian sentiments at the moment.  

 

"Ye..yes, your Highness," sputtered the Harbormaster and nervously bowed again.  "The moment I recognized you aboard the ship, I dispatched a courier to Commander Dargon.  Your Guard should be arriving momentarily, madam."

 
If wonder if that means everybody already knows of her arrival.  
Good question..  :)   With internal plots, it's hard to know who knows what and how to anticipate your adversary's next move.  As she says, there's really no "play book" for this sort of thing.

 

"Ahhh... Then these would be ideal for our purposes."  The thief was sure he could still plant the stars where he wanted them.

 
Laska: *hisses* Just be sure that you don't put them up the front of your y-fronts. That would be potentially painful!
 
Aran:  Hmmm..  Your, er.. point is well taken, Laska.  ;)
 

 

"Tell me," Aran began, his curiosity piqued.  "Why do you frequent the city's rooftops?  Sounds like a most unusual past time for a young lad."

 


Sounds like a promising future thief or assassin, then!

 

Yes, indeedy!  He's a natural, however, the Princess has another idea for him.  Eventually, we'll find out that she is going to put him in charge of cat control in a very interesting way.  There will be a tax levied in the form of cat licenses, and he will have a lot to do with oversight and collection.  So he will become a tax-collecting bureaucrat, otherwise known in some circles as a thief with a license to steal..  :D

 


 

"Aye, that be me, sir.  Since my mother, little sister, and me didn't have no money comin' in after Cart died, and I was too young to join up in the military, I took it on for the coin -- just so we could buy food.  The bloody cats were eatin' and my family was starvin'.  Didn't seem quite right."

 
Laska: Don't tell me they actually ate those cats. 
Not eating them -- just a very enterprising contract cat assassin for hire to keep the wild ones from totally disrupting everything.  
 

"No, sir, I ain't no hero -- just lookin' to keep my family fed, and my sister out of the brothels.  She's only twelve and don't belong in no brothel.  I'm still too young to join the military, so I have to do whatever I can to earn money, and I'm bloody good at killin' cats.  You won't tell nobody, please, sir?"

 
TnT Viconia: Just stay the hell away from my spider and we'll get along fine. 
Lem:  I wouldn't hurt your itty-bitty spider..  There ain't no bounty on spiders, anyway..  :P
 

Aran was impressed with the rooftop trail the boy had devised.  For the buildings that weren't butted together or easy to jump, the boy had made single-plank bridges of  lightweight, sturdy cypress, inconspicuously placed where they wouldn't be readily noticed from the ground.  And, watching the lad gracefully navigate the flat and the not-so-flat rooftops made the thief wish he had a dozen just like him back home.  Lem was heads-above the recent applicants to the Guild in both skills and instincts, and Aran could always spot the rare, talented ones.

Scouting for recruits, eh? Looks like Lem might have a big future in any thieves' guild.
He certainly could..   :D

 

"That I can do," the pirate affirmed.  "Did I mention I can still wrap the neck of a snake at fifty paces with a bola?"

 
I bet that would make for a very surprised snake. :P And, possibly, a very annoyed snake-charmer. :)
LOL   Yes, indeedy!   

 

"Wasn't nothin'," the boy said.  "Compared to shootin' a runnin' cat up here, he was an easy target -- ten times bigger and ten times slower."

 
Hah! Good shot! 
He's had practice for a few years, and with his sparkly new bow, it was easy-peasy..
 

"And, Lem..  we need to later discuss all of this illicit cat-killing you've been engaging in over the past year," and she grinned as she waggled her finger in his face.

 

How could she possibly know that, Aran thought as he and Lewis looked at each other.

 

Hm, how indeed.

 

The Princess knows a lot more than she ever tells..  ;)  

 

Thanks, Wey (and Laska  :) )   The lovely drow is coming up -- introduction in 6.1 and continues in 6.2 and beyond.  :)  







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