Granite wandered into the common room after the priestesses of Marfa and saw the end of the fight, which resulted in Dravin leaving. She frowned a little, but he apparently brought it upon himself. She headed first to the table the priests of Cha Za were at with the weapons and got back her mace.

She wanted to talk to someone, particularly someone new, so she went to the table Zira and Edwin were at. She pulled herself up in the seat and smiled to both. "Good morning," she managed a peppy greeting, despite what happened.

Zira looked up at the dwarf who joined her table and was immediately confused as to it's gender. Everything but the beard was so feminine. Finally, she spoke and Zira nearly jumped. It was a woman! "Good morning to you too." She replied. Even dwarven women had beards? She heard rumors, but she didn't believe them until now, when she saw it with her own eyes.

Alera stayed silent still. Her worries were not with the others. The only thing she thought about was the Chaos Gate. How would it be stopped? The devastation for it to cause would annihilate the Free City of Raiden. That's what Sevrina had made it seem like, anyway. She wanted to go to the Chaos Gate. She wanted to go then and there. She had little patience for sitting around when the city would be destroyed tomorrow. Alera finally got fed up of waiting.

She got up and walked right up to the rest of the group and just asked, for all to hear," Has anyone thought about what to do today to stop this town from becoming rubble?" The question was cynical, but her tone was far from it.

Zira heard Alera's voice behind her, sounding merely curious, though her words were dark themselves. Zira looked back, glaring. That was something she didn't want to hear. "Well, I'm going learn everyone's name so things are just that much easier while we're trying to keep the city from becoming rubble," Zira replied, then looked back over at Granite. "What's your name dwarf?" she asked, then winced realizing how rude she sounded.

"Names don't matter that much if you are a smoldering pile of ash, I suppose," was Alera's quick response. She was merely annoyed no one had done anything whatsoever to actually attempt something to save the city.

Zira swung back around, "Well what do you expect me to do? We're bloody waiting for reinforcements to come in anyway." Zira turned back around. Humans were so impatient. It was aggravating and she was tired of interruptions. Not even have the people in the inn were awake yet either.

"Unless those reinforcements can cast a giant spell that turns the chaos gate into a chicken, I don't see what they can really do to save us," Alera stated rather pessimistically. "I'm sick of sitting here thinking about this alone."

Looking over his shoulder Edwin looked over to the light elf and nodded, "Zira that is Orion, one of the few people I know better around here since we both got the help of the priest of Myrii yesterday."

Orion glanced at Zira quickly but looked away silently. He preferred to listen and find out about others, but Zira was right. Nothing but waiting could be done, though it seemed odd to do so. He sighed gently. Everyone had their own idea of what had to be done and everyone really just needed to get along if this so called army was going to function.

Sighing listening to Alera, Edwin thought Zira was right, one had to learn who the others where for many reasons. Turning his head to look at Alera and sighed again. "Not all of us are the ones that make the plans. Those who are in charge are the ones that make the plan, even then it is hard enough to make one against something like the chaos gate."

"Until we are told what the plan of action we must do what we feel is right, I personally feel that I should to get to know those that I will be fighting with tomorrow, since I am not as lucky as some to be gifted with the ability to use magic." Shaking his head Edwin sipped his cup of tea, "If you feel what is best for you to do is making preparations for tomorrow then do it but fighting among ourselves is not the best thing because it only gives the edge to our foes"

Zira looked over at Edwin and grinned. It was good to have someone who shared your point of view. Though, one couldn't depend on the orders from their ill-defined leaders. Sevrina was in charge here, but now she was stepping back, that much was obvious to Zira.

"And you know, I'd really like a break from planning and fighting. I've had to do it for the last seven months, and every once in awhile, I would like the chance to sit down and have a nice conversation about anything BUT the bloody war," Zira replied and turned back around to take another bite of her eggs. Around her mouthful, she added, "You know, if you're tired of thinking about this alone, why don't you go for a walk? Maybe got find that other sorceress to talk about it with? Or maybe STOP planning because there isn't much else we can do but wait."

"I see... So you think now, out of all the times in the world, is a good time to take a day off. Tomorrow will be the city's last day and we are no closer to finding a save for it. You may have your break. And I think I will take a walk. To the Chaos Gate to actually do something towards an actual goal. I will go and study it. But I will not be blamed when everyone else decided to sit here and wait for a miracle." Alera turned in great annoyance from Zira. Alera didn't give a care whether Sevrina or anyone else was in charge. She certainly did not vote for Sevrina. And since Sevrina does nothing but fight her companions, it would be suicide to continue to follow her. She grabbed up her book and stormed outside.

Zira's ear was twitching rapidly in her own annoyance with Alera and she held tightly to her fork with restraint. "I wish there was a bloody door to lock!" she growled, still not releasing her fork. "Is she ALWAYS like this?"

Granite was getting frustrated as well, nearly everyone was. She was no warrior and not knowledgeable on tactics. Didn't Alera say something about the Chaos Gate destroying the city? And didn't Sevrina say yesterday that it was not a weapon, but a power source for the Chaos Generals? Well, she didn't want to think about it either. She didn't have the chance to tell Zira her name until Alera stormed out. At first she was annoyed by Zira's rude tone, but she was under stress from Alera, it was understandable.

"My name is Granite Stone," she finally said, extending her small, slightly pudgy, but very deft hand across the table. "Yes, she's always like that. She gets on everyone's nerves. Yesterday, she and Sevrina got into a screaming match because Alera wasn't paying attention to what Sevrina was saying and kept contradicting her. I think she wants to believe the Chaos Gate is a weapon. Sevrina already said it's not. We were planning all day yesterday and what good did it do us? I don't think Sevrina knew WHAT was coming, she was just told something WAS coming."

Zira took Granite's hand and shook it as Granite explained a little about her experiences with Alera. "So I see. She's hard to deal with. Well, I'm Zira." She smiled and leaned back. Now her frustration was alleviated. Hopefully someone else didn't feel like starting a conflict. And when was Seri going to come?

Nodding and sipping his tea, Edwin shook his head at Alera and her reaction and looked over to Zira as she talked to Granite. "From what I have seen Alera is very stubborn and hard to deal with, but to be honest I only meet her yesterday."

Isorith frowned as she watched the 'heroes' still bickering. Maybe it was a mistake to join with them. But tensions were high, and there were a lot of very different people. Elves, light and dark, humans, dwarves. People who didn't normally get along. Isorith had some respect for the dark elf Zira. She removed one conflicting member, and Isorith could see her stance on rest. It was early in the morning and not half the inn was downstairs yet. Alera was impatient.

"Sairina, Elza," Isorith said to the younger priestesses, "return the weapons to their owners?"

The girls nodded. Isorith looked around the room to see who was here, and picked out Orion's whip, bow, quiver and daggers and piled them in Elza's arms. She found Sevrina's rapier, whip, bow, punch claws, fighting daggers and a few throwing daggers and piled Sairina's arms with that. Tiny Elza had a bit of trouble handling all of Orion's weapons, but tall Sairina had just as much trouble with Sevrina's.

The priests of Marfa shook their heads as Alera left, disappointed in the people they had joined with. They crossed the room in a line to the table nearest the front of the inn and ordered breakfast. They even laid their healing hands on the maid and gave her a burst of energy.

* * *

Luda sat silently and drank some warm tea. She was within earshot of Zira's conversation, taking note of names and information about everyone around that might be useful. Ardyn came to join her soon after the outbursts. Luda thought that maybe people like him trained themselves to wake up to certain sounds like yelling or weapons clashing. Other than that, she never saw Ardyn wake up to a noise. He sat down next to Luda to the meal she saved for him. "Thanks. What was all that noise about?"

"Some disgruntled members of our team, if this group can even hold such a name."

He answered through a stuffed mouth, "Some organized authority wouldn't hurt, but I guess we are in Raiden, and that's just how things operate around here." His food was gone very fast. Luda smiled. He noticed she was more cheery than usual, even though last night had been a horrible experience. She was more
talkative now, and smiled more often.

"Don't you have a sore back from sleeping like that?" she asked.

"Nope, I can sleep anywhere. In my line of work you don't often get a choice."

Luda returned to her thoughts. She would always have a home somewhere in Lodoss, but Ardyn would probably never have a place to go to. "If you travel with me, you'll have plenty of places to stay," she said without thinking first, which was unusual.

Ardyn looked up in surprise at the sudden casual tone of her voice. "Really?"

"Yes of course, you'll be welcome in the houses of my family."

They continued conversating about Luda's family, and wondering what they would be doing next as everyone else was eating and readying for the day ahead.

* * *

Finding he was at a loss over what to do besides agree that someone should leave otherwise there won't be an inn left standing Nipa hopped out of his chair and moved away from them. As he moved though he saw a woman sitting off to herself with what he thought was maybe reddish hair. Not recognizing her he decided to try and improve on his day by meeting someone new.

Almost skipping, he went over towards the woman. "Good Morning My Lady, I am Nipa, Grass Runner of Alecrast." He gave her a small bow, and being only four foot two and a half inches, it was a small bow.

Gettie turned her gaze back towards the steam rising from her mug of tea. She could smell a woodsiness of the herbs and bark from the drink. Being in Raiden, she surmised, they could probably acquire proper tea but had likely extended their supplies by mixing in local forest findings. When she looked back up, she was startled by the little man standing proudly before her table and, with dignity and charm greater than that possessed by someone twice his height, bowed and introduced himself. Gettie was so shocked that the years of compulsory etiquettes overcame her despite the significant presence of a table. As she rose, her curtsy was cut short by the table's edge which upset her tea and sent her buckling back into her seat with a bewildered look as her ingrained properness was rudely interrupted by physical laws. Stammering for the words and grasping for her cup, trying to right everything but only managing to create more disarray, she finally dispensed with even trying and left things as they were. Regaining her poise, she carefully removed herself from her seat while shaking off droplets of tea from her fingertips, stepped away from the table and returned the honor by giving a proper curtsy while reciting, "Lady Gettie Mara, First daughter of the Manor of Duvia of the Kingdom of Alania, with respects, gentle representative of Alecrast."

Nipa had tried to save the Tea, but he too had little hope of helping. When she introduced herself he was truly amazed. "The Kingdom of Alania! This is truly a gift of Cha Za that I should meet someone of your status." He bowed deep to her, "I am at your service M' Lady," He told her as he grinned. The fact that she had just spilled her tea and had just been fumbling was completely lost on him when he heard who she was. He knew that this was going to be a good day. "Do you mind if I join you a while? It seems that they are going to be doing a lot of talking about things I have no information on."

A faint blush betrayed the cool and aloof image her etiquette was supposed to present as the grassrunner bowed and spoke. She gently curtsied once more, "Gentle Nipa, I thank you for your offer. You honor me and your people."

The company would actually be a pleasant relief. She admitted to him, "It would please me if you would," as she took her seat. "Please, Gentle Nipa," she began hesitantly, not sure how to address anyone assembled or even if titles were appropriate for the current situation, "Would you be so kind to tell me what is happening? What is that in the sky? What happened last night? Who are these people? What has happened to Raiden?" Her eyes expressed an exasperation and fear that burned through any mask of properness.

Nipa's smile faded slightly then came back full force as he thought of what to say. Sitting at the table near her so he did not have to look over the edge of the table he began the tale as he knew it. "Well, bad I believe it was two days ago the sky was clear and then some general showed up named Vesper and he put that there. We had a fight outside with some really big lizards too! I got one of them and then he declared that in three days time he would return to destroy us all. Well we are just a day away and are still no closer to stopping him, but I am sure that by the luck of Cha Za that we will win."

For a moment he looked around the room and tried to spot those that he recognized. "I have only met a few of them here...' he pointed discretely to Granite, "She was one of the first few I met, a female Dwarf named Granite. She is fun to talk to."

Scanning around he found a few more, "And then there is Sevrina, she is kind of the leader here, and is a Dark Elf! Oh Cha Za has been so wonderful to me, I got to meet a Dwarf, a Dark Elf... Oh make that a few of them and humans and this has been such an interesting time! Oh do I not wish though that I could have met them under better circumstances, but alas if things were better I do believe that they would not have been here."

"Let's see... We have the priests of Marfa, Cha Za, Myrii, and others here as well... I scarcely know them all. Oh and Elves too, the fair elves or High elves and then the common elves, though I do not see what could be common about an elf, and of course royalty! I count myself blessed just to have meet so many wonderful people."

Nipa suddenly blushed as he realized he had been rambling on. "Excuse me, I seem to forget occasionally that not everyone shares my excitement about this. Most of those here just take all these difference in stride as though it were nothing, but to me it is all fresh and new."

* * *

Sevrina quietly picked at her breakfast, which was large. She was hungry and her stomach was crying for food in all sorts of interesting combinations that would have made her queasy before pregnancy. But she was so confused and frustrated that she didn't touch it. At least Blade was here. It felt as if that alone had kept her from hurting Thorn.

Sairina grumbled to herself as she went to Sevrina's table. She curtsied gracefully with her arms full. "Madam, the enchantments are finished." Sairina juggled the weapons into the crook of her arm and used her free hand to lay them all out on the table. Daggers, the small bow in it's case, the punch claws in their sheaths, the curled black leather whip, and her rapier. Hopefully that was all.

Sevrina watched the priestess lay out her weapons, then gave her a small smile. "Thank you...Serina?" She stumbled on the girl's name again.

"Sairina," the girl corrected, and curtsied again. "You're welcome," she added, then turned back the table where the other priests were.

Sevrina looked at her impressive collection of arms and frowned. She had the sudden desire to just do away with all of it. She ate a little more of her breakfast, then pushed the plate aside. "I'm going to go visit my horse," she murmured to Blade, then walked to the back door.

"Hm?" Blade aimed his head upwards before pushing himself off the table and hopping up onto his feet. Once his weight had shifted to his boots he almost fell backwards from the sudden motion. Once he had regained his balance Blade threw his arms out in a long stretch and followed Sevrina.

Sevrina glanced back at Blade, then pushed out the back door into the stable yard. The stalls were all full now, with sometimes two horses in each. The stable yard was small and dark, but sheltered. The roof held through the acid rain storm, and the horses were safe. Seana and the white stallion Sevrina bought for Blade were stabled beside each other. Sevrina smiled brightly when she saw her horse and went see her. Seana was happy to have some actually contact with another person, she still hardly knew Sevrina. "Hey beautiful," Sevrina said and pressed her forehead against Seana's dished nose. Seana bobbed her head a little and lipped Sevrina's shoulder.

* * *

Elza approached Orion and tried to curtsy, but nearly spilled some of his arrows. "Here, your weapons have all been enchanted," Elza said, blushing. She looked up at Orion with a small smile and her eyes became dreamy. "With Cha Za's good fortune," she finished.

Orion smiled and took the weapons off her hands. "Thank you," he put them all back and bowed to her slightly. He smiled again and noted the girl's blush. He tried not to blush because on his pale face it stood out violently and everyone always noticed.

Elza was starstruck by Orion, so tall and handsome. He made white look good. Certainly, that face would be in her daydreams for months to come. She noticed he was blushing too and nearly giggled. "I'm Priestess Elza," she said and extended her small hand to him.

Orion found something about the women he could not resist and kissed her hand gently. He realized he was blushing. He could feel the warmth on his cheeks but ignored it, knowing there was nothing he could do about it. "I'm Orion. Its a great pleasure to meet you Elza."

Elza did giggle nervously now. "It's...nice to meet you Orion," she said, dreamily staring into his deep blue eyes. She felt giddy at his touch and kiss on her hand.

"Elza!" Isorith called across the room, causing Elza to jump.

Elza glanced back. "Coming Sister Isorith!" she called back, then took her hand back. "Sorry, duty calls." She curtsied again and scurried away to the table where the weapons were, waiting for her next instructions. Every now and then she would glance across the room at Orion.

Orion couldn't help but feel a little sad she had to leave but smiled as she walked away. He felt a strange attraction to the girl though he could never explain it. He looked up at her from time to time without even really noticing the action.

Zira glanced over at Orion and the priestess Elza as they greeted each other, both of their faces tinted red. Zira chuckled softly to herself. "Hey Orion, why don't you come over and visit us?" she called to the pale elf.

Turning his head, Edwin laughed slightly seeing Orion and Elza. He nodded as Zira called Orion over to them. "Well I am glad to see you in a good mood Orion and that it appears you have found a friend."

* * *

Gettie listened as Nipa recounted his adventures and experiences and tried to keep tally of those of the assembled that he was able to acknowledge, particularly the dwarven woman. However, the talk of so many dark elves made her weary. Gettie knelt her head towards Nipa and discretely inquired, "The... dark elves, have they made themselves... troublesome? Are they trustworthy?" Her intellectual mind was ashamed at such prejudice but having spent her life in the folds of Alanian nobility, dark elves and Marmo were akin to dark memories.

"Also, is there a leader here? An officer or appointed diplomat? I have found myself in... um, rather unfortunate circum..." She choked on a sob. Abducted, her father's, and her, favorite retainer murdered, the company of strangers in a far away and cursed city...simply unfortunate circumstances. She blinked the tears away from her eyes and apologized, "Forgive me gentle Nipa. I find myself in unfortunate cir... OH FUCK IT! FUCK BEING PROPER! What the hell is going on??? Who am I supposed to talk to? What sort of fight have I found myself in?" Her hysterics faded but left her pale and panting, her fingers clenching into the table.

Nipa was about to answer her about the dark elves that he knew of when she began to go into hysterics. He placed his hand on hers in a gentle fashion. "You're ok now," he told her gently. There is no one in here that has any ill will towards you right now." He was not about to tell her about the guy in the cellar, Cray, he was very scary to almost everyone and those that showed now open fear hid their fears well.

"I am not sure about the leader, that is a hard one to sort out, but there are several here that will listen and may even offer to help you more. I have offered you my services, that is all that I have at the moment." He bowed his head ashamed, he was not a great fighter, nor even a large person, but he would do what he could. Right now it seemed that she needed all the help she could get. So intent was he on trying to calm her that he did not even look around to see if anyone else had heard.

* * *

Suddenly, she heard some loud cursing from the table on her other side where they young woman Azoth and Altaris found yesterday was talking to Nipa. Zira stared in surprise at such words from that demure girl.

Reaching into his pouch Edwin shook his head as his fingers touched his dice. "Well the best thing at times like this is to relax, to enjoy ones self and have nice conversation while you can."

Gettie buried her face in her hands for a moment, feeling the tension of weeks uncoil and rattle throughout her body. She let her arms fall and regained some semblance of composure before looking back at the grassrunner. With a breath she began, "Nipa, your offer ennobles you. I believe I need to walk outside for a while. You are welcome to escort me." She absently flicked some spilled tea off her fingers and wrung the corner of her sleeve which had grown dark from the small puddle on the table as she rose and cautiously stepped towards the doorway.

Nipa stood with her and had he been taller he would have helped her out of her seat. "I would be glad to join you," he told her as he walked beside her.

Gettie stepped outside, discretely avoiding the mess she'd made a short time ago. There were few people around, more appropriate for a city maybe a third the size as this. She smelled the sea on the wind, the odors of seaweed, brine and rotting fish. People smells rang out and gave hints to their otherwise hidden lives. Gettie's nose twitched as she took in the information. She saw the faint tracks of a small animal who had run these streets scarcely hours earlier. Fox. She could tell her own scent. Nipa was at her side, a shining and optimistic charm, guaranteed to ward off any ill omens she hoped. Gettie smiled at him and nonchalantly walked on, discretely following the fading scent and smudged prints of the vixen.

The city seemed distantly familiar from her night's wanderings, albeit from a different perspective. Still, she'd been here before. She felt her knife tucked against the small of her back but something told her that these were dangerous times. She was unspeakably grateful for the grassrunner's company. Surely she would not be drawn into the conflict, a noble lady being conscripted. But still, her mind urged her towards being prepared. "Nipa," she inquired to her escort, "Would you know of a bowyer in these parts?"

* * *

Kiran had fallen asleep with Moryssa in his arms, though he was on top of the covers. He woke in the same position, with her back turned to him and pressed against his body. Kiran smiled to himself and buried his face in her ivory and breathed her scent deeply.

He sat up, propping himself on his elbow and looked down on her. "Mory?" he asked, brushing her hair back from her face. He was afraid she had slipped back into unconsciousness, but he had faith in her strength to pull herself through.

Moryssa opened her eyes slowly. "Hmm. Hi, handsome." Her voice was scratchy and she needed a bath.

Despite her scratchy voice and need for a bath, Kiran smiled and kissed Moryssa gently. All that mattered was that she was awake. "Good morning beautiful," he replied after he broke the kiss. "Do you think you can get out of bed? There's breakfast cooking and a bath chamber here."

Kiran sat up and straightened his clothes. The sounds of fighting had died downstairs. Kiran recalled what happened when Toan was under the influence of the sword back in Kanon regretfully. He understood now the implications of selfish brawls like that, and he didn't want to see anymore while they were at war with these Chaos Generals.

Moryssa looked at Kiran. "Has the bath already been drawn?" She forced herself to sit up, the runes in her stomach burning more intensely with every pleasant thought. She didn't care, though. Kiran was with her and Toan was sprawled out on the floor. This was the way things were supposed to be.

Kiran chuckled, "No, I'm afraid it's not," he replied. "Why don't we go take care of that?" Kiran slipped off the bed and stood with his hand out to help her up.

Moryssa smiled a bit and took her loves hand. She made sure to cling to him, although this time it wasn't out of weakness. She loved Kiran. The way he held her, the way he smelled (even without a bath, although the fresh smell was better) and the way his face squinched up with concern. "I love you, handsome." It hurt to stand, but Kiran was with her.

Kiran held her close to support her, watching her every move with utmost concern. "I love you too beautiful," he said with a smile and kissed her forehead. She seemed to be getting better. "Well, to bath we go," Kiran said softly, then looked over the bed at Toan fast asleep on the floor. He didn't need to hear that last comment. Of course, Kiran had no clue what she would want to do in this bath, but he could hope.

* * *

Zira nodded, "And I don't think Alera realizes how important that is." She glanced at the clock on the mantle of the fireplace, pendulum swinging as it ticked off the seconds. It was about six in the morning now. Blaze had yet to come down, and there was no word from Seri yet. Well, nothing too important was happening and she was glad Blaze was still in bed. He would probably impose on her conversations anyway. She was still frustrated with him for wanting to kill Sevrina the night before.

She heard heavy footsteps coming from upstairs and for a moment, thought it was Blaze, but it was Altaris and Azoth who came downstairs. They were out of armor, but Altaris had his sword belted on. Zira admitted to herself that the half-elf knight and dark elf knight were much more handsome out of armor.

"Good morning Zira," Altaris said warmly and pulled out a chair to sit in. Azoth bowed to the group at the table, then sat down in the chair beside Zira.

"Good morning guys," Zira said, then turned to her friends at the table. "This is Azoth," she pointed to the dark elf next to her. "That's Altaris," Her pointing shifted to the half-elf. "And this is Edwin Starym, Granite Stone, and the anti-social elf over there is Orion," she introduced those she shared the table with, adding a wink to Orion who still hadn't moved from where he stood and looking like he was still blushing.

Isorith noted Azoth and picked out his sword and daggers. She handed them to Elza. The sword was nearly as long as Elza was tall and she carried it with both arms wrapped around the scabbard. She walked over to the table, looking very much like a child carrying her father's sword. Elza was seventeen, nearly eighteen, but just very small. She bowed her head to Azoth, instead of curtsying. "Sir, your weapons.

"Ah, thank you," Azoth said and quickly took them off her hands. He bowed in his seat to her, and this time she curtsied properly, then went back to the table her sisters were at. She gave Orion a little wave as she went.

Orion blushed even darker as Elza waved and his face became blood red. He waved back and looked toward Zira as she spoke. He realized Zira was talking about him and blushed darker. "Uh...sorry," he said pulling up a chair slowly. He could still feel the warmth on his cheeks and as he tried to hide it without success. He knew his cheeks were nearly consumed in red, which made his pale face stand out even more but he knew no way to stop it.

Zira chuckled as blushing Orion sat down. She didn't think he could get any redder. "Hey, just relax 'rion," Zira said, already shorting his name in a friendly nature. She extended her hand across the table to him. "I'm Zira. Have you ordered breakfast yet?"

With a little effort, Orion managed to control his blushing and shook her hand. "Actually, I hadn't really considered eating this morning. Rough night I guess." Truly, he hadn't even thought of food and was in a strange mood. He normally would have ignored Zira's invitation to join them but he hadn't. Though he normally didn't blush over a girl either. He glanced at Elza but redirected himself, knowing if he met her eyes he would blush again.

Zira caught his glance over to priestess Elza again and chuckled. "My, are you smitten," she commented. Unfortunately, that'd probably make him turn completely red. "Why don't you order some breakfast though, you could use the energy, Falis knows what will happen today. That goes for you mighty knights too." She said and arched a brow at Azoth and Altaris.

Laughing at Orion slightly and shakes his head, Edwin took out his dice and rolled them. "Orion you are smitten, my friend. She is a nice lady you should not pass up a sure thing."

Stretching and looking at his dice, Edwin shook his head as he had rolled snake eyes. "Why do I have a feeling today is not going to be my lucky day?" Turning his head, he raises his hand to catch the attention of the waitress. "Anyway I need to get breakfast myself."

Orion looked at Zira then Edwin and blushed again. "Maybe I am." he glanced at Elza again. Something about her seemed to draw him in. Yes, she was fair but her physical beauty was not what caused him to keep looking to her. Something in her eyes told him he could trust her. It was her eyes that had him captivated. He shook his head gently. He smiled at Edwin. "You're probably right, but breakfast is something we both lack. He too raised his hand to catch the waitress. He wasn't all that hungry, but something to drink might not be a bad idea.

"She really likes you too, I think she was almost drooling," Zira said as she glanced back towards the priests. "I wouldn't blame her though," Zira looked back at Orion with a smirk and a wink. Good thing Blaze wasn't up yet, she had no clue how he'd react to that comment. Zira heard more footsteps coming downstairs and saw Kiran guiding Moryssa. "She's awake..." Zira said to herself, but didn't bother them as the continued down the hall out of the common room.

With an arm around her shoulders, he led her out of the room and downstairs. They didn't stop to chat in the common room. The only people they knew down there were Zira, Azoth and Altaris. People Kiran wasn't too fond of talking with. To the left of the stairs, was a hallway which led to the cellar door--which was missing just like the front door--and the door to the bath chamber. It sounded quiet in there, he knocked, heard no answer, then opened the door and led Moryssa in.

"Do you want me to stay or go?" he asked. He definitely wanted to stay, but it was all up to her.

Moryssa thought about it for a moment. She had a beautiful body and her clothing obviously showed it. But what would he say when he saw the runes Anubis saw engraved on her. She moves slowly towards the bath without a word. After a moment she looked at him. "I'm a big girl, I can wash myself." She turned then turned back. "But it is a little hard to get my back."

Kiran's face fell a little after she denied him, but brightened the instant she turned around and changed her mind. He smiled, almost on the verge of a smirk. "I would be honored to help you, my love," he said and gently laid his hand on her hip. "Shall we?"

* * *

Granite sat silently, looking a little bored. She kicked her feet that couldn't reach the ground in the human-height chair. Her bearded chin was in her hands, which were propped up by her elbows on the table. Nobody was noticing her, everyone talking about Orion and Elza. She too heard the sounds of footsteps on the stairs and saw a familiar face. Moryssa, the dark elf merchant from Blue Dragon Island. Well, when Sevrina got her armor, she mentioned that Moryssa had sent the request months before. No one else had gone to her parent's forge though, all the armor worn was obviously not the Stoneheart family's work.

Moryssa looked weak and the handsome dark elf with her was going out of his way to make her more comfortable. They disappeared down the hall were the bath was and Granite giggled conspiratorially. Those naughty elves!

Granite ordered her own breakfast, by now the table was completely surrounded by people, and she didn't think there'd be room for anyone else.

* * *

Blade took a spot by his unnamed horse who immediately moved forward to nuzzle his new human rider. Blade's hand went up instinctively and rubbed the horse's jaw as he kept his eye on Sevrina, who had changed since the day before. For the better in his opinion.

"We should ride..." Blade suggested as he ran a hand down his horse's throat. "Horses are meant to be free."

Sevrina smiled a little with Blade's suggestion as she gently petted Seana. The mare nudged her softly and sniffed at her, aware of her distress. "Yeah, let's get out of this god forsaken city for awhile," Sevrina replied. "And away from people."

Sevrina unlatched the stall door, and noticed a light in Seana's eyes come on. Instantly, the mare was frisky and pranced out of the stall. Sevrina guided her with only her hand on the horse's neck and didn't even bother saddling her, instead, she hoped onto Seana's back and waited for Blade.

Blade followed her lead. Once his horse had been freed from his stall he launched himself onto the horse's bare back with his left arm. The horse remained still for him as he settled, tightening his legs around the horse's sides. With a light nudge the horse took out of the stables stopping and shaking his head wildly once it bathed int he outside air. There was no true sunlight outside and the feeling of dread still hung over the city, but it was still freedom.

"Come on!" Blade reached forward and patted the horse's mane. "We are free."

Sevrina was about to ride out after Blade, but she caught a glimpse of another horse who was waiting anxiously for his turn to be freed. Sevrina had a little mischievous smile as she glanced toward Blade. She lowered her head and cast a small spell with Sylph. Metal tinkled on the cobblestone as the latches of the stalls were opened.

The horses were all obedient to the elf, and she enhanced her hold over their minds with a little soothing summoning of spirits. They stepped out of their stalls and looked to Sevrina and Seana to lead them. Sevrina grinned to Blade, "Why don't we all be free?"

She wasn't intending to cause trouble, actually, she had the same idea as the elves riding toward the city. Take them to safety. She tapped Seana's sides with her heels gently and the little bay mare leapt forward into the street. She raced Blade out of the alley and onto the main street in front of the inn followed by a herd of horses in browns, reds, blacks, whites and grays.

Blade took the lead once again, guiding the horse through the streets with his heels. "Come on boy..." Blade learned forward and rubbed the side of the horse's neck. "Run... do what you want." The horse made a loud cry and stood on his hind legs before taking off at a gallop again. They ran past the front of the inn and contained deeper into the city.

"Come on..." Warmth filled the horse from Blade's touch. "Faster... faster!"

* * *

Zira had a refill of her tea and sipped it slowly, relaxed and surrounded by new and old friends. Suddenly, the sound of thundering hooves came from the alley, then went onto the street where Zira saw Sevrina and Blade leading a herd of horses. Their horses! Zira saw Thunder running with the herd and jumped out of her seat. She ran to the hole in the wall that used to be the door and watched as they departed. "What in the name of Falis does she think she's doing?"

Azoth and Altaris had also risen with her and watched over her shoulders as their horses--including both their warhorses--followed Sevrina. "She's stealing our damn horses!" Altaris growled incredulously and started after her.

But why would Sevrina steal their horses, Zira wondered. And it dawned on her. Thunder would have been of no use here, and he would be at risk for injury in the battle. Zira smiled. "Altaris, wait," she said. Altaris paused and turned around. "She's only taking them to safety," Zira assured him.

"How can you be sure?" Altaris motioned after them, frustrated.

Azoth shook his head. "She's doing us a favor, I think."

"What are you talking about? She'll probably...." Altaris couldn't seem to think of anything. "I don't know what she'd bloody do. I just know I don't trust her Zira."

"She's doing what any elf would think of doing, take them to safety." Zira turned and went back inside to return to her seat. "Don't worry guys, if your horses were in that stable, I'm sure they'll be much better off outside the city," she told the people at her table. Reluctantly, Altaris followed her and Azoth in and sat back down.

"So where's Blaze Zira?" Altaris asked.

Aiyanna was near the inn when a whole herd of horses ran out of the stable along with Blade and Sevrina. Falis knew why they were doing it, but if Blade was doing it, it must be for some good reason. Aiyanna calmly stepped through the now doorless inn. Aiyanna saw that few more were awake. "What were Blade and Sevrina doing with all the horses?" Aiyanna asked. She ordered a cup of tea and sat down across from Zira and Edwin. Then, she realized she walked back without Jinn, she will have to apologize, sometimes she could be so forgetful.

Zira watched Aiyanna manage to squeeze in between Granite and Orion. She thought it would be impossible to fit anyone else at the table. "They would be trying to get the horses to safety, I believe. I hope. I might just help Blaze kill Sevrina if she steals Thunder." Zira sipped her tea and sighed. "Altaris, why don't you go bang on Blaze's door, eh? Bloody dragon."

Jinn, who walked at a slower pace followed Aiyanna several steps behind but stopped by the broken door and perched against the right side of the wall. He let out a small sigh and relaxed his muscles against the wood. The day seemed to drag on... Jinn could not think of anything more preparation he could do towards the oncoming battle for Raiden, he way ready to fight, ready to wield his sword against Vesper again...

* * *

Nipa walked beside her and he was happy to just be here, he was concerned for the lady, as she seemed nervous at times. When she asked about the bower he shook his head, "I have no idea, I am new to this city. Only yesterday was I shown where the temple of Cha Za was."

Gettie listened and thoughtfully nodded. This grassrunner seemed quite enamored with Cha Za, having mentioned the deity several times. He had the passion of what she assumed was a new convert. It was understandable, especially considering the circumstances.

"Well than, gentle Nipa, we shall explore together, shan't we?" she said as her eyes discretely followed the fading tracks of her previous night's wandering. Her scent marks were faded but still readable to her nose. Down that alley, across this street... Gettie didn't follow the exact path, but using her fuzzy memory and luck, managed to give the impression of idle wandering and casual glances. She knew she recognized the smell of steamed wood from somewhere last night. A cooper? Perhaps. She hoped it might be a bowyer's shop. It should be near.

"Nipa, what is your tale? How did you find your way into this dreadful situation? What is this fight about?"

"Exploring sounds good to me Milady," Nipa told her as they walked along. He was not sure of the path that they were taking but this diversion seemed to ease his mind about everything that has happened recently.

"Well, I do not have much of a tale yet, but I will tell you what ever you wish to know. My Home is in Alecrast where my father is a trader and he has trade routes that take him all over Lodoss. This cloak we got from a dark elf near Marmo I believe the place was, and these boots came from the high elves. My belt is from the Dwarves... Oh I seem to be rattling on."

He thought for a moment, "Well let me see, My tale begins about a year ago I believe when it came time for me to leave home and to begin my journey. With Cha Za's blessing I was brought across the sea to Raiden and I spent only a short time here before everything seemed to fall apart. I guess it was luck that had me in the same inn as the others. And when we were all attacked I could not just stand by, so I helped in what ways I could. Oh let's see... Oh yes, back two days ago we were attacked by wyverns and though the fight was short I managed to kill at least one before this guy named Vesper appeared and then he gave us three days before Raiden would be totally destroyed."

Nipa tried to think of a good description of that thing last night but he had only seen it for a brief moment. "Last night this thing was sent to attack us and though everyone fought hard no one seemed to stop it and then when it saw this guy in the basement it screamed and tried to run away, but he gave it a good whipping before it left." Nipa's eyes then half closed for a moment. "In the fight, a lot of valiant warriors were wounded, and even killed. That thing was the reason that there was no door to the inn."

He shivered in remembrance, "I don't really like talking about that thing, but could you tell me Milady, What brought you to Raiden?"

Gettie nodded as he related the horror from the night before, murmuring, "Yes, it was quite terrible..." Then he asked about her and she paused. She stood before an empty store front. Her memory had served her. It was a bowyer's shop, but closed and abandoned in the face of dark happenings. She put her hand against the door and, with a grunt, dislodged the loosely nailed board affixed to the inside. The dust has yet to settle and several pieces of equipment were still displayed on racks. Before stepping inside, she spoke without turning her head towards her new friend about her tale, "I was kidnapped from my family."

The words hung in the still air of the shop. Disregarding the sullen moment, she walked across the floor and selected a simple but sturdy hunting bow and quiver from the rack. "Nipa my friend... can you judge bows? What would you deem to be a fair price such such creations?" She fingered several sets of arrows and picked from those that caught her eye. "Food may be scarce before too long," she rationalized while gaging the straightness of an arrow. Her desperate rational was exposed for what it was by her fingers which lingered a fraction too long on the steel shafted arrows and wickedly bladed broad head arrows before reaching for the for conservative styles. She could smell her own fear.

Nipa was shocked and outraged that this had happened, that she had been taken from her family. Before he was able to voice his thoughts she spoke again and asked him about the bow. "It has been some time since I have had to put a price on weapons. But I will try." He watched her as she fingered the arrows and he could only guess the horrors she too has faced. Looking back at the bows he noticed a few things. "These bows over here look to be very fancy in design, but not very practical to use." He looked at a few others, they seemed plainer, but in his estimation better. "These three here do not have as much design on them, but they are made of better wood and are more solid."

"Since I noticed that you do not carry a money pouch with you, let me leave some for the merchant. I can cover the cost of a bow and a number of arrows."

"I assure you, I am neither a vagrant nor a thief. I have coin enough." Enough for the moment, she figured but wasn't certain as for how long. She reached back to the folds in the small of her back and produced a small pouch with relatively few but large denomination coins, good to conceal but difficult to remain inconspicuous from having to change the coins to small tokens. She selected one from the three that Nipa had pointed to, a sturdy and plain but well made hunting bow that was adequate for her needs: emotional security and, incidentally, hunting or defense. She picked up a few related necessities and filled a pair of quivers with arrows before leaving what seemed to be a fair price discretely behind the counter. Standing with her unstrung bow in hand and quivers slung over her shoulder, she turned and remarked, "Nipa, I feel ready to breakfast. Would you care to join me?"

"I would be happy to," he beamed. "And I must say that you probably have a better idea of hiding your purse than leaving it out in the open."

"Unless you have better choices, perhaps we should return to the inn?" She shifted her weight to her other foot and looked out the partially closed door and into the street. This was nearly the heart of a major port city yet only an occasional person crossed her vision. She rolled the unstrung bow between her fingers, fidgeting and suddenly feeling self conscious about standing in a closed shop.

Nipa laughed slightly, "No, I have no better places to eat yet, the Inn will be fine." He followed her gaze and he snickered slightly, "My father would have a fit to have customers about and no one to great them, Oh well. Shall we go? It will not bode well to tarry here too long."

"Indeed." With that, they departed the abandoned shop, closing the door behind them. Returning to the inn after their errand, Gettie nearly swooned over the scent of bacon and butter. Using another of her precious coins, she settled her balance for the room and requested a meal heartier than one would imaging would interest a woman of her stature as well as insisting on treating Nipa to whatever his preferences for a breakfast may be.

Though she insisted, Nipa believed that it would not be right for her to buy his breakfast. Politely he declined her offer and paid for his own breakfast. Hoe hoped that this day, even though it was one day closer to the destruction of the city would prove to be a good day.

As he ate breakfast with her he looked around the room and noticed that Sevrina was no longer around, "I wonder where she went?" he asked quietly though he guessed that no one would rightfully know. "Where ever she is may Cha Za watch her steps and bring her good luck."

* * *

Thorn obtained an inn not to long after. The inn was vacant, and empty. Rather nice. He would have preferred to know where Parn and Spark were staying. Be a little better then wondering if that dark elf would try to kill him. He frowned as he looked at the table. Shoty craftsmanship. It was clear this place was the sort for bandits or lower life. He didn't give that to anyone, only the sort who killed freely for money. "Young master, you alright?"

Thorn was broken out of his daze by the younger of the surviving knights, still hobbling slightly from a wound that did not appear anymore. The wound was healed, but he had said it still bothered him a little. "Oh, yeah, I'm fine. Just wondering about that army up on the hill."

frowning, Thorn got up and looked out the murky windows. The inn was located near the center of Raiden, near the black smith shops and the slums, in fact, probably in the slums. He wanted to be out of sight. But he also wanted to find out exactly who these people were. "I shall investigate them myself."

The young knight frowned and gave a rather dark look. "Yeah, and if they turn out like those dark elves back there? Maybe worse? Damn elves, all are capricious. Excluding you sir."

Thorn smirked, he really didn't need a yes man. Now he didn't know if there was a right or wrong party in that dispute. The woman had not been in the right in striking him, but he shouldn't have banged on the door. Of course, that other dark elf woman had no right to bind him. He was surely in the right for giving her a taste of her own medicine. "There is no choice. Its very likely Sevrina will not tell this army about our presence. Though I'm sure Lady Deedlit and Sir Spark will tell them. But I would like to see this army up close. Stay here. I might bring some of them with me, I doubt there is much room in the other inn."

He gave a slight bow, then exited his inn. This place was definitely the slums. It wasn't so bad. He had been in worse. He only hoped the army was still in the same spot, otherwise he would have to search. Probably would not add much time to his travel, but still enough to be a hindrance.

* * *

Seri finished her breakfast and noticed that nearly everyone else had finished as well. The tents were all down, saddles were being packed, horses being saddled, the carts brought by the centaurs were being loaded up too. A few stragglers were getting the last of breakfast, but the fires weren't being stamped out yet. Seri found Sera and went to her.

"It looks like everyone is ready," She told Sera. "Give your rangers the order, and we'll be on our way to Raiden." Seri glanced back at the city and trembled. The Chaos Gate loomed darkly without change, so dark it seemed to suck in the light.

She walked away from Sera to where her tent had been--it was down and she had given it to a ranger to put in the wagon. Ilavirin stood waiting, she was well rested and saddled. When she saw Seri, she danced toward her, anxious to be on. The Chaos Gate was disturbing her, Seri could sense, but Ila felt that as long as she was with her Elf, all would be well. Seri patted the gray mare's muzzle, then climbed into the saddle.

Sera nodded, mounting her horse. She wasn't really used to riding, but she would deal with it. If nothing else, she could walk. It wasn't as if Raiden was far away now. "Alright, mount up and prepare to move in. Anyone not ready, well, your left behind."

She watched as Seri approached the lead again. Not that it bothered her. Nothing would compared to that thing in the sky. A blight that would not go away, and caused a sickness in her stomach. When everyone was ready, mounted, she looked around. Where is she? Wait, who am I looking for? Is... Is something. Sera shook her head, she wasn't forgetting anyone. But there was a feeling in the back of her head. "Lets move out."

* * *

Erias finally found something to do, packing their tents and preparing to enter Raiden. He then finally attended to the horses, he treated them with some sugar cubes and apples from his own supply. He patted them on the neck and gave extra carrot for his own horse which he named Roshaun. Roshaun was name of kind head of the Kanon Mercenary's Guild. He wasn't sure if he was still but the time he was there for several months, Roshaun was the head. "Come on Roshaun, shall we go into this empty city and have some awesome adventure together?" Erias laughed quietly to himself when the horse nighed in return.

* * *

Cara and Dina with Rain's help got the carts ready to go again. "I think we may have gone overboard in trying to help them... I don't much like this cart very well."

Dina laughed at him, "But Cara, you're a natural workhorse."

Grumbling Cara went about his work as both Dina and Rain snickered at him, and truth be told, Cara had been the ideal one to pull this much weight. As it was, it had been mostly up to Cara to pull it as Dina had to concentrate mostly on holding the spell.

Leaf, however, hoped up on Dina's back. "Miss me?" she asked with a playful giggle. She was trying to be in a good mood to make the others feel better.

Dina laughed when she jumped onto his back. "Miss you, I can barely tell when you're on my back or not." Though he played light of it, it occurred to him that maybe having someone else around was not so bad, at least Leaf gave Rain someone else to talk to.

Rain rubbed the last of sleepiness out of her half opened eyes. "Hey Leaf," delighted she waved to the other half-elf when she saw her approaching. "Have a good sleep and all? That thing in the sky... do you know what it is, I mean-" It was still strange for her to have someone like herself around.

Though, Rain's happy babbling stopped abruptly when her stomach gurgled loudly. Falling into an embarrassed silence the half-elf's ear twitched, while she stared down at the noisy complainer. "Eh heh... I forgot to get breakfast..." She hadn't eaten since Dragon Eye's inn and melee incident and the large looming sweat drop reminded of that thought. "I'll be right back..." she bolted off Cara's back, and charged into snatch the last remains of food in the camp. Hurriedly eating it as she returned, it took her a few seconds of scrambling to climb unto the large of the two centaur's back. Using Cara's back as a chair, sitting backwards, Rain rested her head and back while eating. "Want some Cara," turning she cheerfully asked, kneeling and leaning over his shoulders held out a piece of elven bread with a slice of game fowl on it...

Cara took what she offered as he always seemed to be hungry. Dina and Rain would occasionally tease him about eating like a horse, but since he was part horse it did not bother him. Besides, he needed all the energy he could get today and he knew that something big was about to happen.

While Cara chewed on his breakfast Dina tried to answer her questions, "I am not entirely sure what that thing in the sky is, though I think we will be told soon." Looking over his shoulder at Leaf he chuckled, "Well how do you like hanging out with centaurs now?"

Leaf smiled and giggled. "It's fun Dina," she said. Her gleeful expression didn't stay long though. The black hole in the sky was oppressive. She was a warrior though, if she stood up to Wagnard and Kardis, she could stand up to some evil hole.

"Fun then, well hold on because I do not plan to be at the back of these... um... "he waved to those in front of them, there were a elves, both light and dark as well as humans so there was no one term he could apply to them all.

"Dina's right, Hold on Rain, Leaf... We're gonna move to the front of this." Cara told them.

Leaf stuck with the centaurs as they prepared to leave. Her own belongings were tossed in the cart, though she normally wore her pack. But hey, she could always ride Dina again if it rested her feet. "Well, at least you don't have to pull people, they can walk to Raiden."

* * *

Seri turned Ilavirin out to the road, the gray mare pranced energetically, but Seri wasn't feeling the same. Ila was merely comforted with her presence. Seri waited on the road with Sera, watching their people follow on horseback or foot. "We should leave the horses outside the city," Seri mused to Sera. "I don't want to lose any more life than necessary in this battle." She stroked Ila's neck affectionately. She wondered for a moment if she had revealed too much from what she saw in Cassandra's vision.

Mia and Fou-Lu rode out of camp. Lucied was keeping pace with the horses on Mia's side. She made no efforts to take back her role as leader from Seri, she was doing a better job and Mia was still too ashamed of being punished by her. Mia rode up alongside Seri and Fou obediently rode behind her. "Horses, right," Mia caught Seri's last remark, "How about we have an elf lead the herd to the dark elf forest?"

Seri nodded. "You know where it is, why don't you and Fou-Lu take care of it?"

Mia shrugged. She didn't like being the one ordered, but she'd do it for Seri. "All right." she replied, then looked back at Fou. "Tell the others to leave their horses at the city gate." At least she could order someone.

Naclia and Talen rode out of camp after several rangers and worked their way to the front of the line where Talen finally came to a stop beside Fou-Lu, just behind Seri. "I wonder who's all in Raiden?" Naclia mused. She wondered who they lost as well. Was Ariakan still alive? She had faith he was, he was a dragon-kin and sorcerer. He would have killed Ralathan if she hadn't jumped in and gave the killing blow. What about Gale? Did he ever find Sevrina? Did Zira ever finally give into Blaze? She hoped they all were well; Deedlit, Parn, Alwyn, Ariakan, Moryssa, Kiran, Zira, Blaze, Gale, maybe not Sevrina, Blade, Kai, Zatch, Kitain and his companions. Had they met anyone new? Did Ariakan find his beloved Akaria in Raiden? Naclia rested her chin on Talen's shoulder plate and wrapped her arms around his waist.

Fou nodded to Mia, then turned to Naclia and Talen who had ridden up alongside of him. "We're leaving the horses outside of Raiden, pass the message along."

Naclia nodded and leaned back to yell it to the closest ranger, then leaned forward again to hold onto Talen.

Ryna and Callin were still sharing their horse and they rode up to the front of the group so Ryna could be closer to the people she knew.

Aiden and Aaewin rode up alongside the other rangers and up to the front of that group, staying on the outside. Aiden's face was blank, but he was deeply troubled by the black hole over Raiden. With so many people around him, he felt like was going to war, but wasn't that why the rangers were here? Aaewin rested her head against his back, trying to hide her face from the hole.

* * *

After the elves had all filed into the group, Jonas drove his wagon to the end of the long line. Arturo, Fasz, Luria, Joline and Erias were flanking him. Kazh'e in the front as usual, the other men at the back. Jonas was afraid that there was nothing in Raiden for him, he was certain, but he could head north to Hishi and wait out whatever battle awaiting in Raiden. He'd let some of the mercenaries go, but keep the rest. He didn't need many to get to Hishi. On his bench seat, he had a large purse heavy with coins, with which he'd pay out his employees. He counted out Luria's gold, generously adding on the wages for this entire day. "Luria!" He called, leaning over the side of the wagon to see her.

Luria jumped at the calling of her name and scampered over to Jonas's side. This was her first job as a mercenary where things actually happened not that anybody else had to know that, but she was a little nervous. She saw that he was counting out some gold pieces. This could be really good or really bad. "Yes sir!" she responded with a little more enthusiasm than what was necessary.

Jonas counted out her pay to her and put it in a small purse and handed it over. "That's for yesterday and today," he said. "FASZ!" Jonas hollered as he looked passed his wagon.

Fasz heard Jonas say his name loudly, then he moved next to him. "Yes sir?" he asked. He noticed Jonas doing something before, but he didn't really know what it had been, it was obvious Raiden was a mess inside, it was possible that he had to find another job after entering Raiden, he didn't think Jonas was going to do very well in the city. But it didn't matter much, Fasz was sure he would find a job after leaving Raiden if he had to, he wouldn't mind riding to another town if needed, he would find food and water for the trip. But it was possible that he was going to keep his job and return to Moss.

Luria beamed as she received her pay and said "thank you sir!" very quickly. She jumped back a significant distance as Jonas called for Fasz rather loudly. He switched from kind to demanding very quickly, she noticed. But she was dismissed so she headed back towards Joline. "Hey! I got some cash!" she said as she sprinted back towards her. "It's too bad Raiden's messed up, I guess I'll have to wait until next time to treat everyone."

Jonas counted out Fasz's pay, then poured all the gold--there was a considerable amount compared to Luria's--into Fasz's money pouch. With him taken care of, Jonas waved Fasz back into his position, then leaned over the other side of the wagon where Arturo was riding. "Arturo!" he hollered.

Fasz received his pay and thanked Jonas, then moved back to his position. He heard Jonas calling for Arturo, he was going to pay all his mercenaries. When they were inside Raiden most of the people who joined with Jonas and his mercenaries in Moss were going to fight in the city. Fasz didn't understand what was happening, but he surely wanted to know. Fasz usually worked in Moss and Raiden, now he would have to travel a lot outside Moss to survive, so he decided he would stay in Raiden after finishing his mission.

Arturo looked in Jonas direction, he was in a bit of mood. Not angry, only anxious to get on with his search. But, pay was one of the better parts of his given profession. It would help, if only to get him some new leads on his father. Moving closer to Jonas's position he looked up and answered, "Yeah!! I'm right here."