Arkiana and Zalamandra - Age of Worms Trans-Atlantic Party IC

[DarkOne-Rob]

The Emporium is still very much active in spite of the late hour when Arkiana arrives. Miners, foremen,merchants, and assorted other people still flood the street outside and the chambers within the three story building. Arkiana has no difficulty making her way to the desk, as a large half-ogre seems to be handling the throng very effectively. The line to enter moves easily, and when Arkiana greets Gaspar and mentions her appointment with Madam Zalamandra he rings a bell at his side. This summons a young lady dressed alluringly who introduces herself as Chezabet and beckons Arkiana to follow her.

https://db4sgowjqfwig.cloudfront.net/images/770497/200505191527-CreateL.jpg
Chezabet leads the elven wizard to the third floor, knocking once on a door that could only be Zalamandra's before turning and leaving Arkiana alone. When Zalamandra opens the door she smiles and says, "Come in, Miss VanDuren. We have much to discuss." She opens the door to a simple but comfortable looking chamber. The bed is clearly large enough for several to share, though it is meticulously made up at the moment. There is a large dresser and vanity, with a screen and wardrobe in one corner. In the other is a luxurious looking bath large enough for two with what appears to be actual plumbing. The rest of the space is kept clear, with several plush rugs and cushioned chairs scattered about. Shag Solomon is seated comfortably on a large futon, reading a book and showing no recognition of Arkiana's presence. Gesturing to a chair, Zalamandra takes another and sits.

"First, I want this to be clear: I have a reputation to uphold, and it does not and will not include any hint of spellcasting power. I am willing to trust your discretion to a point, but should we move towards a closer relationship I will require you to prove your willingness to keep this subject private. As long as that is clear, we can move on to the matter of your tragic scars and what it will take to remove them. They look to be the result of rather severe burns, is that right?"

[Untarr]

Shifting in her seat, Arkiana maintains an upright posture, eyes occasionally flickering to the bed and the tubI umm.. well....hmm

Yes. Yes that is fine. I never knew how much I ...cared about my appeal until I lost it. Though I would recommend hiding your familiar better if you want to keep your secret. It was not difficult to tell what that was.

Her hand coming up to her face, she looks sure of herself for the first time since entering the emporium.


Yes. There was a fire. her eyes close for a moment.

A dog of a man, I suspect belonging to Kullen, tried...tried... tears well up it matters not. He's ash now. The fire got out of control and burned me.

[DarkOne-Rob]

"But do you know what it is? It could be a familiar, or it could simply be a rather dangerous pet. Do not assume things you cannot prove. It is a common failing of those with great knowledge - they often assume connections where there are none," she says as she gestures to Shag Solomon. The big creature stands up and moves to a table beside the bed, taking a small case from the top and bringing it to his mistress. Opening the case she gestures for Arkiana to look inside where the little snake lies nestled in something like a terrarium. "I have seen your scorpion, and the way it roams free. Familiars can be trusted in that way, while pets generally cannot." Returning the case to her companion, she turns back to Arkiana saying, "The little thing could still be my familiar, this is true. It could also be a trifle used to capture the imaginations of men fixated upon the exotic. Who knows?

However, we can know and do something conclusive about your scars. If you don't mind, please stand and show me the fullness of them - I am sure they are not limited only to your face, and if we are to do something about this I must know how extensive they are." She gestures for Arkiana to do that, as Shag Solomon politely turns so his back is to the two women.

[Untarr]

At first she raises an eyebrow at Zalamandra Wait, you can't be serious... Eyes falling to the floor. No one has ever seen... she trails off as almost as soon as she begins speaking. Looking between Zalamandra and Shag Solomon, panic creeps across her face. She shakes her head No, no no nonono. This is crazy. Standing abruptly. I should have never come here! Arkiana begins to make her way back to the door. Almost running when she reaches for the knob, her face turns and she catches her reflection in the vanity. Arkiana pauses and stares at herself. After several moments she releases the doorknob and lets her hand fall to her side. With a sigh, she begins to remove her clothing.

The spell component pouch comes off slowly, hands moving without thought. The cloak is next, revealing long jet-black hair that falls almost to her waist, though part of it has stopped growing where the flames touched her head. Shifting her weight from side to side, she removes her boots and the dirt from the road falls to the floor. Sorry...The buttons from her duster seem to almost undo themselves. She throws it over a chair and pauses when her hands reach for the strands that hold her breeches up. Growling, she quickly unties and lets them fall. Finally, the only thing left is her shift. Pulling it over her head, she throws it on top of the pile.

The clothing was hiding a juxtaposition. On one side it is quite clear that Arkiana was gorgeous at one point. Her delicate figure highlighted by soft white skin. No where is there fat to be seen, her elven lineage taking care of that, even though she lacks the tone in her muscles to indicate being in shape. The line between that and scar tissue stretches like a raging battle down the middle of her body. The fire had not spared on inch along her left side. Fingers of red seem to envelope her body from head to toe. If you weren't sure it was impossible, you'd almost say that there was a slight red glow coming from them.

At first she tries to cover herself with her arms, but quickly realizes the futility of such an endeavor and lets her hands fall to the floor. Walking closer to Zalamandra, she does a full turn in place. As she turns back around, a tear falls from her unscarred eye.

Please, tell me you can fix this.

[DarkOne-Rob]

Please, tell me you can fix this.
Zalamandra looks carefully and unemotionally at the extent of the horrible burns, then takes a light, gossamer robe and place it over Arkiana's shoulders, returning her modesty matter-of-factly. "Tell me - why did you not go to a priest for divine healing? I am able to help you, but the divine magical arts are known for their ability in this area," she asks, bringing a small glass of amber liquid to the elf woman and placing it in her trembling hands.

As Arkiana answers, Zalamandra goes to her furry companion and touches his shoulder gently. When they make eye contact she nods simply and he begins to adjust the furniture of the room. First he removes several rugs on the floor, revealing an intricate magic circle nearly ten feet across. Inside of this circle he places the futon and a small table. Upon the table he places a rolled up parchment, basin of water, and a variety of ointments. Finally he brings a chair into the circle beside the couch before stepping back to stand beside his mistress, waiting for her next direction.

[Untarr]

Wrapping the robe tightly around her, she begins to answer her question with a shaky voice.

I was saved from the fire by that silly halfling doctor I came with in here ealier. He woke me up, but could do nothing for the burns. By the time I was able to move around and seek healing, it was too late. She sits on the chair and bows her head in between her hands, her shoulders hunching over as she continues..

At first, I didn't care. In fact, it came as a blessing. My looks had always been a distraction away from studying. Men would never leave me alone to research. I thought I would be happy.

Waving her hand around to indicate the room.

and then I saw this place, your employees, and you. Something deep inside me seemed to move. It revolted against these scars. I had never felt such emotions before, and I did not know how to handle it. I'm sorry I was so forward. It could not be helped. Looking up

This is all highly unusual for me. A part of me wonders why I am here, while another would go crazy if I were elsewhere...

[DarkOne-Rob]

Zalamandra nods, listening closely. Her expression is controlled, but shows both compassion and empathy for the young elf's plight. "What I can offer you will not be fast, nor will it be inexpensive. My terms are simple," she says, her eyes serious as she discusses each detail. "First, you and I will enter a sort of contract. The scroll on the desk there is of a magical spell known as a Geas (http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/spells/geasQuest.html#_geas-lesser). Before we begin you will willingly accept its terms as I enact the magic. Simply put, everything about what we are doing here will be kept secret. You will be bound from speaking of my powers to anyone, as well as keeping it a closely guarded secret how your scars will come to be healed."

She walks over to the futon, table, and basin. "We will then begin the process - here, tonight. You will lay on the couch and be put to sleep using an alchemical mixture. The healing process would be painful if you were awake, so this is for your own good. Every night for a month you will come and do this. During the time you sleep I will be using ointments and arcane rituals to cause your body to magically reverse the aging process. You will grow younger up until the point that the burns took place. When your body is younger than the burns are, they will vanish. Once they are gone, our treatment will be complete.

Unfortunately, this process is not cheap. As compensation for the materials, the scroll, and my time and efforts, I will need a sum of gold from you equaling 525 gold orbs." She takes a deep breath, saying, "The scroll itself would normally be much more on its own, but I have a certain amount of empathy for women who have been hurt as you have. Do not take this charity lightly, for I do not offer it often."

Zalamandra turns to Arkiana, her aspect a mix of firm, iron will and deep caring for the woman in front of her. "Those are my conditions. Do you have any questions?"

[Untarr]

Yes. If he agreed to also take the geas, could I bring someone with me?

[DarkOne-Rob]

For moment Zalamandra does not respond, looking at Arkiana with a piercing gaze. Then she replies, "The half-elf wanderer?" Seeing confirmation in Arkiana's slightly startled expression she continues, "Yes, I will allow it. But you will be unable to speak of this until he is here first. Bring him with you tomorrow evening, and I will make the necessary agreement with him. Tonight, however, you will need to accept the treatment without him here - delaying will cause the materials I have already prepared to become inert and wastes them."

She then turns to the table and unrolls the scroll. Looking back at Arkiana she says, "Are you ready to begin?"

[Untarr]

With a nod, Arkiana lies down and closes her eyes.

[DarkOne-Rob]

Zalmandra begins by intoning the words of her scroll, repeating clearly the restrictions agreed upon earlier between the two women. After Arkiana feels the magic settle upon her, Zalamandra says, "Very good. Now just relax..."

What feels like mere moments later Arkiana opens her eyes to find herself alone in the room with a small note and her discarded clothing folded neatly on the table beside her. The note explains that the first treatment went smoothly, that Arkiana should return with her escort a bit after midnight the next evening, and to leave the note on the table when she leaves.

It is still dark outside, so Arkiana has plenty of time to return to her new home and be there before the rest of the party wakes up. She feels rested and can prepare spells for the day as if she had a full night's sleep. On her way out of the Emporium she does not see Zalamandra or Shag Solomon, though Gaspar smiles and waves from his position at the entrance.

[MuffinMan]

As you are preparing for the day, Arkiana walks over to you and asks in a hushed voice.
Can you come outside with me for a moment? I need to ask you something...privately.

OOC - Keep this going in spoilers, this conversation happens before we get to the observatory. Alternatively, we could play it out here (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?364322-Arkiana-and-Zalamandra-Age-of-Worms-Trans-Atlantic-Party-IC), your choice.

Is this really happening? I thought you'd never a-Lyr's trademark grin freezes suddenly and slowly slides off his face as he catches her serious tone. Frowning, he follows her outside.
What is it - are you hurt?? Was it the incident with Kullen yesterday? No, it was that dumb crack I made about the dice... he grimaces.

[Untarr]

Keep your voice down! she interrupts his prattling with a finger over her lips and a stern glare. Sighing and rolling her eyes, she continues..And no, this is not that. I cannot tell you why, and once you know, you will not be able to speak of it, but I need you to accompany me nightly to the Emporium. I need your protection while I take care of some...business. she pauses as she checks over his shoulder to make sure that no one else is approaching.

Well...will you help me?

[MuffinMan]

Lyr's expression quickly becomes one of confusion, but he does lower his voice, somewhat:
Wha-! Sorry, what? The Emporium? Of course I'd be happy to go bu-wait- nightly?! What kind of business?! And why are we whispering in bloody Elven?! Why can't we tell the others?!

[Untarr]

For several reasons, the foremost of which is that I don't trust them the last few words gradually crescendo until she almost yells. Staring at Lyr intently, she looks like she is breathing heavily. like I do you

Her hands clench up and her brow furls

Look, I can't tell you what is going on right now. If you will just come with me tonight, I promise you that everything will make sense.

[MuffinMan]

Lyr looks stunned by her outburst, and his mouth opens and closes several times without a sound until he finally manages:
I, uh... I didn't... uh, I- bloody woman! You make less sense than a bucketful of bloody dice, sometimes!!! He glances around quickly as he realizes his own voice has risen. Suddenly he looks down at the ground and chuckles ruefully:
...but burn me if those aren't just my kind of odds! Fine, I'll bloody accompany you tonight to conduct your bloody business, and then maybe you can be more bloody forthcoming!! He turns and steps away as if to end the conversation, but pauses and, after a moment, turns back:
You realize, of course, that this means you'll owe me?

[Untarr]

You realize, of course, that this means you'll owe me?

YOU! You want a favor from me!? staring intently at him

Hmph, I guess I should have expected no less... her eyes fall to the floor before she quickly pulls her head back, almost looking down at him.

I agree, under one condition. You have to ask me to owe you a favor only after you find out why I need your help.

[MuffinMan]

I agree, under one condition. You have to ask me to owe you a favor only after you find out why I need your help.Lyr finally grins:
Fine. That'll just give me more time to decide what it should be!
Winking, he turns around around and walks away quickly before she can argue. "Ho, Frederick! Jan! Did I hear someone say something about breakfast?!"

[Untarr]

****

Yes, even with this affliction we need to go. I have pressing business within. Though I no longer need you to come inside, I only ask that you wait for me at the door to lead me back to the house. I shall not be long.

****


As they walk along she reaches into her pocket and begins to play with the dice in her hand.

How do you do it? How do you let everything go and just let the gods decide your fate on the roll of a dice?

[MuffinMan]

I have pressing business within. Though I no longer need you to come inside, I only ask that you wait for me at the door to lead me back to the house. I shall not be long.

"No way! If we're going on this fool's errand, I'm at least gonna get my answers!" Lyr protests. "You can't get rid of me that easily." Putting one of her hands on his shoulder so she can follow his movements, he starts out along the path back to town in the fading twilight.


How do you do it? How do you let everything go and just let the gods decide your fate on the roll of a dice?

"It helps that I'm exceptionally lucky!" He grins, but after a moment continues in a more serious tone. "I don't know... I guess I've never felt at home anyplace but the road. The Dweller on the Horizon teaches that all things are part of one great journey, and to stop moving forward is to die or stagnate." He shakes his head as they continue forward. "This I know - most control is just an illusion, even in our own tiny little spheres of influence. We live or die at the mercy of forces and circumstances we do not know and cannot understand. The one thing we can control is how we let it affect us. You could obsess and worry about it all the time, and you'd drive yourself crazy! Me, I choose to live in the moment and try to make the most of it..."

He slows his pace and they walk in silence for a while. Eventually he asks her, "And what about you? What is it that drives you and pushes you so hard to succeed, even here in this backwater town? I don't think it's rumored treasure in the hills, or just the thrill of it all. What, then?"

[Untarr]

"No way! If we're going on this fool's errand, I'm at least gonna get my answers!" Lyr protests. "You can't get rid of me that easily." Putting one of her hands on his shoulder so she can follow his movements, he starts out along the path back to town in the fading twilight.

It would be best for you not to know, thought I guess it matters not in the long run. I cannot explain it to you now, you will have to wait until we arrive.




"It helps that I'm exceptionally lucky!" He grins, but after a moment continues in a more serious tone. "I don't know... I guess I've never felt at home anyplace but the road. The Dweller on the Horizon teaches that all things are part of one great journey, and to stop moving forward is to die or stagnate." He shakes his head as they continue forward. "This I know - most control is just an illusion, even in our own tiny little spheres of influence. We live or die at the mercy of forces and circumstances we do not know and cannot understand. The one thing we can control is how we let it affect us. You could obsess and worry about it all the time, and you'd drive yourself crazy! Me, I choose to live in the moment and try to make the most of it..."

I could never do that. That is just so....crazy. I have to be in control, what if something goes wrong? she shakes her head and lives with her own thoughts as they walk.



He slows his pace and they walk in silence for a while. Eventually he asks her, "And what about you? What is it that drives you and pushes you so hard to succeed, even here in this backwater town? I don't think it's rumored treasure in the hills, or just the thrill of it all. What, then?"

Her hand tightens on his forearm.
There are those who believe themselves beyond the rules because of their power, or rank. I mean to prove them wrong. I mean to show them that we are all equal under the laws of mortals. she loosens her grip

I cannot allow my surroundings to dictate my dedication to my studies. Though, our recent encounters with other wizards has exposed a folly of mine. I have neglected too much in favor of brute force. It was rash of me to think that flame was the only real solution to those I confront. I must learn to come at my enemies in ways they do not expect, or I will continuously be bested. she pauses briefly to readjust her spell component pouch.

That is something in which I will actually need your help with. I noticed in the battle with the necromancer today that your reflexes were heightened, you must show me what you did to accomplish that. Since I acquired Bigby, no one has been react as fast as I. I have enough gold to pay for any equipment we may need.

It costs a 150g to retrain a feat, which is what Arkiana is trying to do. I think it appropriate that Improved Initiative involve some sort of obstacle course or similar as the IC cost.

[MuffinMan]

I could never do that. That is just so....crazy. I have to be in control, what if something goes wrong? she shakes her head and lives with her own thoughts as they walk.

Lyr shrugs. "Suit yourself. But remember, if you let it, the Road might surprise you."


Her hand tightens on his forearm.
There are those who believe themselves beyond the rules because of their power, or rank. I mean to prove them wrong. I mean to show them that we are all equal under the laws of mortals. she loosens her grip.


For once Lyr doesn't have any snappy remarks ready, so he frowns in thoughtful silence as they continue.


That is something in which I will actually need your help with. I noticed in the battle with the necromancer today that your reflexes were heightened, you must show me what you did to accomplish that. Since I acquired Bigby, no one has been react as fast as I. I have enough gold to pay for any equipment we may need.

Lyr arches an eyebrow. "Oh, that?"
It's in our heritage, you know.
"Anyway, I can show you a few things. This is a good time to start, actually, since you won't be distracted by, ah, sight. Focus on your breathing first." He takes a deep breath in stride to demonstrate. "It's not about focusing on danger - all that'll do is tense you up and wear you out - making you slower, not faster. It's about focusing on, well, not focusing. Reach a oneness with your surroundings and they'll tell you what to do. It probably sounds crazy, I know. But I'm serious about the breathing thing. Tomorrow when we get your sight back I can start showing you some reflex drills from the Celene military. Just remember, you asked for it..."

***

He continues chatting about breathing exercises and martial drills until they reach the outskirts of town, when he suddenly realizes he doesn't know where to go next. "We've made it to town," he annouces, slowing to a stop. "Where to now?"

[Untarr]

We need to head to the Emporium. We have an appointment with Zalamandra she smiles

I know your face is filled with chagrin at having to return to that place, but I do not want you to worry. she pats his arm a few times I'll protect you.

[MuffinMan]

Lyr sighs. "Only you could make a night at the Emporium into a business transaction. Fine, I'll see how our furry young friend is doing. Come on, then." He leads them to the Emporium and follows Arkiana's directions towards the back of the establishment, gazing longingly at the dicing, carousing, and drinking going on all around them.

[DarkOne-Rob]

Chezabet greets the two as they enter, starting a bit at the sight of Arkiana being led blindly by the other. She frowns but silently guides them both upstairs to the third floor where Zalamandra is seated on a couch in the lounge. Rising at the arrival of the two, she looks closely at Lyr, her penetrating eyes looking coolly into his. "So this is your choice of partner, Miss Arkiana? I assume he knows nothing more than that you needed a companion here. What do you need to know so that we may begin, Pilgrim?" she asks, her eyes never leaving his.

Roll a DC 17 Will save. The effect is not hostile so much as uninvited.

[MuffinMan]

[roll0] vs DC 17

"Uh, let's see, begin what?? would be a good place to start!" Lyr counts off on his fingers. "Along with why are we here and what's so bloody important that we had to traipse out here in the dark of night when the woman can't even bloody see! It's been a bloody long day and I'm in no mood for guessing games." He tosses a silver piece to Chezabet. "And I'll have a whiskey, neat, since you asked."

[Untarr]

We begin nothing. Arkiana says quietly. Squeezing her hands briefly, a stern look passes over her face before she continues.

My friend here is correct, we have had quite a long day. It feels as if a lifetime has passed since I saw you Zalamandra, and that the wisdom of an old crone comes to me unbidden. I believe that fate has played a cruel trick on me, for I have been blinded by a necromancer whom we confronted this morning. Blinded, when yesterday all that mattered to me was how I looked. she sighs with a sarcastic smile.

Very ironic, wouldn't you say?

She reaches into her robe, and pulls out a dice, holding it between her finger in her thumb in front of her face.

While I have been woe to believe in fate, the series of events that have lead me here are too related for me to believe that there isn't something controlling my destiny that is out of my hands. While I do not like it, as a wise pilgrim pointed out to me, I have to accept it.

She continues to speak while rolling the dice unconsciously in her right hand.

I believe my destiny lies across a different path, and this blindness was just Fate's way of telling me where not to go. So, I have for you Zalamandra, a payment for your time and inconvenience, but I am afraid that our arrangement is at an end.

Arkiana holds up a pouch of gold coins. In it is 32 gold orbs.

[DarkOne-Rob]

Zlamandra sits quietly for a moment while Chezabet gets a drink for Lyr. After a moment she says, "I think I understand. To say I am not a bit...disappointed would be a lie, but I will respect your decision. There does not appear to be a need for the measures I have taken to be repeated with the Pilgrim." She stands and retreats, ending the audience by saying, "Chezabet will see you both to the exit when you are done with any other entertainment you plan for the evening. Farewell."

[Untarr]

Leaving the bag behind, Arkiana allows Lyr to escort her out of the room and they follow Chezabet back to the entertainment area.

I would be remiss if I did not allow you at least a bit of fun. What would you say to a drink before we head back to the house?

[MuffinMan]

"First good idea I've heard all day." Lyr says as he leads them to a table. "I don't pretend to know what that was, and I got the feeling Zalamandra wanted it that way. Is there anything else you can tell me?"

[Untarr]

If you catch a server, I just want some hot tea. I'll leave the whiskey to you. she says with a smile.

Are you familiar with a Geas Spell? she fidgets in her seat a bit.

it's a spell that compels someone to do something, or face dire consequences. Well, I am under a Geas to say nothing about our arrangement. I can say that it was the fantasy of a young elf wizard that evaporated with the dawn of realty. she says as she draws her hands over her scars.

But that is old news now. Tell me more about yourself. How did you end up here?

[MuffinMan]

Lyr frowns into his drink as she describes the spell, but doesn't say anything about it.

But that is old news now. Tell me more about yourself. How did you end up here?
"I've been wondering that same thing myself. I was following the road, same as ever, and Diamond Lake was closest spot I hadn't been yet. I actually bumped into our friend Jan on the road here." He shifts in his seat as he continues. "And I've already been here longer than I care to. Between lizardmen raiding parties, cursed dungeons, and graverobbing necromancers, this has been enough excitement for ten journeys. And once we clear out the Cairn and I get my share of the score, I can clear up some... misunderstandings with a certain mine manager and be on my way." He finishes his drink with a large gulp and gestures for another.

"What about you? You're here as some sort of apprentice to Allustan, right? You don't really believe all that nonsense about unkillable monsters and the end of days, do you?"

[Untarr]

"Apprentice? The situation is more similar to being an exile. I am a wizard apprentice of the University of Magical Arts in the Free City. As such, I am subject to their rule completely, no matter how unjust. Being assigned to Allustan is a punishment, the man is on the fringe of the university, barely a member. I am his first apprentice in some time." She sips her tea again. "I am here because I exposed a prestigious professor for what he was; a vile, wicked man dabbling in the darkest of the necromantic arts. About a week later, I was assigned to Diamond Lake to "further my education" with "field study". I knew what it was, they are trying to hide the fact that such a creature was working at the university, and I would not remain silent. I am sure there are a few who are hoping I die out here." Setting down her empty cup, Arkiana pulls her hair back over her ears.

"As far as Allustan is concerned, I believe him. The Age of Worms is well documented by the more savage cultures. They disagree on some of the finer details, but they all are congruent on the point of green worms and unstoppable undead." Hearing the clank of a servant grab her tea, she turns to them "I'll have another if you don't mind. And more for my friend here, my treat.

Anyways, with the letter from Smenk, the worm, and the prophecy from Allustan; it would seem that the circumstantial evidence is mounting. I am afraid that if we wait for absolute proof to act, the world may already be doomed. Personally, I would rather investigate and find nothing, then to let that happen."

[MuffinMan]

"You don't seem to have much luck with necromancers." Lyr admits. "And getting shipped off here is bad hand to be dealt if I ever saw one."

I'll have another if you don't mind. And more for my friend here, my treat."

"The last one, it should be, unless you want to be leading me home. Hah!" Lyr holds his third, or is it his fourth?, drink up to the light and squints at it when it arrives. "They've got a nice strong pour here, that's for certain."


Anyways, with the letter from Smenk, the worm, and the prophecy from Allustan; it would seem that the circumstantial evidence is mounting. I am afraid that if we wait for absolute proof to act, the world may already be doomed. Personally, I would rather investigate and find nothing, then to let that happen."

Lyr shifts uncomfortably as she describes the various doomsday mythologies and her acceptance of Allustan's predictions. "Personally, I would rather investigate and find a huge pile of gold. On the morrow, we may both get our wish." A short while later, his last drink finished, he pushes back from the table and stands. "We should- whoah..." he sways a bit on his feet as the blood rushes up to his head. "we'd better get back. Although we should do this again sometime, with more vision and less mysterious dealings." Taking Arkiana's hand, Lyr navigates the slightly-spinning room and starts leading them back up the road to their house.

[DarkOne-Rob]

The pair make it back home uneventfully. Each helps the other get there safely, at times Arkiana helping Lyr balance and other times Lyr leading her along the correct path. As they pass the Feral Dog Lyr thinks he sees Frederick inside, but isn't completely sure.