Salagar the Grim: The Pirate’S Gold

By Michael Egley

More than a year ago, Salagars life changed forever when he stumbled onto his grandsires secret room filled with magical items, including a Dae-inspired dagger and a mysterious journal that launched a dangerous journey to find the legendary Dagors axe. Unfortunately, now the axe is lost, and Constantine, the disloyal Priest of Dagnir, is dead. Salagar, an unlikely halfling hero, has no choice but to flee for his life.

Accompanied by his best friend, Perry, and the fiery faery, Malina, Salagar makes his way to what he hopes is anonymity in the city of Haven. Instead, he discovers his lover and companion, Sasha, has been murdered. Now lost in a world of revenge, rogues, and coin, Salagar precariously teeters on the brink of insanity and deathuntil the timely intervention of assassins sends him on a voyage replete with pirates, sea monsters, magical creatures, and gold to seek safety on the Spice Islands. As Salagars journey spans the Fast Sea, he and his friends must find an oracle who possesses the knowledge needed to defeat the Dagor and their malevolent goddess, Dae.

In this continuing saga, only time will tell if the heroes can secure the axe before the forces of evil find and release its power, forever changing the future of the world.

• Language: English
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Release date: Jan 14, 2014
• ISBN: 9781491720530

Michael Egley

Michael Egley is an author and historian who has studied ancient civilizations for over thirty years. His focus is ancient Greece and Rome. His favorite authors are Jules Verne, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Robert E. Howard. He is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin and currently lives in Europe.

Book preview

CONTENTS

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty One

Chapter Twenty Two

Chapter Twenty Three

Chapter Twenty Four

Chapter Twenty Five

Chapter Twenty Six

Chapter Twenty Seven

Chapter Twenty Eight

Chapter Twenty Nine

Chapter Thirty

Epilogue

DEDICATION:

To my loving and most patient wife, whose editing skills made the book a better and more enjoyable read.

INFORMATION

If you seek more information concerning the tales of Salagar the Grim, the lore of Lorathan, or upcoming books featuring our intrepid hero, please go to www.salagarthegrim.com.

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CHAPTER ONE

The City of Haven

Year 4052 in the Era of Dagnir

Month of Mesc (The Time of Melting)

I dodged as a dagger flew towards me, thrown from the mouth of a dark alley, the passage into which our quarry had fled. I dropped to the ground and rolled behind a water trough, another steely missile striking the wood on the other side. Damn bastard is good, I thought as I crawled to the other end of the trough and peered around its far corner. I pulled back as the hairs upon the back of my neck rose in protest, presaging another attempt from the alleyway. This time the dagger struck sparks as its metal tip skittered across the cobbled street, at last coming to rest against a stone wall not five spans from my water filled shield.

Garth is moving further into the alley, Malina instructed from on high. I do think he is going to try and make a break for it; there is an exit at the other end of the dark corridor.

Just then I heard a curse and saw Perry dive behind a wagon that had been left for the night, the horses that normally carted it about then stabled and most likely happier than we were at that moment.

Lalaith-blasted bastard, Perry exclaimed. I couldn’t even get a proper shot at him before he sent me flying to avoid his damn dagger. How many of those toothpicks can one man have on his body?

Only Lalaith knows, I responded in frustration. Though he must almost be done with throwing, for he has now thrown at least six daggers since we first accosted him not five minutes ago.

A harrowing five minutes it had been! The man must have uncanny senses or mayhap something akin to my sense of danger. We had set a merry trap for the brute and he had not only felt our presence, but had extricated himself from our attack with speed and skill. One dagger nicked my arm as he sprinted away. It was only Malina’s ability to follow him from above that let us keep track, since he had led us on a merry chase through twisting alleys and crooked streets. This was the third time he had turned and thrown daggers our way, forcing us to maintain a healthy distance or become potential victims.

We need to bring our quarry to ground before he can seek help, I said to Perry. The man is leading us along a route of which he is intimately familiar and I fear it will only end in tragedy; mainly our deaths.

I reckon we can try and get in front of him, Perry advised. Ask Malina if she sees only one exit from this here alley.

Malina, how many exits stem from the foul alleyway in which our dear friend is hiding, I sent through our bond.

He can only escape one way, she advised. If you decide to gain advantage by flanking him, you best decide now, since he is moving rapidly towards the exit. If you run down for a half block, there is another passageway that ends at the same cross street. You can then strike him as he enters the street.

Come on Perry, I said. We can cut the bastard off this way.

I turned and ran towards the other alleyway. We were soon running as fast as we could, dodging refuse and abandoned property, attempting not to breathe too deeply since the odor emanating from the old worn cobblestones was most foul. I slowed as we neared the exit, a low glow from a lamppost giving a fitful glimmer of the street beyond.

Is he still within the alley, I inquired.

He has slowed and is sniffing about, Malina answered. If you run to the corner, you can surprise the brute and bring him low.

Moving quickly but stealthily along the alley, we entered the cross street and instantly melted into the shadows provided by the tall buildings and feeble light cast from the lamppost. I slid my daggers from their customary resting places and saw Perry twirl his sling, waiting for an opportunity to brain the ruffian. We were mayhap ten spans from the darkened entrance when the brute broke free, his head swiveling left and right, looking for danger as his feet propelled him into the street. He was halfway to the other side and another dark corridor before he caught our presence. Before we could even think to move; his arm was halfway back, a dagger glinting in his right hand. The bastard was fast!

Perry let fly with a whoop, his stone speeding towards the man’s head just as his hand whipped forward, sending his dagger towards my crouching form. I had just enough time to bring Heleg Telanin up to strike the weapon from its course, the steel clanging off the wall to my left. I arose and sped towards the ruffian just as he dodged to the side, Perry’s stone rushing past his face, not a hairsbreadth from his left eye. He then pulled forth a wickedly curved short sword and then leapt towards me, snarling a curse.

I stopped short and let his first strike cut in front of me and then stepped back again as he reversed his attack, bringing the blade down and around, his greater reach giving him the advantage. The sharp blade cut a few hairs from my head as I jumped back in desperation, the speed of the Human surprising me. Perry yelled out another whoop and let fly, his stone taking the man square in the back. All Garth did was grunt and then grin, bringing his left hand down and up, a throwing dagger glinting in the lamplight. Before he could throw the weapon at Perry, I lunged with Heleg Telanin, that Dae inspired magical dagger I had found in my Grandsire’s study, which the brute caught with his own blade. Sparks coruscated about the blades as I brought my left hand dagger under his guard, piercing his thigh, but not deep enough to cause deadly injury to the villain.

Cursing ferociously, he tried to stomp my foot with his massive boots, only to receive another nick along his right arm from Heleg Telanin for his troubles. Another stone flew into the man, striking his upper left arm. The man gasped with the pain, the dagger that he was holding in his left hand falling, grating against the cobbled street as it struck the hard surface. Before Garth could give another swing of his sword, I leapt up and struck down with my left hand dagger, piercing his shoulder and causing the man to scream in pain. It was only speed and luck that let me jump back from his riposte, the sword scoring across one of my bracers, causing a bit of pain in my forearm but not penetrating the magically enhanced bands that I had secured from a rather grumpy wizard.

By jumping back so quickly, I lost my dagger, which was still lodged within his shoulder. The man grunted and moved to the side as another stone came whizzing by, just missing his right arm. He lunged with his sword held out straight, using the surprise of his attack to pass right past Heleg Telanin, hitting me squarely in the chest. My leather armor buckled, the sword piercing my chest, just above my heart. The tip did not penetrate fully, mayhap a finger of steel caressing my skin as I leapt back and away from the offending metal.

The man actually grinned as he spotted the blood on the tip of his sword. Now you are gonna die little man, he grated as he lunged again, this time putting all into a single thrust. I was prepared for just such a maneuver, his quick attack lacking the surprise of his earlier attempts. I let Heleg Telanin score across his blade, pushing it just enough to the right to miss my shoulder and rush past me. Before he could recover, my dagger had traveled up his weapon and past the guard, cutting through his hand, almost severing it completely. The man screamed, his blade falling to the ground. Bright red blood trailed after the weapon, quickly pooling upon the cobbled surface.

He tried to grasp a dagger from a belt along his chest with his injured left arm, but before he could pull the weapon partly from its leather sheath, a stone struck him in the back of the head with enough force to drop him to his knees. He rested thus, a dazed expression writ upon his face, the blood pouring forth from his wounded hand coloring the cobblestones a vivid red color. He looked up at the night dark sky and tried to speak, his words incoherent babble. He then toppled to his side and was still, the blood pumping from his injured arm slowing to a trickle.

I reckon that bastard won’t be hurting folk anymore, Perry reasoned.

No Perry, his days of wanton brutality and shameless thievery are done this night, I agreed. Let us take his body as an example to those that we capture, for this man was feared by all, and if a captive spies the brute in death, he may be more willing to talk.

CHAPTER TWO

E ventually you will talk, my good man, so why not dispense with this unpleasantness and spill the beans? I said to the scrawny thief trembling before me. I had caught the unlucky lawbreaker named Bart just the night before. We were in the spacious cellar of a once magnificent abandoned manse that had burned down, rumors say, mayhap fifty years ago. I found this particular spot by chance while attempting to avoid some bully boys that Kraven had slipped loose almost three weeks ago. I spied the burned out husk, using its many shadows to hide from the brutes. As I backed further into the darkness, my boot landed upon a loose board and it was only my quick reflexes that saved me from an undeniably nasty fall. Once the fellows became bored and subsequently left, most likely to the nearest pub, I peered down upon the mud spattered floor and found a rusted iron ring among the debris. That brought me down to my current location.

We spared no expense in making our new counter-guild habitable. We used old plumbing to bring in fresh water, cleared out the debris that had collected through broken floorboards during the years, and surreptitiously fixed loose floorboards, thereby insulating the basement from the outside. We then secured a large consignment of cotton padding, using it to provide a bit more soundproofing to our cozy headquarters. Some thick rugs, tapestries, and an assembly of old, gilded furniture completed the ensemble. We were even able to use a few tapestries to section off sleeping areas for each of us, laying the cold stone floor deep with furs and assorted pillows. The only item missing, which we did not necessarily require, was a heat source, of which Malina constantly complained. However, it was indeed quite comfortable in our spacious cellar, for the temperature, although mayhap sixty degrees, was constant nonetheless. With sturdy woolen garments, one hardly noticed the cool air.

The strident voice of our new guest broke my reverie. I’m tellin ya, I don’t know a damn thing. You gotta believe me, I’m just a messenger and don’t know nothing!

To tell the truth, his whiny voice was beginning to irritate my sensitive ears, especially since we were now ensconced in a rather small wooden room, one which we had specifically crafted for our special guests. My dear fellow, I have been following you for many days now and know exactly who you are and what you do for the guild. Shall I tick off the points I know and then cut off one finger for each correct answer? Or shall we dispense with this useless conversation and get to the meat of the issue?

The man, wretched in his pee stained breeches and saliva strewn shirt, turned his hooded head in my direction and sniveled. Damn yer eyes, but I am tellin you the truth about me! All I do is move money from one point to another, I got nothing ta do with the guild’s dirty work.

Well, I thought. This question and answer is beginning to warm up. The bugger had just confirmed my earlier suspicions. He did not sully his narrow, crooked hands with the foul business of the guild, but he did move the money they made from their nefarious schemes. Therefore, he would know all their stash sights and some of their safe houses, from which they sent their members to assigned tasks.

My good man, now you are talking sense, I reasoned. For you just said something I find very interesting. Yes, you do not dirty your dainty hands with the guild’s day-to-day work, yet you know where they keep their money and know of at least a few safe houses. That is why you are here my good man, and why you may yet live; if you provide me with the right answers. So, I am going to remove this hood and then you will commence speaking. If I begin to lose interest, you will undoubtedly lose a finger. We will continue our conversation, until you have given me all or you have run out of fingers. In that event, we will then start with your toes. I daresay, it will become much more gruesome from there.

I gazed over to the left and beyond our captive, where we had chained a cadaver, whom we affectionately called Brute. His true name had been Garth Gruelle. Garth had been a brutal enforcer for the guild, breaking bones of even the most innocent of grandmothers and children, all in the name of Kraven. He had been our first mark and we continued to use his dead body as a coercive element. We gave him horrendous wounds after he had died, and then stuffed him in a trunk for later use. Malina had used a complicated spell, similar to what she used to clean my clothing and armor, to keep the cadaver from reeking. Accordingly, when we entertained a new guest, Brute would be hung by a meat hook from the ceiling, in full view of our captive. His horrific wounds told more than mere words could describe. Thus far, it had been a very useful tool, for most captives, once gazing upon the dead enforcer, opened up more quickly than a fishwife gossiping with her cronies.

I quickly snatched the hood from Bart’s head and gazed harshly upon his startled eyes. Now, I will provide vellum, pen, and ink, I insisted. You will then write down all you know about the guild’s money operations and any safe houses or business fronts used. If not, prepare to face the same fate as Garth, who swings next to your chair. You remember Garth, a brute of a man, feared by all within the streets of Haven. He failed to completely answer my questions, so we had to resort to more barbaric methods; an approach I will not hesitate to use again!

The man took one look at Garth and shivered, losing his bladder yet again. Don’t ya touch me like that; I’ll give ya anything ya want, he said, a quiver in his voice. Give me the skin and yer tools and I will sketch ya a masterpiece I will!

Look here Bart, I said. You are shaking like a leaf and will make quite a mess with this ink. Let me pour you a bit of wine to calm your nerves. I will also slip loose the bonds securing your arms, so that you can move a bit more freely. Now, do not go anywhere while I am gathering your drink. I gave him a confident smile, to bolster his flagging spirits, and then marched out of the small room to secure a goblet.

It took Bart almost two hours and five sheets of vellum before he was finished, his body sagging against the back of the sturdy oak chair, exhausted and ready for collapse. I secured his hands to the armrests and then took the sheets to my friends, so that we could attempt to discern their veracity. We had a few other tidbits that we could use to ensure our man was truthful to his tale, for we definitely did not want to waste time following false leads. The guild was out in full force, searching for me and my companions. We had limited time before their informants found our little hidey whole and Kraven sent a force to eradicate our burgeoning effort.

I reckon they look solid to me, Perry reasoned. This here house and that there cellar, was pinpointed by another feller we captured three days ago. I say we got some good information and can move on the rascals.

Malina nodded in agreement, her wings moving rapidly as she hovered above the vellum sheets.

Alright, I advised. I will lead our guest to the edge of town, per our prearranged route, and set him free with a few coins. I do not believe he will trouble the city of Haven again.

You see, I had vowed revenge on the guild, yet I could not bring myself to kill those on the periphery in cold blood. Instead, I would gather all the information necessary to extract the beating heart of the guild, without needlessly excising the veins. I do not think I could countenance wholesale slaughter, but knew a reckoning was brewing, for the guild had shrunk and only those closely tied to Kraven and the guild’s operations still haunted the crooked streets of the city. I knew there would be no compunction whatsoever in killing those reprobates, eradicating their filth from Haven. For three weeks now, we had systematically captured and questioned those that supported the guild, through finances, weapons, information, and supplies. Some we had to kill through necessity, their reluctance to become guests outweighing their good sense. Others were more sensible, providing the necessary knowledge required to strangle the guild, a feat designed to cut off any outside support. Once we had brought the organization to its knees, we would begin to operate on the rotting carcass, cutting away the putrid flesh before delving deep and puncturing the bloody pump, stilling its malignant beating once and for all. I cared not one bit for the rotten bunch; the collaborators who had stood aside or supported the death of my love. The streets would run red with their blood ere my task was complete, this I had vowed, and this I would complete!

CHAPTER THREE

A single candle stood sentinel upon the scared oaken table casting a feeble glow about our basement paradise. It was well past midnight and Perry was fast asleep, snoring loudly atop his makeshift bed at the other end of the cellar. Malina lay peacefully upon the silken cushion I had purloined for her days past, occasionally casting sparkles of light into the air as she shifted position. The wine we had drunk to celebrate our most recent victory over the guild was almost depleted, merely one, mayhap two glasses left within the mottled green carafe. It was not much of a victory, but one had to rejoice the small as well as the large successes. As I gazed into the stippled wine bottle, my mind began to wonder back to the beginning of this muddled business, to a wide eyed innocent lad who had known nothing of violence and death.

It had all started with the accidental death of my cousin, more than a year ago. His demise had been the impetus that catapulted me into the wide world. For it had forced me to find refuge amongst my family’s dusty cast-offs within the second basement and thus propelled me to the ultimate find, my grandsire’s secret room. My favorite reading chair had broken, the back legs snapping from age and frequent use, tipping back into a poorly made brick wall, which had readily given way. And, what wonders did I behold as my senses reeled from delight; maps, books, hidden latches, and deadly traps. It was a wonder I had not been slain straight away, what with that great wooden mallet that had rebounded from my shoulder, missing my head only due to the wall’s ruin. There had been many items of great value within that room. Books not seen for centuries, their knowledge almost erased from Lorathan, only glimmered within places of esoteric learning. Magical items, such as the raiment I now wore; magical armor, boots, and cloak. Let us not forget my favorite item, Heleg Telanin, my trusty dagger, an artifact lore states was created by Dae herself.

It was my grandsire who had created this island of knowledge. A room in which one could easily become lost, wondering the lands outside of the Abundant Hills, nourishment coming merely from the written word. Yet, it was these words that had sent me forth into the real world, seeking a relic that had been stolen many years before. The Dagor’s axe had been purloined by my grandsire and his friend, Perrywinkle Alemaster, and secreted within the catacombs below a wizard’s tower amidst the Great Northern Desert. His missive had been folded within a book by the esteemed sage Mor Nell. The note instructed whosoever found the clandestine location of his treasure trove to seek an Alemaster and the first riddle. Filled with wanderlust and an abiding desire to escape the wrath of my family, I packed what supplies available then left all behind, all in search of the axe of legend.

Perry, my stalwart friend, he with the merry blue eyes, lean face and sun-browned skin, blond hair that always seemed to stick up in all directions, and ever crooked left ear, leaning as if bereft of direction. We had become fast friends, sharing the toil, hardship, occasional battle, and the wonder of it all! We had found other companions along the dusty trail, staunch defenders that provided much needed advice as well as a strong arm on occasion. There was Aellian Dal’Rion, the famous Flamebow, legend of the Shadow War. The Elf was indeed larger than life, bringing thousands of years of experience to a sorely pressed pair of Halflings that had never been outside the Abundant Hills. Then there was Constantine, Priest of Dagnir, who had sworn an oath to serve our cause, only to break faith and flee with the axe. Of course, we all knew how that had turned out, a serene face looking lifelessly at the crows circling overhead. I still cannot fathom how the Lalaith-blasted priest could have forsworn our covenant, turning his back on Dagnir and our fellowship? I doubt we will ever know what made him forego our quest and run away with the axe.

Let us not forget the estimable Ford, bumbler, drunkard, wizard, and at the last, Ril Fane, powerful dragon. What a titanic battle that had been, two dragons, one a glittering red, the other a bright white. It was the evil Sereg Nar who had at last succumbed, his blighted heart ceasing its nefarious beating. And wonder of it all, the power held within the red was transferred to Ril Fane, thereby letting Sereg Nar flee to the heavens. There he will forever soar among the many stars that glitter the dark night, sparkling flotsam parted every night by the sisters, Ninniach and Dae. I still do not know why Ril Fane deigned to accompany our small group, but I was ever thankful, for I do not hold any illusions as to our chances of defeating a dragon in its full glory!

Then there was Gragnar Battlesmith, the lone survivor of an ambush well laid by a group of Dagor and Mith. If it had not been for our timely intervention, he too would have succumbed to the dastardly creatures, for most of his clansmen had been laid low before we had even entered the field. Yet, he did indeed survive with the healing power of Constantine and the hardy constitution all Dwarves seemed to possess. He had only been with us a short time, but his stories were memorable, his cooking delicious, and his axe undoubtedly sharp and effective. It was he that gave us the time to gather the second clue, propelling us closer to the end of our quest. Sorrowfully, he died so that we could proceed and his sacrifice will never be forgotten.

And can we forget my estimable companion Malina, the violet temptress who bonded me without consent? Her beauty had captured me from the first moment. She was only a mere five fingers in height and packaged most delicately. She was gifted with gossamer wings that hung from her back, large clear violet eyes, full violet colored lips, a pert nose, and long hair that fell well below her hips the color of a cool winter sky. A spark had arisen between us during our first encounter, a spark that blossomed within us both, as she stamped her foot and bonded us whilst I was in mid-sentence. The beautiful Faery had been my confidant ever since, we sharing almost everything within our bond. Why, we would have undeniably lost our way during two of the most difficult battles during our quest, that of the Mor Del and the evil wizard, who did not provide name or badge, if not for Malina.

How many more were there during our sojourn, those that opposed us and those that supported our cause. We had to fight assassins, dragons, heat, thirst, and worst of all, the stink of the road. I tell you now, we Halflings live in an abundant land and never venture far from hearth and kin. Therefore, privation is unknown, something only read about in the many books that all Halflings treasure, reading over and over until the leather bindings need repair and the pages are aged with the many sweaty hands turning page after page in exploration. So, it was that Perry and I strode upon the world stage, thinking we were within a Mor Nell tale, the heroes bound by quest and friendship, clean shaven, teeth sparkling, and hair clipped, looking heroically at the sun lowering in the distance. Of course, it was a shock when we found ourselves upon the dusty road, saddle weary, hair in disarray, and stinking of horse, sweat, and some indefinable smell that only accompanies those that do not bathe regularly.

Yet, the road held promise and excitement and the people we met upon the causeway were grand in their own way. There was Prospero, a nobleman and Founder, who we had encountered at White Wall. He was of the Rochir and led a band of men with the moniker Red Eagles. We quickly became embroiled within one of his schemes that almost ended in my death. We still do not know what the Dagor he had captured revealed, since they had been sent to Sandor for questioning. Within the same city, we came across the beautiful Dorothy, under whose roof we had slept during our stay. And if I miss my guess, she is undoubtedly in love with Aellian. Whether he shares her feelings I cannot say, since Elves normally do not share emotions in public.

Who else helped us along, bringing us to conclusion? There was Maniro Gransanbal, wizard of Haven, who had helped us find the appropriate inn within that immense city to start our queries. Then there was Tellian and his stately wife Daerlia, rulers of Celiborn, that glorious city within the Anorack desert. With the help of magic and a bit of luck, the Elves had carved out a spot of paradise within a blasted land, wringing life from a dying land. Our stay there had been refreshing and a bit overwhelming, especially when Malina had bonded me within that tree burdened oasis. There we had also met Aeherian, who became a partner in our enterprise for a short time, providing a guides experience as we traipsed the wasteland in search of a wizard’s tower and a cave reeking of death and despair.

Let us not forget Margively Sneed and the assassin’s guild in Malibar. They were close to ending our venture prematurely within a dusty canyon floor. It was fortuitous that one of the brutes survived, giving us Sneed and his compatriots. It was but a week and they were part of history, a chapter that was never and will never be written.

I shook my head, dispelling the past, ephemeral images that slowly fled within the candle’s light, trapped forever in the mottled white wax. I looked around the room, my eyes spying Malina and thought of the task at hand and what would happen if I lost another to this damnable Kraven. What was I doing here in Haven, seeking a creature that had no soul, who would sell his mother for a thin cropper. Was it right for me to bring my friends to death’s door, all for a woman? One which I had known for only a short time? Sasha of the thieves’ guild, the beautiful temptress replete with long, straight black hair that fell in a cascade about her shoulders, clear blue eyes, and a heart shaped delicate face. The passion that pulled me back to Haven was still there, still pulsing with each heartbeat. She may be dead, but my love was undiminished. But, if I looked a bit deeper, was the love becoming tainted? Was my vow of vengeance twisting something that had held such promise, something pure and full of light?

I told Perry and Malina to await my arrival at Haven Watch. I would seek them out once my vengeance had been wrought. Of course, they would not be gainsaid, arguing this fact and that assumption, until I knew that it was fruitless. They would accompany me to Haven and help me extract vengeance, no matter the outcome. For that I was truly grateful, but also shameful, since it was my fight, my love, my passion, my twisted sense of honor that brought us to this point; killing. Yet, were we not providing a community service in exterminating a creature like Kraven? Would not Haven be a more pristine society in which to live? Cannot people breathe a bit deeper and enjoy the sunshine a bit more knowing that a brute such as Kraven was dead, had breathed his last upon Lorathan?

Shaking my head angrily, I peered over at the dagger board I had placed along one damp wall. I had strung the board so that I could keep sharp with my Dwarven forged throwing daggers, but also to release pent up frustrations. When my mind, as it did tonight, burrowed too deep, bringing up thoughts better left dormant, never to see the light of day. Standing fifteen spans from the board, I quickly reached down and plucked the well worn grips of my daggers and in one fluid movement flung them at the board. Each one struck within the inner circle, the best throw one could make. The die is cast, I thought. The dice thrown. I would see this to the end, whatever that would bring!

CHAPTER FOUR

I sat cross-legged, a beggar’s bowl in front of me. My hair lay in disarray, a foul bandage about my head and left eye. My clothing reeked of onions, garlic, sour wine, and worst of all, urine. It was the disguise I had carefully crafted so that I could spy on one of the money drops that Bart had described. It was to be the first of three and our intent was to slowly bleed Kraven’s organization, withholding his ability to pay his henchmen and bribe the many officials that turned a blind eye to many of his depredations. We hoped that if we could deprive the brute of his coin, then his organization would begin to unravel, thereby making him much more vulnerable and an easier target.

You really do smell dreadful Galad, Malina teased through our bond. I do not know if I will let you return to our cozy hideaway. Why the urine smells alone will probably persist for at least three or more days.

Malina my dear, I parried. You are merely jealous that you could not be with me to achieve a most impressive ruse. Come now, have you seen anyone coming out of the back alley from your vantage atop the building?

No Galad, she replied. Perry and I have seen nary a mouse stroll down the alley you so fret about. It is conspicuously absent of activity and must be clear because of the guild’s influence.

Well then, keep your sharp eyes on the alley and your barbed tongue inside your mouth, I insisted. I do not want another incident between you and Perry. The last argument you two had almost came to blows. I just cannot fathom why you cannot become friends?

Galad, she replied in a petulant tone that dripped through our bond. Perry is a dear friend, but he does get on my nerves from time-to-time. It is merely our way of showing affection.

I do not think throwing crockery at Perry is showing your affection, I said. Mayhap a more subdued show of devotion could be resolved. You could just beat him over the head with a stick. Wait, there is someone coming out of the building.

Concentrating on the task at hand, I looked towards the door of the ramshackle building. It was undeniably a sight to behold, what with three stories, each one leaning a bit more to the west, numerous holes where bricks had surrendered to time and decay, falling amidst the debris of the well used street, and a garishly green varnish that brought up visions of sickness and death, not that of a reputable house of business.

As the oaken slab that was used as a front door creaked open, I could see two men silhouetted in the doorway, each one with a sword and dagger upon his hip and metal studded leather armor. They both stepped from the threshold and stood to either side of the door. With hands within reach of their weapons, the brutes began to watch the street, vigilant eyes ever roaming in an attempt to discern the nature of business of all those that were then frequenting the narrow cobblestoned street. Mayhap they thought they could penetrate everyone’s thoughts and desires. More realistically, they looked for the telltale sign of nervousness or overt curiosity, tells that would mark someone for further scrutiny.

Imprinting their descriptions within my mind, I dismissed them as the apparent leaders of the money house. The more dangerous of the two strode through the open doorway; hand on a razor sharp rapier, dark penetrating eyes taking in all the sights and sounds of the street in one quick glance. I knew right then that he was our man and also knew that he would be a dangerous opponent, one that you never turned your back to or underestimated. He glanced at the man standing to the right of the now empty doorway and gave a command that I could not discern from my perch across the street. The man nodded and began to walk into the street, clearing a path for the rapier wielding thief. The second thug waited a few seconds, then trailed behind the two, warily watching behind and to either side for danger.

I watched the trio with hooded eyes, attempting to give the impression I was looking about for croppers and thus ignoring the group as they made their way through the press of people crowding this part of the city. Soon, they were beyond my sight. This was the third pair of thieves that had exited from the building in the last four days. The group that had just left the building was by far the most competent and lethal appearing of the bunch. We would have to be careful to avoid their shift, instead working the midnight hour. During the darkest hour of the night we would deal with a trio that was much less competent looking. The thugs drank their night away, cards and dice flowing about the scarred table they typically sat around.

Malina, is there anything stirring within the depths of your favorite alley, I asked. The more competent of the brutes just left and strode down the street, going towards the docks.

No my dear, she replied testily. All is clear. Can we go now and find sustenance? I think I may have lost a few pounds sitting atop this wretched building!

Alright, I replied, trying to stifle a laugh. Let me extricate myself from this ever so comfortable position and hobble down to our chosen rendezvous point. There you can use an enchantment to rid me of the foul odors surrounding my body. I can then change into my normal attire and we can go in search of food.

Alright Salagar, she quipped. Do not hobble too slowly, for I am rather famished. I would hate to have to eat Perry just for the energy to make it to our meeting place.

I chuckled at her last statement and then slowly and with great care arose from my sitting position, picking up my beggars bowl in the process. I shuffled towards the far end of the street, back bent and head down. It took me almost twenty minutes to go the four blocks where our rendezvous point was located; all the while watching my back trail in case someone had seen through my disguise and was following me. At last, I was behind a rather garishly red painted hair salon, secreted within one of their storage sheds. I sat back while Malina used her magic to clean the stench from my clothes and body. Perry sat upon an upturned bucket, inspecting the interior for the twentieth time, whistling absent mindedly.

I reckon we have enough information to get in that damn building and steal the goods, he said in an exasperated tone. We damn near seen every Brandar, Guldink, and Chapper that lives here! When are we going in and taking their loot?

I smiled over at my closest friend and laughed at his Southern Hills parlance. Perry, we go in tonight. I think we have enough information and know the layout well enough, thanks to Malina’s talents.

Well, I’ll be a badger caught in a fox’s den, but it’s about time we got moving and gave a real pinch to that Lalaith-blasted Kraven, Perry said, excitement animating his face. I am itching to get me bullets singing again!

Perry, I advised. I hope we will not have to resort to bullet and dagger, but can move in with stealth and leave the same way. I gather those reprobates that guard the money at night will be well into their cups and games when we arrive, giving us ample opportunity to steal the reales without their knowledge.

And you better not start anything just because you want a bit of action, Malina exclaimed. Or I will hit your pebble filled head with my sword!

Blasted Faery, when did you become me boss? Perry retorted, his face reddening with anger. I have a right mind to pull your wings until you say Uncle Buck!

Enough, I yelled, before the argument could gain steam and cause real friction. You both need to calm down. We plan to be together for many years to come so please learn civility. I will not take sides in your arguments, so you need to come to an agreement before things are said and decisions are made that nobody will like! Now, I am going to leave this shed and walk towards the pub near our hideout. I expect you two to bury the hatchet and come to an accommodation. Please do not make me force an unpalatable solution upon you.

The two looked sullenly at me and then at each other. Not a word was said as I gathered my gear and left the shed. Once I closed the door behind me, I could hear first Malina’s high pitched voice, then Perry’s lower tone. It did not sound like light hearted banter and I hoped that I had made the right decision, leaving them alone. I knew Malina’s mercurial temper and would not be surprised if she did not try to take a swipe or two at Perry. On-the-other-hand, Perry probably would not pull sling and bullet, but may wave his hands about, accidentally hitting Malina in the process.

With a sigh, I shrugged my shoulders, then straightened and strode into the busy street, aiming for the pub we frequented at least once a week. I sought something more than cold meat and cheese, the usual fair in our hideout.

I was working on my second helping of stew, a half full mug of ale at my elbow, when Malina and Perry came into the common room. They were both laughing and jesting about. One would say something in a conspiratorial whisper and the other would begin to chuckle. Then the other would whisper and it began again. Well, I thought. It seems they have indeed buried the hatchet and have become fast friends. I do wonder what they did in that storage shed that would bring them together.

You two look like you are long lost friends, I exclaimed. How in Lalaith’s golden chalice did you two come to an agreement so quickly?

As they drew closer to the table, I was appalled to see that Perry had a rather nasty looking cut along his right jaw and that Malina’s right wing was a bit crumpled, causing her to fly a bit erratically. By Lalaith’s frosty mug, what happened in that storage shed, I insisted. You were supposed to come to some peaceful settlement, not relive the Shadow War!

Don’t you fret none there Salagar, Perry said, a broad smile spreading upon his face. We talked, and then come to blows, now we are closer than a duck and her chicks!

Yes, our talk did accomplish what you so desired Galad, Malina said, laughter lacing her words. Yon Halfling packs a bit of a punch and is quick as a snake. I guess we just needed to adjust our thinking a bit and sometimes violence can force change. Oh, Perry dearest, I will heal that cut on your face after dinner. I do like how it makes you look so fierce; maybe you want to leave it as a token of our new found friendship?

Perry, a dangerous gleam in his eyes quipped, I will have enough scars straddling my body before the sun has set, so I reckon this one should be healed, if you have a right mind for the task?

Malina laughed and then landed on the table. Alright Perry, I will heal your wound and make you pretty again. Come, let us order some food and drink and celebrate our new friendship in a proper fashion.

Well, I thought. At least they have become friends of a sort. Maybe they just had to come to terms. I looked at the two and said, Come. Sit. Gather your food and drink. And then let us discuss our plans for the night. I am more than ready to begin bleeding Kraven and his unwholesome guild.

I reckon it is about time to fleece that bastard. Perry added. Why, I bet he has a bunch of gold stashed in that building, just all ready for us to pick up. With those stupid brutes guarding the loot, it should be easier than picking roses for a South Hills stomp!

Do not be so sure of success Perry, Malina warned. Kraven did not become a guild master merely by luck. We must be careful and be thorough in our planning. It is too late in the game for a mishap.

I wholeheartedly agree with both of you, I said with a wide grin on my face. It is about time we set our plans in motion, and yes, we are ready to fleece the Lalaith-blasted thief. Now come, take your dinner, then sit back and listen. For I do have the plan all laid out and seek your wisdom to its merits.

Perry and Malina ordered the same stew I had just devoured, including a large tankard of ale for my Halfling friend and a glass of wine for my Malina. Every five or so minutes, I would tip the glass so that she could take a few sips and then straighten the glass so that she could continue her meal. It was not until Perry was on his third mug of ale and Malina was slumped against my arm, that we were ready to make our way to our current lodgings so that we could begin planning our midnight caper.

Once outside the pub, we split up. Malina took wing and flew westward, using a prearranged route that covered our back trail as we made our way through the many streets and alleys. As she ensured we were not being followed, I turned south and Perry turned north. It took us more than an hour to reach our destination, since our routes were circuitous with purpose, that of discerning any nefarious persons on our trail. I waited in a shadowed doorway across the street from the ruined manse, awaiting Malina’s arrival. A few minutes more and she was sitting upon my shoulder, dismissing her invisibility enchantment.

All is clear Galad, she reported. I did not see any person or creatures following you or Perry. I do believe we are safe for the time being.

Relieved that we had made it again to our sanctuary without mishap, I walked over to the ruins and the trapdoor we used to gain entrance. As soon as I reached the trapdoor, Perry was at my side, his telltale grin illuminated with the dying sun.

I reckon we are a might safe, what with Malina in the air and all, Perry said. But damn sure, I am a bit bored with skulking around. By Lalaith’s twin daggers, but I could use me some action about now. So, let’s get ourselves down into our hidey hole and start the game! And with a fierce grin, he pulled open the trapdoor and descended into the darkness.

I have sketched the building and surrounding area on this parchment, I began. I do believe it represents the locale correctly. Here, we have the spot where I sat in disguise, with the ill-used boarding house behind. As you can see, there are only three ways to access the building. The first is through the front door, which of course will undoubtedly be guarded and possibly layered with traps. The second entryway is through the roof. Malina was able to spot a five by five span trapdoor that may give us entrance.

I took a pull from my almost empty mug and then resumed. We can make our way to the top of the building, or we can choose the more difficult journey, using a long wooden plank to bridge the fifteen spans from the pub on the north side of our target. However, I do believe the best route is the alleyway running parallel with our mark. We have been watching this building for a bit now and never have we seen a person waltzing about the alley. I daresay it should be easier to circumvent whatever deviously crafted traps lay in wait than try the other avenues I have already described. So, what do you both think?

I reckon the roof may be a might safer, He ventured, one telltale hand rubbing his chin. We could jump the five spans from the Barrel maker to the building, then shinny down that trapdoor, quick as a gnat on a summer breeze.

Malina, I asked. What is your opinion?

I do think our dear Perry has the right of it, she answered. Most people do not expect company from above; therefore, they may not have emplaced the proper wards that would delay or stop our progress. I say we take the roof and be done with it.

I thought about the strategy for a couple minutes, looking at my drawing, viewing the vicinity of the building from all angles. At last I said, I do not agree with your logic, and please, let me finish before you draw blood.

Perry and Malina were about to say something, their mouths open at the same instant, but then relaxed and looked at me, awaiting my explanation.

You are not thinking this through like a thief or criminal, I began. They would expect an attack from the roof, because that is where they would probably commence any illegal activity. There are most likely numerous sinister traps surrounding the trapdoor and mayhap the edge of the roof on both sides. I would vouchsafe a good guess that what lies under the trapdoor may be just as difficult to negotiate. Now, the alley is always empty, so we do not have to worry much about anyone scampering about and probably for good reason, the thieves guild owns the building. Naturally, most people would shy away merely as a caution. Also, I would bet there are a few traps emplaced to ensnare the unwary and most likely a few of the innocent. They undoubtedly spread tales of woe, thus abandonment of said alley.

Perry was mulling over my dissertation when Malina reasoned, Why not merely go through the front door my love? I doubt there are any traps, since that door is frequented by many visitors. The night guards are slovenly louts and with the disguises I can provide through an enchantment, it should be an easy night.

I reckon you have the gist of it Malina, Perry chimed in, a grin suffusing his lean face. Why, those rascals are barely breathing come midnight; I say it will be like taking honey pops from a baby!

I thought about their logic for a few heartbeats and could not but agree; the brutes were undeniably lethargic if not downright comatose come midnight. If all went to plan, the way should be easy. Move in, knock the muscle on the head, tie them up, and then waltz out of the building with their loot before an hour had elapsed. It was a simple plan and my father always said that the best laid plan was usually the simplest to execute.

I do think you have the right of it Malina, I agreed. We will wait for the eleventh hour, and then steal away into the darkened streets, arriving at our designated target with at least fifteen minutes to spare. We will conduct a quick reconnaissance of the area, and then have Malina provide her glamour. Once set, we will enter the building through the front door, wallop our brutish friends, and then leave with as many reales as will fit upon our shoulders. Now, do you both remember our routes to the building and away?

They both nodded their agreement, excitement etching their features. I reckon a bit of a catnap will do me good, Perry said. I am going to sack out for a few hours so I can be fresh as a daisy covered in dew. Wake me with about a half hour to spare if you can Salagar. And so saying, he turned and went into his makeshift bedroom. Soon, we could hear the sound of his snoring, accompanied with a knee jerk every five minutes or so.

I cannot fathom how anyone would be able to sleep beside our dear friend, Malina quipped. If his snoring did not keep you awake, then his ever moving legs most likely would. You do love him though, Salagar.

I do hold him dear Malina, I replied. He is a boon companion and I cannot countenance a life without his presence. He is battle tested, sharp as a newly bought razor, and can sing better than most. I would say he will be around us for a long time.

I have to admit that I have also grown fond of yon Halfling, Malina admitted. He does grow on a person. I am happy that we were finally able to come to an accommodation and are now fast friends. It would be rather awkward for us to be hated enemies when you two are such great companions.

Can I ask you a question, I asked.

Anything Galad, she replied. Ask away.

What happened between you two in the shed, I asked?

She looked off into the distance for mayhap five heartbeats, then turned to me and said, I cannot answer your question Galad. We decided it was best to keep our talk" between us. Maybe someday, when we are sitting about a lavish table, sipping Hills wine and eating the most succulent meats and juicy fruits imaginable, we will toast our friendship and share our secret. But now is not the time.

I shook my head and let out a short laugh. Alright you little scamp, have it your way. I will not pester you with questions nor wheedle the answer from your tight lips. I do know how stubborn you can be and will not risk your wrath this night. We must be ever vigilant and keep to the task at hand, for danger may lurk where we least expect it and distraction could cause disaster.

Malina nodded her agreement and then stamped her tiny foot. Galad, come to bed this instant, so that I have your warm body to cuddle against. We should heed the great Halfling’s advice and get some much needed rest before our true task begins. Never fear, I always know the hour of the day and will wake us in due time. With that, she arose and flew to our bedchamber, where she turned and snuffed impatiently.

CHAPTER FIVE

W e made our way carefully, by prearranged routes, to the target building-the first of Kraven’s money hoards. We decided to meet on the opposite side of the barrel maker’s building, adjacent to our target. There we would wait in the shadows cast along the street for Malina to conduct a look-see and ensure all was as we planned. I was beginning to worry, for her slight figure had been absent for almost fifteen minutes, more than enough time to check the premises and then return. I was about to whisper something to Perry when Malina cast her thought.

Galad, she began. Everything seems as it should. The brutes are playing at dice and drinking copious amount of some odious smelling brew. I predict the louts will be incapacitated in about a half hour at the most.

Breathing a sigh of relief, I replied you had me worried, I thought some mishap occurred, leaving you hurt or worse. I should have known through our bond that you were alright and merely conducting a thorough look.

Your concern is nice dear one, she said, with a hint of exasperation in her voice. But you of all people should know by now that I can take care of myself. Come, I am almost beside you, let us plan our entrance.

All of a sudden, Malina was hovering before us, giving Perry quite the start. Lalaith-blasted Faery, can’t you be like normal folks and give us a bit of warning. I reckon you almost made me swallow me tongue and all.

Well Perry, Malina countered, a wide smile appearing on her face. If you didn’t have cotton between your ears, you would have heard my approach.

Come now good people, I insisted. Now is not the time for a squabble. I thought you had buried the hatchet and were now fast friends?

Oh, we are. They exclaimed at the same time, and then began to chuckle.

Alright you two, we need to be serious and go over our entrance once more. I said. We need to ensure that everyone knows their place in this escapade. Now Malina, you will provide us with our enchanted disguises, and then fly in first under your invisibility spell. Once you have deduced all is as it should be, you will summon us through our link.

Yes Galad, that is the plan we have practiced at least a million times, she sarcastically teased. Shall we go over it again before the night is through? I think we know our roles in this caper so stop your insistent planning and let us focus on yon building.

I had to chuckle at her remark, for I had been a pest lately, what with changing disguises every day and going over the layout multiple times. I had become, basically, a grandmotherly worry wart. Looking over at Perry’s grinning face, I could tell that he was ready to launch a few stones at our foe. I dispensed with reiterating his role and instead crouched down against the shop, waiting for the thieves to drink themselves into their usual semi-conscious state.

We waited, cloaked and hooded for mayhap a full hour, before Malina went to ensure the louts were indeed ready for plucking. It was not but five minutes before her thoughts came winging from the shadows. All is ready my love, she advised. Come, let us take the gold and gain our cozy basement. I am hungry and a bit weary from all this flitting about.

I stood and then motioned Perry to stand. Malina appeared above my left shoulder and then alighted upon my arm. I will provide the enchantment now. You will appear at least five fingers taller and have a ghastly complexion, she instructed. For Perry, he will have a long beak-like nose with a nasty looking wart on the end. So saying, she laughed and closed her eyes, concentrating on first Perry, then me. And to my astonishment, Perry did change, growing in height and structure. His face also morphed, becoming fuller. The last touch was the absurdly long nose, topped by a wart. I almost laughed aloud, but held the air within my lungs, lest we alert anyone watching the target building. Malina then concentrated on me, and I could tell from the look on Perry’s face that my treatment was just as rough. Mayhap I was given a gimlet eye or a Dagor-like brow ridge? It mattered not to me, as long as nobody could identify who exactly stole the gold from Kraven. I wanted him to sweat and worry, to constantly watch his back.