Feud.

Nerialka

They did not dare to speak, looking at each other. Finally Lina stepped away from the wall and picked up the dagger. The steel felt cold, smooth and familiar. She sighed slightly. It had not leaded her to a better understanding of the weapon. It was deadly, for sure. But that she had already guessed.

I really need a laboratory, she sighed. But this mean asking Spellweaverâ€s help. And I am not sure to be willing to do so.
She observed him a moment, before adding:
There is, of course, an other option but I can hardly ask this, can I?

She was studying his faceâ€¦ It was so temptingâ€¦ She could feel the blade hungered for itâ€¦ It was once again that feelingâ€¦ This sensation that all was in shades of greys and in this colourless world, he was standing, alive, and that she knew the delight that his death wouldâ€¦ She took a step forward.

Reluctantly she shivered the moment away, fighting the urge to fulfil the desire for blood that matched only too well some familiar passions. No, not him. This one was more interesting alive than dead. Shadowstrider had his hand over the hilt of his sword and was watching her intently.

I would let you test it on me. But not alone.
She nodded and opened the lightening door with a small incantation. They left the oppressing feeling of the tiny place.

An instant later, they were blink as a frail and pale light tried to reach down the cold land and fought a desperate fight to bring some warmth to it. The valley was spreading itself at their feet along the silver ribbon of the stream running across it.

We could still have a try on an animal. I am reluctant to ask for the Keepâ€s help.
I can understand. I am not keen on the Keeper as well.
Oh just a general feeling. The Circle is much smaller and some of them would not hesitate to underline the fact we lack such equipment. Not all. And with a bit of luck, Ka'ell would be there. But stillâ€¦ I prefer to make a try onâ€¦

A raven came down from the skies and landed on her arm without much ceremony. He looked at her intently. The two crimson gazes met and she should see in the birdâ€s eyesâ€¦ An old bound, a deepâ€¦ Fondness? The bird took off as suddenly as he had come.

A warning? her companion asked from the shadows of his hood.
It would not be the first time. Let us go to Norwick, she sighed.

They walked calmly through the valley and her mind wandered away again. What a strange, silent man, she thought, observing him. He had a strange, silent quality about him. He was nearby, quietâ€¦ You almost forgot him, and a few instants later you turned around and there he was, watching you. She smiled at him.

May I ask you a question? She asked.
Certainly, Lina.
You said you are a priest. Can I ask of whom?
Itâ€s hardly a secret anymore, he replied.
Well if itâ€s not a secret, it can't hurt to say it, can it?
No, I suppose it canâ€t. I worship Divine Shadow, he answered quietly.

He gallantly opened the door and she thanked him with a slight smile. What a fascinating bodyguard. They went out of the town, leaving it to the rain that had won its battle for the sky of the little town once again.

Nerialka

His voice filled the room with unfamiliar tonesâ€¦ It was as if two persons were speaking through him. The tongue he used was flourishing and alien, yet musical and light started gather around his hand and down to touch theâ€¦

Redâ€¦ Blindingâ€¦ She had closed her eyes in a reflex but the dark light filled her mind as thousands of unexisting blades were piercing her fleshâ€¦ It lasted only the eternity of a short breath. And when she opened her eyes again, she noticed how pale Shadowstrider was and concluded the pain had been shared. They froze.

Slowly, the dagger was rising from the ground. They would think about the crimson pain later it seemed. Holding their breath, they watched it reach the point were it was between them, hovering at chest height. Their eyes met across the circle or runes and they both reflect the same foreboding feeling that it did not look like a friendly attitude for a dagger to have.

Calmly, threateningly it turns on itself. Both instinctively leaned against the wall. But they were empty from any kind of shelter and the blade was between her and the shining door and he did not know how to open it. The tip was now directed towards her chest.

It stopped.

She suddenly was aware of the mainly details around. The slight ozone scent caused by the perpetual lightning of the door, the roughness of the scarred stone on which she was pressing her back almost. The fast and painful pulsing of her heart in her chest.

She took a step aside, her eyes not leaving the dark, sharp steel.

The dagger followedâ€¦

Shiveredâ€¦

Hesitatedâ€¦

Time looked suspended on the blade's edgeâ€¦

Her heart missed a step at the sound of metal against stone. It echoed in the room, setting their breath free.

The dagger remained at the centre of the circle, trying to look innocent.

Nerialka

They went out of the meeting room and climbed the wooden stairs up to the library. The place was empty and the only sound to be heard was the low humming produced by the Archon. The ball of light came flickering toward them and hovered a bit around Shadow, curious about this unknown face in its library. But fast it lost its interest in him and resumed its errands amongst the heavily loaded bookshelves.

Lina stood a moment in front of the bright lightening door and chanted the ritual incantation. She had spend so many hours in thereâ€¦ They both stepped in the small room. Its walls were completely bare from any shelf or decoration, and it was just wide enough to hold the intricate circle of runes painted on its floor. Its only once inside, passed the blur of the lightening barrier, that one could notice the scars of the wall, caused by claws and burns or various origins.

On Lina's advice, Shadowstrider stepped away from the warding circle and remained silent and still, watching her prepare the ritual with intense, but quiet curiosity. It was not something she was used to and this wasn't really a laboratory. But she needed to take a first step on the path to understanding the mysterious weapon. A first analysis could give her clues on the directions where to take the next steps of her studies.

She put the dagger at the centre of the circle and placed herself on the edge of the drawing, steadying her breath, focusing on the dark steel and the raven rune of the hilt. She fought a bit the urge to take the dagger back in her hand, to secure itâ€¦ To let it taste blood.

She closed her eyes, extending her hands over the blade, concentrating the powers within the arcanic circle which became ablaze in her mind, the dagger pulsing in its centre. She moved her thoughts closer to it. It was gleaming, colours shifting around itâ€¦ But it was not the purple storm she had expected from the first glance she had had of it. It was the most obvious oneâ€¦ But it was hiding something deeper, the like of which she had not seen before.

The patterns were changing, in forms, colours and meanings. But the signs they formed were alien to her. It was neither a wizard nor a sorcerer that had tied those forces to it. It had a feelingâ€¦ Something both new and familiar that she would have had a lot of trouble to translate in words. This was bringing more questions than answers and she opened her eyes, the little room suddenly reappearing, the twirling lights dying away.

She blinked slightly, and looked at the dark silhouette standing nearby.

This is not a mageâ€s doing. You said you are a priestâ€¦ Could you maybe have a look at it?
Certainly, he nodded.

She stepped out of the circle as he entered it and leaned on the wall, watching him proceed with curiosity and a slight hint of defiance at the sight of someone else than her approaching the dagger.

He raised his hands and started to chant.

Nerialka

They stepped in the meeting room of the Circleâ€s tower a bit later. The place was empty and silent, charged with a slight smell of incense. Lina set alight a few candles, the small flickering making the shadows of the room seemingly alive. She brought some of them on the table.

Please have a sit, she said, motioning the heavy stone thrones.
They stayed silent a moment, comtemplating the little flame dancing between them, playing with the light and shadows on their faces. His eyes were almost the only feature visible behind his hood.

She took the dagger out of her pack, unwrapping the piece of cloth in which she kept it and put it in front of him on the table.

Have you ever seen the like of this ?
He looked at the blade attentively.
Noâ€¦ he paused. But one can tell there is something dark about it.

She leaned in her seat, watching the blade intently. She had to knowâ€¦ She was staring at the sharp edge, she felt drawn to itâ€¦ The menacing curve, the dark aura.. It was enticingâ€¦ She feltâ€¦ Soâ€¦ weakâ€¦ She would close her eyesâ€¦ And sleepâ€¦ andâ€¦

Lina?
She blinked and teared her gaze away from the dagger, taking her forhead in her hands.
Are you alright? he asked.
Yes, yesâ€¦ Just a passing weakness, she replied, her senses coming back to her.

The feeling was wearing off as fast has it had stike her. She wrapped the weapon in the piece of cloth again. She had been carrying it for more than a week now. And it held an aura of negative energy. Not the healthiest item to carry around. She met Shadowstriderâ€s eyes and smiled reassuringly.

Are you a weaver, Shadow?
I am a priest, he answered.
Would you mind to accompany me upstairs for a bit of experiments anyway? It would be safer not to attempt anything alone, I think.
Certainly.
Thank you, she smiled. If I faint or anything, call for Merin.

Nerialka

A Dagger

Lina woke up in her small room of the Dancing Mermaid. She did not move for a while, staring at the ceiling. She did not feel really rested. Her nights had been troubled recently. Visions of enveloping darkness and red raven eyes, confusingly mixed with memories of the troll ambuscade. She looked through the window to meet the gaze of the bird.

A bath and a breakfast later, she was walking to the market. Idly watching the articles displayed, lost in her thoughts and in the crowd. Her steps were finally leading her back in the direction of the commons. She stopped a last time in front of a booth and turned around. She had felt something. A presence, slightly familiar.

She walked away from the crowd in the direction of the commons. She looked around in the alley. A man stepped out of the shadows quietly. She smiled.

Good morning, Shadow.
Good day Lina, he replied.

They chatted calmly, a while, greeting Natanya as she passed. Shadowstrider had mentioned the ravens once, in Jiyyd. He had seen them a few times as well. Maybe he could be of some help. They chatted a while the people coming in and out of the market brushing past them without paying much attention to the raven perched on a nearby roof. He had offered his help on this subject, and she could use an escort.

Moreover, something told her that the man could be familiar with mysterious dark daggers.

I need to go to Jiyyd, I think, she said, looking at the bird. To make a few researches. But last time the travel proved dangerous.
You need an escort? he asked.
She smiled at him.

They soon were walking across the plains, silently. It was quiet this time. He did not speak much except to offer the protection of an invisibility spell. She observed him as they walked. He was silent, and not only because they did not talk. Every move looked unconsciously calculated.

They finally reached the gates. Lina looked at them and repressed a shiver. Rain was pouring down the skies, as always, persistent, wrapping the little town in its icy chant, shortening the vision behind moving curtains of water. But it was not the weather that caused her trouble. Her last trip thereâ€¦

Shadowstrider gallantly opened the heavy wooden doors.

Thank you, she smiled, looking around. Itâ€s quiet. Good. I have something to show you. And a quiet place sounds much better.
He looked at her, curious.
Let us go to the tower, she said.

Nerialka

Once on the other side of the street, they turned their gaze up to look at the opened window. It was tapping against its frame, under the arrhythmic touch of the nightâ€s breeze. The sound had an unusual quality in the silent alley, echoing slightly, unconsciously lowering the voices of its observers.

Quites a bits of a drop, remarked the white-haired mage.
I guess he fled then, Lina sighed.
We need ta cats nose again per'aps? Asked the dwarf.
No she could cause more trouble. I prefer her to stay away for a while. I will summon a dog. Much easier in the city.

She closed her eyes. It was not her usual summons, she was more used to wolves than dogs, but it was a close form. She emptied her mind from the present problem and concentrated on the vision of a large dog. The vision was blurry at first, unclear. Little to little, she noticed the details appearing. Colours first, in shades of dark brown, a few scars, a missing bit on the left ear, the bright black eyesâ€¦ A common errand street dog. She opened her eyes and the city reappeared around the dog.

She showed him the window and the ground.

Follow those traces, she ordered.
The dog lowered his nose and turned a few times below the window, sniffing carefully the ground. After a while, her raises his ears and headed north, sometimes moving from right to left, searching his way. They followed, a few steps behind.
Ah would bet on tha sewers. . but tha waterside be a large place…, said Tagnar
Donts youse have a gossipers in towns? asked Klaz, surprised. Likes ifs wes problems at camps, jus tells Horgan, soon whole camp bes watching outs fer it.
Aye... Fenz... Tho ah dont really like 'im much.
The winding errands and sniffings of the dog finally led them toward the Pissing Goat.
Let us be careful, said Lina, watching the short building.
Ya get lots o sailors 'ere... try no ta annoy them rowdy folk.

Klaz cautiously put a hand over his purse at Tagnarâ€s words. They stepped into the inn. One would have thought that vision would have been clearer inside, under the lights of torches and candles than outside under the heavy mantel of the night. One would have been wrong. The air looked thick. Was thick. Apparently, windows were opened once every centuries or so in the tavern. The smoke of the torches and candles was accumulating against the low ceiling. And under the movements of the customers, and the general activity of the place turned it into a sort of dense smog. And to this was added a slightly acrid smell made of a mixture of whatever had spilled on the floor, for ale and food and probably various liquids whose nature was unknown. Which was for the best actually.

Ah think talk'n ta tha barkeep would be a start, said the dwarf, already walking in the direction of the bar.
Klaz and Lina followed. The guard looked surprisingly familiar with the place.
Whatcha want? grunted Ohtugg, dirtying a large mug with a greasy rag with application.
Ale please.
Aye, agreed the bartender, turning to one of the kegs and starting to fill the said glass with a foaming amber liquid.
Ah mean. . No. . .Err we be lookin fa someone... corrected Tag, only pretending to be embarrassed by what seemed to be a reflex.
Fer guard, two gold coin, said Ohtugg, grinning a grin that missed a few teeth while putting the mug on the table.
Aye well that be no bad, commented the dwarf, letting the coins ringâ€¦ stickâ€¦ on the counter. Tho it aint why we be 'ere..
Whatcha need? asked Ohtagg, starting to put more grease on the rag in an attempt to clean the counter.
Tagnar motioned Lina, sipping the ale.
Did anyone enter in the last few minutes? She asked with a smile and a handful of gold coin.
Yeah, thar was tis' bloke, he replied, swiftly pocketing the coin. Got a key ta room and went out in hurry.. crazy type
Do you know him ?
Uh no, but paid for week
Mmm... What room was it if I may ask?
It be investigation? he asked, his eyes narrowing slightly and looking at the dwarf.
We be wantin ta search it, be part o murder investigation, replied the dwarf through a beard embellished with a bit of beer foam.
Room ten, but now he got tha key. And he had nothing, you wont find a thing in room so if ye cud not bash doors, he shrugged.
Perfect. Thank you sir, smiled Lina, dropping a few more coins on the counter. Do not worry, we won't bash the door.
Gudd. Come later.
That we will, nodded the dwarf.
Or stay fer more ale, grined the other toothlessly.
Might do that ta, then turning to his companions, he added. Thorvin, brim an me like this pub, come 'ere whenever they visit. Be havin a nice atmosphere...
Yehs? Nevers beens heres I's prefer ta drink unda ta trees meres, Klaz said with a smirk.
Ah no tend ta like that much, isne homely.

They waited for a while in case the men would return, but he apparently did not inted to. And they left the inn after a while, taking notes to come back later and check the room ten.

Nerialka

The guards stepped in.

All right lads, ordered Tagnar. We need ta search this place top ta bottom. An try ta be careful no ta break nowt.

The sounds of slightly metallic footsteps filled the wide house. She could hear them above her, with sometimes the sounds of doors or cabinets opening and closing. A piece of furniture moved and put back in place. While they waited, tension in the living room was almost visible. Lina faked to take interest in the unfinished tapestry placed in the corner of the room, praised the quality of the wine without tasting itâ€¦

The guards gathered finally in the living room after a while. No archer was with them apparently.

There's no one home, but the window was open upstairs, said one of them.
Perhaps get tha cat in ta sniff out tha scent? suggested Tagnar.
Lina nodded.
My familiar will help them. Do not fear her, she is perfectly tamed.

That proved not to be a good idea and a few shouts and a confused moment later, they stepped out of the house. Well, townsfolk were not used to wild animals, familiars or not, tamed or not. She dismissed Aenethiel, who looked rather relieved to leave the stone paved alleys. Tagnar, on the other side, dismissed the guards.

Lets look't tha window, he grumbled. Round back did he say? The guard nodded.
Les have a sees, agreed Klaz.

Nerialka

A small rustling inside, muffled soundâ€¦ A key turnedâ€¦ Finally the door opened, letting out a man who closed the door behind his back. Lina studied his face. Not the archer.

Good evening, she smiled.
Evenin'. What me humble person can help?
We are looking for someone who seems to leave here.
Who is that? He said, raising a brow. And whom should Iâ€¦ introduce?
Tagnar, Klaz, she answered, pointing the dwarf and white-haired human. And I am Lina. It is rather important.
I will tell the mistress. Please wait only a while.

He turned on his heel and re-entered the house, locking the door. They waited again.

Perhaps cans accidentally breaks ta door down, suggested Klaz.
No, gruffed the dwarf.
Accidentallys of courses.
No, Klaz, smirked Lina.
Ahs?

The door opened once more.

Miss Marie said you can enter

And so they stepped in. They entered a large and rather empty living room. The hearth weakly tried to bring a feeling of warmth to the bare walls. No carpets, no decorations and only a few pieces of furniture that seemed dropped half randomly around the place. In a corner of the room, a large and heavy oak table, its weight adding a slight touch of stability to the disorganised place.

Next to the fireplace, a woman was looking at them. And by the way the flames send reflects in her eyes, one could tell she did not appreciate their late visit. And around her, a few men, silent and looking a bit tougher than they should have in such a noble house. Tag folded hes arms over his round stomach, eyeing the men.

Good evening Lady Marie, started Lina with a formal bow. We apology for disturbing your evening.
Marie looked at her sharply and gave a small curtsy. Obviously the apologies were not accepted. She motioned them to sit around the large table nonetheless and made a slight gesture to a man standing near the chimney. He went out without a word.
Please be my guests
Thank you.
Oohs hows nice of yers, commented Klaz.
My apologies for this… rough place, said the woman. We just moved in
A few polite denials followed.
Why this visit then? Beras told me that there are guards outside? Something is wrong?
Yes, replied Lina, pleased by the surprised reaction of Marie. I am sorry to bring such bad news, butâ€¦
She paused. Her red eyes taking in the details of Marieâ€s face, studying her reactions. Tagnar and Klaz were listening quietly
...It seems someone who attacked me entered this home. You might even be in danger.

The man came back, carrying a plate with food and a wine jug. Tagnarâ€s eyes followed him closely, watching his hands intently. He put the food on the table and went back to his place near the chimney. Calmly, Marie reached for her goblet.

It's... impossible I am afraid, she replied. I know my relatives, and we are peaceful family. Maybe it was some other house? Or maybe before we moved in?
No, the tracks were clear. And it happened only hours ago. Would you mind if the guards visited the place, to make sure no one broke through and hides here? Asked Lina, taking her glass as well and turning it in her hand without drinking. Nothing will be disturbed in you home. The guards know their job.
Aye, added the dwarf, rendered even smaller by the size of the table. Ah tell them ta be right careful

Obviously, she was not really keen on this idea. She looked at them in turns

Unless you have -anything- to back up your accusations, I will have to refuse I am afraid.
It will only take a few minutes of you time. And it is always well seen to help the city. Or shall I call the inquisitor maybe?
Here was an idea she liked even less.
Oh well. Let them in.
Many thanks, smiled Lina while Tagnar called the guards outside.
Do it quick and be gone, she said coldly.

Nerialka

The weather was chilly, a light wind making the cold sharperâ€¦ And the ravensâ€¦ Almost a dozen of them were around. Watching, circling, cawing.

And away they went. Away across the Nars. Away across the windâ€¦ Away across the blood. The bandits attacked. Over and over. And the fought over, and over. And the more blood stained the windy plains, the more ravens gathered to feed on the corpses. They feasted, eyes glowing red, they fedâ€¦ Watching her, watching them. The scene was surreal. They did not stop.

Time was stretching itself and made their journey seem endless, but finally they arrived in sight of the cityâ€s gates. Quietly, they slipped in to the dark alleys, dimly lit by the lampposts and the moonlight. Few would see the panther, at this time of the night. They followed Aenethielâ€s nose to a large house in the dock district. The streets were quiet.

They observed the mansion a few instants. A large number of crows where gathered there. A quick look through a windowâ€¦ A few passing shadows. Hard to tellâ€¦ The curtains blocked the view. Three to five people probably.

We should make sure it has no back door, then knock. Klaz? Could you please check there is none?
Uhâ€¦ He looked around, uncomfortable. I's nots verys use tose these sorts of houses Lina/
Ah.
Too manys tents fer mes
I'll have a look then

She walked to the other side if the house. Indeedâ€¦ There was a back door. She smiled slightly. Something moved. She looked up and stepped into the shadows with a frown. The curtains on the first floor had moved. Well he would not go out this way. She passed her hand over the heavy wooden lock, a low incantation passing her lips. She felt the energies tie themselves around the door, forcing it into position, tightly. Not even the proper key could unlock this door for a while. It would be enough. She went back to the front door. Her companions looked back at her

Any luck? Asked the dwarf.
There is someone on the first floor, I saw some movement behind a window… I locked their back door as well, magically...
Good, lets 'ope tha fella has some answers. Or rather, ah hope tha cat wasnt followin tha scent o a wealthy merchant that bought some fresh meat from market...
Hopes its nots someones birthdays party, whispered Klaz with a grin.
We should get some guards
guess some backup would ne go astray. Ah can go get a couple o reinforcements from tha guardhouse

The dwarf took the direction of the prison while she waited, chatting with Klaz in low tones. The ravens were deadly quiet. Their eyes, piercing, unblinkingâ€¦ Hurry Tagâ€¦ I need answers. Soon the dwarf came back, followed with a handful of men in green uniform.

They knocked.

And waited.

Nerialka

A Raven lowered his flight and passed over her. She followed the swift movement, the familiar sound wasâ€¦

He dropped something on her lap.

She looked down. It was a dagger, made of dark steel. She felt the gaze of the man and the dwarf, staring at it and staring at her. On the hilt was a raven rune. A beautiful work… Why did it look familiar? She closed her eyes, concentrating on it. She could feel the gathering of powers around it, dark, cold, slowly, menacingly curling around it. She could feel the presence of the negative energy caressing her hand as she ran it along the short blade. There wasâ€¦ Something else thoughâ€¦ But she would need a laboratory to find it.

She felt the gentle mental touch of the pantherâ€s mind. She was coming back. She soon appeared, panting a bit. She sat near Lina with a toothy grin. The emerald eyes met the red ones and she growled quietly.

I followed the trrrrace. To the place you live in stones... everry wherrre... stones. He goes farrrrâ€¦ To those human made caves. I show you.
She knows where he went, translated Lina.

She needed rest though. The last few hours had been draining. They stayed at the Tower where she left a note to Merin, mentioning she was on her way to Peltarch after having been assaulted in the hin town. They took a refreshing drink and prepared their travel back to the cold city. Finally, they stepped out of the portal and took the direction of the gates.

Nerialka

A sharp pain ran through her body. She was barely aware to hit the ground. A red veil passed over her eyesâ€¦ She struggled an instant the muffled sounds of the fight fading away. Everything went dark. She was alone and coldâ€¦ So coldâ€¦ She could ear the sound of feathers nearbyâ€¦ And she could feelâ€¦ The red eyesâ€¦ The red eyesâ€¦

A sour taste filled her mouth and he opened her eyes. Her whole body seemed carved in pain and suffering. The blur faded awayâ€¦ She heard a caw. Klaz and Tag were looking at her. The coppery taste of blood filled her mouth.

Miss Lina ya be workin?! Asked the dwarf in worried tones.

She shivered, slowly becoming aware of the scene around her. A body was nearby, the tall manâ€¦ One of the dark birds one of the dark birds perching on the corpse, feasting. He took out an eye. She tried to gather her thoughts. She could barely breath and half fumbled to take the bottle that Tagnar was handing her. He helped her to swallow it. A soothing warmth ran through her body. The taste mixed with the metallic one of blood.

Last time ah give folk wi drawn weapons benefit o tha doubt, he gruffed through his beard. Want me ta shoot tha buggers? He added, eyeing the crow.
No.
Whats goings ons Lina? Tag?
The raven was glancing at lina while festing. Klaz shivered, holding his own eye. She ignored his question, focused on the raven. She whispered :
What do you want of me ?
The eyes of the raven glittered red. Even though it was festing, it looked ill, hungry. It cawed back at her and whispered back
Find allies! Lina! Good allies ! Fast!
The others had not heard.
This is beginning of bloodshed! He cawed. They know you are here!
Who ?
Bogarths' allies! Caw! Prepare for feud! you can't escape it!
Why do they seek my death ?
Hit them first!
The bird took off. His meal was over and Linaâ€s mind was boiling with questions.
She shouted up : â€œWhy?â€
Gahs Lina, its looks likes its jus a birdys.
She did not listen to white haired mage.
Bogarths' allies, why would they seek my death ? She sighed. Hit them first he saidâ€¦
She turned her attention back to her companions, shaking her head, trying to clear her thoughts. Klaz was lost. Tagnar looked thoughtful.
Did the other man flee ? She asked.
Aye well if any show up again 'ittin first be no bad plan. Ran out o gates far as ah know. Hes rans likes a chicken fer seeds, answered the stocky guard.
I need Aenethiel's help.
… Lina's whats theys talkings bouts...? Klaz looked confused. She could not much more delay her explainations.
Alright, I'll send Aenethiel scout the trace of this archerâ€¦ Meanwhile, i'll tell you everything.

Soon the panther went away, heading in the direction of the Nars. They sat down near the trees. Linaâ€s hands were still shacking from the shock. Her mind kept going back, over and over to the cold blackness that had surrounded her, familiar and terrible. She shivered her fears away and took a deep breath.

It all started a few weeks agoâ€¦

And she told them. The Raven, the book, the curse. She spoke a long time, her mind wandering as she did. The more she told the story, the more she felt she had missed something. Something important.

Nerialka

Soon the gates of Jiyyd were in sight, their shape slowly getting clearer through the mist. They pushed open the heavy wooden doors and stepped in the familiar, damp and quiet atmosphere of the little town. Tagnar sat on one of the benches.

Well, 'ere ya be, he said.
Thank you Tag.
Welcome miss, he replied, grinning behind his beard. Tho wi tha passs quiet as it was ah am sure ya could o managed it weapon o no.

They turned at the noise of the gates opening again. A tall man stepped in. His white hair framing a familiar face. His eyes seemed to ever be smiling. Nowâ€¦ He could help her about the troll problem. And who knowsâ€¦ She smiled at him. Maybe he could be useful about those mysterious ravens as well.

Klaz, she smiled a greeting before adding : I may need your help.
Allos, he said, smiling. I's have ter escort someones to ta tower agains?
Lina smirked slightly. Last time she had dropped her apprentice in his care, not having the will, nor the time, to make her visit the tower.
No. I may need your help for a few researches. On two subjects now that I think about it. Up for a drink in the Tower, Tag ?
Ah aint never said no ta that question afore, replied the gruffy voice.
Alright, to the tower then.

So the three of them made their way north. Rain, that had spared them so far, started to fall again. Lina searched the sky, looking for the ever-present black feathers and red eyes. Klaz stopped a moment to remove his armor, looking down at the Silver Valley.

Never gets sicks of tis sight, he said quietly
Pretty place this, agreed the dwarf.
Yups. too bads all theses houses heres thoughs

Lina was not paying attention. She was walking, her eyes searching for ravens, her mind searching for answers. They climbed their way up the small slope leading to the tower. They were halfway up the hill and quietly chatting. Two men were blocking their way, weapons drawn. They stopped. The tallest man crossed his arms.

Hold, he said, commandingly.
Allos, greeted Klaz. Cans wes helps yers?
The man ignored him, looking over at Lina.
Are you Wethrillina Aeliath? he asked.
Who is asking?
Whose yer fren Lina? whispered Klaz
She shaked her head. She had never seen them before and their attitude was far from beeing trust-inspiringâ€¦
Its her, said the man holding a bow. Look at her skin and eyes.
Why do you seek me ? frowned Lina.
A friend. I just want to talk, the first man replied in a wry smile. Care to talk in private? Its rather urgent.
His manners were obviously twisted, she felt that Klaz was looking at her worriedly, and answered coldly:
Not in private. I trust my friends. You said it is urgent, then speak forth.
Best 'and over tha weapons afore ya do if at all, added Tag, his guard nature taking over.
The halflings dose not permits weapons in this place sirs, added the white haired mage.
Thats considerate, commented the man.
Lina crossed her arms. She did not like this at all. The man made a sharp gesture and shouted:
Now !

Nerialka

Another Step in the Mist

Lina leaned on the railing of the commons. She was worried. Her mind wandered on the past days and ached with questions, left unanswered so far. The way the snow flake randomly swirled around the place was like a cruel metaphor to her own confusion.. She wiped snow away from one of the bench and sat down. The cold was gently soothing her worries in a white velvet cloak.

Her mind was not on crows anymore. She heard footsteps and gazed around. A sturdy form was walking out of the fog, coming from the inn. The bold dwarf stopped near the railing.

Even'n, he said through his beard.
Hello Tagnar, she replied.
Hows things in tha city tha mo?
Worrying, sighed Lina.

So she told him, careful not to detail her story to much. The walk east, the trap and the sudden darkness, a male elven voice chanting that was not Syneâ€sâ€¦ A cry, and the noises of battle, then the pain, intense, ovewhelmingâ€¦ And when she came back to her senses, her hands were tied, Ahriman was bleeding and Syne was missing. As she spoke the anger came back. She looked at the little, sturdy guard who was listening intently.

A movement and the rustling of feathers caught her attention. The now familiar red eyes of the raven were looking back at her. She had almost lost her attention to them in her concern for Syne. This troll would pay. But those raven were worrying. She had to do something. The Emerald library could hold elements that could help her to clear this mystery.

Somethinâ€ wrong? Asked Tagnar, following her gaze.
Maybe…. It keeps following me. I almost forgot it with the last events... I should go back to Jiyyd and make a few researches maybe.
Or just shoot it, he said matter-of-factly
No !
Stupids dwarves, unable to see further than the tip of their axes ! She thought. But she could use him. She needed to travel back south. And his protection could be useful. She smiled gently :
Do not arm it.
If ya insist.
I need to go to the Tower. Would you escort me Tag ?
Tha southern guard tower ya mean?
No, she replied, hiding her exasperation. The Emerald one.
Oh, Jiyyd. Aye, sure, can go whenever ya want. Nows good a time as any.
Thank you. I'll tell you the story on the way.
No a bad plan.

So they started their journey. The Nars was strangely quiet, the thin fog soon covered her clothes with little, sparkling drops of water. She could see little clouds formed by the dwarfâ€s breath. As they walked, she told him the story of the two cursed clans. An odd taleâ€¦ The more she thought about itâ€¦ The more she felt something was amiss. Her mind was running as she spoke. She tried to put away her worries for Syneâ€¦ â€œFocusâ€, she thought with a shiver, concentrating on the story, letting Tagnar take care on any threat that could jump out of behind a rock in red and purple armor.

Nerialka

Nerialka

Lina followed Eowiel silently. Now that she thought about itâ€¦ the hatred of the raven wasn't directed at her, or anyone in particularâ€¦ More like… He was the embodiment of hatred as an idea? She was not sure. The raven had said her name. Specifically. She had heard about spirit beings, whose only goal is to spread the idea that they represent... And this she had witnessed, very recently, when she had seen a spirit of fire within the walls of this city. And spirits rarely lied... Unless the spirit would represents such thing as deception orâ€¦ But the book referred clearly to the two clans. Could her mother have been related to one of them ? Doubts, questions, and worries circled her mind, abstract mirrors of the crows circling above her. Anything was possible. The raven could even have cursed her because of the dark path she was walking on... But that sounded unlikely.

She focused back on reality at the sound of Anah's voice:

Morning te ye lass, now what kin I be gettin ye te drink?
They both ordered and sat down in a corner of the Lucky Ferret, silent. Lina turned the glass in her hands, watching the reflects of the liquid in the dim light of the candelabras.
Now that I think about it, she said, I think I should not have spoken the name out loud.
Which name?
Odd-Kharno.
She turned the glass in her hands once more.
Hmm. Do you think saying it meant the raven thinks you're one of Odd-Kharno's, or that you might actually be one?
It was a spirit. The incarnation of a concept, she sighed. I am not sure. Not at allâ€¦
Neither one is all too pleasant a thought.
I know so few on my family, that anything could be possible.
Good thing I'm no human, or I might be worried myself.

Lina pondered this. Could she have been cursed because she was human? No, it seemed not restrictive enough. And it was not really true, considering her father's origins.

Anyway... The raven mentioned my name, and I do not like it.
Well. No doubt we'll have our answers when you are attacked by a horde of Bogarth's descendants, hmm?
I hope not, answered Lina with a half smile.
We could look around for...crows.
I don't know... It incarnates hatred, or revenge.... she said then repeating, turning the words in her mouth, as if tasting them: " Bogarths will wish your death"
She stood up, thoughtful. Time was not to have a drink in a tavern with a green haired bard.
Excuse me, I have to prepare my journey back to Jiyyd.
Alright. I'll go and see if Abiie woke up. Take care, Lina.
Farewell Eo.

Lina stepped out of the Lucky Ferret in direction of the Dancing Mermaid. She had a letter to write for Syne, and Eowiel did not need to know this. But she definitely had been useful. Crows followed her as she walked across the city. They were circling, high above. She entered the large inn and walked to her room. The birds gathered on the inn's roof. She set a few candles alight. It was getting dark. Another snowy day was beginning. She took a piece of parchment and her quill and sat down at her desk. Her gaze wandered to the windowâ€¦

â€¦And looking back at her, were the red eyes of a tired, hateful raven sitting quietly on the window's frame.

Nerialka

They both stayed silent a while. Finally, Eowiel broke the calm of the little study.
â€œ Hmm. If the Raven is here the feud must be here, no? Descendants of the clans? "
Lina nodded and closed the book thoughtfully : â€œ But who? "

Maybe we ought talk to the Raven again?
Yes, let us go outside.
Seems rather fitting that the Raven hates Bogarth, I suppose. Forced to serve him all this time.
Maybe." Lina picked up her book while Eowiel was piling up the pages of hers carefully. She stayed silent a moment before adding:"I would say he could hate the Odd-Kharno as well. Those wars build up hatred on both sidesâ€¦ And we do not know who wrote the books and on which side, he or she could have been.
Hmmâ€¦ true, true. I think I'll inform the guards not to shoot down any Ravens. Call me superstitious… smiled Eowiel.
Lina smirked slightly in return, putting the old book back on its shelf. Eowiel did the same with hers.

They made their way across the sleepy theatre. The day had opened a sleepy red eye upon the cold city and the corridor were still quiet. They stepped out in the pale light of the morning, and in their gaze flew up to meet the reddish eyes of the raven.

Eowiel gave it a curtsy, Lina, a smile. The raven was watching them curiously, perched on the theatre's door.

I wonder who can have blood of one of those families in their veins, Lina whispered.
Eowiel looked at the bird.
Can you lead us to the person you are here because of? She asked
The raven stayed still and silent, its unblinking eyes looking at them.
Your story in not an ordinary one, Lina added, smiling at the bird
Not altogether a happy one either, you poor thing.
Indeed, said Lina. Then she whispered to Eo: " Do you realise that he probably hates he whom he is here for?
Indeed. Still, he may think we're on the opposite side, you know. Why else would we be so interested?"
Lina nodded. Then turned her attention back to the crow:
Is one of the sons of Odd-Kharno not far from here?
The raven's eyes turned suddenly to Lina. She looked back at it and added:
That is what you are looking for, isn't it?
The gaze of the bird was intense, yet he remained motionlessâ€¦ He did not answer.
Well you do not really help us, feathered one, said Lina with a small smile.
Hmm. Bogarth? Asked Eo, a bit confused. One of his fellows here somewhere?

Swiftly, the raven took off from the door's frame and dived toward Lina.
- Bogarths will wish your death, Lina, it cawed.

And it flew up toward the grey sky, to meet the many ravens circling there like high, menacing black dots against the heavy clouds.

And what exactly did I do to deserve that? Asked Lina, puzzled.
Eowiel glanced at Lina, repeating in a grim tone: "Ravens are messengers of death"
Lina crossed her arms, watching the raven fly away. She frowned.
Yes. But I do not understand his sudden hatred toward…
She stopped in mid-sentence. She knew so few of her own pastâ€¦
Where are you from, incidentally?
Lina looked at the palm of her left hand. She rubbed the glove that was hiding the thin scar. She had looked in the past onceâ€¦ It had beenâ€¦ She turned pale
What is it? Asked Eo.
I have never... been sure... My mother's father... Lina looked up at the sky, not really wiling to answer.

The raven was making a few circles above her head. His shadow passed over them... And finally directed his flight southeast. Lina shivered. Her mind was running.

I need a drink, she said.

Nerialka

The commons where busy, humming with conversations they did not listen to. They did not stop except to quiet a terrified Abiie. They headed to the College, and the raven followed them. But the bird did not enter the building. There, the child could rest and maybe a bit of the mysterious veil could be lifted. The little girl was exhausted and quickly fell asleep in Eowielâ€s room.

They went to the library. The heavy looking bookshelves surrounded them, the scent of old leather mixing with the smell of old parchment and dust. They walked quietly amongst the alleys. It was late, the whole theatre was asleep and the only noise disturbing the silence was their steps on the wooden floor and the occasional rustling of pages. Eowiel ordered some food.

Finally, a cover caught Lina's eye. She ran her hand on the worn out cover on which was drawed a raven.

"We'll go read in the study, once we… Aha! ", Eowiel picked up another volume.

They moved to the little room nearby where a dinner was waiting for them there. The maid left the room quietly as they settled down to read. It was the same old looking book. The treated leather pages were sewn together and bound in a hard wooden cover. Some pages seemed to be missing. But hopefully, they had to versions of it and it would enable them to get the whole story. They sat down and opened their books, reading and eating quietly. The first pages depicted a familiar-looking raven. The title was written in elaborate glyphs on the worn, yellowing pages : "The Hanged Man's Saga". The book looked like it had survived centuries. Its writing was very unlike the flourishing script they were used to, the letters looked more akin to dwarven futhark runes. Despite is simplicity, the script was very careful and beautiful, and the drawings showed some art. It was written in common, though. And the author's name was not mentioned. Lina took a bite of roasted chicken, careful not to stain the book.

The tale started by introducing the barren land of Icewind Dale, where 13 families ruled together, traded together and occasionally went on a war together. After this initial introduction, focus shifted to two of those clans: the "accursed clan" and the Odd-Kharno. The leader of the "accursed" was named Bogarth, and days of his rule were violent, stained with both the blood of his enemies and kin.

The book went on about Borgarth and his followers. They were at some point caught in a family blood-feud with the Odd-Kharno familyâ€¦ And it took far too large magnitude. As years passed, feud escalated, as one revenge followed another, the hatred between families grew.

The leaders of the remaining clan gathered together, wanting to force truce between the warlike families. They ordered Bogarth and head of Odd-Kharno to show up for a special meeting. The purpose of the meeting was widely known, everyone expecting Bogarth to be forced to speak the peace. Yet, the meeting flew with blood, as Bogarth used it as another opportunity to murder his enemies, this time not hesitating to kill bystanders as well.

His name was cursed that day, he and his clan was cast out and forced to leave the land and be hunted like dog by every other clans. And justice was brought to him. He was captured and brought to his knees. He was hanged, his corpse burned, the ashes buried on a mound. The same happened to those who remainded loyal to him till the end.

Yet even death didn't teach him remorse. Before facing the execution, he yelled aloud cursesâ€¦ he said that the feud would never end, that his followers would hunt Odd-Kharno sons like murder of feud-crows. And whether by his curse, or the hatred accumulated between the two families, it happened so.. The clans didn't cease the feud. Even if both were exiled and forced to leave, spreading across Faerun. Wherever one family went, the other one followed, and brought the feud-ravens with them, carrying the centuries old hatred.

The tale ended there, mentioning that the ravens were the messengers, the servants of Bogarths, that killing them would bring ill luck to the murderer... and that they never lied.