The Task: Chronicles of Jaffar Book 1

By Randy Fasig

The Task is a novel of medieval politics, espionage and combat on multiple levels. Locals search their inner selves while our heroes fight hand to hand with monsters that curse the area with their very presence

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Jan 12, 2012
• ISBN: 9781468536119

Randy Fasig

Randy Fasig has written short stories that were accepted by TSR for publication in “Dragon Magazine” in the early 1990s. Those stories were based in the same world but focused on different characters. Living in Atlantic City, New Jersey he spins tales that keep his audiences coming back for more.

Book preview

PROLOGUE

THE BEGINNING

Early Spring year 18,260—Elf Reckoning

The captain was uneasy. He could feel the wrongness about him. Looking around he could see the fog rolling in from the south, muttering to himself I’ve been at sea nearly seventy years, no fog has ever moved North in these waters. The crew sensed it too, they were keeping themselves busy but it was a constant distraction.

The light fades quickly this night. The voice came from behind him.

Without turning he called out his orders, Eagle get up top, I don’t want to be caught off our guard if something comes out of there! It was best to let them know he was on top of things it reassured them kept them calm even in the face of something as strange as this mist. He quietly asked his mate, Ellisor what do you make of it?

Not sure Cap’n. remarked Ellisor. Sure is strange the fog and the light fading so quickly. It’s got the men spooked.

As they spoke the fog rolled over the ship. Both men felt the ship shudder when the fog covered it and the darkness became near complete. A dark figure stepped out of the misty darkness onto the foredeck. It was tall and wore a full length black robe with a cowled hood, arms folded before it the hands tucked into opposite sleeves. The robe was belted the belt itself held together with a large platinum emblem of a skull surrounded by five stars each star containing a large diamond, each eye socket of the skull held a deep blue sapphire.

The captain watched as Ellisor ran for the ladder and his crew rushed forward to confront the intruder. He quickly became amazed as each reached the unwelcome visitor and dropped their makeshift weapons. A mop, a cudgel, gaff hooks all fell to the deck as his men knelt before this stranger.

Walking slowly and purposefully toward the stranger the captain wandered how this was possible even commenting aloud to himself, These are seasoned elfin sailors, what could possibly affect them this way? Yet during the approach he began to suspect something, for even half the length of the ship away he could feel the stranger’s unseen eyes burning into him. Nearing the stranger he passed the first of his crew, he could feel his skin crawling as a chill ran down his spine. Here he paused. Men gather your weapons and go below. I’ll deal with this. They all ran for the nearest hatch!

Arriving about twenty feet from this imposing figure fear began to creep into his own heart and he could advance no further without falling to his own knees.

Before he could speak the stranger’s voice resonated through his very being deep and cold, You are Captain Varisos and this vessel is the Tromoquilis. I have a task for you.

The Captain looked over his shoulder as sails snapped filling with air, the ship was responding without him! . . .

PART 1

THEY ASSEMBLE

CHAPTER 1

THE TASK

10/27/1024 TY [ Eoayous the 27th of Oekau year 1024 Tyracin calendar]

It had been a great Eoayous and if the rest of the weekend was the same it would be a good one. The snow had kept most barges off the river. Sailors and shore men with nothing better to do had flocked into the tavern. The night ran through Corimalin’s mind while walking the five squares to his room, If I had made a few more wagers I really could have cleaned up!

Darrel, the inn keep, called as Cori entered, I hear you made a few extra coin this eve.

Yeah some new river rats up from the capital couldn’t follow a pea if I had used clear mugs. He jokingly replied as he headed up the steps.

Corpo, the northern most city of Dacia, settled almost four centuries earlier was a mix of the old, the new, and everything in between. King Corrigan had commissioned the original outpost here as a first line of defense from the humanoid barbarian tribes of the north. Existing right on the edge of the badlands leading into the mountains of the north and the fertile fields of the southern plain, it grew. The farmers who wanted the security of being near a fortress and the free spirited independent types who thought they could make a name for themselves fighting the humanoid bands were all welcome, and of course the men who brought in the goods that allowed the place to survive, they were all here.

The original stonewall of the castle fortress was still there, in desperate need of repair. The city wall replaced the castles main defense two hundred years ago. Of course, since that time, the cities walls had been expanded three times. The first of these along the northern quarter were mostly prospectors and free swords for hire. It was not very successful.

The next expansion moved into the northeast. This was the local governors attempt to show the docks and warehouses that he was willing to protect their interests, saying in effect that it was his interest too. This was more successful, probably because the governor’s comfy furniture came in through those docks, or perhaps because these people paid their taxes.

The most recent expansion was built about forty years ago and connected the two previous walled in areas. This created a new bow like arc connecting the dilapidated knob of the northwest, where most of the workers lived and tried to raise their families, to the well-maintained northeast.

The majority of the roofs here were tile rather than the more common thatch of the southern farming communities. The clay of the badlands, once you ground the clumps, produced a pinkish tint rather than the traditional deep red, giving the area its own unique flavor. The tiles tended to blend into the brick or give an accent to whitewashed wood, it even made the stonework somehow seem bright.

Corpo looked like a jewel. Lawbreakers were not jailed except in extreme cases They instead carried buckets of water from the river to others who swept the refuse from the streets and of course into the river. They did whitewashing or whatever civic improvement the new governor decided on next. He was going to keep his jewel clean.

The newest law forbid the carrying of swords in the city. This had boosted dagger sales. The idea was to keep the local free swords in check, and give the city guard an advantage.

It seemed to be working this was the first night in months that nobody had been beaten with a blade in the tavern. Dockmans Tavern of course was near the docks and attracted the rougher sailors off the river. This was why Corimalin had hesitated on those few extra bets. Better to go away a little light than be carried away dead.

As he placed his hand on the latch to his room a chill ran through his body. He pulled his hand away, quickly and carefully examining the door. The chill was instantly replaced by a feeling of dread. The door seemed fine the only tracks in the hall were from the snow on his boots. I’m getting paranoid, he mused, and opened the door, acutely aware of the total darkness inside.

Are you coming in? A deep voice echoed in the small room.

Darrel would have told him if someone had come to see him, so this guy had come in through the window. Cori was thinking quickly running through all the possibilities he could think of. You’ll have to work for this bounty, He replied as a knife dropped from his sleeve into his hand.

I mean you no harm, in fact I might just save you, the voice returned.

Save me? How?

Enter and we will speak.

How about a little light first?

As you wish, the shutters opened allowing the nearly full moon to shine in.

Cori could now see a tall figure in a dark cowl hooded flowing robe, standing near the window. This was belted at the waist and adorned with a bright platinum buckle. Not sure whether to run or face this stranger he stepped into the room leaving the door open behind him.

I want you to do something for me.

Who are you? Cori tried to put more authority in his voice than he felt.

Who I am is not important, for I am only a messenger. You just happened to be near and ready to leave town, so this small task serves us both.

Cori was now curious. Curiosity mixed with fear is strange enough but to feel compelled to hear this man out, that was just lunacy, wasn’t it? Well suppose you tell me why I would leave town in the middle of a snow storm? His curiosity won out.

Because an assassin from the Iron Fist was in the tavern tonight and he recognized you.

How do you know that?

Laughter bellowed throughout the room.

Cori jumped and closed the door, forgetting his escape route. I don’t see what could be so funny! he snapped.

You are so little worried for your life that you only care how I came upon my information.

It is not that I do not care for my life, but being sure before I risk it on an open trail in the snow seems like a good idea to me! Cori’s voice rose as he spoke till it was almost a yell.

The stranger’s voice lost all signs of amusement. If not for my masters need of you I would kill you for speaking to me like that!

Now we are getting somewhere. Who is your master? Cori tried to make it sound like a demand over the rising fear inside him, at the same time wishing he hadn’t closed the door.

Do as you will. My advice is that you leave here now and go to the temple founded by Jaffar Ibn Ravi. Once you arrive give him this message… .

CHAPTER 2

TIME TO GO

10/27/1024 TY [Eoayous 27th of Oekau year 1024 Tyracin calendar]

Cori had packed everything quickly when the stranger left, if you could call fading away leaving. He was now carrying all his worldly belongings to the stables.

Willard proved to be his usual self, asleep in a pile of hay. From the smell of him he was drunk too, so much the better. Cori took two horses out the back and hitched them to a wagon. This accomplished, he threw a sack and his pack in the back. After climbing up he suddenly realized there were three crates in the wagon. Oh well oops is the word for tonight. A smile crept across his lips.

After brushing the snow from the seat a quiet trip across the yard and out the gate this was almost too easy. Next stop Dockmans Tavern.

With the snow the wagon made little noise but Cori stopped at the corner before the tavern anyway, just to be safe. A short walk brought him to the tavern door, its lock yielded easily to his touch. Grabbing as much food as he could carry in his sack, without forgetting the days profits, he slipped back out the way he had come. Placing the sack of food in the back and two flasks of wine under the seat, he was off.

Taking the long way to the east gate Cori found what he was looking for, a boy about twelve or thirteen trying to hide from the cold in a narrow gap between buildings. He stopped.

Hey boy, come here.

Why it cold out dere?

Because I’m gonna get you warm and out of the snow. Unless you’d rather stay in there till the thaw comes.

The boy came out still cautious, Why you wanna help me?

Because I can, and maybe I just don’t want you to die of cold in there. Climb on. The boy obliged and Cori got the wagon moving again. There’s a blanket in the back wrap yourself up for now. As the boy reached back to find the offered blanket Cori asked, What’s your name? Unless you want me to call you boy till the thaw.

Arturo, he blurted and I gonna be a great wizard some day!

Cori smiled. Well now wizard Arturo, you’re in luck. I just happen to be going to the city with the largest wizards college in all of Dacia.

Dracor! You goin to Dracor? Arturo could barely hold back his excitement.

Yes I am. Would you like to come along?

Wow! Yeah! . . . I mean yes sir.

As they approached the gate Cori instructed young Artuto, Don’t mention Dracor to the guard it is a secret. As a future wizard you know how to keep a secret, right?

Before Arturo could reply the guard approached. Oh Cori it’s you. What brings you out on a night like this?

I gotta run supplies out to the old mans daughter. Cori lied easily, You know how he is. Do it his way or no way.

Yeah, but you know the gate is closed for the night. Who’s your friend? He tried to change the topic.

This is the future wizard Arturo. Cori winked.

Yeah we get a lot of future wizards here. The guard joked.

Arturo blurted urgently, But he gonna help me find a master an become a real wizard.

The guard smiled at Arturo. You know I can’t let you out till morning, wizard finder. He looked up at Cori.

Even if I have something to help keep you warm tonight? Cori played innocent. The boy, Arturo was distracting the guard as he had hoped.

Oh? The guard’s interest suddenly changed as he glanced toward the gate.

Arturo hand me that red flask from under the seat. Cori smiled at the guard. You know the old man doesn’t water down the wine in the red flasks.

I get the whole flask?

All yours.

Ok. But make it quick. I want no trouble with the sergeant.

Cori handed over the flask and the gate was opened.

The wagon rolled east heading out of Corpo with its two occupants.

CHAPTER 3

TRAVEL TIME?

10/28/1024 TY [Nyios 28th of Oekau year 1024 Tyracin calendar]

By morning Arturo was asleep in the back, the snow had stopped, leaving behind a foot of white powder covering everything. Cori couldn’t tell where the trail was but he kept on going. His head ached from looking at the pure white landscape he was hungry and tired. Knowing that the horses needed a rest, he decided to go on for about an hour then take a break.

Coming to a small grove of trees he stopped using the trees to provide a windbreak for the horses. He dug down into the snow to find grass for them to eat. His efforts were poorly rewarded, the horses ate what they could but it wasn’t much considering he was taking them on such a long trip.

He began to wonder what was in those crates. Climbing back into the wagon he pried open the first crate. Between the three crates he had a full set of porcelain dinnerware for twelve. He was relieved it was worth about twelve hundred golden crowns. It just might buy Arturo his apprenticeship with a wizard. As he closed the third crate the boy woke.

There’s food in the sack, if you’re hungry. He told the boy. Eat while I hitch the horses up. Then you drive while I get some sleep.

When they were ready to leave Cori told him to move toward the distant mountains and wake him if anybody was on the road. Then he drifted off into a disturbed dream filled sleep.

To Arturo even the mountains appeared white. The road was unknown to him for he had never traveled it. He was willing to do anything to get to Dracor and the wizards college.

CHAPTER 4

DON’T GET COMFORTABLE

11/5/1024 TY [Owtia the 5th of Evtev year 1024 Tyracin calendar]

It took six days to reach Dracor. The horses were both in bad shape. The snow, the wind and the lack of food had taken their toll. The wagon itself was showing signs that it would not last much longer. Repeated treks off the trail and through ruts and holes had loosened axles and even a few boards. Cori knew he would be lucky to trade all three for one good horse. With this in mind Cori felt like he was looking at a divine grace when Dracor came into sight.

Well my young companion, tonight we eat well, sleep in warmth and enjoy all the comforts of a city.

When will I meet da wizard to train me? Arturo could not hold back his youthful anxious curiosity

Cori laughed, Perhaps tomorrow, for now look upon the wonders of magic. Cori pointed out the temple of Death sitting atop a hill, the fact that the road had no snow on it even though the banks on either side of it were two and a half feet deep, the governors mansion high upon a cliff overlooking the city and finally the clear dome that protected the cities residents from the harsh snows. Of that he had not believed until now seeing it with his own eyes! He wondered was there really a twelve-story inn? Did the college of magic really float in midair? Were there really eight other schools floating around it? Could all of these things really be possible? He could see the wonder in his companion’s eyes and could only hope it did not show in his own.

At the gate Cori got the names of two good inns and directions to the personal residence of the dean of the college, a woman the guard named Mistress Shellengar.

As they pulled away from the gate Arturo asked We goin to da school now?

First things first my young friend. We check in at one of the inns and have a meal. Then we get you some clothes to make you presentable to a high-class lady. Tomorrow morning we shall present you to her, and then the rest is up to you. Cori instructed Arturo. So which do you think Dracor Heights with its full services or Thjolstaff’s Guest House where we will be comfortable and anonymous? He knew the answer before he asked.

Dracor Heighs! People can wait on us for once.

Cori could not argue with the boy’s logic, he preferred the anonymity but he agreed. He could always move when Arturo entered his apprenticeship tomorrow.

When they got to the inn Cori was indeed impressed. The place was indeed twelve stories and seemed to be carved from a single polished stone! A boy about Arturo’s age came over and told them that he would send in their belongings and care for the wagon and horses. Cori thanked him asking if the three crates could be kept in a secure place. Cori presented the boy with five silver coins and told him that there would be five more if everything was in order when it was collected tomorrow. It was readily agreed and they went inside.

If Cori had been impressed outside then the inside left him in awe. The entrance filled the first two stories of height with a central garden that contained paths, benches and fountains! There was a large desk about eight feet long that had two women behind it. As they approached the desk the dark haired one greeted them in Diminic, a common language in his homeland.

Hello madam. We would like to secure lodging for tonight. He tried not to sound like he was new to this.

Good day sir. I’m Gabriel I’ll take care of getting you set up. She never stopped smiling and continued, Since this is your first time here, would you like a room, a suite or an apartment?

I think a suite.

Excellent sir, your name?

Cori forgot to lie, Corimalin Lightfoot.

She continued asking questions and directed him to several shops. The laundry and bathing services were explained (he knew they looked bad after six days in a wagon but had never had it put so politely before). He explained the crates when they arrived, and she assured him they would be well taken care of. Gabriel called over a boy similar to the one outside, and he showed them to their suite.

After bathing and changing they ate a hearty lunch in one of the inn’s dining establishments.

Cori realized that this place accommodated everybody. The eateries served various cuisines from around the world, the shops had a similar selection of styles, and people spoke native languages wherever you went. This was a pampering house for rich visitors.

Lunch was finished and it was time to find Arturo a suitable set of clothes for tomorrow morning. These shops would be exclusive and raise the price of admittance beyond Cori’s reach. After leaving the inn, they settled on a small shop with above average quality but without the flair of the rich. The effect was precisely what they were looking for, now for shoes and a haircut.

When everything was done the boy looked like he belonged to the fringes of society but, not quite rich enough to join in. This would get Cori’s price accepted. The rest was up to Arturo.

He chose an up scale establishment for the evening meal. Arturo dressed in his new clothes, Cori was watching the patrons for a reaction. None seemed to object, perfect.

CHAPTER 5

A WIZARD MET

11/6/1024 TY [Eoayous the 6th of Evtev year 1024 Tyracin calendar]

Morning came quickly. Arturo’s excitement was contagious and gave Cori a sense of urgency. Not just for Arturo but also for the message he would be delivering after.

They arrived at the house early. The doorknocker resounded loudly through the quiet morning. The woman who answered appeared to be in her mid to late twenties, wearing a silk blouse and a long silk skirt, the first in a pastel yellow the latter a soft blue, her long full bodied dark, almost black, hair flowing below the polished leather belt around her slim waist. Her features were fine almost sculpted time had forgotten to work on her. The smile on her face was affectionately disarming, the voice sweet and melodic. Can I help you?

Cori almost stuttered, We are here to see the mistress Shellengar.

The smile never wavered, Are you expected?

No but I believe she will see us. Please just tell her that our business requires the wizardess herself.

That smile seemed to broaden her green eyes twinkled with curious expectation. Allow me to show you to the drawing room. Her voice revealed a mild amusement.

We entered a large foyer, a set of double doors to either side, a wide stairway ahead with narrow passages on either side going into darkness. The doors to the right were opened for them. They took the crates and entered. The woman followed, Please be seated she invited.

Thank you. Cori replied and took a seat on the plush velvet sofa. The whole room seemed alive with rich woods and bright velvets. Arturo sat beside Cori.

The lady unexpectedly took a seat in a high backed armchair opposite them. Now what business brings you here rather than to the college?

Mistress? Cori asked with a note of surprise.

Yes she replied easily. We really should dispense with facades. I was on my way to break my fast with some old friends. Now, you know who I am, yet I do not seem to recognize either of you.

My apologies. Cori strove to contain the problem, I did not intend to deceive you. I am unimportant. My name is Cori and this is Arturo.

Since I’ve never seen you before, I am understandably curious. What manner of business brings such an unlikely pair to my door? Her amusement was obviously gone her tone serious, all business.

Again allow me to apologize for both the unexpectedness of our appearance and the delay of your morning reunion. Cori turned on the charm, hoping it would be enough. We are here to appeal to your sense of comradery. Her eyebrows rose at the statement, Cori continued undaunted. As a member of the elite wizardry you are in a position to assist young Arturo here to begin his journey into your world of magic and mysteries. He seeks only the opportunity.

She held up her hand, unadorned, and received the silence requested with the simple gesture.

This leaves two questions. First, she looked to Arturo, Why here, with me instead of the school?

Cori quickly chimed in, We have brought with us a gift of some value hoping to persuade you to accept him as an apprentice.

Apprentice! She practically jumped out of her chair. What could you possibly be thinking? A personal apprentice, only one person has done so in the last sixteen years! He hardly ever shows up to teach. We stopped paying him ten years ago. Still he teaches maybe two classes a year. Why would I follow his path? She was pacing obviously agitated.

Cori hoped he hadn’t made a mistake. He had always heard it was an honor to take an apprentice who truly wanted to learn. Seeing the disappointment in Arturo’s face he tried to counter quickly. Mistress, I did not mean to insult you or your school. Arturo’s only hope is to learn through an apprenticeship. He has few funds, and my sponsorship is limited. I ask you to hear his story then make up your mind.

She turned her attention to Arturo, who squirmed in his seat under the penetrating gaze.

Arturo, if you truly want to be a wizard now is your time. You are at the threshold, standup and give your best attempt to cross it. None can fault you for your efforts. Cori tried to bolster his confidence.

Arturo stood. It took all his strength and courage to do it. He just knew that the angry wizardess would blast him out of existence for daring to talk to her. Cori was still urging him to tell her his story. Before he realized it he was talking, still staring at the floor. I was raised on a horse ranch cross da river from da Great Swamp. dwo years ago my parents were killed when da winds blew in. Moder was inside our cottage when it fell down. Fada an da men were tendin to the owners horses, so I dug her out. She was bent in unnatural ways, and her face was crushed.

He looked up, scared. The face of the wizardess had softened. His courage was renewed, he continued with tears on his cheeks. My fada was busy he could not come to her. Den da creatures from da swamp began to come out. Da owner shouted orders. Everyone ran for weapons. Da master, Sir Mellor, he used magic. Many creatures were sucked under da water and did not come up. Da men returned. Dey began fighting wit da creatures dat had survived. My fada was not far from Sir Mellor. When da creatures ran dere were not many of dem left, a loud voice came from da edge of da swamp. It called da creatures cowards! Den dis huge shape, it looked like da head of a salamander wit horns, rose above da trees. It spit at Sir Mellor but hit some of the men instead. I heard my fader scream, even over da oders I heard him die! Sobs were coming freely now Arturo had lost all his inhibitions. He was gone! When he fell all I could see were his bones.

It’s ok Arturo, let it out. Shellangar’s voice was low and sweet as she placed an arm around the boy’s shoulder, just the opposite of the glare she had locked on Cori. She got Arturo to sit down and walked to what looked like an armoire. Cori visibly tensed as she opened the right door and reached inside. She removed a glass and decanter of fine Rhindan crystal, pouring some of the deep red liquid into the glass she handed it to Arturo. Here, drink this, it will help.

She turned her attention back to Cori. You would play on my sympathies like this? Where did you get your information?

Cori just stared at her.

Well? she demanded.

I don’t know what you mean. What information? You are known as the head of this school. After all it is the largest and most popular of the three. He was obviously confused.

Oh I’m not talking about your choice of places for training. We are also the best. Though some from Gaulanitis might disagree, but the number of students from there says otherwise. I mean the events portrayed in his history. How did you know?

I didn’t

Arturo interrupted, You just said you da best! You mus train me! You mus! I have to be da best. Dat ding killed my fada, I will kill it.

My dear boy you’re getting ahead of yourself. As an apprentice you must learn to keep your focus on now, and still keep your eyes on the goal. Else wise you’ll not be a wizard.

Cori smiled, Arturo cheered, YAHOO!

I guess I’ll be leaving. Cori grinned as he stood, I’ve a job to do. His eyes shifted to Arturo. I’m glad this worked out for you. Give it your all kid, you’ll make it.

Dank you Cori widout you I still be in de alley in Corpo.

An alley in Corpo! Shellengar interrupted, looking from one to the other, Where does Corpo fit into the story?

I saw him on my way out of town. I was on my way here, to Dracor, he came along. Told me he wanted to be a wizard, so I brought him here, to you. Cori kept the explanation short.

Ok, just go I’ll figure it out later.

Cori did leave, and quickly.

* * *

Cori moved around town trading the wagon for tack and both heavy draft horses for one good light horse. There was only one way to delay any longer, so I stopped for something to eat. The food at Thjolstaff’s was first rate, Cori just couldn’t enjoy it. The places reputation was certainly well deserved if I saw any of the patrons that were here on the street I would not recognize them.

There was one who kept my attention. He was wearing a black tunic with bell sleeves belted at the waist, black breeches tucked into fine Nabatean boots finished off with a black cowled cloak. The pouches on his belt were of the same Nabatean leather. This man had some extra coin and he didn’t mind spending it. What had really caught his attention was that while the man ate he did not remove his cowl. In a place known for anonymity he chose to take extra precautions to insure he could not be recognized. Why, is what Cori wondered. The man rose to leave, placing a gold crown on the table. Cori found it interesting that the cloak was pulled around him as he rose to leave further guaranteeing his identity was obscured.

Cori found himself reaching for cheese that was no longer there I had eaten while watching the stranger. It was not like me to lose track of the surroundings. One more glass of wine then I would go. The wine was just something to waste time with more than to ease nervousness. I knew the nerves would not calm, I was going into the lion’s den. The person I had come to see was the local jailer and executioner. He dealt with death daily, even built the temple dedicated to Death. I would be in Deaths earthly home, the temple palace of Jaffar Ibn Ravi.

CHAPTER 6

GOING INTO THE DARKNESS

11/6/1024 TY [Eoayous the 6th of Evtev—year 1024 Tyracin calendar]

Cori stood before the massive basalt doors of the temple, their glossy darkness polished to a mirror finish. The message was clear, to find death just look at yourself, or more accurately within you. Cori felt the chill, not of the snow around him this was the cold of fear. Opening the door, he was not surprised to find that it was perfectly balanced and swung easily.

The interior was clearly designed to demonstrate your own insignificance, powerlessness against the inevitable force of death. It was lit but dark, shadows were everywhere. The woods were dark and the stones varying shades of deep gray. It felt like a tomb.

Three people were here. A priest, his head shaved wearing a full-length black robe without adornment, was heading up the main aisle toward Cori, moving with purpose.

The other two were sitting about halfway between the entrance and the dais engaged in conversation. The first was strongly built, clean-shaven, dressed in rich silks. His company was… the cloaked man from Thjolstaff’s!

Cori was curious now. Who was this guy? What was he? Why was he here?

May I be of assistance sir?

It had happened again! He had lost track of the priest, twice in less than an hour. Whoever this guy was Cori desperately needed to avoid him. This effect was intolerable.

Sir are you well? The priest was insistent, not used to being ignored.

Oh yes. I’m sorry Cori recovered quickly. I’m here to deliver a message. Perhaps you could direct me to the person.

Of course sir, to whom do you need to speak?

Jaffar Ibn Ravi.

The priest paled and retreated a step. Excuse me sir, he stammered.

Is there a problem? Cori suddenly oozed authority.

No sir. snapped the obviously nervous man. Are you expected?

Of course it was he who sent for me.

Sir how is your message for him if he sent for you?

This guy was sharper than he seemed. "The message is for