Wall walkers of Adjepbar part 2 - Revision history

Keith: /* Chapter 32: A Misguided Rescue */

2026-09-29T03:28:51Z

Chapter 32: A Misguided Rescue

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:28, 29 September 2026
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	''A well-intentioned ambush goes awry in the Blue District as rat-men attempt to 'rescue' the party from their own guards.''		''A well-intentioned ambush goes awry in the Blue District as rat-men attempt to 'rescue' the party from their own guards.''

	By nine o'clock in the evening, dusk was settling fast over the city, and the companions agreed it was time to head back to the inn before darkness overtook the streets. The halfling authorities arranged for a contingent of guards to escort ~~them~~ safely on their way. Walking alongside the company, ~~Lizette~~ leaned toward Keshah and whispered in hushed Elvish, admitting ~~she~~ felt like a chastised child told to keep quiet while the adults were speaking. Keshah reminded ~~her~~ that halflings held absolute authority here as the nobility and ruling elite—a reality ~~Lizette~~ ruefully admitted she had momentarily forgotten.		By nine o'clock in the evening, dusk was settling fast over the city, and the companions agreed it was time to head back to the inn before darkness overtook the streets. The halfling authorities arranged for a contingent of guards to escort us safely on their way. Walking alongside the company, I leaned toward Keshah and whispered in hushed Elvish, admitting I felt like a chastised child told to keep quiet while the adults were speaking. Keshah reminded me that halflings held absolute authority here as the nobility and ruling elite—a reality I ruefully admitted she had momentarily forgotten.

	To their surprise, the captain of the escort piped up in flawless, elegant Elvish, assuring ~~her~~ with a polite chuckle that she would be forgiven. When ~~Lizette~~ asked in shock if he understood the language, the captain proudly declared himself a cunning linguist who knew many tongues. He then noted that a reward had been posted for their tutor, who had been implicated in ~~their~~ mysterious disappearance and brought in for questioning several weeks prior. In fact, the poor scholar was still being held in custody. Alarmed by how much confusion their absence had caused, Lizette and ~~Aurora~~ urged that he be released so their lessons could continue, noting he had done no harm. Lizette checked with Dae, who agreed that securing the tutor's immediate release was more than acceptable.		To their surprise, the captain of the escort piped up in flawless, elegant Elvish, assuring me with a polite chuckle that she would be forgiven. When I asked in shock if he understood the language, the captain proudly declared himself a cunning linguist who knew many tongues. He then noted that a reward had been posted for their tutor, who had been implicated in our mysterious disappearance and brought in for questioning several weeks prior. In fact, the poor scholar was still being held in custody. Alarmed by how much confusion their absence had caused, Lizette and I urged that he be released so their lessons could continue, noting he had done no harm. Lizette checked with Dae, who agreed that securing the tutor's immediate release was more than acceptable.

	As the company made ~~their~~ way outside the Citadel toward the inn, casual chatter filled the evening air. The conversation drifted from cultist tales of fabled fallen lands and lost cities to constellations. ~~Lizette~~ mused over the Seven Sisters—a stellar cluster that marked the start of the new year in distant ~~Pacifica~~, recalling the beaches she had visited there, from pale white coral sand to the dark volcanic sands found further south.		As the company made our way outside the Citadel toward the inn, casual chatter filled the evening air. The conversation drifted from cultist tales of fabled fallen lands and lost cities to constellations. I mused over the Seven Sisters—a stellar cluster that marked the start of the new year in distant [[Pasifika]], recalling the beaches she had visited there, from pale white coral sand to the dark volcanic sands found further south.

	Soon ~~their~~ path led into the distinctive Blue District, where rows of buildings were painted in vibrant azure, their second stories sculpted with unusual shell-shaped reliefs. The tranquil stroll shattered when ~~Keshah~~ suddenly called out a warning of immediate danger. Scanning the shadows, ~~they~~ caught sight of a small rat-man hurling a glass bottle straight into the escort. The vial shattered on the paving stones, bursting into a cloud of pungent green vapor.		Soon our path led into the distinctive Blue District, where rows of buildings were painted in vibrant azure, their second stories sculpted with unusual shell-shaped reliefs. The tranquil stroll shattered when Dae suddenly called out a warning of immediate danger. Scanning the shadows, we caught sight of a small rat-man hurling a glass bottle straight into the escort. The vial shattered on the paving stones, bursting into a cloud of pungent green vapor.

	"Gas grenade!" came the urgent cry. Though ~~Lizette~~ noted the mist would not linger long, three-quarters of the guards were instantly overcome, staggering to their knees before collapsing unconscious into the street. The companions drew their weapons and prepared for battle as half a dozen tall rat-men armed with belts, small bucklers, and curved falchions advanced out of an alleyway.		"Gas grenade!" came the urgent cry. Though I noted the mist would not linger long, three-quarters of the guards were instantly overcome, staggering to their knees before collapsing unconscious into the street. The companions drew their weapons and prepared for battle as half a dozen tall rat-men armed with belts, small bucklers, and curved falchions advanced out of an alleyway.

	Stepping forward, their leader addressed the party in rough, broken Elvish: "Make a run for it! We have freed you from these foul guards. Our debt to you is paid!"		Stepping forward, their leader addressed the party in rough, broken Elvish: "Make a run for it! We have freed you from these foul guards. Our debt to you is paid!"

	Stunned by the misunderstanding, the companions quickly set them straight. "They're our guards! Our escorts!" ~~they~~ called out, explaining that they were entirely friendly with the palace. Realizing their disastrous blunder, the rat-men froze in mortified panic. When Lizette urged them to make a run for it themselves, the creatures wasted no time and promptly scarpered into the alleys.		Stunned by the misunderstanding, the companions quickly set them straight. "They're our guards! Our escorts!" we called out, explaining that they were entirely friendly with the palace. Realizing their disastrous blunder, the rat-men froze in mortified panic. When Lizette urged them to make a run for it themselves, the creatures wasted no time and promptly scarpered into the alleys.

	==== Chapter 33: A Concussed Escort ====		==== Chapter 33: A Concussed Escort ====

Keith: /* Chapter 31: Audience at the Palace */

2026-09-29T03:23:20Z

Chapter 31: Audience at the Palace

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:23, 29 September 2026
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	''Hobbit courtiers at the palace receive the party, settling bounties and offering courtly reprimands.''		''Hobbit courtiers at the palace receive the party, settling bounties and offering courtly reprimands.''

	The guard squinted, taking in the group and realizing just who was approaching. ~~Aurora~~ was quick to point out that two of ~~their~~ number were celebrated heroes of Adjepbar, offering to introduce them properly. The guard took notice of Lady Lizette Summers, his eyes wandering unreservedly toward her exposed midriff and bodice as he tried, with no subtlety whatsoever, to evaluate her attire. Lizette admitted to her companions that it was a fine dress, though ~~Aurora~~ noted it was hardly practical streetwear—especially around these parts. While Lizette remarked that one might see similar gowns at court, the guard made it clear they were nowhere near court.		The guard squinted, taking in the group and realizing just who was approaching. Keshah was quick to point out that two of our number were celebrated heroes of Adjepbar, offering to introduce them properly. The guard took notice of Lady Lizette Summers, his eyes wandering unreservedly toward her exposed midriff and bodice as he tried, with no subtlety whatsoever, to evaluate her attire. Lizette admitted to her companions that it was a fine dress, though I noted, still slightly annoyed, it was hardly practical streetwear—especially around these parts. While Lizette remarked that one might see similar gowns at court, the guard made it clear they were nowhere near court.

	Informing Lizette that she and her revealing ensemble were coming along since she was wanted, the guard stepped in to escort them. When ~~they~~ confirmed that being brought in was precisely why ~~they~~ were there, the guard seemed pleased. Aurora explained that Dae was turning ~~them~~ in, ~~separating~~ the lost lambs as it were, and the guard readily agreed that they should proceed to the palace at once. Though Lizette voiced quiet reservations about whether this scheme was entirely sound, ~~they~~ were led on their way.		Informing Lizette that she and her revealing ensemble were coming along since she was wanted, the guard stepped in to escort them. When we confirmed that being brought in was precisely why we were there, the guard seemed pleased. Aurora explained that Dae was turning us in, shepherding the lost lambs as it were, and the guard readily agreed that they should proceed to the palace at once. Though Lizette voiced quiet reservations about whether this scheme was entirely sound, we were led on their way.

	At the palace, a handful of guards stood watch who were not dwarves, while half a dozen remarkably well-dressed hobbits—draped in pearls, gems, and fine courtier finery—descended the stairs. One of the courtiers recognized Dae with warm familiarity, greeting him and remarking that it had been perhaps two years since their last meeting. Gesturing to the entrance, the courtier pointed out that the doors had been rebuilt and were back on their hinges, asking about the incident where someone had been hurled through the wall. ~~Aurora~~ recalled the jinn that had smashed its way in. Greeted politely, the young hobbit who accompanied the party looked on in absolute awe as the courtiers promptly turned their attention to her, speaking in a rapid flurry of hobbit-ese that ~~Aurora~~ only partially understood.		At the palace, a handful of guards stood watch who were not dwarves, while half a dozen remarkably well-dressed hobbits—draped in pearls, gems, and fine courtier finery—descended the stairs. One of the courtiers recognized Dae with warm familiarity, greeting him and remarking that it had been perhaps two years since their last meeting. Gesturing to the entrance, the courtier pointed out that the doors had been rebuilt and were back on their hinges, asking about the incident where someone had been hurled through the wall. Keshah recalled the jinn that had smashed its way in. Greeted politely, the young hobbit who accompanied the party looked on in absolute awe as the courtiers promptly turned their attention to her, speaking in a rapid flurry of hobbit-ese that I only partially understood.

	When the chamberlain indicated that formal custody would not be necessary and assured ~~them~~ that no one should be out of pocket—promising to cover the sixty ~~percent—Aurora~~ tried to interject to explain their side to whoever had sought them. The courtiers paused, firmly requesting silence while the hobbits were speaking, before resuming in their mother tongue. Once satisfied that expenses were accounted for, the chamberlain clapped hands, summoned attendants to draw the necessary funds, and inquired about the bounty owed to the companion. Dae clarified that he owed ~~her~~ nothing. Acknowledging that the party had rescued and brought them back, the officials declared it excellent work, delivering two large sacks of coin: a smaller one for ~~her~~ and a larger sack containing six thousand for Dae, who spat on his hand and sealed the agreement with a handshake. Before concluding the business, ~~she~~ awkwardly conveyed her superior's request to know if they could banish her; upon hearing the affirmative, she gave her thanks.		When the chamberlain indicated that formal custody would not be necessary and assured us that no one should be out of pocket—promising to cover the sixty percent—I tried to interject to explain their side to whoever had sought them. The courtiers paused, firmly requesting silence while the hobbits were speaking, before resuming in their mother tongue. Once satisfied that expenses were accounted for, the chamberlain clapped hands, summoned attendants to draw the necessary funds, and inquired about the bounty owed to the companion. Dae clarified that he owed Suzie nothing. Acknowledging that the party had rescued and brought them back, the officials declared it excellent work, delivering two large sacks of coin: a smaller one for Suzie and a larger sack containing six thousand for Dae, who spat on his hand and sealed the agreement with a handshake. Before concluding the business, Suzie awkwardly conveyed her superior's request to know if they could banish her; upon hearing the affirmative, she gave her thanks.

	With business settled, ~~the party~~ was told ~~they~~ were free to enjoy the city, and Dae expressed his gratitude for the court’s hospitality, with the courtiers reassuring him that he was ever welcome at the palace. Before ~~they~~ could withdraw, however, Lizette was directed onto her knees as an attendant brought out a cushion. Kneeling down to hear what was required, she listened as the courtier patted her knee and chided her gently. The guards had reported her manner of dress, and the court had not forgotten a previous incident involving consorting with undesirables. Though Lizette defended the past incident as magic, the courtier noted dryly that their magic seemed to attract magic, questioning her current presentation. Accepting the critique, Lizette promised to change. When asked where ~~they~~ intended to stay, Lady Alba’s residence was mentioned, and the courtier assured them there would be ample room. Lizette confirmed that this appearance satisfied the requirement for visiting heroes to report to the palace. With business concluded and the hour advancing toward the ~~ruler~~ house, the companions prepared to take their leave.		With business settled, we was told we were free to enjoy the city, and Dae expressed his gratitude for the court’s hospitality, with the courtiers reassuring him that he was ever welcome at the palace. Before we could withdraw, however, Lizette was directed onto her knees as an attendant brought out a cushion. Kneeling down to hear what was required, she listened as the courtier patted her knee and chided her gently. The guards had reported her manner of dress, and the court had not forgotten a previous incident involving consorting with undesirables. Though Lizette defended the past incident as magic, the courtier noted dryly that their magic seemed to attract magic, questioning her current presentation. Accepting the critique, Lizette promised to change. When asked where we intended to stay, Lady Alba’s residence was mentioned, and the courtier assured them there would be ample room. Lizette confirmed that this appearance satisfied the requirement for visiting heroes to report to the palace. With business concluded and the hour advancing to nine we headed toward the De'Rulio house, the companions prepared to take their leave.

	==== Chapter 32: A Misguided Rescue ====		==== Chapter 32: A Misguided Rescue ====

Keith: /* Chapter 30: Through the Portal to Adjepbar */

2026-09-29T03:12:22Z

Chapter 30: Through the Portal to Adjepbar

Keith: /* Chapter 29: Bounties and Best Intentions */

2026-09-29T02:59:29Z

Chapter 29: Bounties and Best Intentions

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:59, 29 September 2026
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	"That's a glorious outfit," Susie insisted.		"That's a glorious outfit," Susie insisted.

	"Not really sort of street wear," Keshah murmured, "but never mind." Meanwhile I was quietly seething. Lizette's breasts again? Hey. Look over here. I'm RIGHT here.		"Not really sort of street wear," Keshah murmured, "but never mind." Meanwhile I was quietly seething. Lizette's breasts again? Hey. Look over here. I'm RIGHT here. Maybe Dae's mother was right. Thank the Spirits that thought didn't get in the Mind Speech.

	==== Chapter 30: Through the Portal to Adjepbar ====		==== Chapter 30: Through the Portal to Adjepbar ====

Keith: /* Chapter 29: Bounties and Best Intentions */

2026-09-29T02:54:34Z

Chapter 29: Bounties and Best Intentions

Keith: /* Chapter 28: Bounties, Pastries, and Town Guards */

2026-09-29T02:43:58Z

Chapter 28: Bounties, Pastries, and Town Guards

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:43, 29 September 2026
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	''Susie Sweetfoot and Dae face off with the Seagate town guards while Aurora shares pastries from her seemingly bottomless satchel.''		''Susie Sweetfoot and Dae face off with the Seagate town guards while Aurora shares pastries from her seemingly bottomless satchel.''

	Negotiations intensified as Dae pressed the advantage. 'Hold it, hold it a second,' the hobbit urged. 'If you can bring in Keshah, we'll give you fifty percent on both of them. Otherwise, we've got the soft one.' Dae countered with sixty percent, and offered to bring Lady Lizette Summers into the arrangement as well. The halflings quickly huddled together, murmuring amongst themselves before turning back. They agreed to sixty-forty, though they immediately scrambled over who claimed the sixty percent. Dae reminded them of all the lucrative work they could accomplish during the full month they would not spend traveling on the road. The halflings conceded the point; after all, time was money and money was time. When they asked whether Dae wanted their representative to accompany him—to hand over the targets, secure the payout, split the cut, and ensure she returned in one piece without dying—Dae insisted on drafting a formal agreement ensuring payment upon return once confirmation came from the client, alongside letters of introduction. The halflings agreed to send one of their own along with him. With another sudden zap, Aurora snapped fully back to consciousness to find Dae warmly shaking hands with a hobbit, while two additional halflings stood in the room. Bewildered, I asked what had just transpired. The halflings chuckled that Dae was a fierce negotiator, while Dae assured me that everything was now settled and everyone was fine. Shaking off the lingering shock, I began rummaging through my adventuring bag, asking where I had stashed all those pastries. Reaching inside, she started hauling them out one by one—counting past five, six, seven, eight, and nine. Astounded, the halflings asked where one could possibly purchase a magnificent bag that spat out endless baked goods. Aurora explained she had bought the bag in Gunger's Hope and had simply packed an enormous stock into it herself. As the count reached thirteen, the halflings called for a halt lest they all grow fat, though I reminded them I knew full well how much halflings could eat, possessing over one hundred and fifty pastries—perhaps over two hundred—that she intended to share. The halflings formally introduced Susie Sweetfoot, explaining that she would accompany Dae and myself to Adjepbar over the coming days to make introductions with a mutual acquaintance and collect the hefty bounty to split with Dae. Susie eagerly accepted another pastry, beaming up at me, but cheekily wondered aloud what they would possibly eat on the second day of the two-day trek. I blinked in disbelief, joking that I myself had often been called a hobbit in an elf's body, and quietly assessed whether the halfling companion was cute. Handed a note confirming the arrangement, we stepped out onto the street only to be confronted by three Seagate Town Guardsmen. I offered my customary friendly wave, but the guards immediately recognized me from their all-points bulletin as a wanted, high-demand fugitive. When Dae stated he was personally delivering me, Susie Sweetfoot darted forward, aggressively telling the guardsmen to p*** off and fiercely disputing who had rightful claim to me. Dae calmly cited the documented chain of control and valuable property rights, politely bid the guards a good day, and ushered me away while the guards and halflings bickered furiously and trooped away down the street. Remarking that the squabbling was worse than the Western Kingdom's Court, I urged Dae to hurry back before Guild Security caught wind and demanded a cut. Reaching the carriage station, they found a wagon laden with guild supplies—heaped with ten dead ~~pigs and a large board on the back—ready~~ for transport.		Negotiations intensified as Dae pressed the advantage. 'Hold it, hold it a second,' the hobbit urged. 'If you can bring in Keshah, we'll give you fifty percent on both of them. Otherwise, we've got the soft one.' Dae countered with sixty percent, and offered to bring Lady Lizette Summers into the arrangement as well. The halflings quickly huddled together, murmuring amongst themselves before turning back. They agreed to sixty-forty, though they immediately scrambled over who claimed the sixty percent. Dae reminded them of all the lucrative work they could accomplish during the full month they would not spend traveling on the road. The halflings conceded the point; after all, time was money and money was time. When they asked whether Dae wanted their representative to accompany him—to hand over the targets, secure the payout, split the cut, and ensure she returned in one piece without dying—Dae insisted on drafting a formal agreement ensuring payment upon return once confirmation came from the client, alongside letters of introduction. The halflings agreed to send one of their own along with him. With another sudden zap, Aurora snapped fully back to consciousness to find Dae warmly shaking hands with a hobbit, while two additional halflings stood in the room. Bewildered, I asked what had just transpired. The halflings chuckled that Dae was a fierce negotiator, while Dae assured me that everything was now settled and everyone was fine. Shaking off the lingering shock, I began rummaging through my adventuring bag, asking where I had stashed all those pastries. Reaching inside, she started hauling them out one by one—counting past five, six, seven, eight, and nine. Astounded, the halflings asked where one could possibly purchase a magnificent bag that spat out endless baked goods. Aurora explained she had bought the bag in Gunger's Hope and had simply packed an enormous stock into it herself. As the count reached thirteen, the halflings called for a halt lest they all grow fat, though I reminded them I knew full well how much halflings could eat, possessing over one hundred and fifty pastries—perhaps over two hundred—that she intended to share. The halflings formally introduced Susie Sweetfoot, explaining that she would accompany Dae and myself to Adjepbar over the coming days to make introductions with a mutual acquaintance and collect the hefty bounty to split with Dae. Susie eagerly accepted another pastry, beaming up at me, but cheekily wondered aloud what they would possibly eat on the second day of the two-day trek. I blinked in disbelief, joking that I myself had often been called a hobbit in an elf's body, and quietly assessed whether the halfling companion was cute. Handed a note confirming the arrangement, we stepped out onto the street only to be confronted by three Seagate Town Guardsmen. I offered my customary friendly wave, but the guards immediately recognized me from their all-points bulletin as a wanted, high-demand fugitive. When Dae stated he was personally delivering me, Susie Sweetfoot darted forward, aggressively telling the guardsmen to p*** off and fiercely disputing who had rightful claim to me. Dae calmly cited the documented chain of control and valuable property rights, politely bid the guards a good day, and ushered me away while the guards and halflings bickered furiously and trooped away down the street. Remarking that the squabbling was worse than the Western Kingdom's Court, I urged Dae to hurry back before Guild Security caught wind and demanded a cut. Reaching the carriage station, they found a wagon laden with guild supplies—heaped with ten dead pigs—ready for transport.

	==== Chapter 29: Bounties and Best Intentions ====		==== Chapter 29: Bounties and Best Intentions ====

Keith: /* Chapter 29: Bounties and Best Intentions */

2026-09-29T02:43:39Z

Chapter 29: Bounties and Best Intentions

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:43, 29 September 2026
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	''The party consults guild officials about collecting their own rescue bounty while Sweet Foot offers unexpected fashion commentary.''		''The party consults guild officials about collecting their own rescue bounty while Sweet Foot offers unexpected fashion commentary.''

	~~The storage bins were packed nearly to the brim. With the loading finished, ten pigs were secured—a haul that was bound to keep <span class='K'>Micks</span> happy for at least a week.~~ Hauling the livestock, ~~they~~ made the journey up toward the Guild in record time.		Hauling the livestock, we made the journey up toward the Guild in record time. Along the road, signs of trouble lingered: a few dead pigs lay discarded, and nearby stood an encampment of tents pitched across the thoroughfare. A heated argument had broken out, with a crowd of onlookers watching a woman dispute fiercely with a man—the Northerners who had been walked back. Passing the confrontation, the wagon rolled into the Guild yard, and everyone jumped down.

	Along the road, signs of trouble lingered: a few dead pigs lay discarded, and nearby stood an encampment of tents pitched across the thoroughfare. A heated argument had broken out, with a crowd of onlookers watching a woman dispute fiercely with a man—the Northerners who had been walked back. Passing the confrontation, the wagon rolled into the Guild yard, and everyone jumped down.

	Lady Lizette Summers and Keshah came wandering over to meet them.		Lady Lizette Summers and Keshah came wandering over to meet them.

Keith: /* Chapter 28: Bounties, Pastries, and Town Guards */

2026-09-29T02:41:16Z

Chapter 28: Bounties, Pastries, and Town Guards

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:41, 29 September 2026
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	''Susie Sweetfoot and Dae face off with the Seagate town guards while Aurora shares pastries from her seemingly bottomless satchel.''		''Susie Sweetfoot and Dae face off with the Seagate town guards while Aurora shares pastries from her seemingly bottomless satchel.''

	Negotiations intensified as Dae pressed the advantage. 'Hold it, hold it a second,' the hobbit urged. 'If you can bring in Keshah, we'll give you fifty percent on both of them. Otherwise, we've got the soft one.' Dae countered with sixty percent, and offered to bring Lady Lizette Summers into the arrangement as well. The halflings quickly huddled together, murmuring amongst themselves before turning back. They agreed to sixty-forty, though they immediately scrambled over who claimed the sixty percent. Dae reminded them of all the lucrative work they could accomplish during the full month they would not spend traveling on the road. The halflings conceded the point; after all, time was money and money was time. When they asked whether Dae wanted their representative to accompany him—to hand over the targets, secure the payout, split the cut, and ensure she returned in one piece without dying—Dae insisted on drafting a formal agreement ensuring payment upon return once confirmation came from the client, alongside letters of introduction. The halflings agreed to send one of their own along with him. With another sudden zap, Aurora snapped fully back to consciousness to find Dae warmly shaking hands with a hobbit, while two additional halflings stood in the room. Bewildered, I asked what had just transpired. The halflings chuckled that Dae was a fierce negotiator, while Dae assured me that everything was now settled and everyone was fine. Shaking off the lingering shock, I began rummaging through my adventuring bag, asking where I had stashed all those pastries. Reaching inside, she started hauling them out one by one—counting past five, six, seven, eight, and nine. Astounded, the halflings asked where one could possibly purchase a magnificent bag that spat out endless baked goods. Aurora explained she had bought the bag in Gunger's Hope and had simply packed an enormous stock into it herself. As the count reached thirteen, the halflings called for a halt lest they all grow fat, though I reminded them I knew full well how much halflings could eat, possessing over one hundred and fifty pastries—perhaps over two hundred—that she intended to share. The halflings formally introduced Susie Sweetfoot, explaining that she would accompany Dae and myself to Adjepbar over the coming days to make introductions with a mutual acquaintance and collect the hefty bounty to split with Dae. Susie eagerly accepted another pastry, beaming up at me, but cheekily wondered aloud what they would possibly eat on the second day of the two-day trek. I blinked in disbelief, joking that I myself had often been called a hobbit in an elf's body, ~~while Dae~~ quietly assessed whether the halfling companion was cute. Handed a note confirming the arrangement, we stepped out onto the street only to be confronted by three Seagate Town Guardsmen. I offered my customary friendly wave, but the guards immediately recognized me from their all-points bulletin as a wanted, high-demand fugitive. When Dae stated he was personally delivering me, Susie Sweetfoot darted forward, aggressively telling the guardsmen to p*** off and fiercely disputing who had rightful claim to me. Dae calmly cited the documented chain of control and valuable property rights, politely bid the guards a good day, and ushered me away while the guards and halflings bickered furiously and trooped away down the street. Remarking that the squabbling was worse than the Western Kingdom's Court, I urged Dae to hurry back before Guild Security caught wind and demanded a cut. Reaching the carriage station, they found a wagon laden with guild supplies—heaped with ten dead pigs and a large board on the back—ready for transport.		Negotiations intensified as Dae pressed the advantage. 'Hold it, hold it a second,' the hobbit urged. 'If you can bring in Keshah, we'll give you fifty percent on both of them. Otherwise, we've got the soft one.' Dae countered with sixty percent, and offered to bring Lady Lizette Summers into the arrangement as well. The halflings quickly huddled together, murmuring amongst themselves before turning back. They agreed to sixty-forty, though they immediately scrambled over who claimed the sixty percent. Dae reminded them of all the lucrative work they could accomplish during the full month they would not spend traveling on the road. The halflings conceded the point; after all, time was money and money was time. When they asked whether Dae wanted their representative to accompany him—to hand over the targets, secure the payout, split the cut, and ensure she returned in one piece without dying—Dae insisted on drafting a formal agreement ensuring payment upon return once confirmation came from the client, alongside letters of introduction. The halflings agreed to send one of their own along with him. With another sudden zap, Aurora snapped fully back to consciousness to find Dae warmly shaking hands with a hobbit, while two additional halflings stood in the room. Bewildered, I asked what had just transpired. The halflings chuckled that Dae was a fierce negotiator, while Dae assured me that everything was now settled and everyone was fine. Shaking off the lingering shock, I began rummaging through my adventuring bag, asking where I had stashed all those pastries. Reaching inside, she started hauling them out one by one—counting past five, six, seven, eight, and nine. Astounded, the halflings asked where one could possibly purchase a magnificent bag that spat out endless baked goods. Aurora explained she had bought the bag in Gunger's Hope and had simply packed an enormous stock into it herself. As the count reached thirteen, the halflings called for a halt lest they all grow fat, though I reminded them I knew full well how much halflings could eat, possessing over one hundred and fifty pastries—perhaps over two hundred—that she intended to share. The halflings formally introduced Susie Sweetfoot, explaining that she would accompany Dae and myself to Adjepbar over the coming days to make introductions with a mutual acquaintance and collect the hefty bounty to split with Dae. Susie eagerly accepted another pastry, beaming up at me, but cheekily wondered aloud what they would possibly eat on the second day of the two-day trek. I blinked in disbelief, joking that I myself had often been called a hobbit in an elf's body, and quietly assessed whether the halfling companion was cute. Handed a note confirming the arrangement, we stepped out onto the street only to be confronted by three Seagate Town Guardsmen. I offered my customary friendly wave, but the guards immediately recognized me from their all-points bulletin as a wanted, high-demand fugitive. When Dae stated he was personally delivering me, Susie Sweetfoot darted forward, aggressively telling the guardsmen to p*** off and fiercely disputing who had rightful claim to me. Dae calmly cited the documented chain of control and valuable property rights, politely bid the guards a good day, and ushered me away while the guards and halflings bickered furiously and trooped away down the street. Remarking that the squabbling was worse than the Western Kingdom's Court, I urged Dae to hurry back before Guild Security caught wind and demanded a cut. Reaching the carriage station, they found a wagon laden with guild supplies—heaped with ten dead pigs and a large board on the back—ready for transport.

	==== Chapter 29: Bounties and Best Intentions ====		==== Chapter 29: Bounties and Best Intentions ====

Keith: /* Chapter 27: A Stone-Cold Surrender */

2026-09-29T02:33:08Z

Chapter 27: A Stone-Cold Surrender

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:33, 29 September 2026
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	Before turning to other affairs, a question arose regarding the impending future: was the foreseen event a good thing or a bad thing for Lady Lizette Summers in general terms? The answer came back reassuringly—it was a good thing for Lizette. There it was, then; it was her event and her future, so there was no need to avoid it. Lizette mused that she had previously considered having her ovaries removed—after all, she could always regrow them later—but if the event was supposed to be a blessing, that drastic step seemed unnecessary. Keshah pointed out that whatever might already be growing might not be ovaries at all, though that had not come to pass yet. A guild representative chimed in, noting she was not the only one capable of regrowing ovaries. Miracles did happen, and someone suggested that removing them first would certainly make any regrowth appear all the more miraculous; one might as well go the whole way and take the womb too. Still, Lizette sought reassurance that it was genuinely supposed to be good for her. It was certainly an improvement over prior reports that she had been indisposed with dark afflictions—infested, even. Perhaps the turning tide was related to that, sounding far better than last time, even if no one could say for certain what was at work. Without two trusted allies at hand to help, real trouble might have loomed, especially given that Keshah was a guild member in good standing.		Before turning to other affairs, a question arose regarding the impending future: was the foreseen event a good thing or a bad thing for Lady Lizette Summers in general terms? The answer came back reassuringly—it was a good thing for Lizette. There it was, then; it was her event and her future, so there was no need to avoid it. Lizette mused that she had previously considered having her ovaries removed—after all, she could always regrow them later—but if the event was supposed to be a blessing, that drastic step seemed unnecessary. Keshah pointed out that whatever might already be growing might not be ovaries at all, though that had not come to pass yet. A guild representative chimed in, noting she was not the only one capable of regrowing ovaries. Miracles did happen, and someone suggested that removing them first would certainly make any regrowth appear all the more miraculous; one might as well go the whole way and take the womb too. Still, Lizette sought reassurance that it was genuinely supposed to be good for her. It was certainly an improvement over prior reports that she had been indisposed with dark afflictions—infested, even. Perhaps the turning tide was related to that, sounding far better than last time, even if no one could say for certain what was at work. Without two trusted allies at hand to help, real trouble might have loomed, especially given that Keshah was a guild member in good standing.

	Meanwhiole, for Dae and I, an hour~~'s journey lay ahead. We~~ decided to take a trip into town. Our destination was the Number One Hobbit Detective Agency. While one could fly or walk in Seagate, carriage travel was customary for such an errand, so we hired a carriage and rode through the bustling thoroughfares of Seagate, passing street vendors selling piping-hot potatoes and locals loudly bickering over spicy sauces. Eventually, we pulled up outside the front door of the agency, and the doorbell gave a cheerful chime as they entered.		Meanwhiole, for Dae and I, since the astrology reading took an hour, we decided to take a trip into town. Our destination was the Number One Hobbit Detective Agency. While one could fly or walk in Seagate, carriage travel was customary for such an errand, so we hired a carriage and rode through the bustling thoroughfares of Seagate, passing street vendors selling piping-hot potatoes and locals loudly bickering over spicy sauces. Eventually, we pulled up outside the front door of the agency, and the doorbell gave a cheerful chime as they entered.

	A small hobbit woman stood up from behind the wooden counter. I offered a tentative greeting, only to tense as the hobbit recognized her with a sharp, "Hello, Aurora. How are you?"		A small hobbit woman stood up from behind the wooden counter. I offered a tentative greeting, only to tense as the hobbit recognized her with a sharp, "Hello, Aurora. How are you?"
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	Noting the active inquiry on her, the hobbit woman didn't hesitate: "Well, then don't resist. Stand there." She reached over to a long box, retrieved a wand, and leveled it with a swift zap. Aurora offered no resistance, and the magical charge took hold instantly. The wand pivoted as the investigator turned her gaze toward Dae; where Aurora had stood, there was now only solid stone.		Noting the active inquiry on her, the hobbit woman didn't hesitate: "Well, then don't resist. Stand there." She reached over to a long box, retrieved a wand, and leveled it with a swift zap. Aurora offered no resistance, and the magical charge took hold instantly. The wand pivoted as the investigator turned her gaze toward Dae; where Aurora had stood, there was now only solid stone.

	Dae inquired why on earth she had petrified an adventurer like Aurora. The hobbit explained, matter of factly, that Aurora was wanted and carried a reward. Dae muttered that they should have gone for the bounty instead, then asked whether the bounty was for Aurora herself or merely for information leading to her. The hobbit answered that it was for both, moving methodically between storage boxes before demanding Dae's identity. Dae initially ~~offered the alias Keshah <span class="K">Cleary</span>, remarking~~ that names were powerful things, but when pressed to cut to the chase, gave ~~the true~~ name: Dae. The hobbit relaxed slightly, glad not to be dealing with the actual Keshah, remarking that several folks refused to bring him in.		Dae inquired why on earth she had petrified an adventurer like Aurora. The hobbit explained, matter of factly, that Aurora was wanted and carried a reward. Dae muttered that they should have gone for the bounty instead, then asked whether the bounty was for Aurora herself or merely for information leading to her. The hobbit answered that it was for both, moving methodically between storage boxes before demanding Dae's identity. Dae initially remarked that names were powerful things, but when pressed to cut to the chase, gave his proper name: Dae. The hobbit relaxed slightly, glad not to be dealing with the actual Keshah, remarking that several folks refused to bring him in.

	When asked if Dae was freelancing as some kind of bounty hunter, Dae claimed the original plan had been to escort Aurora to a bar before ending up here. The hobbit sternly warned that no one was cutting in on her claim: Aurora had surrendered of her own free will, which amounted to an open-and-shut confession, and there was a full five grand on the line, five thousand silvers. Dae countered that having physically brought Aurora inside warranted a cut of the prize. Dismissively, the hobbit flicked a single silver coin across the counter, telling the scallywag to take it and get out.		When asked if Dae was freelancing as some kind of bounty hunter, Dae claimed the original plan had been to escort Aurora to a bar before ending up here. The hobbit sternly warned that no one was cutting in on her claim: Aurora had surrendered of her own free will, which amounted to an open-and-shut confession, and there was a full five grand on the line, five thousand silvers. Dae countered that having physically brought Aurora inside warranted a cut of the prize. Dismissively, the hobbit flicked a single silver coin across the counter, telling the scallywag to take it and get out.

Keith: /* Chapter 26: Omens in the Hide */

2026-09-29T02:22:43Z

Chapter 26: Omens in the Hide

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	''A prophetic reading from the llama-hide codex reveals strange and unsettling omens for Lizette's future.''		''A prophetic reading from the llama-hide codex reveals strange and unsettling omens for Lizette's future.''

	A lingering unease settled over the companions. "I have a feeling we're on it," someone murmured, though memories grew hazy. "I don't remember." Yet the foreboding persisted—a pressing deadline that something dreadful or momentous was about to happen to Lizette, even if none could recall the exact terms.		A lingering unease settled over the companions. "I have a feeling we're in it," someone murmured, though memories grew hazy. "I don't remember." Yet the foreboding persisted—a pressing deadline that something dreadful or momentous was about to happen to Lizette, even if none could recall the exact terms.

	"If you want, I'll do an astrology reading for Lizette about important impending events," offered Keshah. Lizette wondered aloud how late into the night it would need to be, but the inquiry turned out to be unnecessary. Puzzled by the notion of waiting for a late hour, Keshah glanced upward to gauge the skies, asking what the weather was like and whether the heavens were clear.		"If you want, I'll do an astrology reading for Lizette about important impending events," offered Keshah. Lizette wondered aloud how late into the night it would need to be, but the inquiry turned out to be unnecessary. Puzzled by the notion of waiting for a late hour, Keshah glanced upward to gauge the skies, asking what the weather was like and whether the heavens were clear.

	Practical debts briefly derailed the divinations. "So we didn't give the leather back," Lizette realized. A brief, muddled debate flared—some thinking they had returned the hides, others correcting them until the cold truth settled: no, they had not, prompting a muttered "Crap." Keshah insisted it simply meant continuing their good work, while I volunteered to deliver the leather ~~herself~~. If worse came to worst, Lizette reasoned, they could pay for the leather outright. Keshah and I firmly dismissed that idea; it was merely an administrative matter of arranging to return it to the rightful dealers.		Practical debts briefly derailed the divinations. "So we didn't give the leather back," Lizette realized. A brief, muddled debate flared—some thinking they had returned the hides, others correcting them until the cold truth settled: no, they had not, prompting a muttered "Crap." from me. Keshah insisted it simply meant continuing their good work, while I volunteered to deliver the leather myself. If worse came to worst, Lizette reasoned, they could pay for the leather outright. Keshah and I firmly dismissed that idea; it was merely an administrative matter of arranging to return it to the rightful dealers.

	I initially thought the leatherworkers were based in Seagate, but Lizette reminded her they were in [[Arms Ferry]], recalling their earlier mention. Aurora checked a mental map, mistaking a southerly point for their destination before Keshah corrected her—Arms Ferry lay up north, right beside the river. Aurora calculated the flight: a half-hour to an hour's journey on the wing, well within her capabilities. Lizette warned they would have to recast spells to sustain the journey, but Aurora pointed out that flying solo with her faerie wings required no recasting at all. Lizette remained wary of sending her alone, recalling the sinister letters and whatever instructions had been given to haul me back. So I suggested that Dae come with me which he accepted.		I initially thought the leatherworkers were based in Seagate, but Lizette reminded her they were in [[Arms Ferry]], recalling their earlier mention. Aurora checked a mental map, mistaking a southerly point for their destination before Keshah corrected her—Arms Ferry lay up north, right beside the river. Aurora calculated the flight: a half-hour to an hour's journey on the wing, well within her capabilities. Lizette warned they would have to recast spells to sustain the journey, but Aurora pointed out that flying solo with her faerie air wings required no recasting at all. Lizette remained wary of sending her alone, recalling the sinister letters and whatever instructions had been given to haul me back. So I suggested that Dae come with me which he accepted.

	Pushing that errand aside, Keshah brought forth a prophetic codex fashioned of finely tanned llama hide, adorned with intricate hieroglyphs and pentagraphs. With clear intent to divine the looming perils facing Lizette, the codex was consulted. Shortly the prophecy unveiled its cryptic verses.		Pushing that errand aside, Keshah brought forth a prophetic codex fashioned of finely tanned llama hide, adorned with intricate hieroglyphs and pentagraphs. With clear intent to divine the looming perils facing Lizette, the codex was consulted. Shortly the prophecy unveiled its cryptic verses.
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	The general outline took shape: Aurora and the 'Night Lights' would lead Lizette to foreign shores, culminating in an unnatural, immaculate conception that would unleash unforeseen developments over a full year of service. Shaken by the omen, Lizette pressed for more exact details. The vision revealed that the strange conception somehow intertwined with ending the bloodline of a Seagate adventurer.		The general outline took shape: Aurora and the 'Night Lights' would lead Lizette to foreign shores, culminating in an unnatural, immaculate conception that would unleash unforeseen developments over a full year of service. Shaken by the omen, Lizette pressed for more exact details. The vision revealed that the strange conception somehow intertwined with ending the bloodline of a Seagate adventurer.

	"Child, were you born under the calamity of a death star?" ~~Keshah~~ asked solemnly. When Lizette doubted it, the talk turned pointedly to bloodlines. Lizette eyed ~~Keshah~~ askance, wondering aloud why talk of blood magic brought the warrior to mind. "I haven't been considered a blood mage for years now, thank you—years," came the defensive retort.		"Child, were you born under the calamity of a death star?" Dae asked solemnly once Keshah passed the reading on. When Lizette doubted it, the talk turned pointedly to bloodlines. Lizette eyed Dae askance, wondering aloud why talk of blood magic brought the warrior to mind. "I haven't been considered a blood mage for years now, thank you—years," came the defensive retort from Dae.

	As for the riddle of the "Night Lights," the companions pondered whether it referred to the celestial crowns, noting that the stars of the firmament were indeed night lights. Seeking further clarity on the omens cast from the little bones and the llama hide, ~~they~~ sought the location of this unnatural event. The codex answered in riddles: it would transpire "under the ~~chorus guide~~ of crashing waves of life." Lizette wondered whether it signified the chasm out in the desert, but desert sands were hardly known as ~~chorus gates~~ of living ~~tide~~. Still, salt water surged within that sunken opening—and seawater, after all, was life itself.		As for the riddle of the "Night Lights," the companions pondered whether it referred to the celestial crowns, noting that the stars of the firmament were indeed night lights. Seeking further clarity on the omens cast from the little bones and the llama hide, we sought the location of this unnatural event. The codex answered in riddles: it would transpire "under the coruscade of crashing waves of life." Lizette wondered whether it signified the chasm out in the desert, but desert sands were hardly known as coruscade of living tides. Still, salt water surged within that sunken opening—and seawater, after all, was life itself.

	==== Chapter 27: A Stone-Cold Surrender ====		==== Chapter 27: A Stone-Cold Surrender ====

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	A casual debate over attire lingered in the air—depending on which street one was walking, of course, though it was quickly agreed that certain styles leaned far more toward indoor boudoir wear than proper street clothes.		A casual debate over attire lingered in the air—depending on which street one was walking, of course, though it was quickly agreed that certain styles leaned far more toward indoor boudoir wear than proper street clothes.

	Taking advantage of the lull, ~~Aurora~~ glanced over at Dae with a grin. "So how does it feel, Dae? To be pulling all these babes like this? You being such a big upstanding elf and all, in the shadow of Keshah. And these two being drop-dead gorgeous... and then there's you and me."		Taking advantage of the lull, Suzie glanced over at Dae with a grin. "So how does it feel, Dae? To be pulling all these babes like this? You being such a big upstanding elf and all, in the shadow of Keshah. And these two being drop-dead gorgeous... and then there's you and me."

	"Hey, I think you're drop-dead gorgeous for a halfling," came ~~the cheerful~~ reply.		"Hey, I think you're drop-dead gorgeous for a halfling," came my reply.

	"No, I'm half your height, honey."		"No, I'm half your height, honey."
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	"A what?"		"A what?"

	"A part-height!"		"A part-height!. I can't help it. Incurable punster."

	Rolling her eyes, ~~Aurora~~ steered the conversation back on track. "So, when are we going?"		Rolling her eyes, Suzie steered the conversation back on track. "So, when are we going?"

	"Half an hour," Dae answered. "In half an hour, we'll move to the portal room."		"Half an hour," Dae answered. "In half an hour, we'll move to the portal room."

	"We need six more," Aurora declared, eyeing the supplies. Without missing a beat, six more pastries were produced and handed over. ~~Aurora~~ set about polishing them off in rapid succession, practically slurping them down one after the other. "Oh, you can have one if you want."		"We need six more," Aurora declared, eyeing the supplies. Without missing a beat, six more pastries were produced and handed over. Suzie set about polishing them off in rapid succession, practically slurping them down one after the other. "Oh, you can have one if you want."

	"We're going to need to exercise her," ~~Dae~~ remarked dryly, "otherwise she's going to become a very fat little hobbit."		"We're going to need to exercise her," Keshah remarked dryly, "otherwise she's going to become a very fat little hobbit."

	"I'm not sure I've ever seen another hobbit put it away like that. Not even—oh, what's—no, I've forgotten the name now."		"I'm not sure I've ever seen another hobbit put it away like that. Not even—oh, what's—no, I've forgotten the name now." I said. I later remembered I meant [[Jay Cee]]

	~~Aurora~~ smirked. "You are half-height. You've forgotten the name, you're half-height."		Suzie smirked. "You are half-height. You've forgotten the name, you're half-height."

	"I know lots of names!"		"I know lots of names!"
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	"Why would I want to call a hobbit those? Besides, isn't a dwarf usually known as Stumpy?"		"Why would I want to call a hobbit those? Besides, isn't a dwarf usually known as Stumpy?"

	"Oh yeah," ~~Aurora~~ conceded breezily, "but some people, you know, elves and stuff, they often get confused."		"Oh yeah," Suzie conceded breezily, "but some people, you know, elves and stuff, they often get confused." I gave up at that point.

	Preparing the portal was no simple task; it took two hours of effort to get the magic to function. Naturally, that called for another six buns. ~~Dae~~ offered a reminder to speak up whenever fatigue threatened to set in. Looking at the fresh treats, ~~someone marvelled~~, "Are those really real?"		Preparing the portal was no simple task; it took two hours of effort to get the magic to function. Naturally, that called for another six buns. Lizette offered a reminder to speak up whenever fatigue threatened to set in. Looking at the fresh treats, Suzie marveled, "Are those really real?"

	"I got them in Ganger's Hope," came ~~the~~ proud confirmation.		"I got them in Ganger's Hope," came my proud confirmation.

	Before stepping into the swirling aperture, personal protective enchantments were raised with a fortified self. It took another hour to finish the magic and step through, making it three full hours in total to emerge outside the government of Adjepbar. Everyone ate a pair of buns, and rank-four restoratives were passed around to ward off the magical toll.		Before stepping into the swirling aperture, personal protective enchantments were raised with a fortified self. It took another hour to finish the magic and step through, making it three full hours in total to emerge outside the government of Adjepbar. Everyone ate a pair of buns, and rank-four restoratives were passed around to ward off the magical toll.

	Still, the sudden transit took its toll. "How did you make the world change like that? Why do I feel so ghastly?"		Still, the sudden transit took its toll. "How did you make the world change like that? Why do I feel so ghastly?" Suzie asked.

	"Our rune magic," ~~Dae~~ explained. "We just teleported five hundred miles."		"Our rune magic," Keshah explained. "We just teleported five hundred miles."

	"Drink this and you might feel better."		I offered her a Restorative. "Drink this and you might feel better." Suzie then stepped aside, threw up a bit, and returned, groaning. "I feel as if I've been trampled by a bull."

	~~Someone stepped aside, threw up a bit, and returned, groaning. "I feel as if I've been trampled by a bull."~~		"Yeah," Keshah sympathized. "It used to be better magic, but then the world changed and it got a bit harsher."

	"Yeah," ~~Dae~~ sympathized. "It used to be better magic, but then the world changed and it got a bit harsher."

	~~"Didn't they teach you about bedside manners?" came the grumble, cushioned by yet another cream bun.~~

	Outside Adjepbar, it was roughly eight o'clock at night. In the early spring dusk, the light was fading fast. Below them, a rock shelf fell away beside one of the main roads that cut through the open wastelands and broken ground surrounding the formidable city walls. Fortunately, the city gates remained wide open.		Outside Adjepbar, it was roughly eight o'clock at night. In the early spring dusk, the light was fading fast. Below them, a rock shelf fell away beside one of the main roads that cut through the open wastelands and broken ground surrounding the formidable city walls. Fortunately, the city gates remained wide open.
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	"We should head there quickly," Dae urged.		"We should head there quickly," Dae urged.

	Crowding the gateway was an enormous herd of goats being driven inward through the portal archway. When asked if the herd was moving in or out, ~~Dae~~ pointed out that goats rarely exit a city. That sparked a brief query over whether the beasts were simple food supplies or connected to the goat cult, though it was quickly clarified that these were very much alive, whereas the cult notoriously favoured dead goats.		Crowding the gateway was an enormous herd of goats being driven inward through the portal archway. When asked if the herd was moving in or out, Keshah pointed out that goats rarely exit a city. That sparked a brief query over whether the beasts were simple food supplies or connected to the goat cult, though it was quickly clarified that these were very much alive, whereas the cult notoriously favoured dead goats.

	"Okay, we have to go to the palace fairly soon," someone noted. "Pretty soon, or they're going to send people for us. They'll want to know when you turn up."		"Okay, we have to go to the palace fairly soon," someone noted. "Pretty soon, or they're going to send people for us. They'll want to know when you turn up."

	"Maybe we'd better deal with our accommodation first," ~~Aurora~~ suggested. "Let's see if Lady Alba's place is available."		"Maybe we'd better deal with our accommodation first," I suggested. "Let's see if Lady Alba's place is available."

	As the group approached the gate, a flurry of activity erupted among the guards. Men were frantically brushing down their tunics, straightening their gear, and jamming helmets onto their heads while a stout dwarf barked orders at them. The dwarven guard commander turned on his heel and stomped straight over to the newcomers.		As the group approached the gate, a flurry of activity erupted among the guards. Men were frantically brushing down their tunics, straightening their gear, and jamming helmets onto their heads while a stout dwarf barked orders at them. The dwarven guard commander turned on his heel and stomped straight over to the newcomers.
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	Catching himself, the dwarf cleared his throat. "I'm a guard. How about we try this again: Hello, ma'am. You're not a goat herder?"		Catching himself, the dwarf cleared his throat. "I'm a guard. How about we try this again: Hello, ma'am. You're not a goat herder?"

	Before Aurora could answer, ~~Dae~~ stepped forward smoothly. "Allow me to introduce Aurora—hero of Adjepbar!"		Before Aurora could answer, Keshah stepped forward smoothly. "Allow me to introduce Aurora—hero of Adjepbar!"

	Aurora flinched and hissed back, "I'm not a hero of Adjepbar, you guys!"		Aurora flinched and hissed back, "I'm not a hero of Adjepbar, you guys!"

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	''The party consults guild officials about collecting their own rescue bounty while Sweet Foot offers unexpected fashion commentary.''		''The party consults guild officials about collecting their own rescue bounty while Sweet Foot offers unexpected fashion commentary.''

	Hauling the livestock, we made the journey up toward the Guild in record time. Along the road, signs of trouble lingered: a few dead pigs lay discarded, and nearby stood an encampment of tents pitched across the thoroughfare. A heated argument had broken out, with a crowd of onlookers watching a woman dispute fiercely with a man—the Northerners who had been ~~walked~~ back. Passing the confrontation, the wagon rolled into the Guild yard, and everyone jumped down.		Hauling the livestock, we made the journey up toward the Guild in record time. Along the road, signs of trouble lingered: a few dead pigs lay discarded, and nearby stood an encampment of tents pitched across the thoroughfare. A heated argument had broken out, with a crowd of onlookers watching a woman dispute fiercely with a man—the Northerners who had been brought back. Passing the confrontation, the wagon rolled into the Guild yard, and everyone jumped down.

	Lady Lizette Summers and Keshah came wandering over to meet ~~them~~.		Lady Lizette Summers and Keshah came wandering over to meet us.

	"You sort it all out?" came the question.		"You sort it all out?" came the question.

	~~"Sort it all out," Keshah echoed.~~		"Yes, sort of," I replied.

	"Yes, sort of," ~~Dae~~ replied.

	A halfling woman piped up, glancing around to ask where the party was before fixing her attention on Keshah. "I'm Susie Sweetfoot," she announced cheerfully. "You must be Keshah. Oh, I've got a running bet on you. I think that no one's going to bring you in. I'm going to get rich."		A halfling woman piped up, glancing around to ask where the party was before fixing her attention on Keshah. "I'm Susie Sweetfoot," she announced cheerfully. "You must be Keshah. Oh, I've got a running bet on you. I think that no one's going to bring you in. I'm going to get rich."

	~~"No, I don't want to be booted,"~~ Keshah muttered, before checking back with Dae. "So it's all sorted, is it?"		Keshah muttered, before checking back with Dae. "So it's all sorted, is it?"

	"Um, sort of," Dae hedged aloud, while Susie chirped that it was indeed all settled.		"Um, sort of," Dae hedged aloud, while Susie chirped that it was indeed all settled.
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	"Apparently there's a bounty on a couple of us," Keshah said.		"Apparently there's a bounty on a couple of us," Keshah said.

	"Well, yes, of course we did warn you ~~all then~~," the representative answered smoothly.		"Well, yes, of course we did warn you of that," the representative answered smoothly.

	Keshah inquired if there would be any infraction of the rules if Dae collected the bounty.		Keshah inquired if there would be any infraction of the rules if Dae collected the bounty.
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	"If you've read the letter, he's speaking in sadness," the representative explained. "He thinks that terrible things have happened, and he's offering a reward to get you guys back."		"If you've read the letter, he's speaking in sadness," the representative explained. "He thinks that terrible things have happened, and he's offering a reward to get you guys back."

	"Terrible things did ~~happen—it took you~~ to Lizette," Keshah said with a sigh. "But it doesn't feel morally right to get him to pay for us."		"Terrible things did happen—especially to Lizette," Keshah said with a sigh. "But it doesn't feel morally right to get him to pay for us."

	"He'd probably just take it out of our payment," Dae pointed out.		"He'd probably just take it out of our payment," Dae pointed out.

	"Look, if anyone gets nasty about it, I'll just donate the whole lot to charity," ~~Keshah~~ said. "Or we pay him back out of our earnings. I've got no problem with that."		"Look, if anyone gets nasty about it, I'll just donate the whole lot to charity," I said. "Or we pay him back out of our earnings. I've got no problem with that."

	"We can always just front up and pay for the reward ourselves," Dae agreed.		"We can always just front up and pay for the reward ourselves," Dae agreed.
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	"Oh, it is true," the representative acknowledged with an amused nod.		"Oh, it is true," the representative acknowledged with an amused nod.

	Susie chimed back in, appraising Keshah with an admiring grin. "Keshah, you're very pretty for a tall person. ~~Really~~ quite pronounced breasts."		Susie chimed back in, appraising Keshah with an admiring grin. "Keshah, you're very pretty for a tall person. She then turned to Lizette "And you've got really quite pronounced breasts."

	~~"Yes, the breasts," Dae agreed dryly.~~

	~~Keshah~~ tugged self-consciously at her attire. "Yeah, I'm thinking maybe this wasn't quite the right outfit to use."		"Yes, the breasts," Lizette agreed dryly. She tugged self-consciously at her attire. "Yeah, I'm thinking maybe this wasn't quite the right outfit to use."

	"That's a glorious outfit," Susie insisted.		"That's a glorious outfit," Susie insisted.

	"Not really sort of street wear," ~~Dae~~ murmured, "but never mind."		"Not really sort of street wear," Keshah murmured, "but never mind." Meanwhile I was quietly seething. Lizette's breasts again? Hey. Look over here. I'm RIGHT here.

	==== Chapter 30: Through the Portal to Adjepbar ====		==== Chapter 30: Through the Portal to Adjepbar ====