Year 29

Lot can change in just a few years, some things you predicted, others not so much.

The Church of Joachim being outlawed in the city wasn't too surprising given all the trouble that was caused and how Holgard in general tends more towards embracing sin and vice rather than moving away from it. Still, sort of funny that the faith is now in the company of it's eternal enemy, Neroth as far as being illegal.

As for the other faiths, only the temples of Dorna and Fel maintain any presence in the city and in the Felians case, that's thanks to Shade dying soon after the war was over and the new leader Gloom, making an effort to strengthen their relationship with the upper echelons of the government, namely Baroness Ludmilla.

Gloom has also extended a hand to the Nocturnal League, stating that the temple would be more than willing to come to an understanding like it had with the Ebony Claw Syndicate and train your members in shadow magic.

You declined that offer though. You've always said members are free to pray to whoever they want, but if they're going to be wrapped up in Fel (or whoever) that hardcore then they can go take up some black robes and start living in their temple's meditation rooms. The less religion you have in your organization the better.

Still, your cordial relationship with the temple has had benefits you hadn't intended. Due to the Felians being on better terms with the Baroness, some of that "understanding" has inadvertently trickled down towards you. As a result the Nocturnal League has freer reign over the city than it once did. Possibly similar to what the ECS once had.

So things are going good for the Nocturnal League and business couldn't be better. You haven't had any decisions of the major kind lately, but for whatever reason this has caused you to sometimes over think the minor ones now that do crop up.

Like right now for instance.

"You were invited to the Baroness' yearly costume party? How the hell did that happen and why aren't you immediately making preparations to go?!" Vera asks.
"Just one of the perks of being allied with the temple of Fel I suppose. Gloom had one of his members deliver this letter to me a week ago. Apparently Baroness Ludmilla has heard interesting things about me and would like me to show up at her party so she can see for herself." You say.
"She thinks yer intresstin'? She really doesn't know youz at all." Warts snarks and chuckles at his own attempt at a joke.
"Well, you have to go right? I mean it's the Baroness." Vera says.
"I dunno. I mean I suppose I see why I should, just don't really feel up to it." You reply.
"What? When the Baroness of Holgard calls you to court, you have to go!"
"Never knew you were such a supporter of our dear ruler. You secretly harboring royalist admiration?"
"No. It's not like that! I mean yeah she's royalty, but not really. I mean… I dunno, I've always sort of admired how she took power from her father and brother I guess. She's a very powerful independent woman and has remained that way. I guess that's what I admire."
"Hm. Well I guess I just see her as another corrupt aristocrat that used her position of power to gain even more power. Not that that's a bad thing, but nothing special. Lot harder to do when you aren't born with a silver spoon in your mouth."
"Yes, yes, we all know. You cleverly lied, cheated, stole and murdered your way to your position. You're the epitome of a self made man. We're all very impressed. Truly. I'm wet just thinking about it. Still, I really think you should go to this party, if only so you don't inadvertently offend her which then will cause our current friendly relationship with the law to become unnecessarily complicated."
"Yeah, I already took that into consideration. (Sigh) I suppose I'm going, though the letter also says I should bring one more person with me since that's apparently the rule of this event."

As soon as you've said that, Vera's eyes light up.

"Me! You gotta take me! Seriously I will seriously suck your dick if you take me to this party." Vera exclaims.
"You mean aren't already?" Warts responds.
"Wha? Why is that your go to action with me?" you say.
"I'll do whatever you want to do then, look I don't care! I just really gotta go to this thing!"
"Why? Wait a minute, you don't have a crush on the Baroness do you? I mean you were praising her pretty hard a moment ago."
"No! This ain't about pussy bumpin! Its just…(sigh) nevermind you'll just make fun and if you don't I know damn well this ugly half breed will."
"Oh fuck you, Vera."
"Warts, step out of here. While there won't be any dick sucking involved, I am sort of interested in why Vera wants to go so badly."
"Gruh, fine by me. I certainly don't wanna go. I gotta go see my kids anywayz, later."

After Warts leaves you motion Vera to speak which she does though she's still a bit hesitant to do so, fearing that you'll make fun.

Vera suddenly goes into more of her life story than you ever thought to ask of her.

She mentions that her mother was once very briefly employed as a maid during the Baron's reign of the city. She goes on to say that her mother always told her that she once had a brief fling with him while she was cleaning one of the guest bedrooms. Unfortunately the Baron being the asshole he typically was, he had all the maids, including Vera's mother, replaced a week later because he claimed his palace wasn't getting clean enough.

In any case, Vera said that shortly afterwards, her mother discovered she was pregnant and claimed to the day she died that Vera's real father was really the Baron.

"Wait a minute…you're telling me you're actually bastard royalty?!" you ask.
"I knew you'd make fun or not believe me." Vera says.
"Honestly, it's not really that far fetched given what I've always heard about the old Baron. Though I'm just surprised you've never mentioned it before. Seems like something you'd brag about."
"And get myself fucking killed?! No thanks! One of the big reasons my mother never told anyone or even tried to get financial support from the Baron is the fear of some assassin coming in to kill her and me. I mean I'm hardly the only illegitimate child the baron probably had and his son Farad was notorious for having suspected bastards killed. And if he didn't do it, I can't imagine Ludmilla was any different. Especially now."
"I guess that makes sense."
"Honestly, you're the ONLY person I've told about this and now that I've done it, I feel a little weird and vulnerable."
"Well, I'm not going to say anything. Not like there would be anything to gain. Though I guess this is why you want to go to this party so badly huh? Experience what might have been? Possibly even briefly speak with your older half sister?"
"…sort of. I know it's silly, but…sometimes I do think of a life that is different than this one."

Vera's thoughtful words are a little out of the ordinary, but not lost on you. Not like you don't have similar thoughts on your own life at times.

"Okay, I guess we'll go together then. Not like I can think of anyone else to take anyway. Says it'll be in three days so I suggest you prepare yourself." You say.
"I will! Thank you for this boss!" Vera beams.
"Don't mention it, princess." You mock.
"So, what are you going to be wearing?"
"I dunno. Some mask of some sort I imagine since it's a costume party. Which makes me wonder, how the hell is the Baroness going to know it's me if I'm wearing a mask?"
"I imagine she's got some way of figuring it out. Make sure you dress nice though! I've heard about these things and if we go in looking like we crawled out of the sewers, they'll turn us away, invitation or not."
"Yeah, yeah, I'll take a trip to the tailor's or something."

A few days and a trip to the tailor's later, you're dressed and ready to go to this thing. You're not exactly comfortable in this type of clothing, but many League members compliment you on your new threads. Warts of course has something to say.

"Oh well la de da, if it ain't da duke of da undaworld." Warts say.
"Don't even start, where the hell is Vera, she's the one that made a bigger deal of all this?"
"You ain't seen her yet? She's even fancier than you are right now. If it gets anymore highbrow here, we're gonna hafta forge all dat gold and silver we got inta fancy eatin' utensils."
"Yeah, well this is a one time thing. So where's Vera again?"
"She's in her room I think…um don't tell her I said so, but she iz sorta pretty. I mean she wouldn't be MY type, but y'know dressed like she iz right now, she looks like of doze princesses or sumthin. Hah, Vera a princess, dat's funny."
"Yeah…hysterical. Later Warts."

You shake your head and go get Vera.

You don't even bother knocking on the door, you just enter and that's when you see Vera who turns around from her mirror to face you. She does indeed look a lot different than you're used to seeing her.

"Wow. You look, really different." You say.
"Good different or bad different?" Vera asks.
"Neither…I mean good of course. Look, I'm just saying you could easily blend in with the rest of the aristocratic types. You're very pretty, like a princess and I'm not just saying that."
"Thank you. You look…appropriate too."
"The hell's that mean? I'll have you know I got a lot of compliments!"
"Well of course you did, you're the boss. They're hardly going to tell you, you look like shit. Not that you do. You're fine. I guess we should get going, do you have your mask?"
"Yeah, got one of those half masks. Don't really feel like struggling to breath with a full mask on that covers my mouth and nostrils. Still covers most of my face so I figure I'm good." You say and put it on.
"I think most people will be wearing those so, you'll fit in fine. I got one too." Vera says and puts on her her mask and the pair of you are soon on your way.

When you get to the palace you're sort of relieved since you half expect that you're going to get robbed on your way there. A guard stops you at the gates and you show your personalized invitation at which point you're waved through.

You and Vera take a moment to sort of absorb the fact of where you actually are for a moment. The seat of rulership, the palace! The grounds are certainly well taken care of and it's obvious that every effort has been spared to make it look as festive as possible.

The closer you get to the palace the more grandiose everything is. You also notice the increase in guards and you and Vera are patted down more than once.

You get inside the palace and the elegance of the interior is about what you expect. Vera is practically enamored by everything. Right now, she's probably imagining herself as that princess you ribbed her about being. As for you, you're a bit more of a harder sell on being impressed by such things, but if you could run your organization from a place like this instead, you certainly wouldn't turn it down.

You and Vera spend a bit of time just looking around until Vera wonders if you should start actively mingling with some of the other guests. You're of course against this idea, but you soon are forced into doing so anyway by someone you weren't expecting to talk to, or at least not so early.

"Well, if it isn't the head of the Nocturnal League. Glad you could make it, I was hoping you would."

And there you are standing before Baroness Ludmilla Varsakken. She wears no mask and at this close range you get a good look at her. She almost looks like she could be a vampire what with her skin on the paler side and the black hair accentuating it. She's beautiful of course, but just looking into her eyes a bit you can see a very ruthless woman before you. You also take a good look at her in general and then glance over at Vera.

Now that you're looking at them both, there could very well be a family resemblance.

"Well, you certainly like to stare." Ludmilla says, noticing your examination.
"Oh, um, apologies. Just sort of…overwhelmed you know. Never thought I'd be before royalty." You say.
"Hah, not the complete uncouth rogue I've heard our mutual Felian acquaintances tell me about I see. Good."
"How did you know it was me anyway?"
"I make it a point of knowing all my guests as they arrive. Not to mention your clothing isn't exactly shall we say refined enough. While I'm sure you thought it was very upscale looking, but the workmanship is obviously from one of the mediocre tailors in the city. Only a crimelord with no care for such extravagant airs would believe it to be sufficient for this party. Not to worry though, I will not hold it against you. You tried."
"I appreciate that, and your invitation."
"You quite welcome, and who is your companion here? She certainly seems to have a better grasp on the dress code. I dare say this dress is better than a few of the boring nobles here."
"Thank you! I had it custom made a long time ago. Always knew I'd get to wear it some day!" Vera says a bit excitedly.
"Now that's what I like to hear. A woman that plans in advance."

At this point Ludmilla begins speaking to Vera and you excuse yourself to get a drink. While you don't normally do so, you get the impression you're going to need a bit of extra help to get through the night.

You can't believe you're even in this situation, let alone acting the way you are. Still, you suppose it makes for an interesting change.

Still, you really don't want to be here all night. You made your appearance and now you'd like nothing more than to leave. Vera however looks like she's having a good time and to be honest you don't want to ruin that. She does help you a lot with the League.

So you go back to Vera and Ludmilla and stand nearby in an attempt to be social. Ludmilla goes back and forth speaking to you and Vera, though she surprisingly is more talkative to Vera. The Baroness seems to like to talk and can already guess that you're not exactly the most gregarious.

Ludmilla and Vera talk for quite awhile, it's actually pretty amazing since it's about absolutely nothing. Or at least nothing you're much interested in. Ludmilla is mostly talking about herself and the troubles of being of noble birth. Goes on about how Vera's lucky to not have to worry about such things.

Condescending of course, but if Vera noticed it, she's not fussed or at least not letting it show. It's sort of ironic anyway since Vera could very well HAVE had such problems if fate swung a different way.

Eventually though Ludmilla tells the pair of you that while she was pleased to meet you both, she has other guests to see, even though they probably won't be as interesting you are.

And the pair of you are left on your own.

"Well that was interesting." You say.
"Hm. Certainly was. Never thought I'd ever be directly in the presence of royalty before. Well not without my hands and feet in chains at least." Vera remarks.
"Hah! Same here. So, you ready to go?"
"What? Already? The party's just started and you want to leave?"
"Well, I mean I dunno what else there really is to do here. I mean we came, we saw, we met the baroness. I mean we covered all the important shit. Not like I really have any desire to talk to any of the other assholes around here."
"But, I wanted to stay a bit longer though. However, if you want to leave, I guess that's fine with me. You're the boss after all."
"Alright, we can stay a little longer, but I'm going to find someplace away from most of these people. You can do what you like. I'll come looking for you in a while I guess."
"Thanks boss, I'll see you later." Vera says and suddenly kisses you on the cheek before walking off to enjoy living the "high society life" for a little longer.

As for you, you decide to just look around to waste time. You grab another drink and try to stick to less "populated" areas of the palace. Though obviously you're still limited to where you're allowed to go. Guards standby keeping an eye on everything.

Time passes and while a few people attempt to speak to you, and few others seem to be talking about you (Mostly about your clothes) you basically ignore them all and just keep to your plan of moving about and sticking to areas where there are less people.

While you're doing that however, you're also studying some of the lay out of the palace, or at least what you're able to. You also take notice of what valuable objects would be easy to take.

You briefly flirt with the idea of stealing something from this place, but common sense soon wins out. Last thing you want to do is even risk pissing off the Baroness, especially since you're on good terms with her. Still, sometimes you miss the days of when you just stole things for a living.

After wandering a bit more and entertaining the idea of pilfering the palace, you discard your usual procedure of avoiding the crowds and walk towards a room where you hear some music followed by a lot of clapping.

You arrive just in time to see a crowd disperse before a group of musicians that apparently have just finished performing. Shame, from what little you heard, it sounded pretty good. You go and get yourself another drink and that's when you start to feel a little odd. Whatever this stuff is, it's apparently stronger than the taste would indicate. Still, it's a party right? Might as well try to loosen up.

You realize you're not nearly as fun loving as you used to be when you were younger. In fact, you're downright stodgy at times. All you practically do is fucking work. Being a criminal isn't fun anymore, it's actually not even dangerous at this point, it's just well… mundane.

How the hell did it come to this? If you wanted to be mundane, you might as well have stayed in Teckleville and followed in your dad's footsteps. Maybe he was right after all.

No. You've seen and done much in your life thanks to leaving that boring town. After all, you're here in baroness' palace! You're just in a rut that's all. When you get back, you're going to shake things up within the League. Maybe expand again, maybe even to a new city like Hessla or Klyton.

Still, it's all pretty pointless without someone to share it with. You couldn't go back home and say "Look mom and dad, look at what I've done!" It sucks. Your sister would probably be impressed, but who knows where she is. You hope she's having more fun than you are right now. You miss her sometimes. Simpler times. Happier times.

Fuck it, you need another drink.

As you go to get another you bump into a couple that are making out.

"Excuse me." You say.
"Mmm…" the woman says and strokes your arm as you pass by. The guy she's kissing takes no notice; he's too focused on her.

You briefly think of Vera and how she kissed you not too long ago. Makes you wonder if she's got more than a bit of attraction toward you. You know she's always making these sexual offers toward you, but as far as you know she's not really known to be the "good time" girl within the Nocturnal League. So it makes you wonder if she actually feels affection towards you on some level. Sometimes you think about her too, since you work so closely together. It's almost like you're an old married couple.

Of course it could be a case that she's perfectly fine being a potential whore if it's going to benefit her in the long run. Since you're the boss, and the only one above her in rank, makes sense that she'd only be offering you such extra "benefits."

Regardless, you probably would have made a move on her if it wasn't for your condition.

You nearly bump into another couple also making out. By the time you grab your drink, you realize there are a lot of people kissing and hugging each other. And some of them are getting pretty hot and heavy.

Now you think of Tanya.

You wish Tanya was still around. You'd love to share your success with her, but you guess that she moved on a long time ago. She claimed you'd move on, but you haven't. How could you? She was everything to you. If it wasn't for her, it's debatable that you would have even did any of this. You probably would have fucked around in Holgard for a few years and then just left when the Ebony Claw Syndicate started taking notice of you. She kept you around and made you fall in love with her.

But you can't hate her for that. It wasn't her fault. It just was her nature.

You look around and now you see several people doing more than just kissing now.

"What the fuck?" you say to yourself and get up to leave. You must have wandered into some weird orgy room.

You make it to a hallway and that's when you're starting to feel really…excited.

You've got an erection right now that you could stab someone to death with and you are about ready to murder the closest woman available and worse, they're just about ALL available.

Hell, with the way you're feeling, you're starting to worry if you aren't going to just fuck everyone on your way to the exit because it's been YEARS since you've had sex and right now your dick isn't caring.

It has to be the drinks. You're sure of it. This whole party is probably just an excuse for rich people to have decadent orgies anonymously with each other.

You need to get out of here before you kill everyone at this party with your cursed dick. The problem is you aren't sure if you're even going to make it that far.

The best you might be able to do is find a place with no people about and stay there until the effects of the drink wear off. (Whenever that is)

You find a secluded room

You aren't making it to the exit and even if you did, you still have to make it out the front gates, and through the streets of the city before you get home. Your "condition" isn't going allow you to get that far, you need to isolate yourself NOW.

You quickly start opening doors to rooms in the hopes that at least one of them is completely empty. After stumbling into a couple rooms that are in the process of being used, you finally find a small guest room that seems to be empty since apparently people are dispensing with notions of privacy and content on fucking in public. You quickly enter and try to get over your condition.

It's no use though, you had quite a few of those drinks and the urge is overwhelming. Since it isn't going away anytime soon, you do the only thing you can think of…

And then you do it again immediately after.

…and then a third AND fourth time.

"What the fuck did they put in the damn drinks, ground up unicorn testicles?" you mutter.

At this point the excitement still hasn't subsided, and you still don't think you'd make it outside. And if you bumped into Vera on the way, well you'd definitely be taking her up on all those blowjobs she's offered you in the past. (In fact you were thinking about her the second time around)

Just as you're about to start round five, the door opens! You forgot to lock it and suddenly it's like that time you were a teenager and your sister walked in on you accidently. (Man, that was awkward)

"Shit! Get out of here!" you say, though your eyes are already drawn to this woman's body, which is still covered up, but only by a very colorful form-fitting outfit.

She wears a half mask similar to the one you're wearing and her long hair is freely flowing behind her and partially on her shoulders. It's not white, but it's blonde enough to vaguely remind you of Tanya. (Though at this point she's dominating your thoughts)

While you're busy making mental images, you've neglected to cover yourself and this woman has been doing the same to you.

"Shit." You say attempting to cover up with a pillow and then once again telling her to get out.
"If I step out of this room I'm gonna end up fucking every person out there! Granted I'm usually up for a good time, but I still like them ONE at a time. There is some seriously decadent shit going on out there and I was THIS close to joining in on it. If I knew they were going to put something in the drinks here, I never would have agreed to come to this damn thing!" the masked woman says.
"Well we're in agreement there."
"SHIT!"
"What?!"
"As soon as I started feeling weird I put down some of my belongings and left them elsewhere. One of particular importance too! Fuck, I can't go get it now. Argh, I guess it'll be safe. Probably won't get stolen, but I sure hope somebody doesn't destroy it in an attempt to shove it up their ass or something. Look, I just need a place to hide for a while. At least until the effects wear off."
"I don't think that's a good idea because if you haven't noticed, this is MY hiding spot! As for when the effects are going to wear off I have no idea. I just jerked off four times in a row and I'm still hard as a rock."

"Four times? Fuck, that is fucking sexy…" The masked woman says and begins to touch herself while looking over your direction.
"Hold on! Easy there girl!" you say backing up a bit on the bed.
"Shit…this isn't going to work. We can't both stay here, or least we can't both stay here and not be fucking each other. To hell with it…"

Without another word, the masked woman begins to take her clothes off.

"What the hell?! This is NOT a good idea!" you shout.
"Maybe not, but I can't take this feeling any longer. My plan was similar to yours, but apparently that hasn't worked for you either. We might as well alleviate the pressure and have some fun. And at least I'm not going to feel too bad about fucking a complete stranger as long as it's a one on one deal."

The top part of her costume is off and you're about ready to go fondle her tits. In fact you're already standing up from the bed and walking towards her to do just that.

"I seriously CAN'T do this." You say, barely stopping yourself.
"And are you seriously telling me, you don't want THIS?" she says and forcefully puts your hands on her tits.

As you caress her breast, you can feel the temptation overwhelming you. Her body is just…perfect to you right now.

"Oh trust me, I want nothing more than to get you on all fours and thrust into you until you're crying from so much pleasure."
"Well let's get on with that then, because that actually sounds like a lot of fun."
"I…I can't! I really can't do this!" you say and pull your hands away, the woman's hands however go immediately to your crotch.

"Your dick says otherwise. Come on, I'm fucking ready and I know you are." She says.
"It would be dangerous." You say as you enjoy the scent of her this close up.
"I sure hope so."

Without another word, the woman kisses you and shoves her tongue in your mouth. You manage to briefly stop the grinding of your bodies long enough and pull your lips apart to speak.

"Stop, stop! Seriously, this could be dangerous for you!" you say.
"What? Wait, you don't have the fucking crotch rot do you?" she asks.
"No, nothing like that, it's just…it's complicated and I don't have time to explain. You see, my girlfriend's a…"
"Mmmm, I won't tell her if you don't." the woman says and begins going down on you.

And it feels sooooooo good.

You tried. You really tried. But you can't. You just can't any longer. The temptation is too great and this woman is too damn skilled, along with being very pretty. (At least from what you can tell, she's still partially covered with her mask)

"Hold on, hold on, stop." You say one more time gently pushing her head away.
"Fucking kidding me? What the hell now?" the woman asks.
"If we're gonna do this…go lock the door at least. Last thing we need is more people wandering in and before we know it, it's not just us any longer."
"Yeah, you got a point. Okay."

As you watch her walk away, some guilt wells up inside you. You're going to kill this girl and you just don't have the willpower to stop yourself.

The worst of it, is that guilt quickly goes away as you walk up behind her while she's locking the door and quickly strip off her panties before taking her on all fours on the bed like you promised.

"Oh… fuck yeah. That's what I'm talking about." She pants as you enter inside her.

The session is quite unlike anything you've ever experienced. It's raw; it's passionate and practically animalistic.

And that's saying something considering you used to have sex with a succubus.

Somehow though, it's much different. With Tanya, she was always still dominant in some way. With this woman, it's…well hard to describe.

Maybe you've just longed for intimacy for so long, maybe it's the drugged drinks enhancing the pleasure to an unnatural degree, maybe it's the anonymity, maybe this girl is actually a magical fairy with a magical vagina, or maybe it's a combination of several factors.

In any case it's almost like your bodies are in perfect sync with each other. Like it feels so natural and right that you're achieving some sort of emotional and even spiritual fulfillment as well as a physical one.

You're so damn delirious that at one point in between the huffing and puffing and panting and dirty talk you suddenly blurt out:

"I love you."

And to your equal surprise:

"I love you too…don't stop." She replies, followed by a pleasured moan.

Needless to say, you don't until you (and her) are completely spent.

At which point you collapse nearly directly on top of her and fall asleep or rather lose consciousness.

You don't know how long you're out for, but when you wake up you're by yourself and there is no sign of the woman you were with.

You half wonder if you hallucinated her, but you see that there is a discarded mask so you're guessing she was actually here.

You slowly get up and rip your own mask off your face and look around for your clothes. While you're getting dressed you start feeling a sight ache all over your body. You feel drained in fact, almost reminds you of how you used to feel with your sessions with Tanya.

But that woman wasn't Tanya. Last night was just you and some beautiful stranger under the effects of a powerful aphrodisiac that pushed the limits of your endurance.

And of course that beautiful stranger will soon be dead. Just as well as you never learned her name or even saw her face. Makes the fact that you just condemned her to death a lot easier to cope with. Not much that can be done anyway. At least she had fun; at least you believe she did given her squeals of ecstasy.

You stumble out of the room and find that several servants are cleaning up everywhere along with several disheveled noble types walking around half dressed and hung over. Nobody pays much attention to you and just goes about their own business as you make your way to exit the palace.

As you get to the front door of the palace you see Baroness Ludmilla standing nearby saying goodbye to all her guests that are staggering out. The baroness doesn't look any worse for wear. Either she didn't drink what everyone else did or she's got amazing recuperative powers. When she sees you, she waves you over.

"Hello again! I was hoping to catch you before you left! And by your appearance, it looks like you had quite the experience last night! Hope it was fun for you!" Ludmilla says.
"It was different I can say that much. Have you seen Vera?" you ask.
"Hm? Oh you mean the girl you came here with? No, I haven't seen her since the festivities were just getting started."
"Okay then, guess I'll see her back home then."
"I'm sure that's where she is. Goodbye and again I'm glad you came. I'm just sorry we didn't get a chance to talk more, but you know what? We should meet again sometime. Just us two. Talk about life and shit."
"Um, sure I guess. Goodbye."

You give a small bow to the Baroness, believing that you probably should show some sort of deference to her station. She seems to like that, and then you turn to leave because honestly you can't get out of there fast enough.

It's a long walk back home and you're thirsty as hell. Probably dehydrated from all the wild sex you had. Along the way you stop inside a tavern and order a drink. Nothing alcoholic this time though.

When the tavern keeper pours you a cup of apple cider, you go to pay for it and find what little coin you had in your pocket is gone! You check you other pockets and still nothing.

"I don't fucking believe this…she fucking robbed me? Bitch!" you exclaim.
"Um, sir?" the tavern keeper says.
"What?" you say still distracted by the fact that you can't believe you got robbed.
"I…um… know who you are sir, and um, there's no charge."
"Oh, thanks."

Well at least reputation has its benefits and now you're just irritated that you even spent any amount of energy feeling guilty about having sex with that thieving bitch.

After drinking your fill and resting a moment, you eventually make your way back to the League headquarters where business is going on as usual. You ask various members if they've seen Vera, eventually you bump into her and she answers herself. She doesn't look any worse for wear.

"Hey boss. There you are. Guess you found the party a lot more interesting than I did after all. What happened to you?" Vera remarks.
"Never mind all that. What happened to you?" you ask.
"Oh shortly after we separated I wandered and talked to a few people and even looked around seeing if I could steal anything, but there really wasn't a good opportunity, and then something weird happened."
"Let me guess, everyone got all friendly?"
"Yeah, REALLY friendly. Didn't know it was going to be that kind of party. Guessing something was in the drinks. Glad I hadn't drank anything while I was there. Still, I might have paired up with one of the horny aristocrat guys if it had just been a one on one thing, but then Ludmilla was around and she started hitting on me too and I got really creeped out. I mean she didn't know of course, but she could potentially be my half sister, and that just really put me out of the mood entirely. I ran out as soon as I could."
"Yeah, potentially fucking a sibling, I can see where that would put a damper on things. Wish a damper was put on me last night."
"So what DID happen to you? Did you get caught up in an orgy?" Vera asks with a grin.
"No, but I did spend the entire night fucking some woman who apparently robbed me after I passed out."

Vera starts immediately laughing at how someone like you fell prey to something like that.

"Yeah, yeah, laugh it up." You grumble.
"I'm sorry, but the fact you got caught like that is just hilarious." Vera says.
"Yeah well, she's not getting too far."
"Oh, you know who she is?"
"Huh? Nah, I just have a strong feeling that fate is going to catch up to her. Anyway, I don't want to dwell on it anymore, let's just get to work. In fact before shit happened yesterday, I was thinking about potential expansion."
"Where exactly? You thinking about getting a League chapter in the Delantium Kingdom?"
"Maybe…but probably not. For whatever reason the Ebony Claw Syndicate has not fucked with us. If we start going into their territory, that could change. However I was thinking we could physically expand where isn't a strong organized criminal presence."
"I suppose it's worth looking into, I've got a suggestion of where we should."
"Oh?"
"You ever heard of Jicol?"
"Think I've heard some of the Hessla pirates we deal with mention it sometimes. Don't know much though."
"It's a port town west of Hessla and from what I've heard it's wide open like a whore's legs. Nobody has tried to organize anything there and the city focuses so much on defending against potential pirate attacks that it doesn't have the heightened security like say Klyton does in recent years. I say we start there."

Looks like you've got a new prospect.

You time passes...

Chapter 3D2 Power Struggle



Year 31

"When are they supposed to arrive again?" you ask.
"Um, lesee… the ECS rep is supposed to be here tomorrow by carriage." Warts says.
"Okay. It's been what, like a decade that they haven't taken an interest in this place ever since they lost their chapter here, now all of a fucking sudden I'm receiving letters and having to meet with their reps."
"Better dat den assassin blades."
"I guess. Just wondering why now all of a sudden."
"Maybe itz our expansion inta Jicol? We's startin' ta get bigger, dat shit kinda draws tenshun. Probably shoulda stayed small."
"It was a risk, I suppose. Then again they might have fucked with us anyway. At least now we're a little stronger. Speaking of which, maybe we should get some of Gloom's people here tonight as extra security until this visit is over. Might as well put that alliance we have to good use."
"Grh, I still don't trust dem shadow guyz. Dey used ta be allied wit da Syndicate."
"Yeah. I know their faith is for the most part still chummy with the Syndicate, but ever since Shade split from the main faith, this particular temple seems to be independent and follow its own agenda. I guess we can get a feel of where their alliances lie at least. Sort of wish Vera was still around sometimes as an extra pair of hands and eyes, but she's more useful in Jicol. I think she needed the change of scenery anyway."
"How iz things dere anyway?"
"Last message I got from her she said there weren't any problems. Even starting to recruit a few of the locals there, which is good so we don't have to send any more people from here. Not to mention the profit she sent last month was the biggest yet."
"You ever think she's skimmin'?"
"Vera? Nah, but I'm sure she's probably running something on the side for herself. Which is fine by me if she is. I'd rather have her overlooking things there than anyone else."

Later you go to the Temple of Fel to speak with Gloom about extra back up. Gloom as usual is always willing to assist you. You've always felt Gloom was way too friendly to be a Felian (Even his name is ironic) but better cordial than hostile you suppose.

One thing you have noticed is that over the years, the Felians aren't quite the disciplined shadowy priests they once were. Not to say they wouldn't be formidable in a fight, but they definitely aren't like how they were under their previous leadership. Gloom wasn't even aware that the Syndicate was visiting. For a group that's generally known for being masters of secrets and such, they seem a bit out of the loop nowadays.

After coming to an agreement with Gloom, you leave the temple and make your way back to your headquarters.

The next day the ECS representative arrives. As mentioned in the correspondence to you, you meet in a "neutral" location at a tavern called the Bloody Bandit (Warts was right, why don't more of these places have inviting names?)

You arrive with a few of the larger hobgoblins by your side. You weren't sure at first, but letting some of Wart's "buddies" from the Spiderfang tribe join was a good idea. They aren't as big as an ogre or as muscular as an orc but they're just as ugly and mean enough to intimidate most.

You look around and notice that at least one of Gloom's people is here. There might be more, but if they are, they must be better at hiding themselves. In any case, you're satisfied that you have an advantage if it comes to a fight.

Then you see who can only be who you're supposed to meet. A well dressed man with a thin mustache sitting all by himself and not looking very concerned about his surroundings. The fact that he's here by himself speaks of his confidence that he's either powerful enough to survive whatever you might have in store, or the consequences of him will be so severe that you won't even try. He's not drinking anything, but when he sees you he nods and waves you over. You tell your hobgoblin retinue to wait nearby and mentally prepare yourself.

You sit down and the man briefly smiles.

"Well, right on time. Always a good sign when someone is punctual. When I noticed the shadow blades come in here, I thought for a moment you were using some sort of weak psychological intimidation tactic and try to make me sweat while you came in late. Though I suppose you're just more concerned with security given your green buddies over there. Hobs are an unusual choice though. We usually use ogres or orcs, but then you use the savages you got access to right? I can appreciate a man who improvises. In any case, my name is Percy and I'm sure you want to get to it."
"I do like to be direct."
"So I've heard. Oh I've heard a lot about you actually. Don't know everything about you of course, but that's okay, a little mystery is always welcome. What do you say about mystery?"
"Not a fan of it. I sort of prefer to know everything I can, so I'm not caught off guard."
"Heh, and I knew that about you too! Maybe you're not so mysterious, but that's okay too!"

Percy pats your hand from across the table in his enthusiasm. Honestly, you don't know if the guy is flirting with you at this point. Maybe it's a tactic to try to make you uncomfortable, whatever it is, you stay stoic.

"So what is it that the Syndicate wishes of the Nocturnal League?" you ask.
"Ah that is the question isn't it? What DOES the Syndicate want? I bet ever since you heard from us, you've been wondering. Is this a threat? Is this a deal? Is this an alliance? Is it a prelude to an attack? What COULD it be? Why has the Syndicate suddenly taken an interest in Holgard again after it abandoned it a decade ago? Well? Do YOU have any ideas?" Percy asks.
"I'm a cynic so I'm guessing you're here to say you're taking over and this is my one warning to get out of the way. At best, you'll want me to still stick around. At worst, you've probably already poisoned me when you touched my hand."

Percy laughs out loud.

"You my friend have a very interesting imagination! I assure you, if we wanted you dead, we wouldn't even be talking right now. You are partially correct though." Percy says.
"You're taking over." You remark.
"No. Well not directly. We DO want you to stick around though. You see, we have done a little research on you. We know you came here years ago, we also know you were part of the Thieves' Guild here before that and were instrumental in its destruction which THEN led to you being part of the Syndicate chapter here. Before Rook apparently blundered and cocked everything up. During all that time though, up until you created this Nocturnal League, you at your core were a thief. A good one though from what I've heard."
"Don't get to do it much anymore."
"Mm, so to sum up, we have a simple thief who survived the destruction of not one, but two organizations that held the most sway in the underworld here. You then went on to create your own organization, which is now the only game in town. You also apparently managed to leverage an alliance with the Temple of Fel here. That is an interesting one considering the faithful of Fel and the Syndicate have been allies for many decades. Intertwined one might even say."
"This group is a little different."
"Indeed. I believe the High Shadow back in Delantium has had some issues with this particular branch in general, but that's an internal matter on their end. In any case back to you, it's all very impressive for someone of humble origins and very unusual how it all seemed to work out in your favor. One might even think you planned everything… well either that or you had the gods on your side."
"Never really planned to be in the position I'm currently in and the only god I've ever gave a few words to is Yag and even then not much."
"Well, then he must be rolling well for you every time. Perhaps it is luck that drives success in this city after all. Strategy, logic and even simple might seem to eventually fail in this city. This place is has always been problematic ever since the late Baron Vlad Varsakken declared his independence from Delantium. Even when we had a chapter here, it was always the least profitable of all of our holdings even with all the corruption going on, so when the leadership finally collapsed here and the rest of the lower ranks scattered to the winds. People higher than myself decided to wash their hands of the whole thing, not unlike the Delantium Kingdom did before I guess. However, things change and one of those changes is you sharing in your obvious success."

And here it is, the shakedown.

"I can see by your face you aren't pleased with that last statement, but I think you should look upon it as a compliment. Just think, YOU managed to do what the Syndicate could not. You made a success here with no competition and you built it all from the ground up. Granted you did use some of our people and even altered our product…Purple Wish? Come on, we all know that's just an inferior version of Blue Dream, but it's probably for the best that you didn't try to rip us off directly. We might have very well sent assassins in that case." Percy says.
"I had considered that, hence why I suggested changing the formula." You say.
"See always thinking! Which is why a direct take over wouldn't be as efficient. I mean why come in here and stomp about establishing our dominance and wasting manpower and resources when you're here? A perfectly reasonable and intelligent man more than capable of running things and knowing to give us our due."
"Also knowing I don't have choice in the matter either."
"But there is ALWAYS choice! I just know you'll make the right one! I'm going to give you a sum and you can tell me if it's fair or rip it up. What you can't do is negotiate though. I'm afraid I'm not here to do that."

With this statement, Percy suddenly takes a small piece of parchment out of his pocket and moves it across the table. You take it and look at it.

It's not unreasonable, but it's not exactly something you'd be looking forward to paying every month. Especially when you're already kicking bribes to the Holgard government.

Still, you're getting a lot of leeway all things considered. For now you're going to accept. You can always figure something out later.

"Very well I accept." You say.
"Good! I knew you would! You didn't get where you are by being an idiot! Now that business is over, I'm going to be in the city a few more days before coming to see you again for the first payment. Now I know you're a busy man with busy people, so I don't expect you lot to see to me and I'm more than capable of protecting myself. However, I would like some suggestions on where all the good spots to have fun and unwind are here."

After giving Percy some suggestions he shakes your hand and thanks you before leaving. As for you, you don't feel like going back to work right away either. You dismiss your hob crew and tell the Felians to just go back to whatever it is they do since you just want a moment by yourself (Even if you are still in a tavern)

While you're racking your brain on how to deal with this new situation, you get another visitor.

"Tough day in the underworld?"

You look and see a woman in Dorna robes. It's been awhile, but you recognize her immediately. It's Heather.

"Heather? This is unexpected. How did you know I was even here?" You say.
"Magic is a very handy thing to be skilled in when locating someone. I've been meaning to see you for a while now. In fact I was coming to see you today and I'm glad I caught you when I did since it seems like you've been meeting with others. Like that man from the Syndicate." Heather remarks.
"You seem to have a lot of interest in me all of a sudden. Is this personal, or did Elder Flynn send you on behalf of your temple?"
"Oh this is temple business, but Elder Flynn didn't send me. In fact he's no longer in charge. I am."
"I see. Did you…"
"Kill him? Oh no. There was a large magical disturbance last year at a known wizard's home miles outside Holgard. An old acquaintance of the Elder actually. Flynn, myself and several other high ranking members went to investigate and let's just say it didn't go well and I was the only survivor. However it did mean there was now need of a new leader and since I still was the most experienced. I took charge. Well, took charge of the few that remained of our order at least."
"Hm. Didn't know that. Then again you lot are always insular so I just assumed you were being bookworms as usual and never leaving your temple. I'm surprised you told me that your temple isn't as strong as it once was. Still, I would have thought the Felians would at least have knowledge of this and been all over it, but then they're hardly the order they once were too."
"You're right about that one, in fact that's why I'm proposing you need a new ally and abandon your old ones."
"New ally…wait…what, your people?"
"Why not? We've worked together before and obviously I trust you enough to reveal my temple's status to you."
"Yes, which is why I'm less than enthused. I mean no offense, but if your order only mainly consists of you and a few acolytes now, why would I abandon the Felians for you lot? This seems like you're just wanting to wipe out the Felians and you need my numbers to help you do it. And why now anyway? You two haven't had any problems. Even during the faith war here, you two didn't have any trouble."
"Because the Felians DO know that we're currently weak and they've already been conspiring to finish us off. Why they haven't revealed such info to your organization I couldn't say. Perhaps they felt that this didn't concern you or you wouldn't care. However, the shadow lurking fools are as you say, definitely not the order they once were. Even with our lesser strength we've already fought off several assassination attempts. Still, it's only a matter of time before they DO ask for assistance and that's most likely going to be you…or the Syndicate. They are back in this city are they not?"

Now this meeting just became a little more serious. Heather seems to know a lot about your situation, but then given that she's got magic coming out her ass, you aren't that surprised.

"Yes, they are. What are you exactly proposing Heather?" you ask.
"The Fel temple is rogue in many ways. I don't propose to be an expert on their beliefs, but even I know that by breaking with its long time Syndicate alliance, it is only a matter of time before they are reabsorbed back into their faith's proper doctrine. That's either going to happen because we will eventually manage to do enough harm that they'll beg for help from their father temple in Delantium or they'll slowly be forced back into submission when the Syndicate eventually starts pushing their weight here. That is what they're doing aren't they?" Heather says.
"Somewhat…yes."
"My proposal is this. WE ally against the Felians. They aren't going to expect an attack from you and you probably know when and where best to strike. We will provide back up of course to minimize the losses. In return you get allies that are much more powerful in the ways of magic and aren't likely to backstab you in the future. Our goal aren't the same, but don't conflict either, so I'd say that already makes us better than the Felians."
"For the sake of argument, let's say I agree to this. I still don't see how this helps me all that much. I'm going to be taking most of the risk and damage and if anything the Syndicate might get a little suspicious if I start wiping out former allies."
"I think you and I both know they're going to be suspicious of you anyway, but if this helps, I will personally assist you in anyway I can in any matter. I mean maybe I never said this properly years ago, but I did appreciate that you turned down Elder Flynn's ritual suggestion. Not something I ever forgot."

Heather looks at you with a mixture of anticipation and hopefulness. Perhaps even a bit of desperation. The fact that she's asking you at all says to you that she's not exactly confident that she'll win without your help.

Honestly, you aren't sure about all this. While Heather has brought up some concerning points. The Felians ARE your allies and granted in this business such things can be fleeting, you start stabbing them in the back and where does it end? You also aren't so sure about replacing a solid known ally with an uncertain one, especially if they aren't exactly any better than the ones you have.

Gloom also hasn't really ever given you any reason to suddenly turn on him. Unless you're going to count the fact that his people never said they were waging a private war to finish off the Dornans. Then again, maybe Gloom considered it an internal matter and didn't feel the need to bother you with it.

And the Syndicate just complicates matters. How are they going to react or will they even care at all? Percy did mention the temple here was frowned upon by the faithful in Delantium. Maybe it wouldn't matter if you wiped them out.

You ally with Heather

The more you think about it, the more this makes sense in a ruthless pragmatic sort of way.

The temple of Fel here could very well become an arm of the Syndicate again, maybe not today or tomorrow, but when it happens, you're going to be in a much more dangerous position.

You still aren't exactly sure about the Dornans, but you're willing to give Heather the benefit of the doubt that she has genuine intentions. This still could all backfire of course, but you'll have to take that chance too.

However, being an ally is a two way street and Heather did say she would help you in any way she could.

"Okay Heather, I'm going to risk this, but as a show of good will I'm going to need something from you too." You say.
"Of course. What is it?" Heather asks.
"There's a representative from the Syndicate here as you know. Now I have to pay him an amount of coin that I don't particularly want to before he leaves in a few days."
"Wait, so you want me to kill him?"
"Well, you probably would be better equipped since I do have reason to believe that he's probably highly skilled in shadow magic. While maybe with a bit of preparation my people could take him since he's alone, but it wouldn't be pretty. However, that wouldn't really solve my problem. The Syndicate would just rightfully assume I killed him and then have good reason to be pissed at me and that wouldn't be good."
"So what are you asking exactly?"
"Any way you could alter his mind or something similar?"
"Well there are spells that can do all sorts of things, but again, did you have an idea of what you wanted exactly?"

You and Heather start to discuss each other's plans. Your situation with Percy is easy enough Heather says, and assures you that she will be able to implement something with the help of her people.

Gloom and his people will be a little more difficult, but the pair of you come up with something that should work. It'll just require a little bullshit on your part, but you've been doing that for so long that you're definitely an expert in it. In any event, you're going to go meet with Gloom while Heather plans to ambush Percy.

The next day you head to the Temple of Fel. Several Felians don't even seem to be bothered by your intrusion, which would be a much different story if Shade or his predecessors were running things.

When one of them asks what your business is at the temple, you simply tell them that you wish to see Gloom at which point they go check to see if he's available and fortunately he is so you can get this over with today hopefully. (Along with it going smoothly)

You walk through the dark temple and eventually to Gloom's chambers where he sits writing something. When you enter he smiles and greets you. (You've always found his general friendly personality to not quite match his name, let alone his faith)

"Come in, come in, I was just finishing up my latest sermon. Have my faithful been providing an adequate job with your extra security? There haven't been any issues have there?" Gloom asks.
"No, not at all. In fact I was going to tell you I won't be needing them after all, seems I overreacted with the Syndicate visit." You answer.
"Ah, I see. Well better safe than sorry. So how did your meeting with the Syndicate go?"
"Better than I hoped. Worse than I feared. So has the Syndicate been to see you?"
"Us? No. I don't see why they would. Why do you ask?"
"Oh, I figured while the Syndicate isn't making a direct threatening presence, I figure they might still be snooping about and trying to stir up animosity between allies."
"Ah, yes I can see where that would be a concern, but I assure you we have no dealings with them even if the Temple of Fel has been considered the Syndicate's traditional ally. As you know while we are faithful to Fel, we believe in following our own path. We are your allies, not the Syndicate."
"Yes, this particular temple has been engaged in the concept of flexibility for quite some time now. And I appreciate your dedication to our partnership, which is why I'm puzzled that you did not ask for our help on your own matter."
"Our matter?"
"Well your attempt to wipe out the Dornans of course."

Gloom drops his friendly persona, though not to a hostile expression, but more of a serious one.

"I considered that as a private conflict between faith and saw no reason to bother you with it, I know you're very busy and all. Though I do wonder how you found out about it, since we've very good about keeping this quiet. The Baroness would come down on everyone if the two remaining religious factions in the city were openly fighting in the streets." Gloom says.
"Because the leader of the Dornans came to me yesterday begging for an alliance. She wants me to turn on you. She even gave me one of these again."

You pull out a solid black orb causing Gloom's eyes to widen. He remembers a similar magic object was used during the final battle with the Joachimites. You continue to speak quickly before Gloom makes any rash moves.

"Don't worry my friend, obviously I'm not here for treachery. Besides, I'm here by myself. Even without your magic I would never succeed so it would be a pretty poor plan indeed. I am however giving it to you. Just like I gave this to Shade when we fought the Inquisitor. Here you go."

Gloom warily looks at you as he slowly takes the orb. When he finally grabs it, he seems to relax a little more, but he's definitely not comfortable. Still he hasn't killed you yet, so that's a good sign. Meanwhile you're doing your best to remain calm yourself under these conditions, so you continue to speak.

"I have to say I was a little surprised that the Dornan high priestess came to me though. I figured with all their magic they would be more than able to take care of themselves." You say.
"They're in a vulnerable state so they need all the help they can get right now. However, they're still very dangerous. In fact I thought that with their new leadership, they would soon collapse altogether, but as it turned out they have proved more resilient than I thought. They're attempting to rebuild and I'm not just talking about their numbers, I'm talking about their influence in this city." Gloom remarks.
"What do you mean?"
"The Dornan high priestess or matriarch as her followers call her now, has made steps in meeting with Baroness Varsakken over the past few months. She obviously intends on gaining favor with Ludmilla and eventually get rid of us and that can't happen."
"Wow. Didn't know that, but isn't the Baroness a dedicated follower of Fel?"
"Eh, the Baroness has always been a dabbler. Her faith in Fel isn't the most dedicated. Indeed she probably has always been more interested in learning shadow magic rather than revering Fel. Still, it was useful to have ruler that was friendly towards us. Unfortunately the new Dornan leadership seems have opened their own doors to teaching the ways of magic and Ludmilla is all too eager to jump on such an offer even if it means paying lip service to both gods."
"Won't one of these divine beings eventually punish Ludmillia for her fickle nature?" you say mildly jokingly.
"Perhaps, but it my experience the gods do things in their own time and as a mortal I can't wait that long. In any case it would seem that perhaps Fel has assisted in the more direct destruction of the immediate threat that are the Dornans."

Gloom examines the orb in his hand after his statement before continuing.

"So what exactly was the plan anyway? How did she even trust you enough?" Gloom asks.
"Oh, she was trying to prey upon my paranoia with the Syndicate, claiming that you would eventually turn against me and other shit. Also during that whole getting Dornan help against the Joachimites, I fucked her once." You say.
"Truly?"
"Yeah, the Elder at the time was being sort of a dick to her and I bumped into her crying about it. Seeing an opportunity, I sort of reassured her of her worth and well you know how women fall for that sort of thing. One thing lead to another and I think she's always been a little sweet on me after that. As for the plan, I was supposed to just come in here with my people, break the orb so you couldn't use any magic and then make sure all of you were dead."
"Hm, she might as well have placed her faith in Dorna rather than you for all good either would do her. The Dornans do have powerful magic to be sure, but they are poor fighters. Evening the odds with this object and they stand no chance. I'm going to personally enjoy this I believe and you've proven that our alliance is indeed a strong one. We will strike their temple in force. I want to make sure none escape, then we'll destroy it."
"Did you want the League's assistance?"
"Well, you've done enough already and I never even asked for it. I see now that I probably should have though. I believe we can do this ourselves, however if you still wish to help, I will not turn it down."
"I'll be there with a few of my people. Couldn't hurt."

Gloom tells you that he'll organize an attack in a few days, you tell him that works for you since you have some other business to attend to.

A couple days pass and that other business finally comes to pass and this is what you've been more concerned about.

You meet Percy at the same tavern with the payment. Once again he's very friendly.

"On time as usual. Very glad that you value promptness as I am in a bit of a hurry. I believe I may have had too much fun here and I should be getting back. I thank you for your suggestions on where to go." Percy says.
"No problem, so will you be back next month at this time?" you ask.
"Probably not me, but someone will. Probably of much lesser importance of course. I was just here this time to extend the hand and make the deal as it were. Still glad we came to one."
"Yes, I agree. Better for business all around."
"Yes! Yes exactly!"
"Anyway, I have your payment. Um, just so we're clear how much was it again?"
"Oh come on now. You trying one last try at lowering the price? I told you I wasn't here to haggle. You know it was a thousand gold pieces."
"Yes, I knew, and I have it here. Just a poor attempt at a joke I suppose."
"Hm, well jokes are fine, but never about the Syndicate business. I hope you remember that."
"I will."

You have two of your hobgoblin muscle show Percy a large chest of gold to which he nods and you tell them to load it on the carriage outside.

"And with that, our business is concluded. I bid you good day and wish you well in your future endeavors, especially if it's going to make the Syndicate money!"

Percy stands up, shaking your hand and leaves.

You can't believe that worked. You don't know what the hell Heather did to him, but he actually believed he only asked you for a thousand gold monthly payment as opposed to the much larger sum he asked before.

You can imagine his superiors are going to be upset, but it won't be at you, it'll be at him for fucking up a deal that they're stuck with now. Well at least you hope they won't try to re-negotiate immediately. You've bought yourself a little more time at least.

Meanwhile, you still have to go stab the Felians in the back though you're sort of wondering about still going through with that now what you've heard about Heather cozying up to the Baroness.

Seems like now more than ever she's attempting to use you as a pawn. Granted she was allying with you for mutual benefit before, but this seems a little different now. What exactly is she planning?

Then again, if she is getting friendly with the Baroness, is it really going to make a difference to you? And Heather did just come through for you on the Syndicate thing.

You stick with the deal

One double cross is enough for now, no need to complicate matters. Besides, regardless of Heather's own agenda, she's probably not wrong about the Felians.

Going to be interesting when you see the look on Gloom's face when he realizes the orb you gave him doesn't work.

The night of the attack comes and you meet with Gloom just a few blocks away from the Dornan Temple, you have your usual hob retinue with you. (You're really getting used to having these guys around nowadays) Gloom is with a few of his own people, but even without magic powers you can sense some are probably nearby in the shadows.

"Once again, glad that this is a joint effort though I don't think it was necessary to bring as many people with you as you did. The orb is going to nullify all magic and when that happens, those Dornan priests aren't going to be much match for us." Gloom says.
"Yeah, well I want to be on the safe side. My people are going to remain outside anyway, you know just in case any try to escape. I'll come in with your people. Speaking of which are you really bringing them all?" you ask.
"Yes, this is something that's been a long time coming and nobody who is a true follower of Fel should miss out on. Honestly, it was foolish to believe they wouldn't be a problem. Shadow Master Shade warned me to always watch them you know, just before he died. A few of his interpretations of the faith may have been a bit too restrictive, but he had his own wisdom on practical matters."
"Well, after tonight, you won't need to worry about watching them ever again."

With those last words all of you march towards the temple. The few wanderers still outside in the area immediately go find shelter when they see a group of mean looking hobgoblins and Felians walking down the street.

The Dornan Temple doesn't even have their usual lookout standing outside, though you imagine the Dornans have some sort of magical detection going on and this plan has already been expected.

Gloom blasts the temple's doors off their hinges with a dark magic bolt of some sort. Then he takes the lead, you tell your hobgoblins to stand guard outside and kill anyone who tries to escape. They faithfully obey and you enter with the crowd of Felians that are entering the temple, staying close to the back of course.

Heather and her much smaller group are already there to meet the Felians.

"It ends today and the faith of Fel will rule supreme in the city at last!" Gloom shouts and throws down the orb. A bit more dramatic than you'd expect from a Felian, but then Gloom's whole attack tonight is a bit more theatrical than a typical Felian would go about this. Good thing too, since if he behaved more like his predecessors he wouldn't be going in so recklessly like this.

No sooner has Gloom made his announcement, a white light washes over the room and suddenly all of Gloom's previously shadow cloaked people are now visible. Naturally Gloom just assumes this is just the effects of the orb, but he's soon very surprised to learn that the Dornans have not lost any of their magic abilities at all.

Several of them are incinerated instantly by Dornan spells. Gloom himself manages to cut down a single acolyte before he's finally brought down by some spell that causes him to age rapidly and then fall over dead.

They may be a small group, but this temple is where their magic is the most powerful and you're getting to witness a lot of it first hand, you're just glad you're not on the receiving end.

While the remaining Felians realize that this is a lost cause and attempt to run, you do you part in shooting a few of them while your hob crew enthusiastically cuts down these lesser Felians that have more fear than fight left in them.

A Holgard watch patrol shows up, but doesn't intervene, instead they just turn right back around, probably thinking they don't get paid enough to deal with this level of conflict.

Soon, it's all over and the Felians are no more as a force in this city and you're just hoping you made the right choice in allies. Heather commands her people to start cleaning up the bodies before she goes over to speak to you. She looks a little worn and tired, but then you guess magic takes its toll just as much as regular combat.

"Told you the plan would work as long as you got them in here." Heather remarks.
"Yeah, thankfully Gloom was a trusting fool and practically a heretic of his own faith which generally goes about things in a much subtler manner." You answer.
"I suppose that did make things easier. Thanks again for you help on this. The expression on Gloom's face was priceless when he realized the orb didn't work!"
"Mm, didn't see it, I was just concerned about not getting caught in the cross fire of a stray magic missile or possible a Felian blade after realizing they had been had."
"Oh, you never in any true danger. Even if you had gotten wounded we could have easily fixed you up with healing magic."
"As you say…well in any case I certainly hope you're as chummy with the Baroness as you're supposed to be, because this little fight did attract attention and last I heard any open fighting between the religious faiths was frowned upon. Not to mention the League was involved and I certainly down want repercussions of this to cause my organization to suffer for it."

Heather looks at you as if you weren't supposed to know her dealings with the Baroness.

"Know about that do you?" she asks.
"Gloom might have mentioned it. He never elaborated and what you were talking about with her, but I get the impression he didn't know and just feared a power grab and wanted to strike first before you had the whole city worshipping Dorna." You answer.
"I see. His sudden attacks make a lot more sense now, though if he had come to me directly, we probably could have even come to an agreement."
"Doubt it. He was still very dedicated to Fel even if he wasn't a stickler for doctrine."
"But that's just it, my conversations with the Baroness weren't about religious faith. They were about magic in general. I was urging that she should seriously consider setting up a magic school here. Especially since I know she's very interested in the subject."
"A magic school?"
"Why not? The Delantium Kingdom has a very well established university; even Klyton has a small one. Surely a city as large as Holgard is worthy of one."
"I guess? Little bit out of my area of expertise. So wait, you aren't planning on making Dorna the only goddess to worship in the city?"
"Not really. I mean that seems to be a side effect of all this, but honestly I don't care who worships what. I believe the pursuit of keeping magic alive is more important than worship at this point. I'm not sure if you realize it, but magic isn't exactly a common thing nowadays and has been in decline. In a couple hundred years after the last few powerful wizards die out, what then? Dorna is a the goddess of magic and knowledge, I can better serve her through teaching rather than just worship."

Sort of an interesting goal you weren't expecting from Heather. Not really one that directly interferes with your own business either, perhaps it could even be a new opportunity, if it ever gets off the ground.

Heather goes on to say that she will of course smooth all this over with Ludmilla and more importantly make sure there are no repercussions for the League.

A couple weeks pass and sure enough, you haven't been harassed by the Holgard Watch (Well within reason).

After a month rolls around a Syndicate collector comes by and asks for the thousand, very no-nonsense and anxious to be on his way. When you name drop Percy, just to see if you can get any information on what might have happened to him, the rep says he doesn't even know the man. You pay him with the chest full of coin and he's on his way. Nothing else is mentioned or happens.
Meanwhile one of the requests to Heather is asking if she can figure out a way to lift your curse. She says she doesn't know other than the ritual Elder Flynn suggested that time and apparently he never did give the exact details about what it all entailed as far as the words to say and such. (And she's not exactly keen on bringing up the other known detail you both know about)

However, she says she still has a lot of his notes and writing to go through, so she will try to find out how to do it and perhaps maybe there are other ways to lift it as well.

Looks like you picked your new allies wisely. Hopefully this all proves to be even more useful in the future.

You time passes...

Year 32

It's been awhile, but it's good to see Vera again even if she's just here for a visit. She's got some strong opinions on some of the changes that have happened recently though.

"I still can't believe the Felians are gone completely. I mean I just remember them always being here. Then again, so were a lot of groups I suppose. Still, sort of surprised you managed to gain an alliance with the Dornans." Vera remarks.
"Don't see why it's really all that surprising. Heather helped us in the past and she's running things now. The Dornans aren't even very religious anymore; they turned their temple into a school of sorts. Don't think they've got many takers yet though." You say.
"Hm. I'm also still a little concerned about what you did with the Syndicate though. Might have been better in the long run to just pay their price."
"Are you kidding me Vera? You didn't see what they were trying to extort from us. Besides, we've been okay so far and they haven't even suddenly tried to raise the rate."
"I dunno. I know you have a lucky habit of getting over on the Syndicate, but I feel like this is pushing it. I have to think they must know something, but they're biding their time to lull you into a false sense of security before they strike."
"Oh trust me, ever since I stepped foot into this city, I've been on my guard constantly. Don't really know any other way to live at this point. However I'm going to soon be hiring a lot of cheap muscle in the form of all the hobgoblins, so I'm slightly less concerned about the Syndicate."
"What? You can't seriously be considering recruiting MORE hobs."
"Why not? They'll actually be perfect for this. Most of them either come here just itching to break someone's legs or they go join the fight arena. Though a few odd ones join the Holgard Watch instead, go figure."
"Maybe, but I've noticed a severe increase in hobs in this organization since I came back to Holgard. Just don't want this place turning into the Roach Leg Tribe."
"It's Spiderfang Tribe actually and they're still far outnumbered for that to happen. Well, for now at least. In any case, most of them have been migrating to Holgard quite a bit over the years. I guess most are learning that city life isn't all that bad and you can still be just as much of a violent asshole here as you can out in the wild and get routinely paid for it. Hmm, actually, now that I'm thinking about it, I guess it makes sense that a few of them join the Holgard Watch after all."
"Well your call I guess, at least I don't have deal with them. Dealing with Warts was enough for me. Though I'm not convinced a bunch of unruly hobs are going to be the end all of extra protection."
"Hence why we're also close allies to a group of wizards."
"You seem pretty confident in our new wizard allies. Just how friendly are you with this Heather? I mean are you fucking her or something?"
"No I'm not actually."
"Ah, so you're TRYING to fuck her."
"Actually I'm not, but I'm not sure what difference it would make to you if I was."
"None I suppose, though I was just trying to figure out what might have been the motivator to throw your lot in with trusting this sorceress and her adepts. But if you say it was purely a practical and strategic move for the good of the League, then that's good enough for me."
"Speaking of fucking, who was that big dark skinned guy who you were reluctant to leave when you were getting off the ship?"
"Oh, that's Zamed. He's the captain of the Traveler. He's a Hessla pirate, we tend to have business with a lot of them in Jicol, but Zamed's been about the only one I've really taken a shine to lately. Still, it's just as well as he's a pirate. Don't think I'd want him around ALL the time. Best to keep these sort of things free and flexible."
"Interesting. Though I thought Jicol was supposed to be pirate free."
"Eh, it's pirate free in that the city doesn't have to worry about them ever attacking the place, but that doesn't mean they can't stop there for supplies as long as they behave. Besides, Zamed's been more of a privateer recently, though I suppose it's a thin line. He's been doing a lot of work for the Delantium Kingdom in their war against Nichan. Which is something I sort of want to bring up with you because it could possibly affect the League."
"Well guess I better hear it then."

Vera takes a drink of the rum she's brought with her from Jicol before continuing.

"Okay, I guess I'll start at the beginning. Let's see…what do you know of Peter Varsakken? Youngest son of Vlad." Vera asks.
"Um, nothing actually. Didn't know there was another one of Vlad's spawn running around. Wait, is this another one of his bastards, like you?" you ask with a smirk.
"Oh no. He's very much legitimate. It's just that after he had a disagreement with his father and fled the city, all records were pretty much erased of him. He's basically been living in exile in the Delantium Kingdom. Peter's disagreement with his father involved the whole breaking away from the Delantium Kingdom in the first place. Peter was the only one who saw it as treason and remained loyal to Delantium. Over the years Peter has been trying to amass an army to take back the city."
"It's my understanding that the Delantium Kingdom hasn't exactly been in a big hurry to retake this place. I mean it's been decades hasn't it?"
"Well they've been sort of busy with other things, like their recent war with Nichan for example. While the ruling class over there doesn't want to spend their resources and treasury to take this place back, they certainly won't turn down someone else willing to do the job, and that's where Peter comes in. He's of noble birth, loyal to the kingdom and would be an excellent governor for this city and absorb it back into Delantium's fold."
"I see, and how do you know all this?"
"As I said Zamed has been privateering for the Delantium Kingdom and he was contacted by Peter who is still trying to amass a conquering force of men and ships to take back his birthright. In fact Zamed is supposed to be organizing the majority of a flotilla of Hessla privateers"
"And you trust this pirate?"
"Of course not, but I trust the fact that I know how to lay it down good enough that he told me all this stuff in the bedroom without me even asking."
"Okay, I don't need details on that part."
"Anyway, Peter's been at this for years ever since he got exiled. He's suffered many set backs in his quest to retake Holgard. Every time he's been on the verge of being ready, something has happened. This was partially thanks to the Ebony Claw Syndicate sabotaging his efforts in Delantium, and sometimes even the Temple of Fel would hinder his efforts as well. However, since things have changed drastically over the years in this city, he's in the best position he's ever been in to retake this place."
"What makes you think he won't get sabotaged again by either group? I mean the Ebony Claw might not have a direct presence here, but they're still making some coin from us. Same is some what true of the Felians, though different reasons. They're allies with the ECS, so they tend to help them."
"I don't think they care this time. I mean thanks to your magical shenanigans they don't make enough from us for it to make much difference either way I suppose. If the League suffers severely from this invasion, the ECS will most likely just come in directly and finish it off."
"Well that's presumptuous that we're going to get the shit kicked out of us. As long as we don't stand toe to toe with an invading force and stay out of the damn way, I imagine we'll get through it. Hell, it isn't like we don't have routes out of the city if need be. Honestly though unless this Peter is bringing the full force of the Delantium army, I don't see him winning. Ludmilla counts wizards among her allies and has a strong fleet of her own, so I question if this Peter is even going to succeed. And say Peter does win, then what? Is this guy some law and order fanatic? He's a Varsakken and from what I can tell every single one of their family members are corrupt. So it would just be a matter of coming to an understanding with him so business continues as usual."
"Well that might be easier to do if we dealt with him now then. In fact I sort of wanted to address that idea."
"Oh?"

Vera goes into the explanation that from the information she's gathered from Zamed, Peter is most likely going to win. While he doesn't have the Delantium army at his command, he does have several orc mercenary companies along with a few wizards that he's managed to make friends with from the Delantium magic university.

She also has heard that while Peter isn't exactly a Joachimite purity zealot, his time in the Delantium Kingdom has probably given him more of an appreciation for a more orderly society as opposed to one that embraces rampant corruption so readily. So he's most likely not going to look favorably upon the Nocturnal League.

However, he's still pragmatic enough that he'd probably give leniency to a group that actively helped him and a deal could very well be made as you said. Vera goes on to say she truly believes that this is the best chance for the Nocturnal League to survive in Holgard.

"You seem to have given this some thought, and while I do often appreciate your input on things, the one problem I have in this case is you're getting all of this information second hand from a pirate. Now I know you said your vertical smile caused the guy to go all stupid over you, so you're certain he's on the up and up. However, HIS information might also be mixed with rumors, half-truths and outright lies that he's overheard. I mean if you were fucking Peter Varsakken himself and getting this information from him, I might believe the situation is as hopeless as you're saying." You say.
"I thought you might feel that way, so how about this then…Peter Varsakken is meeting Zamed. We could go to this meeting as well and we could hash out our demands." Vera remarks.
"Wait. You're telling me that you were planning on going to meet with this Peter without me?"
"No! Of course not! I came here first because I wanted to see what your decision would be on this. I mean look, I understand what you're saying, but based on everything I've learned, the outcome seems grim even if we managed to keep our head down during the initial invasion. But, you're right too, I am getting all this information second hand, so maybe it would be a good idea to actually talk with this Peter in person, before coming to any sort of decision. If we did, you and I could both make an assessment of whether to throw our lot in or not."
"I dunno…(Sigh) yeah I suppose it couldn't hurt, though I'm just wondering about the people we already have alliances with. I mean pissing off the Holgard magic school isn't something I exactly want to do, also you mentioned the ECS has been thwarting this guy's efforts for a long time, and I'm still not convinced that they won't still do that even if they haven't done it yet. By siding with Peter, we could piss them off which wouldn't be any good either."
"Well…it's your call I suppose boss. I just don't want us to get swept away in the flood of this upcoming conflict. I want to see us survive."
"Pretty sure we all want that."

You swear if it isn't a rebellion or faction war, it's a fucking invasion in this city. It's enough to make you want to pick up and just leave everything behind rather than deal with this shit. However, you've built something here, so you're not doing that until all else fails.

Whether or not you can strike a good deal with Peter or not, there is one very personal reason you'd prefer to stay loyal to your current allies and that's the fact that so far Heather is your only sure lead on getting fixed from your curse. If you backstab them and live, you're still fucked because there goes a potential cure. It's selfish, but it's a pretty strong motivator.

While Vera has said that Peter has wizard connections as well, that's not a sure thing that you can get help from them. They're assisting Peter and have no reason to do the same for you.

About the only thing you can do is try to see if Heather and her people might join Peter's invasion. Hell, if that's the case then you'd definitely be willing to help Peter as well.

Of course doing that might not go over well either and you'd tip your hand pretty severely. Might be better to talk to Peter first and get all the information from him and then go speak to Heather so you'd at least have something that might be useful to her if worse came to worst in your meeting.

You talk to Heather first

Maybe you're a little paranoid but you don't feel comfortable going to a meeting in unfamiliar territory with someone who you know virtually nothing about save for what Vera's managed to tell you. Peter could see this as an opportunity to take you out as a potential obstacle to his conquest. Vera by herself on the other hand is less of a target, not to mention she's got a pirate boyfriend with her.

"I'm not going to this meeting, however since you're so friendly with this Zamed and he's going anyway, you can continue to accompany him. Then you can come back here and tell me what you think." You say.
"You don't want to go yourself? I would have thought this would be something so important that you'd want to directly deal with it." Vera says.
"While it would be nice to just have unlimited power to deal with everything directly, I've got a bunch of shit to take care of here. I trust that you'll be fine and I trust you'll be able to assess the situation and give me proper feedback of our best options."
"Okay. That's a lot of confidence in me, boss."
"Well, if I didn't trust you, I wouldn't have put you in charge of our chapter at Jicol, which obviously has been thriving under your management. You've always been an asset to the Nocturnal League…and hell you're probably one of the few people I consider a friend."

Vera looks a bit moved by your words. Honestly, you didn't really plan to say something like that, but it felt right under the circumstances. Vera nods and agrees with your words and then moves in to hug you which you return.

It's a bit of a longer than average hug and it's pretty obvious that there has always been a little something there between the two of you, but thanks to your curse you've never tried to pursue it. Vera herself probably believes that you're just not interested in her that way at this point.

What might have been you suppose, but then again who knows? You still hold out hope that you'll get cured one day so the future isn't set in stone yet.

But first things first and that's preparing for this invasion and how you're going to go about it.

After seeing Vera off, you go to the Temple of Dorna, which of course has now been transformed, into a school. Still looks practically the same and there still aren't many people in the place. Seems that not many have taken advantage of the chance to learn magic, or more likely, nobody in this scum-ridden city has the talent for it. (Or the money)

You don't get far before you're stopped by two teenagers.

"Hey you, this isn't a fucking Purple Wish Den! This place is for wizards only!" a pimply faced young man says. The young woman with him gives you a dirty look with an amused sneer.

"It is? I thought it was a brothel. Good thing it isn't though because I don't need a blowjob that badly." You say, then you look over at the girl with him.

"Well, maybe you'd be okay after a couple ales."
"HEY! That's my girlfriend, you asshole!"
"Oh? Well I'm sure she'll appreciate someone taking longer than two minutes for a change."
"Ew! Fucking perv! You think you're funny? You won't be so funny after I set your balls on fire." The young woman says.
"Ah, you've got the crotch rot then, okay then I'll pass. Look, while all this has been amusing, I'm not here for either one of you snotnosed brats, I'm here to see Heather."
"That's Grand Matriarch to you and I don't see why she'd want to see you at all."

Before you can respond, the pimply man suddenly points a finger at you and zaps you in the chest with a lightning bolt! Well lighting bolt isn't exactly the right word, since you aren't exactly knocked on your ass, but it is a tiny jolt that catches off guard and it did hurt.

"OW!" you shout.
"Yeah! How ya like that goblin fucker? You mess with us an, SHIT! AAARGH!" the young man starts to say before you grab his finger which he was still pointing at you and break it.

Like the sissy he is, he breaks down crying on the floor clutching his broken finger, meanwhile you've already drawn your pistol on the teenage girl.

"Don't even think about it sweetheart. I can pull this trigger before you can utter an incantation." You say.
"What in Dorna's name is going on here?" a voice shouts.

You look away briefly and see Heather with a couple of other wizard behind her.

"Apologies Heather, but…well fuck, these two pissed me off and I didn't have time for their bullshit." You say.
"Obviously. Cooper! Gwen! Step away from that man. I told you two before to never mistake your magic for invincibility. And that mindset works even more against you when you insist on being within reach of the head of the Nocturnal League. He could have very well killed the pair of you before I even showed up." Heather says.
"Shit, you're the leader of the infamous League? Um, we're sorry we didn't mean anything!" Gwen says.
"Gwen, stop groveling and take your boyfriend to go practice your healing magic for a change."

As Gwen picks her sniveling boyfriend off the floor, Heather tells the other wizards behind her to return to their lessons and approaches you.

"I swear, I could make life a living hell for that girl and she apologizes to you rather than me." Heather says shaking her head.
"Well she probably knows you aren't going to kill her, meanwhile I was pointing a gun at her head." You say.
"Meh, knowing that one, she'll probably develop a fantasy about you. She's got a thing for bad boys."
"And the one with the broken finger is a bad boy?"
"Closest thing to one around here I suppose. Anyway, thanks for not doing any major damage to them, I don't have many students as it is. Now I assume you're here to see me, so let's head to my office."

You follow Heather to her office, which of course resembles more of a lab, however its kept in a much more organized manner than when you were in Elder Flynn's lab.

Heather sits down and moves some papers and books around on her desk while addressing you.

"I haven't forgotten you and our deal, just so you know. I just haven't made much progress on searching for a way to lift your curse. I did find Elder Flynn's notes on the subject when you came in here, but honestly he was a little sketchy on the details concerning the curse part. Though I imagine once your ex was called in and bound, she would be able to be commanded to lift whatever curse she put on you. Still, he was probably more concerned with capturing a demon than curing you and after reading what would have happened to me, I'm even happier that you declined the ritual."
"Yeah, I know. You wouldn't want sex with me."
"That's actually not the part I'm talking about. In fact if it were JUST that, I'd be willing to get naked with you while my highly trained assistants performed the incantations for the ritual right now. However, what the Elder neglected to mention is the fact that this ritual would result in the poor girl's death."
"What?"
"Yeah, your succubus ex, wouldn't just be summoned forth into this world, she'd be brought forth into the body of the girl you'd be having sex with."
"You mean like possession?"
"I mean like the girl would literally explode into chunks gore and blood, when your ex arrived and chances are your ex wouldn't be too happy with you either and you probably wouldn't have much time to get out of her immediate vicinity before she killed you too."
"Shit…that's fucked up."
"Yeah. And I would have been willing to just go along with it, not knowing shit. By Dorna was I a fucking fool back then. Anyway, I hope this news isn't too disappointing for you."
"Well…it's a bit disheartening…however I wasn't even here about that."
"Oh?"
"Yeah, and since there's no other way to say it, I'm going to just be right up front with you, like you were up front with me."

You explain everything you've learned about Peter Varsakken's invasion, which immediately catches Heather's attention. You don't go into detail about sending one of your people to meet with Peter, but you do ask the direct question if she's supporting Ludmilla.

"Well, appreciate you coming to me with this. When the invasion comes, it will be important for us to coordinate." Heather remarks.
"So I take it you're not worried about this and siding with Ludmilla?"
"Worried? Hmm…perhaps a little cautious, but the situation isn't nearly as grim as your sources told you which you said was from a pirate captain he hired?"
"That was the source, yes. Wait, you seem like you know something about this."
"I do and so does Ludmilla. I mean she might be a bit flakey at times, but the woman is not dim. She's been making her own preparations and so have we. Honestly I'm sort of surprised given your new connections to the Ebony Claw, you would have learned of this plan long ago."
"They aren't exactly forth coming with information. Our relationship isn't the most open. I don't even know if they're planning on sabotaging Peter this time like I've been told they have in the past."
"Mm, that's always a possibility. Though our own information says Peter's come to some sort of understanding with them this time and they won't interfere, however that doesn't matter. Peter's invasion isn't going to succeed."
"You seem very sure and very well informed on this. Have you increased your telepathic powers or something?"
"Hah! I wish. No, but I have been in contact with the Delantium Kingdom's magic University and made a couple friends there while trying to get this school up and running. I've been told the TWO wizards he's hired were drop outs from the university and while I wouldn't suggest that you go up against them, I'm secure that my people will be able to handle them. So no, he doesn't even have a squad of wizards at his command. If anything his orc mercs are going to be a bigger problem assuming they even make it to the fight that is. A lot can happen between Delantium and Holgard."
"Okay…well that does sound less hopeless than I heard."
"Make no mistake, this city IS going to suffer some shit, but I can't imagine that it's going to be any worse than the last time the Varsakken's had it out with each other. Reports say he'll probably be ready next year. So let me ask you, were you considering joining Peter's invasion then?"

You chuckle at the thought of saying "yes" at this point.

"Well let's just say I was keeping my options open based on which way you were going." You say.
"Aw, that's sweet, upholding our alliance. And who says there isn't honor in the underworld." Heather says.
"Yeah, well I can't backstab everyone, it might hurt my reputation."
"Indeed. You're already responsible for the demise of the Thieves' Guild, an ECS chapter, the Joachimites and the Felians."
"Hey, I was never affiliated with the Joachimites."
"True. You had better sense than that. Well if that's all, I should be getting back. Have to train these folks in battle magic after all, I assume if you come across and new information, you'll share it."

You bid Heather goodbye and make your way back home where you get back to business. Though you're a little concerned about Vera getting back okay.

A month passes and she does indeed make it back of which you're most relieved.

She tells you that you were right all along and that siding with Peter isn't the best way to go on this based on the meeting she had. Vera tells you that his terms weren't even very good, just basic amnesty for anything done before he takes back the city and perhaps a bit of leniency on softer criminal activity, but not continued free reign like you have now.

However she said that she was given permission to accept Peter's deal for you, so as far as he knows, you're on his side.

"Good, nice thinking Vera." You say.
"Well I figured it shouldn't be a wasted trip. So what have you been up to?"
"Speaking with our magical allies. Seems they got more information on Peter than we do. The guy only has two wizards at his command for example and the Baroness is well aware of Peter's plans."
"I see. Well guess all that's left now is for us is the year to prepare, what do you need me to do?"
"I need you back in Jicol where you can keep an eye on things there. Also, I want to make sure if shit goes really bad here, this organization will still exist in some form at least and there will be somewhere to retreat to. If possible try to convince some of those pirates you deal with not to join Zamed's flotilla. I hope you weren't too attached to him."
"Meh, I was done with him anyway. I suppose I'll be taking another ship back to Jicol though."

After spending a few more days in Holgard, Vera finally takes her leave and she's gone again. You'll definitely miss her being around, you hope the next time you see her it'll be under better circumstances.

In fact you just hope you'll actually survive to see her again, or hell just survive period. While Heather did reassure you of some of your concerns, there is still an invasion to "look forward to."

You've survived a lot in this city and sometimes you wonder if it really is Yag rolling well for you, but you're hoping that you really are just that good at all this.

You time passes...

Year 33

"Shit, these fucking orcs don't die like they should." You say after putting two more shots in a large greenskin trying to get back up.
"Don't think it matters boss, this brothel's fucked, and not in a good way. Just bout every whore in here is dead." Warts says.
"All of them?"
"Well there were a couple survivors, but I think their whorin' days are over."
"Damnit, that's another one destroyed."
"An wez lost a few purple wish houses and sum gambling dens too. Hopefully we can save da rest before we don't have anything left."

You look around at the destruction of the brothel you're currently in and try to temporarily ignore the loud chaos going on outside as you gather your thoughts on what to do next.

"Damnit." You say seeing a familiar woman on the floor with an axe wound in her head.
"Wat?" Warts asks.
"I know this whore or rather I did. Name was Naji. She was that girl that I rescued back when you talked me into ripping off Reginald's house."
"Sheesh, dat wuz a long time ago boss. Yer memory iz good if you can member whores. I can't even member when my weddin' anniversary is, though I wuz drunk at the time an' Snuffit reminds me anyway."
"Well she was a bit special for awhile, but as you might know my heart always really belonged to Tanya. I knew Naji was still whoring, and after we got the Nocturnal League set up I made sure she always had a job in one of our brothels, but I never did speak with her again in person. Always thought about it sometimes, but just figured I could get around to it when I wasn't busy. Guess it's too late now. Seems rather pointless that I even rescued her given that she just wound up dead anyway."
"Well look on da bright side boss, it looks like she got a cleaner death with a quick axe strike as opposed to wat dose cultist fuckers woulda did."
"I suppose. She also was Rook's cousin, which probably saved me from him killing me. In any case, I'm having serious concerns about this attack."
"Well yeah boss, da whole cities goin' ta shit again."
"No, I mean why the fuck are we even being attacked? I mean yeah I get orcs tend to be enthusiastic about their marauding, but something about the fact that OUR businesses are getting attacked like they were military targets seems really fucking suspicious."
"Mebbe dat Peter knew we weren't really gonna help him."
"Well that's definitely possible, but it still doesn't explain why we would be targeted so much and so accurately. I would think he'd want to focus his forces on taking the palace or taking out the mage school. Also his invasion force was a lot larger than first reports mentioned."
"I guess Vera wasn't too successful in convincin' other pirates to not join her ex-boyfriend."
"I'm a little concerned about her too, since the last message we got was six months ago from her and she said she was having some success in her endeavors."
"Well she must be okay, because we wuz still gettin' da cut from her even last month."
"I suppose, but at the rate shit is going down here, we might not even be able to pay the pittance that the ECS asks for every month."
"You sayin' you don't have a secret personal stash?"
"Of course, but I'll be damned if I'm going to part with my shit to pay the damn ECS. I'm sure you'd feel the same way about your stash."
"Pfft, I ain't got no personal stash. Snuffit takes it all. Speakin' of her, I think I'll be getting back to her. Seems like this city is a lost cause an' if you're smart you should just get the hell out too."
"What the fuck Warts. You're just gonna abandon everything?"
"Well yeah. I don't exactly have some bond with dis place. I mean it wuz fun while it lasted, but looks like its come to an end. I mean maybe dis place will be better again in a couple years or so. An' didn't you make plans to retreat to Jicol is shit started to go wrong?"
"Yeah, but again, I'm still not sure if everything there is okay."
"Bah, Vera's fine, she's probably just really fuckin' busy. I mean you know how it is. Look dis iz the ways I sees da situation…"

Warts steps over a couple bodies before addressing you again. He gives you a more serious look than he normally does.

"Youz gotta be the luckiest Yag blessed bastard I know, beside myself. You shoulda died so many times, Yag musta been rollin' loaded dice. However, an' don't say dis offen but dere iz a time ta step away from da table and dis iz one o' dem times. I myself have stayed alive as long as I have cuz I knew when ta walk away." Warts says.
"And you think this is one of those times, you don't think there's still a chance to turn this around?" you ask.
"Well yeah, there's always a chance, such are the whimsical ways of Yag, but the odds just ain't lookin' good enough for me to take da risk, so I'm off whether you're sticking around or not, but I'd rather you leave with me, because…"

Warts coughs a bit and looks away. You hear a sniffle.

"Warts…are you crying?" you ask.
"NO! I'm not cryin' like sum sissy elf! It's all dis dust bein kicked up due to da battle! Anyway, we've known each other a long ass time, made a lotta coin, did a lotta stupid stuff, an' in sum cases even saved me from getting' killed. Sometime youz waz an asshole, but you still were better than most an' especially anyone in da Spiderfang Tribe. Yer, the closest thing I've had to a friend, an I'd rather our parting of ways go with me knowing dat yer on yer way ta Jicol rather than dying here over nuthin'." Warts says.
"So you wouldn't be coming to Jicol?"
"Nah, too far. I'll probably just find work in Spider Fang territory, open a tradin' post maybe. Most of da folks dat hated me are dead now anyway so it ain't like I gotta worry bout bein' a halfbreed anymore. I should be closer to my family anyway. In fact dat's another reason youz should go to Jicol. Start a family with Vera, I know you likes her. Forget dat demon girl that's still plaguin' yer mind, she's gone."

Warts doesn't really know the whole story to that of course, and you don't really have time to go into it right now, but despite all that, Warts does raise some good points.

You're not out of the fight yet though and you've been through two city upheavals already, you can easily survive a third as long as you're smart about all this. You ran away from home once before, you're not doing it again, especially not now when you've built a life here. Might not be ideal to most, but it's yours.

"Warts, you do what you gotta do, but I'm gonna do what I gotta do. Just remember whether the Nocturnal League survives or not, I'm still going to be here if you want to work with me again the future."

Warts shakes his head while giving a slight broken tooth grin.

"Suppose I shouldn't expected any less from ya. Youz haz a death wish. Always haz fightin' dangerous groups of cutthroats, goin' head ta head with religious fanatics, fucking demon bitches… youz gonna get yerself killed one day and it ain't gonna be a pretty death when it happens. But guess I gotta respect all dat. I hope Yag's still usin' loaded dice, cuz yer gonna need 'em." Warts says.
"We'll see each other again Warts." You respond.

Warts nods at your confidence which you return before he takes his leave.

Now alone, you briefly check the rest of the brothel for any remaining survivors. You don't find any, but you do tell the couple that Warts mentioned to go find a better place to hide if they can.

While you could just start jumping back into the action, you'd still rather have some back up and the only place you're going to be certain to find some is back at the Nocturnal League's headquarters where you're probably going to find the rest of your remaining members hiding or attempting to wait this out. Good thing you're already not in the greatest of moods because you don't imagine it getting any better when you have to deal with your "employees."

When you get back, most of them are a bit on edge, but others are just lazing about playing cards or just generally doing nothing.

"Oh, uh hey boss. You're alive."
"Yeah well I can see you're really glad that I am. Why the fuck are you assholes sitting around playing cards, you do realize there is a siege going on and our businesses are getting all fucked up right?" you say.
"You said we should guard this place."
"I said SOME of you and as I remember, you weren't one of them. In fact, most of you should be up there defending our interests. I'm not even asking you to be a fucking hero or defend the city because I know damn well that's a pointless endeavor."
"Boss, I don't see why we should risk our lives when we can just wait shit out down here."

And there it is. The excuse you've been expecting.

"Oh this should be good. Go on about why you feel this way…whatever the fuck your name is."
"I'm really not trying to be disrespectful boss, but it seems like we can just pick up the pieces after all this is over. If anything we'll be in a stronger position since the populace won't be in any condition to oppose us and it'll take awhile before the new ruler imposes any sort of order. And this Peter is another Varsakken right? He's probably not going to be any better than his sister, so it'll be business as usual."
"That's a nice thought. I see you really thought this out while sitting on your chair playing cards and drinking your ale. Here's another thought though. While we're sitting here playing cards, telling jokes and jerking each other off, all of our business interests are getting fucked up. All our Purple Wish dens? Destroyed. That's a shitload of our income right there and it can't be easily made up. Our whores? Slaughtered. Again can't easily be made up, unless you lot are gonna start selling your asses to make up the loss and I guarantee it wouldn't. Our protection rackets? Well you can't extort corpses, and that's what A LOT of them are right now thanks to orcs just killing everything in sight. I mean fuck, we ARE supposed to be protecting these hapless suckers if not out of the goodness of our hearts then at least for our own pockets! Shit, that's the whole damn point!"

Your voice continues to rise as you walk around the room admonishing your people.

"This idea that we'll just pick up everything after everything is over is laughable, because there won't be that much left and what IS left, Peter Varsakken is going to be establishing order over, and I'm telling you right now, whether he's as corrupt as the rest of his family or not isn't the issue. The issue is, we DON'T have a good working relationship with him like we do with his sister. Shit like that takes time and trust, both of which we are in short supply of. And to top it all off the ECS is going to still be breathing down our necks telling us we better pay up by the end of the month. How are we going to fucking do that if all of our income has turned to fucking rubble? Is ANY of this getting through or am I talking to a bunch of fucking retards?"

Suddenly another one stands up.

"Well gee boss, why don't you get your precious hobs to fucking do all this shit?"
"Because most of the hobs are fucking dead that's why, which is another loss since a lot of them were our best pit fighters. And I highly recommend you take it way down, before I take YOU down."

Now several others stand up to join the troublemaker. Though a few of them look unsure. Some don't take a side and just quietly slink back into a place where they might be safe from the fighting.

One thing you are noticing is nobody seems to be siding with you. This is worse than you thought. You already have your hand on your weapon.

"No! You've been bossing us about for months getting prepared for this fucking invasion and none of us see why we should even be involved. You do this ALL the damn time, dragging us into these unnecessary conflicts instead of just staying the fuck out of it. You did this with the religious faction war, you did this with the Felians, who were supposed to be our allies and now you're doing it here. And who is on the losing end of all of this shit? US! That's who! We're the ones fucking dying! Well no fucking more! We're all staying down here and riding this out, and if you don't like it, tough shit, because if you haven't noticed by now, you're fresh outta friends and you don't even have your filthy hob scum to protect your ass anymore."
"Seriously, you ALL feel this way? You fuckers are the most short sighted assholes ever if you've decided that right now would be the best time to pull a double cross and MORE fool you that you didn't kill me right away."
"Well we can take care of that right now, and you don't have enough bullets to kill us all."
"I don't need to kill you all, I'm just gonna kill you and I don't need hobs to do my work."

The troublemaker's eyes widen and he goes for his own flintlock, but he's too slow of course and you've already killed him and three others before everyone has taken cover. Nobody else is returning fire or attempting to attack, which means you've probably asserted your dominance once again.

"That's what I thought. Now contrary to this dead fucker's words, I've been risking my ass more than ANY of you since day fucking one! Who the hell was it that was leading the damn charge when we took out the Joachimites and Felians? As I remember it was me. And what the hell have I been doing while you lot were hiding like cowards, I've been trying to keep this organization together by defending our shit! So don't give me this bullshit that I've been leading from the back. Maybe the real problem is you shitheads have all gotten lazy because you have no regular opposition. Scared of a real fight. Y'know what? Fuck all of you. I'm going back up there to try to salvage what this organization still has left. The rest of you can either help or get the fuck out of the way, but what you can't do is stay here. Because when I come back, I find ANYONE still here, you'll be joining these troublemakers on the floor."

With those last words you leave.

You have no idea if you're even going to have an organization left if you survive all this, but that doesn't matter right now. Right now you're going to do something even more foolish and find out what the hell's going on with Heather and her crew of wannabes because if you can get the wizards to help you in this chaos, staying here will have at least been worth the effort.

Tracking them down is fairly easy because it's the part of the city that EVERYONE is avoiding, lot of explosions, debris flying in the air, fire, strange lights and even stranger noises in general.

When you arrive in the general vicinity, you finally get a good look at what's going on. You see several creatures that remind you of some sort of demonic dwarves since they're about the same height, and pretty stocky. They're attacking a group of wizards wearing purple robes which you're guessing are Heather's people though you don't see her.

Heather's people are holding their own, but the problem is the demons don't stay dead or rather as soon as one is killed another one materializes. They can't possibly keep this up forever. A little bit in the distance you also catch sight of a man in a shabby brown robe. You're guessing this is the one summoning the demons. He must have some strong protection up, because demons aren't known to enjoy being summoned by mortals.

You also see two figures battling it out on top of one of the few standing buildings left in the area. You see all manner of magic being thrown about and most of it hitting nearby parts of the city. You can't quite make out the figures, but you're guessing one of those might be Heather.

The way you see it, you can either climb up the building to try to help Heather or try to help her students.

You help Heather

Honestly, Heather is still your best chance at getting cured, so if she's dead then you might as well have left Holgard when this all happened. Besides, you don't fancy your chances against multiple demons and a wizard. You figure if you're quiet and careful enough you'll be able to sneak up to the top of the building and just shoot the wizard opposing Heather in the back.

Well that's the ideal plan anyway.

You duck into the building that Heather and her opponent are fighting on top of and avoid the demon-wizard battle completely.

Surprisingly the inside of the building (which you think is Holgard's hall of records. Some sort of government building anyway, you have no idea, never been here or paid attention to it before) isn't too torn up by the fighting, though it looks like the people hiding here didn't fair too well since you're seeing a lot of dead bodies that look like they have the life drained out of them.

You on the other hand are feeling a little weird. Not like your life is suddenly being drained out of you, but more like a feeling of energy around you. Almost like your hair is starting to stand on end. Must be all the magic being thrown about.

You're just about to head up to the second floor and that's when you hear a groaning noise. You look back, but you already know what you're going to see.

Several of the corpses you just passed are now getting up and they're all making their way towards you.

"Of course. Shit." You say and quicken your pace and the corpses do likewise.

With a bunch of undead now chasing you, it's a very good thing that government buildings tend to have the same layouts making it at least easy for you to keep finding the next flight of stairs. This is counter balanced by more corpses of the government officials stirring whenever you reach a new floor.

By the time you make it to the top floor, you've got a horde chasing you. You scramble up the ladder to the roof and fling open the hatch. There upon the roof, you see Heather and her antagonist throwing bolts of magic and blocking each other's attacks. It would seem they're evenly matched and neither one is paying any attention to you.

Meanwhile, corpses are making their way up the ladder. You shoot the first one in the head and then slam the hatch down and stomp on it a couple times. It's not going to hold them for long, and you can't stand here forever keeping all your weight on it.

The noise of your pistol now causes the opposing wizard to take notice of you. He doesn't waste any time in throwing a bolt of energy at you. You try to get out of the way, but you still get hit with a blast strong enough to cause you to go flying backwards.

You ignore the pain in your chest as you desperately attempt to not fall off the side of the roof. The top half of your body hangs over the edge as you struggle to move from your precarious position. You manage to sit up just in time to see the wizard throwing another magic bolt your way.

This probably would have been the end of you had the hatch not opened back up and corpses crawling out of it. Instead of hitting you, the bolt hits a couple of the corpses instead and you scramble out of the way so as not to get hit by flying body parts heading your way.

As the horde continues to pour onto the roof, your visibility of the other wizard and Heather is starting to be blocked by said horde. You desperately shoot at the horde, but unlike your previous experience back at the League headquarters, you're not going to intimidate them by killing a few. There's nowhere to go either. The closest building isn't close enough that you could easily jump to it, even if it was still intact.

At best, from this height you MIGHT survive a fall with several broken bones and given what else is going on down in the streets, you probably wouldn't survive too much longer.

"Fuck. Looks like Warts was right. Yag's crapped out." You say to yourself, drawing your blade for a final stand.

Just as one of the slack jawed dead eyed corpses gets within reach of you, you're suddenly floating upward! After lingering in the air for a moment, you slowly start floating over the street causing the rest of the corpses to follow and go right over the side of the building. It's fascinating and scary as hell at the same time since you could easily be dropping to your own death right now.

From your position, you see Heather on the far side of the building with one raised hand in your direction. You also see the other wizard lying on the roof smoldering and still burning. You didn't see it because you were too occupied with fighting corpses, but it would appear your arrival was enough distraction that allowed Heather to get the upper hand over her opponent.

With all the undead now a pile of splattered bodies on the street (Well most of them anyway) and no longer a threat, Heather pulls you forward and gently places you back on the rooftop where upon you walk over to her.

"Thanks." You say.
"Thank you for the distraction. Shit, I'm fucking exhausted dealing with asshole." Heather says and indeed looking very worn. In fact, she even looks a bit older.
"I was actually coming to do more than just be a distraction, but suddenly I was getting attacked by a hundred dead bean counters."
"Yeah, the repercussions of wild dark magic being thrown around. This building might have some strong magic protection, but it didn't do shit for the people inside."
"It does?"
"Well yeah. It's where all the records to the city are held. Last thing the government wants is stuff like that getting destroyed. I put the protection wards up myself when Ludmilla requested it months ago. Why do you think the building is still more or less intact?"
"Hm, thought it was unusual. Anyway, your students are having their own problem with demons that they're fighting in the streets right now. I think the other wizard keeps summoning them."
"Of course he is. Y'know, that's probably why these idiots got themselves kicked out of the Delantium University in the first place, dabbling with necromancy and demonology. That shit could potentially destroy a world if used as reckless as it has been here. Well guess I better sort this out, before taking a break."

You tell Heather where you saw the fighting going on and she goes over to the right side of the building and sees for herself. It's still a stalemate from what you can tell and fortunately Heather says this will be easy to take care of.

She conjures up a fireball and directs it towards the other wizard in the street below. He's not even looking in that direction so he takes the hit. You then see a figure screaming and burning which is then followed by one of the demons leaping on him and ripping him apart.

Heather's people take advantage of the situation and blast the demons with all they have. Without the other wizard up keeping the spell, they aren't materializing any longer and stay permanently dead. Though you do see one leap away from the battle and out of sight. Looks like that will just be one more evil thing brought into this world. (Not that it's going to make much of a difference)

With the immediate threat over with, you and Heather head back down the ladder where thankfully there aren't anymore walking dead lurking about. Heather's students soon meet up with the both of you. They look even more tired than she does and you notice there are significantly less of them than the last time you remember.

"Grand Matriarch! Are you hurt!? I can heal you!" Gwen asks.
"I'm fine Gwen, see to our friend though, maybe he's hurt, I saw him take a magic bolt to the chest." Heather remarks.

Gwen goes over to you and starts to check you out, but you don't feel like you really need any tending to either.

"Thanks, but I'm really okay." You say.
"Let me just cast a minor healing spell, you look like you could use it. Were you fighting before you got here?" Gwen remarks and starts casting something over you.
"Yeah, mostly orcs, some humans. All assholes."
"Wow, orcs huh? That takes some courage to go toe to toe with the likes of those big green guys."
"Eh, I had some green guys of my own. A little on smaller side though. Hm, starting to feel a lot better. At least not aching in pain anymore. Guess I did need that after all. Thanks."
"You're welcome!"

Gwen's attitude is a lot different than you last remember.

"Where's your boyfriend?"
"Huh? Oh Cooper? He's not my boyfriend anymore, he ran off a couple months ago. He didn't want to stick around during the invasion. He was a big coward after all, not like you."
"Um, yeah. I think I'm okay right now Gwen."
"You sure?"
"Yeah, thanks."
"The man said he doesn't need any more attention so stop hovering over him and go back over there with the rest of your class."

Gwen gives you a small smile before leaving you to go back to the rest of her, causing Heather to make an eye roll.

"Called it." Heather says.
"Hm, well I guess better that she's friendly now." You say.
"She's still fucking annoying. If she didn't show such natural talent for magic, I'd probably just throw her ass out of the school."
"Wow, I would think you'd want everyone you could get. I mean there aren't many of you after all."
"Yeah well you don't have to deal with her on a daily basis. However, you are correct in that pragmatism did also influence the decision to keep her around. I'm about the last very experienced wizard in this city now anyway. The few remaining true Dornans either left when I first got the school started or died during this invasion. Still it'll be enough to turn back the tide. It's just really taking its toll on me. Pretty sure you can already tell."
"Well I wasn't going to say anything."
"You didn't need to. Magic has a habit of making you old before your time. That's why whenever you someone talks about wizards; the stereotype is some decrepit old person. It's not that far off, except the old person usually isn't all that old in years at least. But such is the price we pay for being skilled in the gift that Dorna bestowed upon this world."

Heather, yourself and her group take this moment to rest up and talk a bit of strategy.

The current situation is bad, but not entirely unwinnable. You just have to make one major attack to turn the tide. Heather is in favor of helping what little remains of Ludmilla's defenses at her palace. Heather says breaking up the attack going on there should destroy the rest of Peter's forces or at least the majority of them. At that point he won't have enough people to take the city, let alone hold it given that Ludmilla will still be alive at that point.

When you ask if there is any other alternative, Heather says, you all could attack Peter directly since he's probably still aboard his ship. The problem with that is, there is still a good-sized fleet near the Holgard docks. Heather says casting magic at the ships might bring a few of them down, but not before the rest of them start firing cannonballs back, and who knows if you're going to get Peter or not.

Still, if you take out Peter then it isn't like you're going to have to worry about him ever trying this in another five to ten years and having to deal with it again.

You defend the palace

What Peter may or may not do in the future is something you'll just have to face then, but right now it's probably best to make sure Ludmilla is still in power after all this.

"Let's go bail out the baroness I guess. Though it's not exactly like I got magic to throw around like the rest of you, not sure how much help I'll be." You say.
"Well since it's an incredibly bad idea to summon demons or raise corpses for protection, it can't hurt for you to provide a little extra protection. Where is the rest of your crew anyway?" Heather asks.
"Don't ask, in fact after this is all over I might not even have one anymore. Anyway, let's get on with this."

With as much rest as you're going to get under these conditions, you and the wizards are soon on your way to the palace.

You actually don't have many problems on the way there, but you do come across a few unexpected faces. It's some of the Nocturnal League. They look like they've already been in a few scrapes.

"There you are boss! We've been looking all over for ya!" one of them remarks.
"Well, you've found me, and I hope for your sake, you've come to help." You say.
"We have! Um, we've managed to save couple of our brothels from getting too fucked up. We've also been having people take the whores back to headquarters and stay there until it's safe."
"Glad to hear we're making Holgard safe for whores again at least. Come on, you've all got a new task. We're heading to the palace and making sure to keep these spell slingers safe along the way because they need to save their strength for what lies ahead."

Not questioning your leadership again, your people follow you.

As you get closer to the palace, you start coming across more of the fighting again. This must be where the rest of the orc mercs were sent when they weren't tearing up your shit.

Ludmilla's people have been holding out pretty well all things considering. The orcs haven't even breached the palace yet thankfully. If you hadn't come along when you did though, they might have.

Seeing as you're not actually soldiers you stick to your plan of just protecting Heather and her students while they do the heavy lifting.

Dozens of orc and human mercs go down by magical means be it fire, lightning, frost, or even giant weasel. (Somehow one of the Heather's people summoned giant hostile weasel in the middle of the battle area, certainly was an unexpected sight)

As for you, you do your best in keeping skirmishers from getting in close. Several of your League underlings don't survive though and after it's all said and done, you're pretty much the last man standing from your group, but the day is won and what little remains of the invasion force flees.

You aren't sure if they're going to regroup later, but there probably isn't enough for them to do so at this point. Peter will probably have to abandon his plans of retaking his "birthright" and try again another day. Hopefully not anytime soon.

You look over at your wizard allies and all of them are alive or more importantly Heather is still alive. She's looking even worse now though. She's roughly around your age, and now she looks about fifteen years older. You ask her if she's okay and she snaps at you which is slightly out of character for her, but you suppose this all has really taken a toll on her.

With the immediate threat gone, the battered palace doors are finally opened up and you're all urged to enter since the baroness wishes to speak with you all

When you enter, you surprisingly see Baroness dressed for battle; no fancy royal robes, she's wearing finely made armor. A sword even hangs by her side. Apparently she was fully prepared to not go quietly if need be.

First thing she does is address Heather and her people and going on about how she is thankful for their help. Heather is doing her best to look cordial, but it's obvious that she barely even wants to be here anymore. Doesn't help when Ludmilla mentions Heather's obvious aging through magic use and mentions that she made sure to use her own magic sparingly so as not to over exert herself.

You can imagine that if this was anyone else but the baroness, Heather would be igniting her on fire for her words since Ludmilla's coming off like she's just as knowledgable about magic as Heather is.

After a brief discussion about sweeping up the remainder of the invasion force she finally turns her attention to you. Heather and the rest leave since they more work to do and Heather looks anxious to get out of there in the first place.

"So, we meet again nocturnal one. Glad to see even our criminal element has a sliver of patriotism in them to defend this great city as opposed to just taking advantage of the chaos." Ludmilla remarks.
"Well, honestly, it was probably more stubbornness and pragmatism on my part rather than patriotism." You answer.
"Hm, well whatever works I say. Your service here will not be forgotten whatever your reasons may be. You can be assured that this government's relationship with your organization will continue to be a positive one after all this is finally over."
"Glad to hear it, but I don't think I've got an organization anymore. Most of them are dead, and the rest that are still alive I don't even want to be bothered to manage anymore."
"Truly? Are you going into a new line of work then?"
"Probably not, I wouldn't know what else I could use my skills for anyway."
"You ever thought about working for me directly?"

You didn't expect that.

"Work for you? Doing what exactly?" you ask.
"Well it occurs to me, the intel that I received on this invasion wasn't completely accurate. And this inaccuracy could have easily resulted in a loss. I need a better intelligence system, The Felians were good at this, but Heather convinced me that their…departure would make things better. I've mostly relied on her divination and contacts within the Delantium Kingdom University. However, I feel this may be putting too much pressure on her since I'm sure you agree, all of this has been an ordeal for her." Ludmilla remarks.
"Looks that way."
"Indeed, so I believe some of the burden should go to someone that obviously has more flexibility and hands on skill in spying and lurking about and I have to believe someone like you has experience in shadowy works and underhanded ways of gathering vital information when necessary."
"I suppose my skills would come in handy for such a task."
"Yes, I'm glad you see it that way and I would also remind you that while perhaps many of your numbers have been decimated, not all of them have and you already have a great system in place to draw from. I mean your brothels alone should be a beacon of information."
"Those always did come in handy for blackmail."
"And just think, you will now have MORE resources at your disposal and no longer need to worry about the law…not that you did before, but that specter still loomed over you even if it was a friendly one."

Ludmilla takes your hand, though you don't get an impression of an attempt at seduction or attraction, just more of a way of getting your attention. It's working.

"But even a friendly dragon can crush a village whenever it feels like it. I know someone like you probably cherishes the freedom that most living outside the law come to embrace. But I tell you now that living outside the law is nothing compared to using it to rule over others. Bending it to your will as you see fit and never having to answer for it. Why? Because you make the rules and they're completely legitimate. Don't be a villager living near a friendly dragon, BE the dragon."

You smile a bit. The baroness certainly has a way with words.

"I understand what you're saying baroness, however even if I take you up on your offer, I don't think I'm the friendly dragon in the scenario. That would still be you." You say, causing her to laugh a bit.
"Well, this is why you'd make a good spymaster. You're a realist that doesn't have delusions of grandeur! You're right of course, I am the friendly dragon, but you at least wouldn't have to worry about the friendly dragon's minions because you'd indirectly be in charge of them, to a limited degree of course. Better to stand with the dragon than be under its talons."

This is just so surreal to you right now. Never in your life did you ever think you'd get an offer like this. Then again never in your life did you ever think you would ever do this much fighting either, but you guess on that day when you took your first life and had to run your ass out of Teckleville, it's been a path of increasing bloodshed ever since. Why should Ludmilla's offer be any stranger?

Sure it's shady and corrupt, but actually working for a government with a "real job" it's a scenario ALMOST what your parents always wanted and at this point, why not? Might make a nice change of pace.

"Well…when you put it like that, I suppose how can I say no?"

In the weeks to come, you settle into your new job without much difficulty. Your main task at first is helping in reinforcing order in the city after the invasion since there is a decrease in Holgard soldiers that can patrol the streets. Establishing spies and informants about the various goings on in the city is fairly easy since the few Nocturnal League folks that remained loyal (and were still alive) are practically begging you for a chance to join.

While you still aren't sure what happened to Vera, you write a letter to her, informing her of the situation. Telling her that she's in charge of the Nocturnal League now or whatever she wants to call it as you have moved on. You also tell her you'd like to meet with her in person if possible since you believe you still need to hammer out some details.

Eventually the ECS representative comes calling for their cut (with back interest), they find that the Nocturnal League is no more in the city and they can't do shit to you about it because you're practically the right hand of the baroness.

You aren't sure what the repercussions though might be. You take it for granted that assassination might always be a possibility, but you're about as prepared for that as you're going to be. You're more of the mind that they may just start leaning on Vera directly.

Within the next two months, you've ironically eliminated most of the random crime in the city thanks to your secret police system. It's probably the most orderly the city has ever been. Ludmilla certainly approves and gives you praise for being so efficient in your new position. You also finally get a response back from Vera though it's brief.

She tells you that everything is fine, but she herself has been preoccupied lately with a power struggle from some upstarts trying to start a new organization and the Jicol law enforcement being more vigilant as of late.

She also says that she will watch out for the ECS and will visit Holgard as soon as she is able and wishes you well in your new position. Nothing else is said. No personal thoughts on the new situation, just facts and explanations.

You half wonder if it's even her, but the terrible handwriting is unmistakable. You chalk it up to her being perhaps very surprised by everything combined with being busy. In any case you know she's alive.

In between your new job and your concerns about your past comrade. You've also been thinking a lot about your family.

You can imagine that your parents wouldn't exactly be thrilled about your new position even if you did officially "go legit. While it would be easy to just forget about them, as you haven't seen them in nearly two decades now, you can't just dismiss them completely. After all, despite everything your mother probably still loves you and your father…well he DID bail you out of trouble for years.

You decide to write a letter to them. You're going to keep it short and vague and you don't expect any attempt at contact back, but at least they'll know that you're alive and doing well. (Even if they're skeptical about how you explain things in your letter to them)

You'd like to send a letter to your sister too, but who knows where she is, so you end the letter to your parents saying you send your love to your sister as well and to let her know if they ever see her.

You time passes...

Year 34

Ever since the invasion last year, Heather's demeanor has changed considerably, though you imagine her premature aging and heavy task load don't help…

"No, I still haven't found a way to undo your curse I've been really fucking busy lately in case you haven't noticed." Heather says.
"Okay! No need to snap at me. I just thought I'd ask since it's been awhile since we were in the same location." You say.
"Yeah well I got other shit to do. Not only do I have the thankless AND hopeless task of training what pathetic remnants of what passes for wizards nowadays, but I also have a lot of tasks from the baroness who wants protection spells all over the walls of this fucking city."
"Hm, Ludmilla is very big on defense nowadays. Understandable though given what happened."
"I thought that's what she had you for. Sneaking about snatching dissidents and potential threats off the streets."
"I can snatch malcontents off the streets all I want or even send assassins out, but it's never going to be enough for Ludmilla. She really wants to be safe and your magic spells greatly enhance that."
"Safe. Pfft. I could fry her brain inside her skull with minimal effort and all her protection would be for naught."
"Watch it there, treasonous words. Though any particular reason why you haven't?"
"Because I went to so much damn effort to keep her in power and ally with her, it seems pretty counter productive to just kill her now."
"Well you could take over."
"Hah. Funny guy. I'd rather fry my own brain than have the even more thankless task of running a city. I have enough on my hands running a school."
"Ludmilla seems to enjoy rulership of this city."
"She would. Look, I'd love to stand around and just bullshit with you, but as I said, I'm fucking busy today and I'd like to get in a nap first."
"Okay, fine. But you really haven't found ANY way to dispel my curse yet?"
"No, unless you want to go through Flynn's ritual and go get yourself an unsuspecting girl to sacrifice."
"(Sigh) I know it might seem really weird, but I'm just not THAT much of a bastard yet."
"Suit yourself. Though if you ever change your mind and you really want to do me a favor, ask Gwen to help. She doesn't have any knowledge of what will happen and I'm almost certain that she'd jump at the chance to fuck you."
"Sheesh, what did that poor girl do to you now?"
"She's fucking annoying and that's enough. I curse the fact that she's so naturally talented, so I'm reluctant to do anything worse than just verbally abuse her."
"But…you just offered to sacrifice her to cure me."
"Yeah well, if Elder Flynn thought it was good enough for me, it's good enough for her."
"Wow. Okay then. I'll leave you be."

Heather doesn't even acknowledge your goodbye and just turns away to leave, walking a lot slower than she used to.

She has truly become a very bitter woman. You're a little concerned about her talking so freely killing the baroness. Not really because you have some great love of serving the baroness, but more the fact that such talk and your knowledge of it without doing anything about it could potentially get you in trouble if it somehow got overheard by someone else. Not to mention her general more miserable attitude nowadays puts you on less comfortable footing with her. Nothing worse than a cranky wizard.

Still, you guess she's fine for now.

In any case you're looking forward to finally meeting up with Vera in another day or so. She's finally had time from her busy schedule of being a crime boss to come to Holgard. You're sort of interested in learning more about what's going on in Jicol since your new position has gotten a bit slow in Holgard, you've started sending out agents to various other places to keep apprised of the events going on there. So far you've only sent one to Klyton and a few to Delantium.

You figured there was no immediate point in sending one to Jicol since in the few letters Vera sent back she's given you brief reports herself and says that everything has been going better there and she's suffered no visits from the ECS, which you're glad to hear since you were sure she would.

Seeing as you have nothing else to do today you decide to go relax for a few hours at the Unwavering Unicorn which is the only known tavern in Holgard that has managed to survive every form of major strife that's occurred in this city. It wasn't actually called that though until after this latest attack though. You guess the owner decided a name modification was in order. Makes a change from picking the usual unwelcoming violent names like Bloodbath Inn though.

You take a seat in the back with your drink and enjoy the musicians currently on the stage. In the old days you probably would have preferred to spend your off time at a brothel, but you're starting to get to a point where you're not even missing sex any more. Which is a bit worrying on a certain level. Maybe you need to seek out new help on this situation. Maybe give your agents a new side mission of contacting the magic schools. Delantium and Klyton both have one after all. While your feelings for Tanya have certainly diminished over time, she's certainly always going to be in your thoughts thanks to this curse.

While you're thinking about that, a man dressed in a dark hooded cloak nearly sneaks up on you and you're just quick enough to pull your pistol out on him before he reaches your table.

Given that you didn't see him until the last minute, you can only imagine that he's a shadow blade from the temple of Fel and most likely here on the orders of the ECS. You quickly look around.

"Oh don't worry. It's just me and I'm not here to harm you. I doubt if I would be in any condition to do so anymore even with my magic now. Couldn't even sneak up on you." The man says.

The chipper voice is familiar and now when you get a good look at the figure so is the face, even if it is partially disfigured now on one side. The man places a small box on the table with a hand that has two missing fingers.

"Percy." You say, though you don't put your weapon away.
"Glad you recognized me, even though I'm a little less than I originally was when we first met. But then I have you or more specifically your little wizard allies to thank for that don't I? Ugh, I'm sitting down, feel free to keep your weapon on me though if it makes you feel better. Fucking wooden leg…"

Percy sits down and you're wondering what all this is about.

"In that box you will find the noses of your agents you sent to Delantium. While the ECS recognizes that you are obviously a hard to kill man with powerful enough allies to cause more trouble than it's worth to keep fucking with you, they will NOT tolerate you spying on their territory. Do it again, and it won't matter who your friends in high places are. Consider this a respectful warning." Percy says shoving the box a little closer to you.
"Well, that was certainly generous of them. Were they generous enough to keep my agents alive?" you say.
"After they were done with them, I'd say they were generous enough to put them out their misery. Sometimes I wish they'd done the same to me, but I guess I was just too important. Lucky me."
"At least you still have your nose."
"The physical deformities you see and even the some you don't pale in comparison to the mental scars I have along with the ongoing headaches and nightmares thanks to you and your wizard bitch. The Ebony Claw leadership in conjunction with the Temple of Fel spent months probing and prodding my brain to learn what exactly happened to me during my first trip here. I wish every fucking day they had just killed me for incompetence. At least then I would have died in ignorance. But hey, I'm not bitter and it's all in the past."

At this point Percy calls a waitress over and orders a drink.

"So they knew." You say.
"Of course they knew! Did you really think you got away with it?" Percy says.
"Well I figured if they ever learned the truth they would waste no time in getting their revenge."
"Oh the ECS is good at being patient when it wants to be. Revenge was planned, but they wanted to come up with something suitable. Now of course the standby for a less direct approach at revenge was doing something horrible to your family and loved ones…"

You remain deadpan and show no expression when this is brought up, but a deep anxiety wells up inside you and you fear the worst.

"However after asking around at that backwards little town you grew up in, it seemed that you left not on the best of terms anyway. Apparently you were a complete disappointment to your parents. Hell, from what I heard, not a single person spoke well of you, except for some trashy barmaid that claimed to be your girlfriend at one time."

Huh. You guess your father DID manage to save Annah. You'd show more expression of being happy to hear that, but you know you can't right now.

"In any case, killing your parents that you never seemed to give a shit about and some old ex that you fucked as a teenager hardly seemed like revenge at that point and certainly wouldn't have meant much to you. Now your sister on the other hand was a slightly different story. It would appear that you got along very well with her since most from Teckleville said as much. Partners in crime during your youth from what I heard."

You don't know if you can keep up this stonewall face much longer…

"However, she was fortunate enough to have at one time save the life of someone currently in the top ECS leadership. He apparently has always been a little smitten with her too. So thanks to all that she was safe."

You now relax a little. Your worst fears are now over though Percy still hasn't finished his story of revenge so you know SOMETHING bad must still be coming.

"Other loved ones, friends or family of note were looked into, but the only other major one we ever learned about was a demonkin girl by the name of Tanya." Percy says as he takes his drink from the returning waitress.
"Good luck with that one." You say barely able to contain a smile.
"Hm, Indeed. You keep interesting allies. Also explains how you've survived so long. In any case, about this time a plain old assassination attempt was planned, but then that ongoing failure Peter Varsakken was slowly starting to gather enough forces to invade Holgard. In the past ECS had problems with him doing this, but at that time? Not so much, and it was looking like maybe an agreement could be reached. Peter was just happy we wouldn't be sabotaging him this time."

You start nodding.

"I knew those orcs were specifically targeting Nocturnal League businesses." You say.
"Well tearing down everything you had built before you died was only part of it. The next part was supposed to be the stinger, but it wasn't anticipated that you'd actually STAY in this forsaken city and fight to the bitter end rather than run off to Jicol. And it certainly wasn't anticipated that you'd move up in status. After it was all said and done the ECS leadership decided everything evened out and they washed their hands of it. You were out of their hair as far as business competition anymore."
"Okay, but the Nocturnal League still exists and if I had retreated to Jicol I would have just been running it there, unless you had assassins waiting for me on the way."

At this point Percy takes a big drink from his mug and gives you a big smug smile.

"Y'know it's probably too late at this point for it to matter and the Syndicate would probably prefer this to remain a secret just in case they want to use this person in the future, but given all the shit I had to go through because of you AND the Syndicate, I'm giving a big fuck you to both and telling you because at this point what is the worst either of you could do to me?"

And here it comes…

"There was one other person that we found that you seemed to have a bit of affection for, though killing her wouldn't have really changed much. Sure you would have been pissed, maybe a little upset, but it wouldn't have devastated you. If anything you would have just tried to retaliate, wasting more of our time."
"Vera." You say.
"Yes, your once second in command and dare I say…friend? Maybe even a little more? In any case, we had an interesting discussion with her and it didn't even take much for her to agree to betray you when the time came. Guess once Ebony Claw, always Ebony Claw. She works with us now, indirectly of course, but we're making more profit from her than we ever were with you that's for sure."
"Bullshit."
"Is it? Think about it. Wasn't Peter's fleet just a little bigger than you planned despite all of Vera's promises that she was going to convince Hessla pirates otherwise?"
"That doesn't prove anything."
"Didn't she also try to convince you that siding with Peter would be a good idea and that you should go talk with him? That was actually the first bait, which you obviously didn't take. The original plan was to try to kill you while aboard the ship. Second plan was when you retreated to Jicol, she would have killed you there, but as usual you've got the luck of Yag constantly with you. I sometimes think maybe that's who I should have picked as a deity instead. I might not be all fucked up now."

Considering you thought your family might be dead or in danger, this information isn't nearly as bad, but it's still pretty hard hitting and half of the problem is you don't know if Percy isn't just telling you this to fuck with you. The other half is you can't dismiss it either. In fact, his story is more plausible than you'd care to admit.

Vera's letters to you since the invasion have always been a bit vague and come off less "close" than they did in the past and Peter's large fleet is something you always wondered about since you know Vera could be convincing when she wanted to be. It just might have been in the wrong way. Plus even the fact that she hasn't told you that she's been dealing with the ECS is suspect.

While you're pondering all this, Percy finishes up his drink.

"Well I can see you got a lot to think about. Whatever it is you decide to do isn't going to matter to the ECS. So kill her if you wish, there's probably someone even more pliable in the Nocturnal League that's more than willing to continue working with us. If I were you though? I'd do something worse than kill her because as you can see with me, there are worse things than dying."

With those words Percy gets up, wincing in a bit of pain as he does.

"Remember, no more of your people in Delantium."

As Percy hobbles away, you briefly consider opening the small box he left, but don't bother, instead throwing it away. You also briefly consider shooting Percy, but given the pathetic state he's already in and potential problems it could bring, you decide against it. He's just the messenger anyway.

It isn't until you get home that you allow yourself an emotional release. Within your explosive rage of breaking a few things and yelling, you eventually calm down.

You confrontation

Maybe it's paranoia and maybe you're feeling the emotional effects of possibly being betrayed, but as far as you're concerned, even if you find out that you're wrong and she gets pissed about you even accusing her and never speaks to you ever again, you're still going to feel better about all this. You're going to find out one way or another after she gets off that ship.

You're a bundle of energy until the day Vera arrives. When she does its all smiles and hugs like you're both so happy to see each other. Maybe she's even being sincere, you don't know yet.

"Glad to finally see you here. How are things in Jicol?" you ask.
"Oh you know, it's the same old thing. Some good days, some bad, but can't complain. The Nocturnal League isn't the same without you though." Vera remarks.
"I'll bet. So is there any place you wanted to go first?"
"You a tour guide for Holgard now too? Well, I suppose after all the shit that happened during the invasion resulted in a lot of damage and rebuilding, so I'm almost betting my favorite tavern isn't even standing anymore."
"The Blackheart? Nah. Totally destroyed. I think there's a new weapon shop there now."
"Oh well. I suppose the old Nocturnal headquarters is gone now too?"
"Not gone, but it's currently under construction. Trying to turn it into a proper place to train any future agents. Bunch of dwarves there right now, and they aren't fond of anyone getting in the way of their work. Warts suggested getting goblins since it would be much cheaper, but I figured the extra money would be worth sturdier construction."
"Wow, really taking your new job seriously huh? Well in any case I don't have any preference on where to go, so whatever you decide, we can do that."
"Well I was thinking of taking you back to my place."

Vera looks at you with a smile.

"Well that's very forward of you. You didn't even offer me dinner first." Vera remarks.
"I didn't ask if you if you were currently with anyone either." You say.
"Would it really matter to you if I was?"
"Not really."
"Well I guess let's go then."

Vera takes your arm and the pair of you walk to your home.

Along the way you and her talk about some of changes in the city. The discussion is fairly light and superficial, though Vera's demeanor is pretty affectionate. You went into this with a flirty approach since you wanted to see if there was a complete personality change with her.

So far though, she's acting about how you've always known her to. You're getting the impression that she might not be faking all of it or if she is, she's doing a very good job.

Whether she is or not though doesn't matter, you're still learning the facts today.

When you get to your home, you show her around a bit makes a lot of comments about how nice the place is and that it's better than her own current dwelling.

"Ah the bar, I'll just help myself if you don't mind." Vera says pouring herself a drink.
"Go ahead." You answer.
"Is that a real Daquala head on the wall?"
"Yeah, Warts gave me that as a house warming gift. Didn't like the ugly thing at first, but eh, it's sort of grown on me now."
"So how is the halfbreed anyway?"
"He's fine. Runs some trading post with his family in Spiderfang territory. He exchanges information for coin with me from time to time."
"Sheesh, Warts a family man with a regular job, you working for the government. So much has changed here and it all seems so odd."
"In some ways I suppose it is, but then Holgard was never a beacon of justice. I mean I'm still involved in a lot of shady dealings. I just got legal permission to do it now."
"Hah, I suppose that's true."
"So how about you?"
"How about me what?"
"I've been going on and on about myself and you haven't told me about what's going on with you."
"Oh, like I said, nothing much. Just dealing with smugglers and pirates, staying a step ahead of the law when I have to, trying to keep the organization together and keep turning a profit. You know the routine, you had to do it."
"Mm, and you said you haven't had any trouble from the Ebony Claw Syndicate?"
"Nope. Not a peep from them. Guess they just don't care about the League since it's so small and not really a threat to them."
"I suppose not, but still I thought for sure they would pay you a visit after they found out, the League's only remaining holdings were in Jicol and under new management."
"I dunno. Maybe they're preoccupied with other things…hey so since you work directly for Ludmilla now, have you been invited to any more of her fancy parties?"

Okay. She was pretty quick to change the subject…

You entertain some more of Vera's questions and the pair of you also proceed to talk about the "old days. The pair of you laughs about various events that occurred while you two worked together.

You're having such a good time reminiscing that you almost forget that you're probably talking to someone who betrayed you. However, it's always still in the back of your mind and you haven't forgotten. You suppose as much as you want to find out, you're trying to enjoy "what once was" while you still can.

Meanwhile Vera's gotten a little tipsier and a whole lot flirtier.

"So. We finally gonna fuck or what?" Vera asks, moving in a little closer on you.
"Now who's being forward?" you say.
"Well I mean you invited me over, you're showing off your big house and you're plying me with alcohol. You don't need to wait until I pass out, I'm more than willing right now."
"Hm, I can tell. Though you actually started drinking without me giving it to you."
"I suppose I did. I guess I always have taken the initiative in our relationship."
"You always did have a thing for me didn't you?"
"I'd tell you not to flatter yourself, but I think you know I have always found you quite attractive. Don't even know why exactly, considering the first time we met you threatened me with rape."
"Oh come on, I told you a long time ago that I wasn't actually going to do that."
"I know, but I'm fucked up enough to find that enticing in some weird way, but only if it was you of course."
"Wow, that is fucked up. Maybe I should wait until you're passed out then."

Vera laughs a bit.

"No, I want to be fully awake for when you ravish me."
"Sure I'm not going to be pissing off any pirate boyfriends of yours?"
"None that matter. And if you meant Zamed, I'm pretty sure he's not going to object since I heard he died pissing off the Governor of Hessla months ago. Not like I'd seen him since we went with your idea to side with Ludmilla anyway. Seems like it was the right choice given the circumstances."

Vera moves in to kiss you, and you slightly move away.

"Funny you should bring that up since I heard an interesting story about all that recently." You say.
"Oh?" Vera asks with a mild annoyance that you didn't kiss her back.
"Yeah, a Syndicate member paid me a visit recently. Said you've been dealing with them. Said you've been dealing with them for awhile now."

Vera sits back and you look at her face. It's like all the color has drained from it and it's at that moment you know, no matter what she tells you, she's betrayed you. You're just wondering if she's going to admit to it.

"Well?"
"Um…shit…I didn't want to tell you. I thought you'd be mad. But…" Vera exhales deeply and then continues. "I have had dealings with the ECS, but I sort of had to. I mean they still wanted a cut of the profits, what could I do? I know you would understand that part, but I'm guessing you're not too pleased to find out I was slave trading again."

Your eyes briefly widen and go back to normal when she admits to that. You didn't actually know about the slave trading, though you suppose you aren't too surprised. It's what she did before she joined with you and you imagine that it's pretty lucrative what with all the pirate types she has to do business with. She probably was doing it the whole time she was sent to Jicol.

Honestly you don't really give a shit though. What is more telling is she's admitting to it now meaning that she's trying to admit a "lesser" offense to distract from a greater one she's hiding. It's one of the oldest criminal tricks in the book.

You look at Vera and it's very apparent she's hoping that you'll believe this partial truth and let it go. You won't though, and she probably knows that too.

"Vera. Before we continue, I'm going to have to ask you to disarm. I know that…"

Before you can get another word in, Vera suddenly throws the rest of her drink in your face and springs from your couch and tries to run for the front door. She doesn't get far though thanks to her balance not being the best due to her alcohol intake. She trips and slams hard on the floor and then promptly throws up as well.

Meanwhile all you've done is stand up and drawn your pistol.

You walk over to her, as she crawls away from the liquid mess she's left on the floor. She turns over and sits on the floor with her knees to her chest and her back against the wall. She looks at you and then starts to cry. You can hardly believe this is the same woman you once trusted with your life.

"(Sob) You…you know (sob) don't you?" Vera says.
"Well I know what the smug asshole ECS rep told me and you've pretty much confirmed it with your actions. In fact I sort of figured you'd outright deny everything or put up more of a fight. Didn't think it would be this easy. Guessing you must feel guilty about all this on some level. Again before we continue, I'm going to have to ask you disarm."

Vera nods and slowly throws away her blades and her own flintlock far enough away that she wouldn't reach them in time. You thought you were going to be far angrier about all this, but now you're almost feeling pity, but maybe that'll change when you question her.

"Okay, so here's the ultimate question. Why?" you ask.
"I…don't know." Vera says.
"You're REALLY going to have to do better than that Vera."
"I don't know! I guess I was pissed at you okay?"
"You were pissed at me? For what?! I thought we got along really well!"
"Yeah as friends. You always KNEW I wanted to be more than that and instead of being direct, you just sent me away to a fucking island while you were fucking that wizard chick."
"Vera…what the hell? This isn't even making any sense! I was direct with you multiple times if you recall. As I remember I never even lead you on in any way. And for the record I was not fucking Heather. In any case I hardly see how that's an excuse for you trying to have me killed!"
"I didn't try to have you killed! I just wanted us to be close again! You were supposed to retreat back to Jicol, not stay here and be the fucking hero of Holgard!"
"Okay, some of this still isn't making any sense. Actually a lot of it, but this is a much different version of what was going to happen to me when I got back to Jicol. I was told you were going to kill me."
"I wasn't going to kill you! And I would have stood up to the ECS if they tried!"
"That's not what I heard."
"And you believe the ECS about everything? Don't you think that they might be lying about some of it just to fuck with you? To turn us against each other?"
"Well, yeah I considered that, but considering some of their story has already been confirmed as true, I'm finding it a little easier to believe an organization that has made no pretenses of being pissed with me than a woman who is obviously more mentally unstable than I ever could have known. And they already turned us against each other when you agreed to deal with them! Either you're so delusional that you believed working with the ECS would somehow bring us together, and I'm really struggling to believe you're that stupid, or you're just lying about everything. At this point either one wouldn't surprise me."

Vera makes one last outburst.

"Why didn't you just let this go? (sob) There was no more danger to you any more and I certainly wasn't going to conspire against you again. I felt sick the first time I did it. Obviously I STILL feel sick about it. I felt this way ever since I realized how deep I was getting. I was just so…I don't know…. (sniffle) I would always think about that time we got to go to the baroness' party. I remember mentally believing myself to be a princess and you a prince. How I wished it were you and me that night instead of you and some random whore. I really think things could have been different between us. We could have been more than friends. Even now, I wish we could just forget everything and just live in this house together as husband and wife. I don't understand, I did everything for you. Why couldn't you just…love me? (Sob)"

As Vera breaks down again into tears, you're almost at a loss for words at this point. Your relationship with women has always been "complicated" but this is a new one on you. You never realized just how damn deep Vera's feelings were for you and honestly it's still a bit of a mystery to you. Especially given that she betrayed you.

And she did betray you. No matter what her twisted logic may dictate, you can't forget that.

And you can't forgive it. Even if you are genuinely feeling sorry for Vera right now.

The ECS may not have gotten the most hurtful revenge on you, but they didn't exactly fail. You can't even be mad at them. Maybe in some weird way this is finally all your good luck crapping out on you. You have done a lot of treacherous shit yourself after all.

In any case, you also remember Percy's advice about doing something worse than killing her.

You aren't sure if it'll make you feel any better about this, but you're fairly certain it isn't going to make you feel any worse.

You mercy

Whatever Vera has done to you, you're not going to torture her anymore. What's done is done and there is no need in drawing this out.

You put away your pistol and crouch down besides Vera who is still upset and probably expecting you to kill her.

"Vera…Vera…shhhhh…calm down…" you say.

Vera still doesn't look in your direction still crying. You run your hand briefly over her hair and then move in closer to hug her.

Vera immediately hugs you back, you feel her squeeze you as if her life depended on it.

"Don't let go…don't let go…just hold me forever…" she says in between the tears.
"I got you Vera." You say.
"(sob) I'm sorry. I'm so sorry."
"I know."

Vera mumbles more things about how she wishes you both could do everything all over. She then feels something against the side of her head.

She moves her head back enough and looks at you with tears in her eyes.

"I love you…" she says.

You pull the trigger, blowing Vera's brains out the other side of her head onto the wall and also getting blood on you in the process.

You sit with Vera's body for a moment saddened that this was necessary at all. You wipe your own eyes and eventually stand up and compose yourself.

You get some of your people to dispose of Vera's body making some comment that she was an enemy to Holgard. (Not that they were going to question you anyway)

And that's it. There's nothing more to it. You'd like to forget about this dark day as soon as possible, but you know that's going to take a bit of time.

To get your mind off it, you focus on your other problem, which is the curse you're still dealing with. Honestly, if it hadn't been for that, things might have been different with Vera in the first place.

Since Heather doesn't seem to be very helpful right now, you go back to wondering if you should seek help from other magic types which again makes you consider sending someone to ask around Klyton or the magic University in Delantium.

You already got an agent that reports on Klyton so that's no problem. Delantium however is another story since Percy just said the ECS killed everyone you sent there. While you don't want to piss off the ECS severely, you also don't like being told where you can't go.

You decide to hold off on sending anyone to Delantium until you get word back from your agent in Klyton. Based on his report, you can make your decision to risk sending some to Delantium or not.

A month passes and eventually you get word from your agent in Klyton. She mentions that the Klyton magic school is barely better than the one in Holgard and the only main difference is they have a nicer looking school and tend to be more "scholarly" as opposed to "battle ready."

Your agent says that they were interested in based on the sealed letter you had her deliver to them. However it would require you to take a trip to Klyton. A bit unusual for you considering you haven't left Holgard in…well since you got here nearly twenty years ago.

You imagine you could get the time to leave though if you wanted.

This brings you back to pondering if you should still send an agent to the Delantium magic university. Chances are, if they're interested they're going to just ask you to do what the robes in Klyton want you to do. Namely go there yourself and that's probably even going to be even more dangerous than just sending an agent there.

You send an agent to Delantium

You might as well explore all your options and you really don't feel like being intimidated. You'll just pick your most competent agent and tell him to be extremely careful and to not linger there anymore than he has to or he's going to suffer a horrible fate

After sending your agenr off, once again you play the waiting game. During this time you're pretty paranoid, expecting ECS assassins to strike at any moment. You increase security and generally don't get much sleep.

On the plus side, it's kept your mind off Vera completely.

Eventually in a month your agent returns to you none the worse for wear. He explains he had no problems whatsoever. Also says that he delivered your message and explains to you that a wizard going by the name High Mage Teklis says he's interested in your situation and will meet with you in a week since he was supposed to visit the Holgard magic school anyway for a potential exchange of ideas.

Your agent then gives you a sealed letter saying Teklis provided details for you within it.

You open it up and it just explains that he'll be bringing various objects to detect and dispel any curses you might have brought on by infernal creatures. He goes on to assure you that he's studied infernals and has all the confidence that he can fix it. Of course he also gives you a price too for his time. It's actually a pretty high number, and you're sort of surprised that a wizard would be interested in such "mundane" rewards, but in any case, it's doable and certainly no object for getting rid of a curse.

You spend the time before he arrives going about your regular business and squeezing a little extra money from the citizens under the guise of a mandatory "defense tax" so you don't lose most of your current savings paying the wizard.

You have your people tell you when Teklis arrives in the city, though to your surprise when he finally does, he comes directly to your home escorted by one of your people.

You see a very well dressed older man in a suit rather than wizard robes standing before you. He also carries a satchel with him. After he greets you, you return the greeting and dismiss your agent who escorted him.

"You seem surprised to see me, you were expecting me correct?" Teklis says.
"Yes, however I was also told that you were meeting with the head of the wizard school here and I figured that would be your first priority of your trip." You say.
"I can already tell how that's going to go. A lot of attempts by the one in charge trying to convince me that they are an upstanding place of learning when it's probably going to consist of a group little more than organized hedge mages or a large coven."
"Wow. Don't mince words do you?"
"Just telling you what I'm expecting."
"Far be it from me to get involved in your wizard standards, but the head of the school and her students did protect this city not too long ago."
"Oh I don't mean to say they won't have talent at all, but I can imagine in a place like this that they won't be the most disciplined of magic users. It's really not their fault and at least they have practical experience rather than that dying school in Klyton where all they seemingly do is read old dusty books and argue about theory all day."

Apparently the Delantium Kingdom wizards think very highly of themselves.

"However, apologies if I have insulted your friend. My understanding is that you are friends with…Heather is it?"
"Well nowadays I'd say that wouldn't exactly be the term I'd use, but yes we do have a working relationship. In any case, your views on her school are not my concern; you can take that up with her. I'm just glad that you agreed to meet me."
"Yes, when your agent came to the university asking questions and I caught wind of it, I was intrigued and then when I found out a little bit more of your situation in the letter I was even more interested. So hence why I'm here to meet you first. We can actually get started right away as long we aren't going to be disturbed."
"No I can't imagine we will be. Do we need to clear furniture for you to make a circle on the floor or something?"

Teklis laughs as he puts his satchel on a table and pulling out objects.

"Oh no. None of that. Well at least not yet since I don't know how back this curse you say is. Now I know you went over some of it your condition in your letter, but I get the impression you didn't tell me everything and I'm going to need to know everything if I'm going to properly help you."

You begin to explain in the shortest detail possible about your relationship with Tanya and the after effects. While you're doing that, Teklis occasionally holds up some strange objects at you, some of which glow. He also says a few words and does a lot of hand motions in front of you, occasionally telling you to just continue your story and not to worry about what he's doing.

Eventually you complete your tale and Teklis completes whatever it is he was doing.

"Well?" you ask.
"Well, I got good news and bad news." Teklis says.
"Well, give me the good since I haven't had much of that lately."
"Okay, well you aren't cursed."
"What?"
"You aren't cursed. I detect no curses on you. Infernal or otherwise."
"Are you sure?"
"Quite sure. I've studied infernals long enough to know that you haven't been cursed by one. Now I do detect traces of infernal presence on you, but given what you told me about your relationship with this Tanya girl, that's hardly surprising and that's always going to be there."
"Well…maybe she gave me a disease? Like demon crotch rot or something?"

Teklis laughs again.

"Trust me m'boy if you had demon crotch rot, you would know immediately and we wouldn't be having this pleasant conversation. No, you don't have anything. I mean I can't explain why those women died after you had sex with them. Maybe it was just bad coincidence and you jumped to conclusions because somewhere in your mind you missed Tanya so much and it was easier for you not to pursue someone else. If you got a curse, it's just the one you made up in your mind."

Well this is a bizarre outcome. You almost can't believe it.

"I have to say, never met someone who had a relationship with a succubus and gone on to live a relatively normal life. Usually they're either killed by said succubus or less common, they commit suicide after an extended period time of separation. Of course I guess it helped you met her before she completely transformed. I imagine your short lived relationship with her was very special." Teklis says.
"Yeah…it was. It's been years now and for the most part I do get on with my life, but there really isn't a day that goes by that an image of her doesn't briefly pop up in my mind. I don't necessarily always feel the loss, but she's there in my head you know?" you say.

Teklis nods and puts away a couple of his magic objects.

"So is that the bad news? That I'll always have a vague sense of loss that won't ever go away?" you ask.
"No, the bad news is much worse than that." Teklis says.
"Shit, what is it? Am I going to start feeling a greater sense of loss as time goes on? Am I going to die of a broken heart in a few years or something?"
"Oh you're going to die, but not in a few years and certainly not of a broken heart."

Suddenly Teklis waves his hand and everything seems to slow to a crawl and the room begins to darken. You instinctively go for your pistol, but every move you make is a snails pace compared to Teklis who is now directing his hands towards you.

You are hit by a solid black beam of dark energy and feel your life force not just draining, but being ripped from you. Every part of you feels like its being eaten alive which might be somewhat true as your body begins to shrivel and you collapse to the floor, too weak to stand up any longer, let alone hold your weapon.

"The Syndicate should have done this years ago." Teklis says.

Those words are the last you hear before everything goes black forever.