The Epic of Dalen Grey

There was five seperate cells in my house, three along one wall and two against the other. It wasn't a glamorous place to spend the night, but we got by alright. I don't know if Ondre ever lived in luxury, but it was a step down for me. Some would say I have fallen far. I have fought for my life. Would I have learned what I have through duels of status? Would I have seen the real struggles people face if I was still living at the Grey Lark estate. I can say I am wiser then I was. I can also say that wisdom seems to come at a price.

I didn't want to lay in bed ponder my day away. I had some business I needed to take care of. The morning was nearly gone and I had made a deal. I took the necklace that I took from Brick the night before. I had a reward at the Fireside Inn to collect.

"Bartender."

"You can call me Brude, Dalen. There's no need to act like a stranger."

I dropped the necklace on the bar.

"Is this yours."

"I thought I would never see that again. I take it that he is dead."

"He's locked up, but still alive. Where's my money?"

"Alive. I want him dead. I'll give you half."

"We had a deal old man, Brude. I want it all."

"Are deal was for the necklace and his demise."

"I don't like to be cheated. I was even gonna tell you who was backing Brick and robbing you."

"Ok, I'll pay you. Just tell me."

"I want the thirty you promised plus fiften for the information."

"Damn you, alright forty five."

"I hope you will learn to honor your deals, Brude."

I told him about the Dragon Foot Clan helping out Brick with money and men. I even mentioned a name or two. I didn't want to tell him anything after what he tried to do. I made a few extra coins, but I much prefer dealing with those I can trust. I never aggreed to kill him. To his credit, he later apoligized for what he did.

I tried to train with Ondre during the day. I could not throw daggers and his sword skills, well, maybe I could teach him a few things. There must be some other way.

Tonight was alittle different at the Midnight Moon. There were three girls that were not there. It was a bit strange that they would all not show up. One thing I also found strange. Elizia was wearing white shoes and black earrings together. It was the sign for a meeting with Delvori at sunset. I needed to talk to her. Was it by chance or do they have influence over her. I was told not to talk about it, I would have to find another way.

"Whats wrong Elizia."

"Something terrible happened dear. Three girls were kidnapped late last night after they left. I got a note from them asking me to pay my dues or they will die. Hun, you have to help me."

"Of course Elizia. I will find them for you."

"No, I need you to guard me dear, when I pay there ransom. If I don't they will kill them. They are family to me, I can't risk it."

"As you wish, but if there is anything else I can do."

"Your a sweat young man Dalen. I will ask if you could protect the rest of my girls when they leave tonight."

"Of course."

I didn't know what to think. I was hired to bring these people down and so far I have failed. I had to do more or this would happened again. Something had happened last night and I needed to get to the bottom of it. I needed to rescue them or I would forever feel like a failure.