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[SaintZenn]

Mostly an experiment in 1st person and giving some time to Bhaal's thoughts. Not much else going on! Sorry!

Chapter 20: Behind the God

As a god (which technically I was. Dead, but a god none the less), I had experienced much, but of the many forms I have taken, this was by far the most disturbing. With my daughter's complete essence, both divine and mortal, removed it left her empty, nothing more than a vessel waiting to be filled. If such a vessel had, oh I don't know, a shadow of a god that rarely left, then the shadow would be forced to occupy said vessel. Therefore I was pulled from the bleak realm from which I watched, waited and meddled with the lives of my children and forced into the empty body of my daughter Annalesca.

The shock on the face of the wizard was quite amusing as I introduced myself. I was rarely given the chance now a days to scare the wee mortals but it was a small consolation to watch my children work fear into the endless masses. I could only smile, waiting for him to form a intelligible word, he seemed to be choking on air and was turning the most interesting shade of red.

Ignoring the wizard I stood and walked the room, trying to adjust to my new form and taking inventory of what powers were still left from Annalesca's departed essence. It was odd walking in her body, she was of limited stature and though in life I had not been tall I was never this small. It was almost like being cut off at the knees and relearning to walk. Very confusing indeed. I smiled as I found her power, the power that could never be stolen, only reclaimed by myself.

The power that made my children's bodies live. The powers had to be tied to their mortal flesh as I could only imagine some insane mage trying to steal their abilities by taking their divine essence. I was starting to believe that my little half elf daughter was a secret worshiper of Loviatar, as she had formed her powers into the healing arts but only to heal others and hurt herself. She punished herself with each use of her power, maybe it was to justify her being one of mine. I don't know. I'm not a mind-reader, just a father.

I had been trying lately to cure her of this form of this...whatever you wanted to call it. I came to her in her dreams, as myself, I could honestly say that Alianna's appearance in the dreams was through no fault of my own, neither was Gorion's. My daughter had a fetish for punishing herself for sins that was only seen by her. Why did my children have to be confusing? The sad part was Annalesca was one of the less complicated ones, which was saying something.

I found the power that I was looking for, the important one, at least to me, the avatar of my former life, the Slayer. Ah, how I missed the days of roaming Faerun in this form, slaughtering all who crossed my path. I missed the death, the way blood would saturate the air until you could drown in it with a breath, the salty and bitter tears my victims had cried, the crush of bones beneath my feet. I used to collect the tears, I could only wonder what had happened to them, they probably disappeared along with my realm.

I considered changing into the Slayer but dismissed the idea, my daughter's clothing would never survive the transformation and she already had far too many men staring at her, she was just a child after all. If I was forced to stay in her body I would have no choice. I was not going to run around in her body for the rest of my time.

"So tell me, Red Wizard, what were you planning for my dear child?" I asked as I flopped down sideways in the chair.

"I was merely testing a theory for my good masters of Thay." The wizard smoothed the front of his robes in an obvious nervous gesture as he pocketed the crystal containing Annalesca and Sarevok. Wizard he might be, but he needed work on his sleight of hand.

"Good masters? How ever do you manage to say that with a straight face? The only government that is worse than Thay are the Drow, but of course that is a matter of how you look at it. Thayvians don't spend all their energy on planning their machinations to some bitch but to their own ambition." It was greatly amusing to watch the wizard turn red again as I laughed. I was laughing so hard I almost fell out of my seat. Wiping a tear away and still chuckling I asked the wizard, "Now, seriously, what were you planning?"

"To replace the Bhaalspawn's essence with another's." For a wizard of Thay he was being extremely tight lipped.

"Don't be coy with me wizard, you may tell me now or while I teach you a new meaning to 'spilling your guts' your choice. Though I am so hoping you pick the latter." He had the audacity to reach for his spell components, like I said, he needed work on his sleight of hand. The wizard let out a cry as I slammed him against the wall, my hand pressing against his windpipe. As I held him there I swear I could hear a faint whispering, it sounded like someone was saying, "Yes! Kill the fool! (Not that I couldn't.)" I squeezed my hand until I could feel the vocal cords of the wizard pressing into my hand, it would be so easy just to break them. I resisted only because I was curious. "I knew Thayvians were not religious but I didn't know they were stupid! I am (was) a god! Do you think that I wouldn't notice what you were doing?! Now tell me everything!" I punctuated my point by banging his head against the wall.

"I was going to use the girl- no! no like that!" He yelped when I added pressure. "I want her to kill Edwin!" The very thought of that wizard made my skin crawl and truthfully want to empty my stomach. I couldn't stand anything about Edwin, especially how he touched my daughter.

"I see. I am curious as to why you would not kill him yourself. I am assuming that you are capable beyond mistakes as these."

"He left me for this-this woman! I loved him!" Eew! He was one of those! I will be the first to admit I had little fondness for men laying with other men, now show me two ladies... I pulled my hand away from the wizard as if he had burnt me and tried to keep disgust off my face. It was beneath a god to concern himself with such mortal... oh who was I kidding! Ew! I barely resisted the urge to wipe my hands. Have I said ew yet? Because ew, just ew. I shuddered as I turned away from the wizard. I had no fear of him casting a spell now as I had taken his spell components away and it seemed with his confession (gag) the man had dissolved into tears. Men do not cry. Alright, I admit I had cried once or twice in my mortal life but that it... OK, maybe more when I was a little boy. I sighed and waited for the wizard to collect himself.

---

One thing I will give mortals, they were nosey. So nosy in fact it often went past the realm of sanity and into stupidity. I recalled once, there was a man, called himself a mind healer, ask all these weird questions and at the end declared I wanted to do something unmentionable with my own mother...

I killed him. Very slowly I might add. Poor Fred never screamed so loud. Fred? Maybe it was Floyd? Who cares? The wizard, who was apparently called Degardan, asked me the most interesting question; "What was my mortal life like?". This was the first time anyone had asked that. Most of the time it was mainly things like; "What was it like being a god?, What was it like becoming one?, Did you enjoy killing?" It was almost like being stuck in therapy hell. I have always had a very creative imagination, which at times gave me some disturbing thoughts, like after the fall of all the gods, hell for me would be getting stuck in group therapy for eternity. I could see it now.

---

"Hello, my name is Bhaal. I was the God of Murder." I would stand up in front of the circle of the Gods.

"Hello Bhaal." They would answer and of course mispronouncing my name. Then the head of the group which would no doubt turn out to be that overly annoying Ao would start questioning him.

"How do you feel about being dead?" He would start off, then continue in to wanting me to express my "feelings".

---

I shook myself out of my thoughts. I really needed to take a page out of my children's book and stop thinking. This wizard's question though brought to mind memories of the past, things that I haven't thought of in aeons. Maybe it was just being inside the body of a female, since I know I am not emotional, but I could feel pain in my chest as the memories came unbidden.


Next Chapter: Bhaal's Past!

[SaintZenn]

Warning: Long long chapter!

Chapter 21: Behind the God

Shadows. Shadows used to be my friends. Hell, I was an, no THE best damn assassin. Darkness and the cover, it provided was essential. This was different though, this was the depth of my mind. The place I had sealed away, my long ago mortal life. The world gave way fading fast. I could barely see Degarden now. Two things came to me before the shadows over took me. Degardan was smiling brightly, which really only served to show that the Thayvian had horrible oral hygiene. And speaking of Thayvians my daughter's gender confused wizard was standing in the doorway. I could not help thinking of how bad of a day I was having.

---

?Subject is a twenty-five year old human male? Hmm? I should have written that down earlier. Oh well, as I was saying, I have removed the small and large intestines, the liver, gallbladder, kidneys and stomach. Strangely the blood has not coagulated, nor had the body cooled, I have finished removing most of the skin and muscles. I have also finally sawed through the ribs, by myself I might add, no help from a certain thief.?

?Assassin?

?Whatever. Now pulling the ribs apart? Bhaal would you care to explain why this corpse is still alive??

?Mayhap ?tis no corpse.? I smiled lazily as I prodded the still beating heart. ?Mayhap ?tis an employer, one that believed he could not pay me?

?Kill him yourself then.?

?I would but he placed a geas on me. I can not kill him or I will die a horrible painful death. OF course it said nothing of drugging and dumping him on some necromancer?s chap table and of course some are far less? concerned where their materials come from?

?I would argue but you have brought me a prime specimen. Hearts removed before death are far more powerful.? Myrkul?s lips twisted into what I believe was a smile as he removed the heart. I couldn?t help smiling and practically dancing with joy as the geas fell from my body like ash.

?Nasty little things.? I commented on it.

?A trend for now, give it a couple decades and they will fall from favor.? He was giving me less than half of his attention as he placed the heart in a jar.

?Well it won?t matter anyhow, this is my last job.?


?You claim that after every job.? I opened my mouth for what would have been a really good retort had Myrkul?s assistant not shown up. The boy was the newest one as the last one went up in flames.

?Oh boy, are you collecting parts?? Jergal asked excitedly. I had to smother a laugh at the at the look the necromancer?s face. His new assistant was annoying hyper clumsy and slightly stupid. The boy never shut up and anyhow who would name their child after a god?

?Is there a reason you are here?? Myrkul?s tone went unnoticed by the child.

?Yeah, Mister Bhaal?s bratty kids are here. The short one kicked me. Well they all are short you know.? I slapped the child in the back of his head. No one called my girls brats except me. Just not in hearing distance.

---

?No, stop this at once! As the God of Murder I command you!? Bhaal yelled from inside Anni?s body. Degardan chuckled as the god struggled against the spell, oh how Edwin would hate to know that he was deed more power than him. He could control a god! His spell was a favorite of interrogators everywhere, designed to show the caster the memories they wished to see. His goal was simple, find the right memories and learn how to become a god. After all he would be a better replacement for Mystra!

?Come show me everything!?

---

Killing was not only easy money but fun too! I couldn?t help thinking. Making an easy thousand per corpse might really make this be my last job. My pouch was near bursting at the seams with all the gold I was carrying. All this gold came from murdering some woman?s family, who had cast her out like some freak because she was different and, well I dozed off at that point. I didn?t care about some sob story but the money. She had added a bonus after I managed to kill everyone at one. Some vile person had switched the hot sauce with a Potion of Fiery Burning.

Yum, extra crispy. Now the hard part? Sneaking into my own damn house.

After earning all that money the next move was to awaken my lovely Revan, a little cuddling here and there and soon we?d play Paladin and the Assassin. The noble paladin would try and convince the evil assassin to change his ways. Or maybe tonight the assassin would torture the paladin with pure pleasure. I could see it now-

?Hi daddy.? A soft voice startled me, almost causing me to lose my footing on the roof tile. I hated when she did that. They always were trying to one up me, seeing if they could get daddy to fall or make some mistake. They must have gotten that from their mother, I never meddled? much. I turned knowing I would find all three of my daughters and there they were. Jessie across the laps of Imoen and Annalesca, Imoen?s head on Annalesca?s shoulder and Annalesca smiling at me in the darkness. Now let me say one thing about my children, they all are spoiled, horribly so and I take great pride in that and in them.

At eight years old Jessie was showing signs of arcane ability, so much so that Myrkul was interested in her. I made a point of keeping her away. Her only drawback was she was beyond clumsy; in fact her first spell she cast was suppose to water the garden but instead gave her a familiar by the name of Boba who was a ferret. I approved of the ferret only because Jessie loved the thing so much, I did love the animal?s taste in thievery, and whenever we went some place Boba would have some gold coins or jewelry for us. He liked shinny things.

Then there was Imoen, who since she was four had been trying to follow in daddy?s foot steps. With pink hair and a taste in clothing of the same color, she wasn?t very good. In fact she was horrible at being a thief. The child was half dryad, which explained her hair and link with nature.

Last and not least was my oldest, Annalesca. At fourteen she was beautiful like her mother, Revan, even if she had my dark hair and pale skin and obsidian eyes. She was thankfully not interested in boys, though Revan said it would come in time, I wasn?t ready for it. For any of them to be involved with boys or girls for that matter. I wished I could keep them as children forever but alas, they would grow up.

?What are you three doing up here? Any one of you could fall and break something!?

?Then why are you up here?? Did I mention she was a bit of a smartass?

---

?Ah, the god of murder had a family, what ever happened to than I wonder?? Degarden pondered. He was curious now. He would get to the part he wanted later this what too interesting for him. He wanted to know what ?shaped- the god.

---

Chaos was always pleasant but once in a while I needed peace and quiet or at least a spot under my children?s window to listen to their quiet gossip. Every year they had newer things to talk about as it was Jessie?s tenth birthday they were talking of hairstyles, dresses I could buy for them and boys. Wait?. BOYS!? I sat up a tad too quickly and almost fell, but thanks to my wonderful skills I did not. I moved closer to the window to hear more of what they were talking about.

?Remember last year?s trip to Thay? That really cute guy with the monkey.?

?But he had long hair, Anna, that makes him a slave.:

?Yeah I could buy him and play with him.? It was at this point I lost my grip on the window and fell into the rose garden. Three voices echoed laughter. They did that on purpose didn?t they?

---

?Yes, yes, all family goodness.? Degarden sneered. He wanted the gory details, did Bhaal leave his family or did something happen to them? Bhaal was fighting him on this, on those memories. ?Show me when you planned to be a god.?

---

?Think of it, the three of us could be gods! We could do anything with such power. Well I could and would.? Myrkul beamed at myself and Bane. Gods he looked so happy, I just wanted to cut him a new mouth. He must of noticed my glaring as he buttoned his collar so no flesh showed.

?You could always try again to avenge your family. Maybe you will succeed this time.? The muscle bound freak Bane smirked at me, right before I launched myself across the table to strangle him. As Myrkul tried to pull me off and Bane turned red, my thoughts wandered to six months ago?

We had taken a trip to the Moonshae Islands, there was no way I could have known it was the home of one of my former employers. Everything was going fine, Anna was just learning the arcane arts while Imoen could now detect and disarm the easiest of traps. Jessie in the meantime was discovering new spells everyday. Revan was pregnant with twins, I remember wishing it was boys. I did need someone to carry on my name after all. My life couldn?t have been more perfect, the only gray spot was Anna?s dreams. They were becoming more violent, her dreams were of blood circled skulls, sacrifices made by empty robes of purple and red and a figure in spiked armor. When she woke at night I was the one to comfort her, the one to rock her to sleep. If only I had listened?

---

Bhaal let out a blood curdling scream, shocking both wizards watching. Degarden lost his concentration and the spell holding the former god. Bhaal rose up still screaming a primal yell, his hands tearing at the hair billowing around him.

?No! I will not relive this! Not again?? He fell to his knees, pale hands trying to catch tears that fell like blood.

?What happened to them Bhaal?? The wizard asked softly.

?Killed. Murdered and raped while I was out on an easy job, too easy. I did question it, only thing that came to mind was the money. I found them, gods, even Jessie, she was a child, how could they?? The once god stared at a mirror across the room, his tears came faster as it was not his reflection that stared back but his daughter?s. ?I started to kill everyone on that blasted island. I said I would kill everything and I would have if I wasn?t poisoned. Me, the great assassin, poisoned. Myrkul found me half dead in the slave market. The three of us became gods. I used Annalesca?s visions as a guide. She had even known I would die by Cyric?s hand.?

The god frowned. ?I couldn?t get back my family so I made them anew. All three of my daughters plus a protector. Unfortunately Sarevok went insane. So now Anna has to protect herself and her sisters.? Bhaal turned as a sound interrupted him. Degarden had been strangled by Anni?s gender confused wizard Edwin. ?Well look who it is.?

?Quiet you poor excuse for a god.? Edwin stated as he let the dead wizard fall to the floor.

?Do you think I would- wait what are you doing?!? Edwin had the crystal with Anni and Sarevok inside, he peered into it before sending it crashing to the ground. Smoke rose and slammed Bhaal into the chair, when the body blinked it was Anni again.

?Edwin? What happened?? She was trapped by the chair as he advanced on her and kissed her roughly. With her eyes closed she could feel it was still Edwin, no matter what form he was in. His lips, his tongue against hers, his hands in her hair.

He pulled away as rough as he began and met her eyes. ?No matter what guise I chose to wear, do not dare to forget who I really am.? He nipped at her lip. ?Surely you are not afraid of me in this frail form?? He kissed her again, long and hard enough they were slightly panting when they surfaced for air. ?I fear your punishment will have to wait until your restore myself to my true glory. For now let us retire from more entertainments.?

Anni nodded and as she passed him, he hugged her from behind. ?Tell that father of yours, this monkey isn?t going anywhere.? He whispered against the back of her neck. It would have been romantic if he hadn?t stumbled.

[SaintZenn]

Chapter 22 Edwin's Surprise

Note: There is some adult talk.

Anni was tired; she was both physically and emotionally exhausted. She laid in one of her lighter robes as her nightgown had suffered death at Edwin?s hands. Speaking of which, Edwina was sulking her back to the half-elf. She was mad because Anni hadn?t agreed to have fun with her. Despite their prior intimate relationship, Anni couldn?t bring herself to even touch her willingly. Oh she could have Edwina touch her but she would start getting the shakes and start to tear up, her thoughts would always turn back to Bodhi.

She tried to focus on the difference between the two, Edwina's hair was soft and clean, Bodhi's was straw like and greasy. Edwina's skin was slightly tanned while Bodhi's had been paler than milk. Bodhi was taller than both of them and had no breasts to speak of while Edwina had more than enough for the two of them. Bodhi had yellowed fangs while Edwina had straight white teeth. Still it seemed impossible to separate both, gods knew Anni would love to show Edwina things only girls knew and boys dreamed of. Anni missed Imoen more than ever, she wished she had someone to talk to.

-You could always speak to me, my child.-

"Don't you ever give up Bhaal?" She sighed.

-No. I realize you will not respond to manipulation. I realize I was...incorrect with my handling of you.-

"Did you just admit you were wrong? Is that possible??

-Please don't rub this in.-

"By the gods did you just say please? Does this sudden change have anything to do with my out of body experience? I don't remember anything and Edwin won't tell me anything."

-The dead wizard reminded me of things I had forgotten.-

"What things?"

-I will say this: living as a god for so long allowed me to forget mortal pain.-

?Mortal pain??

-I said not to pry.-

?No, you said not to rub it in.?

-Smartass. Talk to him.- She felt Bhaal recede from her mind and for once not left with negative feelings towards him or others. In fact she felt waves of warm and comfort, it felt familiar, almost like she was just hugged by her father Gorion.

?Are you finished interrupting my sleep?? Edwina quibbled. Anni ignored the remark and drew her against her, so that they lay back to chest.

?I love you Edwin, and I?m sorry we can?t do anything.? She brushed the wizardess? hair aside so she could kiss her cheek.

?I had no intention of ?doing? anything with you.?

?Yeah right, you aren?t the most subtle person Edwin. I know you have the spell to change back. I know you?re doing this for me.?

?You little snoop! I am doing no such thing. I am simply tired. (Tired of dealing with foolish women.)?. Edwina tired to push her away but she held on to her. Anni let her struggle until she grew bored with it, at that time she flipped Edwina onto her back and pushed their hands against the bed. She smiled down at the wizardess who stopped moving when she realized she was trapped. ?Get off me wench!?

?Can?t call me a wench when you?re one too.?

?Off!?

?Edwin don?t you want to listen to me?? She said ever so sweetly.

?My name is Edwina for now as I told you. (Unless Bhaal made her more forgetful.)?

?You?ll always be Edwin to me, you made me realize that, you know. Even now I can?t stop thinking of you. I feel as if you cast a spell over me.?

?It is my natural allure. (Yes, no woman could resist me.)? Anni let her hands go and rested above her on her elbows.

?How did we go so long without being together??

?Foolishness on your part, I am sure.? Now that her hands were free, Edwina?s roamed Anni?s small frame, causing her to close her eyes. ?Tell me what you miss most.?

?I can?t think when you?re doing that.? She moaned.

?Yes you can.?

?I miss you holding me, the way you wrap your hand around my braid and keep me trapped against you.? Her robe fell open as the last ribbon was undone, giving Edwina full access.

?You can do better than that.?

?Gods, what am I letting you do??

?Anything I want. (Yes and so many things to choose from.).

?I miss having you inside me, the your body dances as you enter me, I miss the way your chest hair tickles me and how you make me scream, the taste of you, the way you make me crazy with pleasure.? She said in a rush and was panting as Edwin?s hands touched her the way her body craved. Edwina smiled smugly as her lover climaxed and fell beside her still shaking. She knew she could bring the girl again but decided to hold back.

?Gods Edwin, I wish you would change back.? She panted

?In the morning when I?m rested.?

?Promise??

?I always keep my word.? She kissed her good night.

---

The morning came and with it came moaning that woke Anni. At first she thought it was coming from herself but the noise continued as she yawned. Next to her Edwina was curled into a ball, rocking back and forth.

?Edwin? What?s wrong?? She drew closer, only to place her hand in something wet. She stared at her hand and realized she was seeing blood. She suddenly had a sinking feel of what was wrong.

?I am fine. (No I am definitely not. Oh the pain.) Her voice was strained.

?You?re bleeding.?

?I know. ( State the obvious why don?t you?)?

?Where are you bleeding?? Her mumbled answer confirmed her fear. Edwina had her menses. Rising from the bed Anni when to her pack and looked for the rags she used occasionally.

?Here you?ll need these for the blood.?

?I do not need those, I will simply change back. (After the pain stops.)?

?I don?t think that a good idea, there no male equivalent for what?s happening to you. What would your body do to compensate for it??

?I already thought of that. (I can barely think pass the pain.) She snapped.

?So what will you do?? Edwina?s response was to vomit.

[SaintZenn]

Chapter 23: Troubles brewing

Warning: I'm killing off a character again and Anni didn't do it this time!



Haer?Dalis chuckled as Minsc downed another ale. His opponent in this drinking contest was looking rather green around the gills. Or at least was swaying slightly. He could not make out the person under the hood, only glimpses of ebony skin and white hair was visible. The body he had no problem making out, Minsc?s opponent was female and she could hold her ground. So far the two of them had drunk twenty pints of alcohol. This had all started from Haer?Dalis taking Minsc out for his birthday and Minsc was also celebrating his witch?s happiness. What Anni was happy about only Boo knew and wouldn?t tell Minsc. Haer?Dalis on the other hand had a feeling it had something to do with a certain cardinal. Minsc had declared that none would be able to out drink him, when the woman appeared, and with a husky voice challenged him. At first he would not drink with a woman but her aggressive attitude and voice had reminded him of the witches back home. They soon drew a crowd as they reached twenty-five pints. After thirty pints a squeaking came from Minsc?s armor.

?Ah Boo says I cannot drink further. I would lose my senses.? The woman downed one last pint and smiled.

?That means I win mate.?

?Boo says it?s fine as you?ll be sick in the morning. So I win.?

?That?s not true! I think I?m going to be sick now.? The woman covered her mouth and ran outside. The two men shared a look and followed out side. Sure enough the woman was emptying her stomach of the vile fluid. When she was finished, Haer?Dalis offered her a handkerchief, which she used to wipe her mouth and blow her nose. ?Don?t you just hate it when puke gets up your nose?? She offered the cloth back to him.

?You may keep it my crow.?

?Crow? Anni gets raven and I get crow?!? She said as she faced him. Her hood slid back and revealed what he had expected. The woman was a drow. ?I should be getting raven, I?m a fucking Drow. My skin is darker than her hair will ever been. Of course I have a tan at the moment but still!?

?You know my witch? Boo had never set eyes one you before.?

?Of course I know. I?ve been spying on you for weeks now. Oops, shit, wasn?t suppose to say that! Aah look it?s Drizzt!? Minsc looked but Haer?dalis did not.

?Very curious, let us follow her my hound and hamster.?

?But where is Drizzt? He is a great hero! Heros must meet each other.? Haer?dalis sighed and follow after the woman but quickly lost sight of her. He slowed his pace as he entered a dark alley and was shocked as pain shot down his side. Looking down there was some type of dart sticking out of his arm. His knees buckled and he landed on the ground. He tried to move but he couldn?t. The more he tried the more the pain hurt.

?Ah teifling skin, this will go well with my creation.? A male voice sounded above him.


Meanwhile Minsc had given up on seeing the noble Drizzt and decided to follow his companion. After a few minutes of wandering around, he saw him laying in a puddle and walked right up to him.

?You cannot handle your ale either my friend. Minsc understands, let me help you up.? At the moment he lifted him, a man cried out and he realized it was his friend. Laying him on his back, Minsc stared in horror at his friend?s once handsome face. Haer?dalis had been skinned alive. ?Who has done this my friend tell me, so that I might avenge you.

?A.... man...tan....? His head fell back. Minsc held his friend in shock. Suddenly there was shouting all around him. Screams of ?Skinner!? went through the gathering crowd.

---

She couldn?t change back. She felt bloated, cranky and like she was wearing a diaper. Today was not a good day. Edwin, or Edwina as she was now calling herself, was finding a new found respect for women. She decided she was not a mewling infant, she was a grand wizardess of Thay! She had done this purposely, not some mistake, a wizard of Thay never made mistakes. Nay, never. She would inform the others the change had been done for Anni?s sake, so to train her to not be afraid of Bodhi. If she could get her to do what they did last night, surely she could overcome the fear. Anni had gone down stairs earlier for breakfast and it was past time to join her. Edwina had donned one of Anni?s larger robes, a nice shade of red of course. Clothed and armed with a versatile and endless supply of verbal onslaught, she was ready to take on the world.... Or at least her companions.

---

Anomen sat opposite of Lady Anni, watching her devour her food as if she would never eat again. He stared at her trying to find the best way to approach the subject of Edwin?s infidelity. He felt she was far too forgiving and would accept his excuses if caught. Nevertheless he would have to tell her, the very dictates of honor demanded it. ?My lady, I must speak on Edwin?s behavior this past night.? She looked up and blinked.

?You know??

?I?m afraid so. I?m surprised you knew.?

?Of course I knew, I was there.?

?You allow him to carry on in such a fashion??

?Well it?s not as if I have any control over him.?

?My lady is it wise to be involved with one like him??

She smiled slightly. ?No, not wise at all but we love each other, that?s all that matters.?

?And for love you would allow him in the arms of another woman?? Anni choked on her drink.

?Another woman!? What are you talking about??

?What were you talking about??

?The Nether Scroll accident! I would... do something really really... bad if he touched another woman.?

?I saw him this past night with a woman in black.? Anni stood and marched over to a woman in red and grabbed her wrist and pulled her back to the table.

?Anomen says that you were with another woman last night! How the hells did you manage that Edwin? Was it while Degarden had me or one of the times you slipped out of the room.?

?What is this nonsense you spout? (Helmet boy would try to break up a coupling as powerful as mine.)?

?My lady, who is this woman? I daresay that you will hurt her if you do not let go.?

?It?s Edwin, he changed himself into a woman.?

?On purpose. (Yes must not forget to add that.) Anni needs to be prepared to face Bodhi without fear.?

?He misjudged his ability with magic, I am guessing.?

?Quite.?

?The grand wizard of Thay is not so grand after all.? Jaheira smiled as she approached them.

?This was not an accident! ( I never make mistakes. ) As I said this was to train Anni for her next encounter with Bodhi.?

?Edwin, I daresay the lady doth protest too much.?

?Enough about that. I want to know about this other woman!?

?There is no other woman, unless you are counting myself.?

?Anomen, are you sure it was Edwin??

?I have not seen any who wear the robes of Thay in this city besides him.? Edwina pinched the bridge of her nose and sighed.

?Has it occurred to either of you, that it was indeed myself you saw kissing a woman. A woman named Anni.?

?The woman was dressed in clothing that I cannot imagine Lady Anni wearing.?

?Anni what did you wear last night for me?? Anni?s face turned bright red. She released Edwina and sat down and turned her attention back to her food.

?Nothing never mind.? Edwina chuckled and leaned down to whisper in her ear.

?I recall you were wearing something for my pleasure and later nothing for the same. Jealousy does not become you.?

?The woman was me. Let?s drop this and forget we ever brought this up, okay?? Anni stared down at her plate. Edwina chuckled as she laid a kiss on the half-elf?s neck. She may have been kissing Anni but the look was for Anomen, the look was no where near friendly.

?As amusing as this all was, we must meet with Galverey today. We have put it off long enough. I for one would like to find out what he wishes with Anni.? Jaheira proclaimed.

?Probably just wants to kill me.? Anni muttered as she picked at her food.

?Not everyone is out to kill you.?

?You owe me if they try to kill me.? Jaheira sighed.

?Fine, but I am telling you the Harpers would not bring violence on you without just cause.?

?Trust me. Someone will find a reason. Who knows it could be because I like the color red.? She looked at Edwina when she said that.

?Nonsense child. They most likely wish to... acquire your help.?

?You mean doing something that will have little reward except the reward of doing it. ( When will this cease! ).

?The greater reward is helping people that need help.?

?The greater reward is power and wealth. ( As it is in Thay, it is here.)

?Would you two stop bickering! And where is Haer?dalis? And Minsc for that matter.? Anni questioned.

?I have not seen them since this past night, my lady, I do believe Haer?dalis took Minsc out to celebrate.?

?Do you know where? We really need to get a move on.?

?We would not be so hurried if you hadn?t spent two days in bed.? Jaheira leveled a look at the girl, who turn bright red.

?We were doing research on the Nether Scroll.? Anni said in her most innocent voice.

?More like research on the human anatomy.? Jaheira retorted.

?No, I found myself more interested in a certain half-elf?s anatomy.? Edwina replied with a smile on her face.

?Really, must we discuss my sex life??

?I agree with Lady Anni, she had made her own bed, it is not for us to quibble about.?

?I find it a most interesting subject, it turns Anni such an interesting shade of red. Almost as red as when she c-?

?Finish that sentence and no one will walk out of here.? Anni whispered as blood rushed to her cheeks. Edwina smiled and brushed a kiss across her lips.

-Yes, please don?t let him finish that sentence. It?s bad enough every time I come back to you, you are at each other like rabbits. I don?t need to hear about what color you turn when he, she of all people does things. And for the record I would like to note that I do not approve of you being with a wizard, you need a protector, someone who can keep you safe.-

?This whole father-daughter friendliness thing is creeping me out. And I think Edwin is perfectly capable of protecting me.? She whispered under her breath at her father, Bhaal.

-We will see, in the mean time I suggest you handle that.- Though he really couldn?t point, she turned her head as if he had and found a man standing at their table.

?Can we help you??

---

?He?s been put in the strongest chains we have, he kept opening up the cells, like they were made out of paper, yelling that he must inform his witch of what had happened to an ally.? The guard stated as they passed several cells full of criminals.

?I don?t understand, why is he being held?? Anni asked.

?He is being held for questioning on the Skinner murders. He was at the last scene and knew the victim.?

?Wait, who is the victim??

?I do not know, he refuses to answer any of our questions, he keeps yelling that we must ?kick the butts of evil?.?

?I think I can get him to talk. I?m his witch.?

?Do you have a licence?? Anni reached into her inner pocket and withdrew her licence, handing it to the guard.

?Anni and Edwin Odesseiron. Did you leave your husband outside??

?We are not married, she merely has no title, the wizards used mine.?

-Sad, she didn?t say you were married? Be glad I think it?s banned here for two females to marry.- Bhaal comforted her.

?This says Edwin, I thought it was a man?s name.? The guard looked over Edwina?s voluptuous body.

?She is a man, he or she turned himself into a woman by misreading a spell.? Anni stated as she took back the licence and smiled at Edwina?s redden face.

-Careful, pumpkin. You wouldn?t want her to stop the sex. Wait never mind. Go ahead and piss her off.-

?It was not a mistake! (I never make mistakes!)?

?Ladies, please this way.? The guard motioned to a door while the two stared each other down.

It was Anni who looked away first and mumbled, ?I?m sorry.? She turned away and looked into the room where Minsc was being held. There he was, chained to a bed, his struggles ceased when he saw the two women.

?Ah ha! My witch has found me! This is good, we must find the evil villain who slain Haer?dalis!? She gasped, her hands going to her mouth as she let out a small sound. ?Minsc did not mean for his witch to cry, Boo will comfort you.? Just like that Boo appeared on Minsc? wide chest, leaning on his back paws, waiting to be picked up. Anni leaned down and held out her hands, Boo climbed onto them and allowed her to cuddle the small animal to her chest.

?Those robes will have to be washed before you touch me again. ( I shudder to think of the germs on that animal.)? Edwina took a look at Anni?s tearful face and sighed. It look like she would have to do the work, like always. ?What happened this past night, O lumbering fool??

?Who is this woman who speaks to me and wear clothes of that scoundrel Edwin??

?Mind your own concerns, you stone-headed oaf!?

?Such a temperament! Fire in her belly and not afraid to spit in an eye! It reminds me of the fighting women of my homeland! If only little Boo were to admire you as well. Ah sweet lady, you bring me tears.?

?Bah, tears indeed. (More pain behind the eyes. This is a bad sign. Yes, no good can come of it.)?

?Minsc, Boo this is Edwin.? She placed Boo back on his chest and sat down next to him on the bed. ?You need to tell me what happened, what happened to Haer?dalis?? Minsc talked of the previous night, explaining everything that happened even down to his puzzlement over the disappearance of Drizzt. ?So this drow, could she be the one that killed Haer?dalis??

?Boo and I do not think so, but she might have seen something our eyes did not.?

?Can he be let go??

?Not unless other evidence comes to light.?

?Minsc can you stay here until I come to fetch you??

?I will do as my witch commands. But please keep Boo safe, it?s too cold for him here.?

?I will Minsc.? She leaned over and kissed his forehead and picked up the giant miniature hamster. ?We?ll be back.? She promised.

Anni and Edwina followed the guard out of the room and through the prison. Boo took up residents in her inner pocket it, chewing on a sunflower seed, Anni had given him

?What is the news?? Jaheira greeted them as they exited the prison.

?The lumbering oaf is accused of killing Haer?dalis. They seem to believe it because of the fight he put up against the guards and his multiple escape attempts.? Edwina replied.

?Haer?dalis is dead. By the gods he?s dead.? Anni turned grief stricken eyes to Jaheira. The druid walked over and slapped her.

?This is not the time nor place to allow yourself to collapse. Gather yourself up, I do not need a crying child to hinder our explorations into this matter.? Jaheira said coldly. Edwina started to step forward, her eyes flashing anger, but a hand on hers stopped her.

?You are correct as always Jaheira. We need to find out what happened. You and Anomen see what you can find out from the guards and the Inspector. I will tend to Haer?dalis? funeral arrangements. Edwin go to the Bridge district and see if you can find that drow, she might know something.? Nodding Jaheira and Anomen left, while Edwina hung back.

?She had no right to slap you. (I strictly reserve that right and only on the bottom, at that.)?

?Edwin, I would have cried all day if she hadn?t.? She sighed. She was pulled into a crushing hug, her hair being stroked.

?Next time turn to me. There is no reason for you to hold misery inside.? She was kissed and then left alone to tend to her duties.

?Thank you Edwin.? She whispered.

[SaintZenn]

Chapter 24- The Drow

Ly felt bad for the previous night, sure Haer̀Dalis may have been annoying but that didn?t mean he should die. His latest poem was actually good. If she remembered correctly, it went something like this:

"I once knew a Red Mage of Thay
Who dreamed of lichdom some day.
He said he knew how to do it
But he still managed to screw it
up in the funniest way"

She knew that he had known about Edwin?s transformation but not how he knew. Though if she recalled correctly Anni?s bedroom had been right next to his. She shrugged, it really didn?t matter, she had no room to complain when it came to spying on people. Speaking of spying on people, she was busy watching Haer?dalis? raven. The girl was with Dawnmaster Talus preparing the poet?s body for burial.

Anni shed quiet tears as she went through the rites, she had never known what god Haer?dalis worshiped so she stuck to what she knew. This was the second friend she was burying Dynaheir being the first, but she had Minsc? knowledge of her to help. When it came down to it, she really didn?t know anything about him but Anni was supposed to be the leader, she should have known more about him. Maybe if she hadn?t fallen asleep so early and listened to his stories, or asked him about himself maybe she would have known.

-Stop it Annalesca. You never had time to get to know your companion. I was always at your throat commanding you to do things. I was the one who never let you get close to your friends. Remember your teachings, from death, life.- Bhaal chided gently. Her hands jerked as she continued with her duties

?Stop calling me Annalesca. It?s Anni to everyone.? She whispered.

-My darling daughter, I will call you by the name I gave you. The common simians may call you Anni but not I. (No your name is special.)..... Please tell me I did not just speak like that gender-confused friend of yours.- Anni burst out laughing, ignoring the look from the priest.

?You can?t even call him my lover, that?s what he is. Much, much closer than a friend.? She snickered at the disgust she could feel from Bhaal.

-I suppose he is your lover. Though I would be better appeased if he was a warrior, someone who would do well in your upcoming fights.-

?I have Minsc. I?m his witch if you did forget. He will protect me with all his might.?

-Yes I can see he?s protecting you very well inside of his little cell.-

?I just need to find a way to prove his innocence.?

-Start by asking the cleric to leave. Then aim a dart into the shadows to your upper left. Right where the shadows are darker than the rest.-

?Excuse me Dawnmaster Talus, could leave me alone with my friend for a while.?

?Of course, call if you need further assistance.? Anni smiled as she watched the cleric leave, after he left she followed Bhaal?s instructions on where to stand.

Ly watched as the girl rid herself of the cleric, and watched her move around the body making small adjustments. She wasn?t prepared for the dart that came her way. It barely missed her head, in her startled state she lost her footing and tumbled to the ground. She also wasn?t prepared for how hard the ground was when she fell on it, she hadn?t fallen in a while, well except the past night but it wasn?t her fault that the roof collapsed. Maybe she needed to lose weight . . . Whatever the problem had been. She was staring into the eyes of another. Anni stood with her staff against her neck, and she could tell it was the sharpened end. The look in the girl?s eyes made her want to go back to the shadows, right now. Not later. Now.

?Who are you? Are you the drow that Minsc spoke of??

?Unless that beautiful giant of yours met another, I am she. I am Ly.?

?Did you killed Haer?dalis??

?Why would I kill one of your party members when I?ve been following you for weeks? I doubt the best way to get close to you is to kill the ones you love or at least care for.?

?Why would you want to get close to me?? Her eyes narrowed as she stared at the drow. ?Are you working for Irenicus??

?Fuck no! I?m working for Gaelan Bayle through him Aran Linvail, the Shadowmaster of Athkatla.?

?So you know how to get to Imoen then??

?Yeah, you just need five thousand since I paid ten since it seems you keep giving money to the churches and since I?m probably at fault for your friends death, to kinda even the score you know??

?Oh. I really have no idea what to say.? Anni stood still with her staff at the drow?s neck and thought of her next move.

-Ask her what she saw. Get some proof of her word.-

?Tell me what you saw yestereve. I need proof that Minsc is innocent.?

?Look it was this really creepy guy who was wearing someone else?s skin, it couldn?t have been his, it didn?t fit right in the face, I can?t explain how but I just knew that wasn?t his real skin. I think he might be a skin dancer, a creature that wears the skins of others. I couldn?t stop your friend?s death but I managed to follow him back to the tanner?s.?

?Why couldn?t you stop it??

?It saw me and said ?beautiful drow skin to add to my collection it will go well with my Avariel shirt? and started after me but he found the poet first. I was too scared to come back until I heard people screaming ?Skinner!?. I don?t like things that want to wear me. One of my biggest fears, one of the ways my god keeps me in line.?

-Ah yes, I remember that how a few of us kept our chosen in line. ?Don?t do this or I?ll skin you alive and let you stay that way.? Hehehe.-

?Okay, say I believe you, now what??

?You can take your pointy stick-?

?Staff.?

?Staff away from my neck and let me get up and we?ll get Minsc out of prison.?

-I believe that you can trust her. Now ease up on your staff.- Anni did like Bhaal told her and let Ly climb to her feet.

?So let?s go get the gang, and I?ll tell them.?

?No first we finish with Haer?dalis.? Anni said solemnly.

---

Anomen and Jaheira walked cautiously through the graveyard, the last visit here had not been pleasant, but it was daylight and surely there wouldn?t be a repeat of the last incident. Nevertheless they were prepared if something happened, but they weren?t prepared for the sight that greeted them. Anni was there in bright robes of rose red, yellow and pink, while next to her was a drow dress in nothing more than a top that barely covered her small breasts and left her flat stomach for all to see, she also wore a skirt that was more a piece of cloth, it was down to mid-thigh and split on the sides. The drow didn?t make any attempt to hide from anyone but had a more of a ?come look at me? look. Anomen stopped and took in the appearance of the woman. He had seen prostitutes wearing less that didn?t affect him like this woman did. Jaheira bumped into him when he suddenly stopped walking.

?Anomen, do not stop like that, you are like a steel mountain in that armor. Is there something wrong? Oh I see.? She smiled at the look on his face. ?Do not look so shocked, you are a young man after all.?

?What? I never . . . I mean-?

?Move tin monkey. I want this ceremony over as quickly as possible.?

?Why Edwina do you actually care for Haer?dalis and are uncomfortable at his funeral?? Jaheira asked.

?Of course not. I could care less. (I will miss his musing, just not the ones about me.)?

?So the wizard does have emotions for others. I wonder what other changes we will see in this new wizard of ours??

?I am not your wizard, druid!?

?No, you are Anni?s. Love changes everyone.? A soft very un-Jaheira like smile crossed her lips. Edwina looked at her in surprise and started to sputter.

?I am not in lov-?

?What are you guys waiting for? Get over here.? Anni yelled from the grave sight. Edwina flushed as she turned away from her companions and walked to Anni?s side.

?Anni confessed that she loved Edwin, how can he not love her back?? Anomen asked quietly.

?Some people have a harder time resigning themselves to their emotions. I would know. Let us be done with this.?

---

After the funeral they retired to Ly?s guild house. She explained to them that after they had killed Mae?var she had been given the place for all her hard work and on the condition that she spy on Anni and the gang. When asked why they would need spying on, she simply shrugged and replied she just followed orders like a good little drone. She wasn?t very forth coming with information of how long she had been spying on them, she skirted the issue and would play with the ring on her hand. She explained that she wanted to journey with them, instead of spying from the shadows, she really hated spying.

They discussed the fact they had no thief with them, they would need someone to help with traps until they could free Imoen. Anni had suggested that they might need Ly after finding Imoen, she had a feeling that not all would be right with her. They tentatively agreed that they might need her. She had also mentioned the fact she knew one of the prisoners at Spellhold and that they would be able to help them. At that point Anomen had a confession to make.

?My younger cousin, Yuri was arrested and placed there I believe.?

?You mean Yuri Imlach, the most accident prone wild mage in Athkatla.?

?You know of my cousin?? Anomen was surprised, surely Yuri couldn?t be that accident prone.

?Of course, he works with the Shadow Thieves. He-?

?Yuri does no such thing! He comes from an honorable family.?

?Wow is this awkward. Yu never told you did he??

?My cousin is not a Shadow Thief.? Anomen paretically growled in Ly?s face.

?Right and I?m not a drow. I?m just a heavily tanned golden elf.? Sarcasm laced her voice. He had to be held back by Anni and Jaheira to keep him from launching himself at her. Anomen repeated himself and Ly rolled her eyes. ?Yell all you want, would you like me to parade all the ones here who knows him? Where do you think he?s been able to acquire a licence for magic? From the thousands your father never gave him after Cahan?s death? Whom do you think has been there for him these past years, where do you think he?s been living? Whom do you think help him find out if Yusef was truly in love with Moira and not just using her? How do you think he?s been living for the last sixteen years? You never bothered asking him!? Ly was standing, her chair knocked to the ground, she was nose to nose with him. ?I?ve been the one there for him, the Shadow Thieves have been his family, we have provided for him while your father spent every piece of gold that should have been his. Didn?t you wonder why money stopped rolling in when you turned eighteen? The Radiant Heart had stopped paying for Yuri, they finally found out that he wasn?t living with Cor and hadn?t been for years. He?s been living here in this very guild under Mae?var?s thumb until another wizard replaced him. He was free to do Aran?s bidding then. One order being, go to Spellhold and watch the mage Irenicus.? She fairly shouted into his face. Sensing what was going on, members of the guild rushed forward to grab her and stop her from doing something stupid, something she would regret.

?She is correct. I replaced a wizard named Yuri when Mae?var hired me. (Too many wild bursts for Mae?var?s tastes.)? Anomen sat down with a thunk, his head in his hands, he was shaking his head over and over.

?No, it can?t be. Yuri went to live with one of his uncles, the one on his mother?s side. He wouldn?t lie to me.? He said half to himself.

?He didn?t lie. Aran Linvail, the Shadowmaster is his uncle. His uncle was making a power play most of Yu?s childhood and teen years. I was asked to guard Yu. We became best mates along the way. He must have told you about me.? The guild members ease off of Ly, letting her back on her feet, they moved back but still hovered nearby.

?He mentioned a drow friend but never told me the name. We saw so little of each other after Uncle Cahan died in the fire, he was supposed to live with me and Moira but he ran away. Another person in my life I was held back from because of Cor.?

?He was happy here. He was accepted for his skills with inventions and magic. We only had to rebuild the guild twice because of him.? She smiled in memory.

?To slip so far from grace, from honor, to thievery. If only I could have protected him.? It was Ly that had to stop her guild jumping him this time. ?And to be replaced by the Thayvian of all people!? Jaheira had to hold back Anni and Edwina.

?Anomen if you have forgotten, Imoen is a thief. She?s been stealing drinks from Winthrop for the two of us since we hit puberty. It doesn?t make her any less of a woman because of it.?

?No it just made you drunks.? Jaheira muttered. She received a black look from said drunk.

?I was more suited to Mae?var tastes, I had no problem with my craft. (Do not tell me I comforted him! What is wrong with me? Must be this female form, yes that?s it.)?

?I apologize. I did not mean to harm anyone?s feelings.? Anomen lifted his head out of his hands. Ly shooed her people out of the room and sat back down.

?Anomen I can understand your feelings but you must realize Aran only did what he could for Yuri. He is a good man, one that is offering to provide transportation to Brynnlaw. It?s where Spellhold is, where Yuri and Imoen are. I?m sure he?s taking good care of her.? She smiled slightly. -Very good care of her.- She thought to herself. Before any more could be said, a young man ran into the room with several others screaming. ?What?s going on??

?Bodhi, she?s attacking!?

?Clara gather the apprentices and get them out of her. Josh, send a message to Renal, and you go to Aran quickly!? She barked out the orders. ?That?s our cue to play kiddies.? Ly unsheathed her short sword. The blade was almost as black as her skin. ?Anni and Edwina stick with me. The rest of you follow Ellie back toward the fight. Keep them from entering the inner sanctum!?

?Wait why are we going with you?? Anni asked.

?I saw what happened when you last faced Bodhi, I have a whole guild to protect, I can?t let you rampage here. Maybe some other time but not here.? Ly lead the two women to a room and shoved them inside. ?Stay in here! I don?t care what my god or Aran thinks if you hurt my people, I?ll hurt you.? She said before closing the door and locking it. She meant what she said, she truly hoped that she would be listened to, she didn?t feel like being at the mercy of her god for eternity.
---

Bodhi looked on as her fledglings swarmed the guild house, their blood hooded cloaks protecting them from the sun. Beside her was Rejiek, the skin dancer under her employ. ?I told you to take out the girl?s protector, but you merely had him imprisoned. I will give you one chance to redeem yourself. Her companions must be destroyed, Irenicus is concerned about the mage she travels with, she seems to have a semblance of control over the bhaal spawn. That is your target, kill the mage Edwina.? Bodhi watched the skin dancer enter the guild in all the chaos. She didn?t feel like having another encounter with the girl so soon. The last one had almost been deadly, who knew what power the girl had hidden away. Irenicus had better kill the girl once they were done with her, if not she had her plan.

----
And Ly for you drow lovers...

[SaintZenn]

The Destruction of Imoen

Yuri decided he liked cuddling. Not that he hadn?t done it before as a child with Ly but this was different. Ly had always been like a big security blanket, hiding with her when things among the Shadow Thieves got too tough. This cuddling was more, he knew he could kiss the one in his arms and get a response he had been craving since he first saw her. She was far from being Ly, he knew without a doubt that Imoen was his soul mate. Of course had Ly been listening she would have laughed her ass off. This was about the third time he thought he had found his mate in life. He knew that Ly had used his emotions to manipulate him into going to Spellhold, but he also knew it had been an order from Uncle Aran.

Either way he would have gone, but the way Ly had put it, it had sound romantic. Protecting the young lady from the clutches of the evil wizard. Yes, it had sound like something a hero like his other uncle would do. He like to think of his mission being that and not just watching over that creature Irenicus. He also like that Imoen had fallen for him and that she was letting him hold her while they slept. He knew that she felt the connection between them. At least that was what he was hoping.

Truth be known Imoen had more experience with women than he did. Oh he knew the mechanics of it, he just never did it. He, like his two cousins, had been raised with the belief that sex was only after marriage. Of course his young cousin Moira was breaking that rule since she met Yusef, they were hoping for a baby and soon, that way Cor and Saerk had to allow them to marry. Of course knowing Cor he might just murder one of them and set another fire but there would be no one to blame it on this time. Anomen couldn?t be blamed as he wasn?t a mage nor was Moira. Yuri was the only mage in the whole family, unless Cor was hiding something.

He wondered briefly if his Uncle Keldorn was watching over Anomen and Moira, he hoped so. Of course he hoped that his uncle was doing in his spare time, his uncle had a habit of putting his wife and daughters last and not thinking of the harm it did to them. In Yuri?s short life, Aunt Maria had threatened to walk out on him no less than three times. The last he heard she was actually seen with another man. Why did his family have to be so complicated?

As far as he knew Anomen and himself were the oldest virgins in the family. He grinned he knew he would lose his before Anomen ever thought of it, but then again if his friend had her way Ano was in for an experience of a lifetime. Yuri didn?t envy him, she was a handful and speaking of handfuls, his was awakening.

Imoen cuddled back into his warmth, not aware of the effects she was having on his body. She sifted in his arms, knowing he couldn?t be comfortable with her laying on his arm. Lonk had just opened the cells for the day, griping about the two of them being in the same cell. She still didn?t know how Yuri managed that. She was happy in his arms, he brought her comfort that she had never known was missing. Of course she could just be using him as a replacement for Anni. It had been hard on her when Anni had fallen in love with Edwin last year. She still couldn?t believe that she had fallen for such a self-centered person. He always was calling people ?monkey? or was insulting them. He insulted Anni worse and worse as their time together went by.

By time they finished with Sarevok, Imoen had wanted to kill Edwin, but Tazok had done that. Unfortunately Jaheira saw fit to raise him at Anni?s instance, they hadn?t raised Dynaheira, but they raise him. She could suppose that she was still jealous. She still loved Anni in every way and it hurt that she couldn?t see what kind of person he was. It also hurt to think that the last time they were together, it had been pity sex. It was after Viconia...not she would not think of that. Even after Edwin left them, they never went back to being lovers, just very close friends and nothing more. Imoen almost wished that they were sisters, so they could share a bond that no one could ever come between.

Why was she thinking of all this? She questioned herself. Was she purposely trying to make herself miserable? Yuri apparently cared for her, even if she was a complete stranger to him. Love at first sight, he had told her. As far as she knew only Gorion, Puffguts and Anni had ever loved her. The idea that someone would love her when they had seen Anni was odd, most people reacted to Anni and brushed her off as childish and unworthy of attention, at least that kind. It wasn?t that Anni was super beautiful. Khalid had once told her it was because she kept everything inside, that her beauty was one of misery or had it been mystery? Either way Imoen knew that her best friend did indeed keep her emotions under tight lock, along with her memories. They had disagreed many times over what people were told when they asked about their childhoods.

Anni wanted to pretend that everything had been fine, while Imoen wanted people to know about the racism that went on at the famous library castle. She wanted people to know that Gorion had been a man to stand up to it, that he was also a hero and not just for past deeds. Gorion had known about the racism and tried in vain for it to stop. He had never told Anni that he knew, but him and Imoen had talks at a length. She knew that Gorion knew she was half-dryad, something she had covered up for years. She had seen how the nobles and their children at Candlekeep treated Anni with her elven blood and had decided from day one not to let anyone know about her heritage, using potions of dark red to mask her pink hair. Gorion had understood. She missed that the most about him, he was the only one that treated her more than a child, like she was as smart as the next person. Kind of how Yuri was treating her. Yuri didn?t think she was a child at all or that she was childish. She couldn?t say that she loved him but she was starting to like him. It was hard not to like him, he was goofy but she could see inside him, he was just like her.

She had tested him the night before and told him about her being half human and he had just shrugged and said, ?So??. She had been at a loss for words. No one had ever just let something like a half breed go. Anni, Jaheira and Khalid were named heroes for defending Baldur?s Gate, but they still had received sneers from nobles and common folk alike. Jaheira and Khalid had ignored it but she could tell it bother Anni. Thinking of the time with the two women made her smile, she missed her friends. She wanted to be with them again, she wanted to go back in time and stop Anni and herself from ever leaving the protection of the city. Even if it meant that they would now be in prison. Surely it couldn?t be worse than what had happened? She wanted to erase all the bad things that had happened at the hands of Irenicus and Bodhi. She could say without remorse that Bodhi was a soulless creature. She wasn?t a woman, she was a disgusting... thingy. Irenicus had seemed more interesting in testing her than torturing her, while Bodhi was just looking for what she called fun.

?Are you cold?? Yuri asked as he felt her shudder.

?No, just some bad memories.?

?Don?t worry, you?re safe with me. No one will hurt you as long as I?m around, I promise.?

?Really, I would inquire to which lengths you would go to keep that promise.? Yuri turned his head in slow horror. It couldn?t, please for the love of Helm, please don?t let it be. Unfortunately Helm didn?t spare him the sight of the leather masked Irenicus. He pushed Imoen behind him as they sat up in bed.

?What do you want?? He demanded of the wizard.


?With you nothing, now the god child is another matter.? Yuri launched himself off the bed and went straight for his throat. Irenicus only batted him aside with one blow, he bounced off the wall, hitting his head and slumping to the ground.

?Imoen...? Yuri sighed as he lost consciousness.

?What are you going to do to me??

?No more than I will do to your sister.?

?But I have no sister!? She was torn between checking on Yuri and cowering further back into the room. She was no hero, she was scared, she wanted to flee but he was blocking the only exit. She tried to think of what he was talking about. She remember her mother, a lone dryad with only a house and a tree. She remembered that men use to come to her mother because she was so beautiful. She knew she was an only child, she vaguely remembered a man in black calling her daughter but her mother told her that her father was dead. Could she have other sisters and brothers she didn?t know about? Wouldn?t her mother have told her before turning her over to Gorion? It hurt to think of her mother, how she saw the tree burning as Gorion and her left town. ?Who is my sister?? Irenicus chuckled, it grated on her nerves.

?Now Imoen, after all this time you still can?t feel the link with your father? I will have to rectify that.?

?I never knew my father as far as I know he?s dead.?

?Yes, your father is quite dead, has been for some time. Your lesser siblings have been unsuited for my plans but you and Anni are perfect for Bodhi and I.? Imoen cringed at the name of the vampire. ?But come Imoen, time is wasting.?

?I?m not going anywhere with you.? She shook her head.

?Imoen, I have been gentle with you up till now but I see force is necessary now.? He said as he closed in on her.

---

She tried to find the invisible seem in the glass but couldn?t. She was in a glass container, he had put her in it. Why was this happening to her? What was happening to her? She beat on the glass, trying to break it. But what good would it do her? She was trapped and there was no one to run to her rescue this time. She looked around and saw others in containers, they looked like thieves. She could hear some of them screaming as green gas poured into their chambers, each one dropped to the ground, it was like watching a circle of death. She stared down at the floor of her chamber and waited for the gas to come into hers but instead she felt something dark and evil suddenly suffocating her. Invisible claws tore at her closed mouth, forcing it open and power ran into her mouth and inside her. She past out before it became painful.

---

This is not how I imagined things would go. Imoen was always the innocent one. I always left her alone, pressuring Anni to take care of her without actually telling her that Imoen was her sister. Considering what they did, I thought it would be best not to ever bring it up. As long as they were together and happy, I couldn?t care less what they did... I just made sure never to be in their minds when they did stuff. I knew Imoen and Anni loved each other, which I was very happy about. Imoen?s mother had listened to me when I instructed her in giving her to the old harper. I was a little sad that she had killed herself, she had been one of my more faithful but she had served her purpose. Now I was faced with Imoen, I had been rudely summoned into her and could feel something draining her, leaving only my taint behind. She faced me and stared at me.

?Who are you? What?s going on?? She looked around but everything here was pink, her favorite color and it was slowly draining away.

?I wanted to avoid this Imoen. I truly did.?

?Avoid what? Why is everything going black??

?He?s taking your divine essence. He?s taking your soul, leaving just me behind.?

?Divine? What?s going on? Where am I?? She was starting to become anxious.

?You are my daughter, I am your father, I am Bhaal.?

?No this isn?t real! Irenicus is messing with my mind again! I?m not a Bhaalspawn! Anni is but not me. She would have known! Gorion would have known! Someone would have told me!? She was crying hysterically. I walked to her and took her in my arms, she had never seen me in armor so I was able to appear as Bhaal the mortal and not the god. I held her even as her soul was taken from her. I was going to get my hands on Irenicus one way or another...

---

?Lonk! Let me out! Where is Imoen!?? Yuri screamed from inside the closed cell. He had been screaming for over an hour now, but not a soul answered. He sat down on the bed and ran a hand through his spiky blonde hair. Where was Imoen? As if the gods had heard him, the door opened and Imoen came inside. Her eyes were hollow, there was no one home as she just stood there as the cell closed again. ?Imoen are you alright? Gods, I was so worried about you! Imoen??

?So...empty. It...was...there...and...now...it?s...gone.? He went to her and had her sit down on the bed. He took her face in his hands and looked at her. He couldn?t feel his connection to her anymore. Something was wrong but what he couldn?t figure out. He tried talking to her but she just stared right past him. She wasn?t seeing anything.

?Immy please talk to me what happened??

?I can see it...death...it?s so pretty.?

?Imoen! You?re not making sense what happen??

?He took it from me...he stole it.?

?Stole what??

?Everything...good.?

---


Anni gripped her head as pain shot through it. Something was wrong, Imoen?s name kept coming in to her mind.

?What? What is wrong? (Besides the fact we are locked in a room during an attack and there?s a bed we could be using.)?

?Something bad happened to Imoen. I can feel it. I don?t know how but I can feel it, she?s always with me but now it feels like she?s gone.? She walked to the window and opened it, letting the sun shine on her, failing to warm a deep dark place inside of her. ?Immy, what happened?? She clasped her hands around the symbol of Lathander, an oval cut pink quartz. It may not be dawn but the sun was out and shining. ?Please, let my friend be guided by your light.? She prayed. Edwina came over and put her hands on her shoulders.

?I?m sure Imoen is fine.? At that moment a robin chose to fly onto the window sill and started to sing.

[SaintZenn]

Chapter 26 - The attack
Scribe: A little naughtiness bewteen two characters nothing really bad. I hope.


Anomen stood holding the holy symbol of Helm high as he chanted his lord?s prayer, repelling the vampires somewhat. They were staying back but they just decided to go around him, through the walls no less.

?No fair! That?s cheating, you sons of bitches!? Ly screamed as she brought her black blade down on a surprised vampire, piercing it?s heart. Another one jumped on her back, Jaheira was more than happy to slice its head off with her scimitar.

?I have dealt with vampires before, these are freshly created. They are easy to kill!? Jaheira commented as she swung at another one. They were filling the place like roaches over last night?s wastes. It was getting harder to tell who was a thief and who was a vampire, everyone appeared to be wearing black. No, she could feel that some of the hoods were drenched in blood but without going to feel each person before she attacked, it was impossible to tell everyone apart. Her infravision was useless as the hooded cloaks her thieves used showed up as room temperature and vampires naturally showed up dead but with the blood on the cloak, they too showed up the same. She might as well be a human, Ly thought with some disgust.

?They?re just trying to wear us down.? Anomen shouted between prayers, one vampire came too close and burst into flames.

?And ruin my guild while they?re at it!? She slashed at another vampire, there were too many of them, freshly made or not. The vampires were slowly overcoming them. Ly?s people were mostly apprentices, still learning the basics, most of them weren?t any where near ready to fight a guard, much less a vampire. The trainers, of which there were only five, she had sent to get her students out through the various escape routes, the rest she had sent ahead to warn the others and call for back up. She knew she could just shadow walk her arse out of this, but the others couldn?t get out as easily. ?Damn it! We need magic!? She yelled and started towards the stairs but was jumped on by several vampires, crashing her down to the floor. The key to the room, where Anni and Edwina where locked in, slid out of her hand. One of the female vampires picked it up and swallowed it. ?Ooh you are going to regret that!? Ly growled.

---

Anni was trapped. She didn?t know what to say or do. If she said yes, she wouldn?t be able to control what happened next, if she said no, it could ruin everything. She was scared of the lack of control. Control. That was what Jaheira was always forcing her to do. Control herself, control Bhaal, control the group, control everything. Why did it have to go on her shoulders? Her lack of control was clearly shown in the past ten-day. What had become of it? She had nearly killed her companions, Haer?Dalis was dead, she had almost killed herself, spent two days selfishly in bliss while her best friend was locked up with their tormentor and she somehow knew that something had happened with Imoen. She didn?t like the lack of control. Alright, she could admit to herself she liked when Edwin had taken control over the past two days, but she could use the excuse that she had been suffering from the lack of blood. No, that just cheapened their time together.

?Anni, are you going to answer me?? Edwina was smiling at her with a gleam in her eyes. Anni knew that gleam, it meant she was up to no good, well maybe good for her but something that Anni wouldn?t be able to control if she was given the go ahead. ?It?s a very simple question. Do you trust me?? This had to be the most loaded question she had ever heard! This was coming from the man (woman) who didn?t take the time to translate his scroll enough and changed himself into a woman and then blamed it on her.

?Why? What are you going to do?? She asked cautiously. The wizardess frowned at her and sat on the bed.

?A simple thing really. Is it that hard for you to trust me?? Another loaded question! She wanted to trust Edwin, she really did, but everything was happening far too fast for her. Maybe, she could give in just this once. She hadn?t let anyone take control over her since her and Imoen were together. She missed those times, but she had grown up with her friend and knew that she could trust her. Imoen was really the only one she had trusted with all her heart since she had been separated from Sarevok when she was a child, part of her had never really trusted Gorion completely. Imoen was like her, though in hiding. Anni knew her little secret, it hadn?t been hard to figure out it out after they started sleeping together. Imoen was a half-breed of some sort, but what she didn?t know. Why she had never told Anni was a mystery to her. It was something else they could have shared in common. Whatever the reasons had been, Anni was face with Edwin asking her to trust him. She had been in love with him since she had met him but did she trust him? There was so much against him, he never trusted her with anything until they became intimate, but it felt as if he was still holding back from her. Why should she trust him when he obviously didn?t trust her?

?Do you trust me, Edwin?? She asked softly as she neared the bed. Edwina visibly swallowed and redden slightly. It looked like she hadn?t expected the tables to be turned on her. The wizardess looked away from her long enough for Anni to stand in front of her.

?Seems we?re at an impasse.?

?It?s not like that, you know that. I was taught as a Red Wizard to never put my trust fully in someone?s hands.?

?Let me guess, by your assassin friend??

?His name is Master Dekaras, do not forget it!?

?You riled up about me forgetting a servant?s name? Gimme a break.?

-YOU ARE PURPOSELY TRYING TO RILE UP THE THAYVIAN, AND YOU CALL ME EVASIVE.- Bhaal added his two coppers.

?He is not just a servant.?

?Does he have long hair??

?Yes, but s-?

?Then he?s just some servant. Must you listen to everything he taught you? He is not always right!? Something in Edwina snapped, she grabbed the half-elf by her belt and pulled her bottom up across her lap. Grabbing the hem of Anni?s robes she drew them up and exposed her bare bottom and raised her hand.

THWACK! Edwina spanked her hard on the bottom. ?You will never,? THWACK!, ?refer to?, THWACK! ?him as just?, THWACK! ?some servant,? THWACK! ?again!? THWACK! She composed herself as she let her hand rest on the half-elf?s bottom. ?Do you understand?? She asked far more calmly. She took the braid of the girl in her hand and gently pulled it back until her neck was stretched tight. ?Anni are you listening to me??She had wanted to hurt Anni badly when she had spoken against Master Dekaras, now she was sorry that she had raised a hand against her lover. She noticed the girl?s face was flushed, her eyes closed, mouth slightly parted, but it wasn?t from anger or humiliation. No, Edwina knew that flush all too well. Slipping her hand down she found that Anni was wet. The spanking had had the opposite reacted that she had wanted the half-elf to feel, but this could be used to her advantage, a way to punish her without hurting her. She held the braid as tight as possible as her fingers slipped into the girl, who gasp and tightened her body around the woman?s fingers. Edwina moved her fingers expertly inside, she knew what Anni liked (She hadn?t known about the reaction to spanking though.). She felt the tightening of the half-elf?s body and right before she could climaxed, she pushed Anni off her lap and let her tumble to the floor.

?Why did you stop?!? Anni practically screamed in frustration. She had been so close, it was almost painful stopping when she was that close. She swore Edwin would pay once he was back in his own form.

?A punishment really. (Hmm... I should have paid attention to that book Imoen had shown me. The one Anni liked so much.)?

?Great way to get me to trust you.?

?That is not why you were punished and you know it. ( I know she is not that thick headed. Sometimes, yes, but not in this.)? Anni?s face reddened, and she looked away soothing her robes into place as she stood. She refused to make eyes contact as she when over to the door and tried the lock again. ?Anni, what would you do if I told you Imoen was nothing more than a raging whore and the only reason you were rescuing her was because you missed your time with her?? Her back went ramrod straight and she turned on her, gritting her teeth.

?I would ask you where my staff is and show you exactly what I think of that statement.?

?You see the way you felt when I insulted Imoen and your love for her? That's how it felt when you insulted Teacher Dekaras.?

?Oh, I didn?t know.? Her face heated with embarrassment. ?I understand you care for him, but not everything one person tells you is truth.?

?No, I suppose not, but then again you do not know Teacher Dekaras, just as I do not know Imoen as you do. (Though I wouldn?t mind, as long as she didn?t talk.)?

Anni was quiet for a moment and whispered her next question. ?Have you slept with him??

?No.?

?Did you want to?? It was Edwina?s turn to go red, she opened her mouth and closed it without saying a word. ?You know you can be honest with me.? She walked over to her and sat on the smaller woman?s lap.

?I have never considered such a thing. Teacher Dekaras is more... is too much of.... what I wish my father to be.? She said with a sigh.

?Well, that?s not what I expected. I wanted something to get back at you for this.? Anni crossed her arms in a huff and found herself pushed off Edwina?s lap a second time.

---

?My Mistress, I have the cleric, she is in the third floor room with the transformed wizard. It requires a special key.? The vampire said as she entered the shade were Bodhi was waiting with the other.

?Very good, where is the key??

?I had to um... swallow it.?

?Why do I suffer these fools?? She asked herself. Snatching off the fledgling?s cloak, she put the vampire into the sunlight and laughed at the horror on the girl?s face as she turned into ash, leaving a key behind. ?Take the key and kill the skin dancer, welcome yourself back into the mousey?s party.? She said to her companion.

?Yes, my Mistress.? He bowed and picked up the key then ran into Ly?s guild.

---

Ly had finally gotten the vampires of her back, literately, rolling on the floor until she was close enough to Anomen that the vampires burst into ashes. She quickly jumped to her feet and leaped over the banister running up the stairs. So far there were no vampires up here, the warrior priest was doing a good job of keeping away. She walked to the back, where she had stuck Anni and Edwina, and Ly?s ebony skin went as pale as possible when she realized she was faced with the skin dancer wearing Haer?Dalis. She clutched her black short sword and crept up behind his kneeling form, raising it she brought it down on his neck. There was no rush of blood, nothing to indicate she had just delivered a killing blow, in fact the skin dancer turned his head around, all the way, and looked at her. Staring into the eyes of the backwards head, she screamed and yanked out her blade. ?No, no, this isn?t happening!? She started to raise the blade again, but a blow to the back of her head, knocked her out.

?Very good my friend, though I am sure I can handle this.? Rejiek said right before holy water was splashed into his face. The skin started to melt, the unholy magic holding it together coming undone. He screamed and tried to hold the skin together but a katana blade slashed off his hands and head. The skin dancer was dead. The killer set to his work and moved the drow out of the way and picked the lock.

---

Anomen never thought he would be happy to see the red and black cloaked Shadow Thieves as they poured into the guild, among them was Renal, who was proving his nickname, ?Blood scalp.?. The vampires soon took to retreating and victory was theirs. Anomen slumped against the wall as he finally stopped calling on the powers of Helm, leaving him to feel drained.

?Tell me where is that blasted drow of a guild leader of mine??

[SaintZenn]

Chapter 27- Secrets

?Praise be to Lolth, now I can finally end your wretched life.? The Matron Mother proclaimed as she shoved Akorxena into the spider pits where two of Lolth?s pets awaited her. Akorxena stared at the her Matron Mother and her mother watching with tear filled eyes. She watched as her mother positioned herself behind the Matron and watched her try to push her into the pit. It failed and only ended up with Mother receiving a fail to the face.

?Pathetic as always my daughter. Thirty years with the Handmaidens should straighten you out.? The Matron laughed, not noticing her downed daughter sliding a small but sharp dagger to her child.

?Leave her alone you Lolth loving bitch!? She screamed after she had grabbed the dagger . ?By the grace of Eilistraee, I will kill you Ardulace!? Matron Mother Ardulace just laughed as she ordered the quiet Solaufein to drag her daughter after her as they left the spider pits. He looked back only once, he signed to her, ?Don?t give her the satisfaction.?, before leaving. He had seen the dagger but had done nothing to stop the deliverance of it. They both knew that he had meant for her to take her own life, not letting the spiders kill her. She would do it. ?Eilistraee, protect my parents, save my mother from harm.? She whispered.

---

?Nau, l' orbben, nind?re ichl veir! Eilistraee sslig'ne ussta ilhar!? Anomen held down his patient as she struggled under the bindings. They had found her knocked out and bleeding from the head. He and Anni had immediately went to healing her as Renal stood there watching them. The head wound healed, they just needed to wait for her to wake up. It was always tricky with head wounds, one could stop the bleeding but damage was always done, he had seen his share of people who had one and were never the same. It had been over half a day, the sun well set, Anni had gone with the others to release Minsc, leaving him alone in the room with Renal and his patient.

?Do you know what she is saying?? He asked of Renal, curious of what would frighten a drow.

?From what I know orbben means spiders. Mae?Var would punish her by placing live spiders on her. From what young Yuri has told me, she is terrified of them. Very undrow like.? He mused. ?Enough of this, send her to me when she awakens, tell her that her guild is in good hands and that she is free to travel with your leader.? Anomen meant to question Renal but when he looked up the thief was gone. He would never understand that, the ease of which thieves moved so quickly. Of course they didn?t act as pack mule for the party, nor did they wear forty pounds of armor. He and Minsc were the ones to carry the camping supplies, usually they alternated but Lady Jaheira and Lady Anni had insisted that he carry all the supplies for the full twenty hours it took them to walk to the graveyard. It might have had something to do with the remark he made about their friend Simon. He really needed to learn to keep his opinions to himself. Either that or find someone to sleep with in the party as it seemed Edwin could get away with murder with Lady Anni being in love with him. While he mused over this, wondering if perhaps Lady Jaheira would take to him (an idea that held no appeal to him), his patient opened her eyes and stared at him.

?How do you feel??

?Why am I tied down? Planning on ravishing me?? Anomen blushed as he went to untie her.

?You were thrashing about. Lady Anni thought it would be best to tie you down so you would not hurt yourself.?

?I notice you didn?t once refer to me as Lady Ly, why is that, Anomen?? She asked with a mischievous smile.

?Forgive me, you have done so much for my cousin and I don?t know how to repay you.? He was leaning over her to free her other hand, as soon as it was free, she grabbed his hand, keeping him pinned above her. Her other hand came up and turned his face towards hers, bringing their lips very close together. ?Um..Ly??

?Anomen just be quiet for a change and let things happen.? She said as she kissed him throughly. When he pulled back, there was a look of surprise and shock on his face.

?Ly, we can?t possibly!?

?Why not? Are you unwilling? Am I not pretty enough for you??

?No! I mean, no, it?s just that you?re a drow.?

?I am? I hadn?t noticed.? Anomen blushed, and started to say something but was stopped as Ly kissed him again. She didn?t have to hold in place, in fact he was holding on to her tightly, as if he was scared to stop. She took advantage of it and shimmed out of her split skirt and her short top and started on his armor.

?Wait we shouldn?t be doing this!? He said as he came up for air only to find her naked. Even as he spoke she still undid his armor and he unwittingly helped.

?Give me one good reason besides from I?m a drow.?

?This is the first time we have met.? He struggled to meet her eyes.

?Untrue. Yuri would take me often to watch over you. I watched you train to become a warrior priest. I?ve been lusting over you since you hit adult hood. We can talk later. Wait, how much time do we have until the others expect us??

?One hour.?

?We?ll have to make due.?

---

?Oh happy day this is! Minsc and Boo are free!? The giant Rashemen picked up Boo in one hand and Anni in his other, hugging them both gently. The hamster started to squeak immediately and he put Anni back on the floor and intently focused on what the hamster was saying. He nodded several times and then let Boo rest on his shoulder. ?Minsc thinks it best if witch goes back alone while he has words with wizard...er...wizardess.?

?What??

?I think the stone headed oaf wants to speak with me.(This female form, that is what is lessening my insults to be sure.)?

?O...k. I?ll see you guys at the Sea?s Bounty.? She turned and started back to the inn. On her way she wondered what the two had to talk about that Minsc didn?t want her to hear. She shrugged it probably was of no import.

?Now what did you want?? Edwina asked but found herself being picked up by the front of her robes by the berserker.

?Boo told Minsc all about what evil wizard did. Evil wizard is telling witch, she's not a good friend unless she does what he says! Good friends don't say things like that, and it might make witch cry! AND if Evil wizard makes witch cry ,Minsc will make Evil Wizard cry harder!? He shook the ?evil? wizard just to get his point across. ?Boo knows what Evil Wizard does, so Minsc knows! Step carefully Evil One. Next time Minsc will not be so gentle! Next time Minsc will sic harpy on you!? He dropped Edwina and glared at her.

?I don?t have any idea what you?re talking about. (The lummox has gone insane.)? Minsc apparently heard her and turn and slapped her ass with his hand, harder than Edwina had ever done to Anni. ?Alright, alright! I get the shoddy point!?

?Next time, you will feel the boot heel of goodness!?

---

On her way back to the inn, she saw a familiar figure. Running forward she threw her arms around him, and he around her. He buried his hand deep into her hair and brought her braid forward to kiss it. To the people around them, they looked like lovers, to the Red Wizard watching it looked like cheating. She stood in the shadows, casting invisibility, to get closer.

?Still using lilac soap for you hair, I see.? The man spoke.

?You know it?s my favorite scent.?

-How did he know that? I didn?t even know about that!- Edwina thought.

?Yes, how can I forget when you washed my clothes in it. You had me smelling like a flower for a week.?

?Oh don?t complain, Yoshi. It?s better than sinking up the place.? She giggled.

-She?s giggling! Giggling!-

?Yes, but you were not the one sneaking up on our enemies. How else do you think that black dragon smelled me??

?True. Speaking of sneaking, let?s go back to my room.? They linked arms and continued on their way.

-... How could you? I thought you loved me? (I can?t even think of a snappy comeback to cheer me up.)-

---

Anni and Yoshimo were just walking into the Sea?s Bounty and straight into an argument. Jaheira stood there in her green tunic and brown pants, apparently all ready to settle down for the night, watched the man in front of her screaming his head off.

?-Accused me of breeding slaves in Calimshan! My businesses in Athkatla were taken! I was made a pauper and you do not even remember?!?

?I remember well, but I wanted you to say it, and I wanted others to hear. Quite the outburst, Mister Ployer, I assume you are still at odds with your new life??

?You...you...This is the type of insolence I was talking about! It is not enough that you ruin a man, you must also berate him!?

?MISTER Ployer, I wanted you *dead* instead of merely humiliated! The courts did not seem to think death was warranted, so they claimed your assets instead. That you live in poverty is gratifying, if you must live at all! I would suggest you change your tone. I am not in a mood for giving charity to old slavers!?

?Haven't lost your fire, I see. Still a Harper? This scrawny lout one too? That fellow Khalid you were once with was a better compliment. Is he here as well??

?He is none of your concern. If you value your teeth you will not speak that name again. You dirty it.?

?You leave Khalid?s soul out of any arguments, if you know what?s good for you. Only one person can speak badly about him and that?s his wife.? Anni growled as she can to stand next to her friend.

?I see, more Harper friends??

?Oy, mate are you making trouble in my neck of the woods? Let me introduce you to my little friend.? Ly said as she got up from the table she was sharing with Anomen, a tousled, flushed Anomen, whose armor wasn?t completely back in the right order. She pulled out her black blade and stood with the others.

?Not that it matters to me in the least but I would prefer to speak with this half-elf. So go bother someone else.?

?I see. This is not the end of this Harper bitch and your friends will pay for interfering.? Ployer stated as he walked past the four women. Anni stuck her foot out and tripped him. Ployer sprawled on the floor, only to find a boot on his back.

?Crawl out of here, male worm.? Ly growled, her blade ready to strike. He had no choice but to follow her instrutions, causing the bar to laugh. Jaheira was laughing the loudest, Edwina just glared at Anni, whom didn?t notice. They all went to the table for dinner, and to Edwina?s disappointment her usual spot next to Anni was taken by the newcomer. Frustraited and angry, she went to her room without anything to eat.

---

Anni felt like she was swimming, gently rocking back and forth. The sun caught in her eyes but it didn?t bathe her skin and now that she thought about it, the water felt more like solid metal on her back. The night?s events were blurry but she remember having to sleep alone, that something had gotten into Edwin, causing the wizardess to slam the door in her face without a word. Opening her eyes she realized that she was in a cage. Her second realization was that she was naked. ?What?s going on??

?Oh look, sleeping beauty decided to join us.? Edwina?s curt voice cut across her skin. Looking around her, Anni could see Jaheira, Edwina and Ly also imprisoned. They were all awake, Ly was rocking back and forth in hers, while Jaheira stared out of the little window, Edwina just glared at her.

?What?s going on?? Anni said slowly, as if that would stop the pounding in her temples.

?Ployer?s last laugh on me. He?s sending us to Calimshan, as slaves.? Jaheira replied in a dull voice.

?You *got* to be kidding me!?

[SaintZenn]

Chapter 28 - Prisoners, Aren?t we all?

Sarevok cursed his fortune, it would be his luck that he would run into the Bhaalspawn he had killed himself. Refusing to participate in the Blood war, he was free game to either side. He was hunted by the tanar?ri, who didn?t take no for an answer, the same was for the baatezu. It was not fun. Maybe one would have thought he would have joined either side, just to sate his blood lust. Maybe he would have if he was still himself but he could feel the damned calmness coming from his sister.

He need his blood lust, but every dream he entered, not by his choice, he stole some of her essence and she his. She was stealing his battle tactics while he got ripped off in the trade and got her empathy. She was learning how to use his sword and how to channel the Bhaal essence, and he was learning to care. It was completely unfit trade. Why would he need to care about anyone else but himself and his sister? She was giving him back the very weakness that had led to his downfall. Tamoko?s betrayal still stung, how else had Anni found him? Of course he had left Winiski bleeding like a stuck pig on the way to the temple... Bah! There was nothing that he could learn from this caring. Anni was showing him weakness, yet how had she managed to get Bhaal to go from trying to control her, to showing her affection?

Bhaal had always favored her. It pissed him off. He was the son that had done much killing for his father, suffered much to repent and here goes Anni on her merry little way not killing, not suffering and she?s the favorite! Towards the end, it had seemed there were two Bhaals inside of him, the taint that demanded the death of all his siblings and Bhaal the father who put him down for not taking care of his sisters. Oh yes, he knew about Imoen, but she wasn?t his sister. Oh, she shared the same taint as him, but it was so little it hardly mattered. He could not think of her fluffy pinkness related to him. Then there was the other, Jessie, with her ferret Boba. Bhaal had wanted him to protect them too. Jessie was somewhere in Amn back then, when he was alive. He had never considered her a sister either, nor did he count the other Bhaalspawn he had killed as family. Only Anni had ever mattered to him.

Back to the matter at hand, he could think and fight at the same time, you know. He was faced with three opponents, he remembered all three. One was Tyron a paladin of Torm, he had wanted to smite the evil Bhaalspawn and didn?t realize he was one too, then there was Olivia, a rich noble who he slit her throat and last was Trixie the blasted pixie, he had stepped on her. It was doing the world a favor, something so little was worthless and annoying. The three of them had gained battle experience since he had last seen them. The very fact that they still existed, surprised him. Trixie was buzzing around him, her tiny sword causing him pin pricks in the most uncomfortable places. Tyron was using his broad sword to try to get through his defenses, while Olivia was on his back trying to find a place to stab him in the neck.

?By Torm, I will see your evilness destroyed and my soul freed!? The paladin shouted. Sarevok was fighting one handed, while the other hand was trying to get the noble bitch off his back.

?Hehehe. Let?s sing the doom song! Doom doom doom doom doom!? Trixie started in her high pitched voice.

?Let?s not and die instead!? He swatted at her as she tried to go for the eyes. Olivia managed to find a spot and slammed her dagger into his collarbone, he heard a snap and flipped her off his back, right into the paladin?s sword. Then he did something he would have never done in life, he sheathed his sword and took off running. He didn?t know how long it was that he ran until the portal opened under his feet.

He was not bleeding anymore, nor did he have anymore wounds on him. That was good. Then the bad part hit him. He was chained to a wall, unable to move and down at his feet was a wide eye Anni, no it was Anna. He was back in the temple from so long ago, back before they had been separated. Things were different, for one he wasn?t a child, he was a full grown man and the girl at his feet was the adult Anna, her long black hair spread like blood under her. A Bhaalist came through the room?s door and pulled off their cowl. Under it was Alianna, their mother.

?Hello, my ungrateful son.? She said. He knew this wasn?t real. -This isn?t real.- He repeated as he closed his eyes. -This isn?t real.-

---

?We?re all going to die. We?re doomed.? Ly repeated for the umpteenth time.

?Stop saying that. Jaheira is the pessimist of the group.?

?No, that would be Edwin.?

?Yes, yes. (Keep gibbering you monkeys.)?

?Edwina there is no reason to be so dour. After all you may catch a wealthy man?s attention and with your beauty you may just bring him sons.? There was a pause. ?My, I actually got that out with a straight face.? Jaheira started to laugh in her cage. ?Edwina with babies!? The druid was laughing so hard she had to hold her stomach. A small chuckle came from Ly who wouldn?t take her eyes off the window, and a small smile from Anni who had been floating in and out of sleep.

?I will not be having babies!? Edwina screeched like, well, like a monkey.

?Edwin, calm down. Yoshimo and Minsc will find us soon. All will be right.?

?Yes, Yoshimo must be such a great man. (Foolish woman, you have no idea what you have given up.)?

?Edwin what is wrong? That?s not the first time today that you spoke to me like that and you won?t look at anyone.? Edwina?s cage was on the far right, Anni next to her, then Jaheira and Ly on the other end, staring out the window. The cages were pressed tightly together, the doors held close by a single thick metal bar. Ly had managed to unlock her end, using her necklace, but Edwina hadn?t, or more appropriately, wouldn?t try to unlock her end. The woman turned to face her with a tear soaked face and reached through bars and grabbed Anni by the hair.

?You are cheating on me, you bitch. (To think I invested time in this.) Tell me where did you sleep last night??

?Ow! Edwin I am doing no such thing!?

?Then explain to me why I saw you in his arms, holding on to him as if for dear life? (When you have only done that with me. With me!)?

?I can?t explain it. We don?t know who is watching or listening.? Edwina let go of her with enough force to cause her to bang her head on the other side of the cage.

?I don?t want your explanations! I hope you get sold as a sex slave, it?s your only use.?

?Edwina, you fool! Watch your words, you have no idea what you are speaking of!? Jaheira hissed.

?Then why doesn?t someone tell me? (I know, because it would be all lies!)?

?Maybe you haven?t thought of the fact that we?re all going to die, at least I am and we?ll never see each other again. Maybe you should just tell him...er her.? Ly suggested.

?Why do you keep saying we?re going to die??

?I know of this slaving route, it passes over Ust Natha. The drow city from where I escaped. They will first allow the drow to inspect their goods, Jaheira you are promised to go to Calimshan but we are not. They will kill me, torture me if I?m recognized. Anni will make for good spell components and they will see Edwina as a challenge. That is if Nedylene and Zesstra are on duty like always. My cousins. They allowed me to escape once but swore they would not allow me to again, especially if I look like this.? She motioned at her naked body. ?If only I could get this ring off.? She mumbled as she pulled at said ring.

?By Silvanus you?re right. Edwina we must put aside all your petty differences and escape.?

?Petty? PETTY!?? Edwina shouted.

---

?Now my son, let?s see if we can get my little bitch of a daughter to join us.? Alianna said. She stepped over her daughter?s body and rounded on the chained Sarevok. ?I know what you did to that ring. A soul bind, is it not Sarevok??

?This isn?t real.? Was all he said. His mother brought back her hand and slapped him across the face.

?Oh I promise you this is real. Everything done here is real.? She slammed his bald head into the stone behind it. ?You are just a little older now but once again at my mercy.?

?THIS ISN?T REAL!? He screamed at her. She chuckled and went to his hand where a ring crafted with Bhaalspawn essence stayed on his finger. It was a wide gold band with a large amber stone holding an small obsidian stone. It was part of a set, one for him, the other for Anna, except hers was smaller and more feminine. It had been symbolic, the amber represented him and the obsidian her. It was a reminder that he would always protect her.

He had really screwed that to the Abyss... It also served another purpose, it allowed him to always find her as long as she wore it. He had meant to tell her about the specialness of the rings, but in his madness, he had only used it to track her. Maybe she had found the way to use it the same way, maybe Tamoko hadn?t betrayed him after all.

?Oh, this ring is so special. I know how you pull yourself from this place into her realm, but did you know I can pull her here, my wonderful son??

?No, no you can?t.?

?Oh but I can just watch.?

---

Edwina was red in the face about ready to give her companion the verbal blasting they deserved but when she opened her mouth, a scream interrupted her.

?No, this isn?t real!? Anni held her hands out in front of her, they were see through, slowly starting to disappear.

---

The Anna on the floor twitched, her hands moving under her, the head moving up to met his eyes.

?Sarevok?? Her eyes narrowed as she looked him in the eyes. ?Where am I? Oh gods not you!? She scrabbled backwards when she saw Alianna. ?Sarrey, help me!? She screamed in a high pitched voice.

?Ah, there we go.? Alianna said as she removed her hand away from his ring. She pulled out her kukri and started towards her daughter.

---

?No, someone help me!? Anni was screaming, high pitch and pitiful, like a trapped rabbit. Edwina tried to grabbed for her but her hand just went through her lover?s body.

?Anni! Don?t you dare die on me. (Not like this. Please not like this.)? A gash opened up on Anni?s throat and tore it?s why across her neck. Her eyes were wide and the light behind them died. ?NO!!? Anni?s half-visible body dissipated, leaving behind her pink disk she wore around her neck. ?Anni, no, this isn?t happening. This can?t be happening.?

?Phraktos xsa'ol! That hurt!? Jaheira and Edwin turned startled eyes to Ly?s cage at the sound of twisting metal. There stood an all white Deva where Ly once sat. The creature tossed Jaheira a black finger with a ring on it. ?Hold on to that for me, I?ll need you to restore it to me once I get us out of here.? The Deva blinked and stared at the two women. ?What never seen an albino drow that?s also a Deva with wings before? Newbies.? It scoffed. ?Now let?s see about these cages.? And so the creature set to work on the cages as the two women just watched.

[SaintZenn]

Chapter 29- The Abyss

Note: This chapter is kinda graphic. Just a small warning.








Anna gasps for air, only to breath more blood, then chokes it up. . Her white dress and grey skin was splattered with dark blood. Alianna pauses a moment, admiring the view of the mongrel, with her grey skin and her white dress, spattered with dark blood. Alianna smiles wickedly as her daughter gives her that priceless look of shock, the wide eyed, open mouthed, disbelieving shock. That and the fact that she would not die. Oh yes, that had been the agreement, take a major player out of the game and she would not die. No, Annalesca was now sentenced to eternity in the Abyss as well as Sarevok, they were now at her mercy, all it had taken was a trade of information.

Cyric had been most kind to Bhaal?s faithful, she knew that Bhaal if resurrected that he would punish her as she had went against his wishes as far as his children went. It was her that talked Melly into claiming the power for themselves. Oh they had acted as if they were going along with Bhaal?s plans but with him dead the only ones who could contradict them was the Children themselves. That?s if they where smart enough to separated the lies from the truth. Sarevok, he had not been made for his mind, only his brawn. It was Anna that they had to worry about. Cyric, Melly and herself. Anna was proving that she was her father?s daughter in more ways than one.

Anna may struggle and drown in this blood forever, and that is one thing that makes Alianna's smiles so delicious right now, because no matter how hard she tries, Anna will not die. Cyric has given her this gift for a trivial bit of information. Of course, if Bhaal were to ever come back, or Anna were to raise in his place, Alianna shivers just thinking about it. But it isn't going to happen, because this mongrel is at her mercy. Alianna, draws her kukri.

But Bhaal would not be rising, not without his precious daughter. She sneered, she had given him a perfect son to rule with but no, he wanted this mongrel. Then her perfect son had turned on her, rising the mongrel and later killing her because of said mongrel. Anna doesn't even try to fight back, and sadly, her throat has healed, so she can now cry out. "Please Mommy, I'm sorry! I'm sorry!" Tears and blood drip down her face, showing her abberant skin.

"Stop this at once, Alianna!" Saravok, her once perfect son cries out. Of course, like everything that has come into contact with the abomination, her precious boy has been contaminated with Anna. Even Bhaal has gotten soft over her. But Alianna would not stand for it. She stalks over to her son.

She leans in, and whispers to him, "Do you want me to stop this?" Anna, from behind her, still begging like a hysterical child can't hear her. Only her son can.

?Yes, please, let her go.? He begged of her.

?What will you give me, my son??

?Anything.? He met her eyes, almost the same color as his. She smiled but it faded as she saw Anna climb to her feet and go towards the door, trying to escape and leave her brother behind. Tsk tsk, what a naughty girl. She walked over and grabbed the mongrel?s right hand and reached up and up until the girl was hanging from her mother?s grasp and slammed the kukri into the area right below the wrist. The mongrel screamed, hanging on the wall like a pinned butterfly, it was truly a beautiful sight. She heard Sarevok calling her over Anna?s screams. She turned and walked back to her son.

?Tell me that this isn?t worse than what you?ve done to your other siblings. Is it??

?No.? He whispered.

?You liked to torture the others, why not her?? She gripped his chin and turned him to look at her and not at his dangling sister. ?You loved causing pain. You loved the violent death. You were the perfect son. What has changed??

?I swore to protect her.?

?You tried killing her, in the temple, on sacred ground, but she killed you.?

?I remember.? He said through gritted teeth. ?I haven?t forgotten a thing Mother. Now what must I do to free her from this place??

?Just her and not yourself??

?If that?s the only way, yes.?

?Kill her. Just like you did to all the other girls. Exactly like you did the other girls.? Her smile gleamed evil in the light. ?Well, expect maybe not the way you did Trixie.?

?No, I won?t do that.? He said horrified. ?You are truly sick, Alianna.?

?No my son, I want revenge. I make one little mistake and He punishes me with that.? She pointed at her dangling daughter. ?I didn?t mean to let Charon fall off the bed. I didn?t. I couldn?t take him to a healer, the Harpers were sniffing around. There was nothing I could do.? Her eyes held such loss, such pain, that he felt sorry for her, until he heard his sister crying. His eyes turned cold as he stared at her.

?Anna was never a punishment, I am proud to call her sister. Your hatred of elves always colored your vision.?

?She will take your birthright, the Throne. Is that what you wanted??

?No. I deserve the Throne.? His eyes blazed with anger. ?She had no right to take it from me.?

?No she didn?t my son. Teach her a lesson, like you did with all the others.? She released the chains holding him and allowed him to rise to his full height of six eleven. ?Kill her.? She whispered to him.

?Yes mother.?

---

They were dressed now, but in clothing so revealing they might as well have been naked again. Ly was back in her original form, a normal female Drow. She had fought off their slavers, who had came at the sound of twisting metal. Ly had used everything in her favor, the twisted metal, her wings.... her wings. It still baffled Edwina, how did the Drow have wings? She said she was half Deva, but how did one come to the Underdark? No, no, there were more important matters at hand. They had stopped the caravan and went back to the point that Anni had disappeared at. They had most of their things back, except their clothes. She had out her spell book, leafing through it, trying to find something to locate her lover. It wasn?t easy, she wasn?t a diviner, but she was trying. Jaheira was busying keeping with locating where exactly they were, while Ly scouted the area.

Edwina threw her spell book across the floor, utterly disgusted with her useless magic. She slammed her hands into the bench she was sitting on and started to cry. ?I?m useless! Oh gods I?m sorry Anni for what I said. Do you hear me I?m sorry!? She screamed the last part, her tears breaking her voice.


?You cry, as if some terrible plague has affected you. But then again love can be such a plague.? She looked up and saw an blackened and weathered crone with a scarred face sitting across from her. There were pox marks on her face, ragged scars crisscrossed her face. ?I gave the plague of love to Sarevok it destroyed him, but Anna survived the plague of infection. She overcame it, though it changed her.?

?Who are you??

?Ah, that is right, the great Red Wizard never bothered to know his gods or goddess. Oh how the wizards of Thay think they are above us all.? The old crone gave a laugh, revealing rotten teeth and diseased gums.

?Who are you?? Edwina repeated.

?I am one of the goddesses that served Bhaal. That much I will tell you. I have a deal to make with you.?

?What could you possibly want with me??

?I have an offer for you. I will bring back Anni but at a price.?

?Where is she?? The crone waved her hand and Edwina?s vision blurred. It cleared and she could see everything as if through scrying. Anni was laying on the ground her face a red ruin, Sarevok knelt over her carving into her body, while a bronzed skin woman just smiled and watched. Sarevok was yelling something, but she couldn?t her it over Anni?s screams. She was mostly screaming, ?Why?? Edwina came out of the trance and was gasping for air. ?Why is he doing that to her? He?s been her defender from Bhaal and her mother since he died. And who is that woman??

?That is Alianna, the mother of the Children you saw. Sarevok?s plague infected her, caused her to turn on her master. Now it affects you, will you give up everything to save this Child?? The crone asked.

?I will give up much.?

?I can return her to you, but this little torment will cause problems with my plan.?

?I care not for your plans. I just want her back.?

?See that is the problem. I will bring her back on one condition.?

?Anything, name it. (There is nothing too great.)?

?She must forget and continue.?

?I agree she must forget this episode.?

?No, she must forget you. That will be the only way she will ascend or resurrect my former master. What say you ??


Next chapter: Written by Bhaal special!

[SaintZenn]

Chapter 30- The lost Daughter


Ah, first let me say it is so nice to be out of the closet. ... Not that closet you fools! The one my scribe locks me up in every time she is home. As if. Anyway. Ah, today was a good day. My lazy ass scribe, (Seriously who takes two years to write twenty-nine chapters?), of course it had taken some odd months to finish this, so maybe my scribe isn?t to blame. Oh? You don?t know who I am?

Allow me to introduce myself. I am Bhaal. Pronounced Bah-all not Ball or anything else you can think of. I?m the god here get over yourself. Speaking of how I?m the god here did you know it makes no difference to a cat? I try every day to give my scribe?s cat, Genocide, lessons in ethics. Just won?t listen. I try to teach it that it?s okay to scratch up my scribe?s things and her but not me. I hated to do it but I had to suggest to my scribe that his claws be trimmed. I?m a god, I can?t run around with scratches everywhere.

At least Geno had the right behavior when sitting on my lap, even if I have to go around his fuzzy orange head to reach the keys. Any way, we?re not here to talk about me, although, if you wish I could. Gods know I do not have enough scribes telling my tales. None of these so called ?authors?, the published ones, ever go into detail about me. Sure, I have a million different backgrounds. Maybe that?s because there are infinite possibilities of ?What if??.

But you know what really bugs me? Two words: Phillip Athans. You want to give me a bigger headache? Say the worst to me that you can: Adbel is my son. Ao, when I read those stories, I wanted to kill myself in shame. Sometimes my scribe will read me quotes from it just to torture me. Let me tell you, there is no way that I had a son like him. If I did, I was half dead, stoned and drunk. Most likely I was raped also. And probably had been kicked in the nuts, faulty sperm, don?t you know? Peter Griffin makes a better son then him.

Of course speaking of my sons, I have many. Some are evil, not in that evil way, that humans regard them. There was Adrian, I?m not happy with how that turned out. Not at all. Then there was Kane. Another one that I was unhappy with the way it turned out. But damn I did love to watch him slap Eddie around. Then there was Talek. I did love that boy, mind you he was easy to manipulate, but he was one of my good boys. And then there was the bad boys and girls, oh yes you know who I?m talking about.

There was Peri, what did I ever do to that sweet girl? Besides trying to show her the way. Then there was Jarran and Rini. Why did I keep getting cursed with bards for child? Ones that screw over their loving father? I was a good father, well except to Sarevok. In all cases I screwed him over. I admit it. No I really don't have any remorse for it. My scribe is trying to teach me remorse. I swear if she makes me watch one more "Touched By An Angel" show, I'm going to do something. I would like to kill the person who made that show...

But back to my children, there was the ever so constant Imoen, I don't know how I made her so cheerful. Really I don't. I mean my domains were death, destruction, evil and retribution. So how in the Abyss did I get a daughter with pink hair?

I could tell you I learned my lesson, but frankly I still wanted to be a god. Too bad with what happen to Toril. Oh it was real, there's nothing there now though Only Helm stayed. Ever the watchdog, a guardian to a dead planet. Maybe you'll find it again some day. I could tell you which god was presently lording over this world but I'm sworn to silence. You have to think of this place of retribution. Not mine but yours. Because see there's this thing called Karmic Debt. A prime example of it would be my daughter Laska, she got laid so many times, that now her scribe, who was her in his past life, can't.

Then there's my son by soul bonding, Dekaras, his scribe well, I won't say much. There does seem to be a lot of my child who came back as the opposite gender though, or scribes that are the opposite of the character they once were. Like how Theo is so obsessed with Jaheira, that's because he was her. He was never a Bhaalspawn.

Me, Bane, and Myrkul? Wondering what happened to the Dead Three? Well Bane?s the guardian of goons and henchmen everywhere, including Arnold Schwarzenegger, how else do you explain his success? Myrkul is the muse of mad doctors, Joseph Mengale and Harold Shipman are two of his favorites. Me? I got stuck as muse of my former children and serial killers everywhere (which is sometimes the same thing). Not such a bad gig, honestly though I've been trying to get some of my scribes to become killers and it's just not working. Though I do have a favorite serial killer right now; George W. Bush. Now he doesn't kill like I used to, I like to get up close and personal. But what person can't love his killing sense? Now here's a guy that sends food in little yellow packages. What do the bombs look like? Little yellow packages. ?Ooh! Look food!? BOOM! Hehe. I love that.

Now I know you all love hearing me talk, but I wanted to type this chapter for a reason. One I'm not getting enough say in what happens, alright I know it's happened already but who really cares about Anomen or Edwin? The focus should be on me. After all it's called Throne of Bhaal, not Throne of Anni's or Edwin's or anyone else. And I'm telling you right now, I don't like the ending, neither did the gods and that's how my scribe got such a big Karmic Debt.

Now, on to the story I wanted to tell you all about. As some may recall, I had three daughters, Annalesca, Imoen and Jessica Isabeu. Had Revan lived I would have had two sons, you guessed it, Charon and Sarevok. Having girls is fine, you just need to keep them away from the boys, and sadly the girls too. I know that the boys were suppose to be born last, but I needed protectors of my girls.

I wanted the girls? ages to be the same difference. Annalesca the oldest by six years to Jessica Isabeu and two years to Imoen. I had given Alianna, Sarevok and Charon, eight years before my eldest?s birth. I figure that would give them enough time to start learning to protect their sisters. The boys were only infants when they lay in bed together and Sarevok pushed his brother off the bed. Charon didn?t survive the fall.

After that I had my doubts. I gave her another chance with Annalesca, but when I wasn?t around, I found out that she was nasty to her. So, I had to separate the girls. One went to a devoted dryad, the last one, I didn?t finish before I died. Instead of making her a full child, I made her a shadow of my power. I did this to two of my children, to be mere helpers in my play. Charon was remade again, but that is Sarevok?s story. This is about my youngest shadow child.

First a brief note on shadow children, they are of my line, there are only two in this world, well, Toril, but you know what I mean. They are my children, they hold a piece of me inside of them like all children to their parents, they also have a part of Revan in them. They are merely born from others. They hold no taint. The taint, my godhood, and myself are two separate things. In most cases of several of my children, I?m unable to separate the two. Sarevok for example, was overwhelmed by the taint, not me.

Then children like Imoen, there are only a few, have enough spirit to fight back the taint and may never feel it. That?s if some wizard doesn?t come along and steal her soul... Then there?s children like Annalesca, filled with the taint, to the point where she cannot tell where I begin and it starts. Charon and Jessica have no taint, only their own powers. Now, I know you?re going to ask, ?Why didn?t I make all my children this way?? Simple, I need them to carry the taint back to me or Cyric would have gotten it all. Then there would be no story and I?d just be some footnote in a book. Back to Jessica.


Jessie, for short, was born to a mercenary, a hired sword in the dark, Suna Seni, and to a man named Valygar. Valy shall we say was not pleased that he had a child, and wasn?t convinced that it was his to begin with. Especially since Jessie was always corpse pale and this Valy, well let?s just say the skin tone didn?t match. Suna dumped her with him, and Valy just couldn?t turn down this innocent looking child. He took her in and raised her with care. He was terrified of one thing though, magic. Jessie cast her first spell at seven, which gave her Boba, her ferret from her old life. There?s a secret about him too, but you?ll learn. You will learn.
Valy was shocked and took her out of the city and into his cabin in the woods.

He didn?t want anyone to find out about her powers, especially any of his family. He had some relative that had used the bodies of his magic ridden ancestors and he didn?t want ?his? daughter to be used. Her magic was natural, not of studying, he couldn?t stop her from learning it. He liked Boba and knew his secret but promised the ferret not to tell. She grew up in the wilds of Umar Hills, learning about herbs, tracking animals and other things rangers teach their children. The two things about Jessie, she?s clumsy as all hell. And she doesn?t know any offensive spells. Sure there?s spells like Color Spray and Sleep. But she doesn?t want to hurt anyone really. She?s such a pacifist... Not that I would change her, but I would like to see her live.

Now, here comes the really bad part. Right before Annalesca came to Athkatla, a huge sphere came to the slums part of the city. Valy and Jessie were visiting their home in the docks, the Cowled Wizards came for them. They were ready to take MY daughter?s DEAD body to that damnable sphere! They had actually thought she would be the better choice over Valy as they thought they could overwhelm her. I?m happy to say that didn?t happen. He defended my daughter like his own, flying into a rage and killing them. Boba helped. He bit the eye out of one of the wizards. Knew that thing had to be good at something besides stealing and causing trouble. After that they quietly left the city and returned to Umar Hills, where it brings us to present day. Well present day as in chapter 29, not present day Toril.

Valy gathered up Jessie?s things and saddled his best horse. Giving her instructions he told her to ride south, to... you guess it. Saradush. She took her time in riding there, going in circles at times to throw others off her tracks. She met that ilharvith'rell, (Drow just sounds so better than me punching the keyboard.). Can you guess what red head bitch I?m talking about? Amelyssan. She got her hands on my baby and told her the truth of her bloodline. So thus starts the Six.

(Sigh) What am I to do?

?Hey Bhaal, what are you doing out of your closet?? The voice of my scribe came to me as the door opened. Crap back in the closet I go...A little help would be nice.

[SaintZenn]

Chapter 31: Hurt

The blades weren?t long, only as big as her forearms. Maybe that was because they had been her forearms. Her radii to be specific. She held on to them. She could now that her mother had lost hers during healing the wounds inflicted by brother. That?s right, she could now use her healing power on herself and give the wounds to someone else. It had taken a lot of pain for her to understand how to use it. The thought of all that pain just made her angrier and made her fight harder. She wanted to kill him. She really did. She didn?t care it had all been a ploy to kill mother. He hurt her. End of story. No one hurt her. She had with Irenicus and Bodhi, she had swore no one would hurt her anymore. She would kill them. In this case it was dear big brother Sarevok. Any love she had for him had been turned to hate when he drew that first line of blood. Nothing mattered except the rage and his death, here in the Abyss.

The blades were part of her, but she still didn?t know anything about sword fighting.
---

?So tell me, have I my answer, Edwina?? The scarred lady asked of her.

?I need time to think.?

?My time is limited.?
---

Her shoulder hurt, brother had finally started to fight back. He must have realized she was going to kill him for what he did. He was using his sword to bash and push her back. Her blade were of Chaos, death and blood, no iron could stand up to them.

?Please Anna, we must return you to your plane!? His hand came between her blades and pushed her back, hard, and she fell to the floor of bones. He placed his sword into the center of her neck. ?I do not want you dead little sister. You must stop this.?

?Kill me.? She gritted out between clenched teeth.

?I will not. I did what I had to do to save you.?

?Yeah some saving you did. You tortured me! Bastard!?

?Well, if we?re going to be technical about it, you?re a bastard too. Our father never married Alianna. In fact, all our siblings are bastards. I did what I had to do to awaken your power. To save both our lives.?

?I don?t care about that! You hurt me!?

?Just like before. I know, little Annalesca. And I will again if it comes down to something like this again. Or you start to follow the path of Bhaal too finely. I could not control myself and I had to let you kill me.?

?Liar!? She screamed. ?You forced me to kill you. You turned me into a murderess! You made me kill you!?

?No, I made you kill him.? A calm and soothing voice came to the siblings. Brother?s sword was up and ready to attack the newcomer and she was already on her feet, holding the swords awkwardly. The newcomer had long black hair with light grey at his temples, his clothes were all black, down to the hilts of his daggers hiding in plain sight, even the blades were black. Then there was his skin, the bloodless pale of a corpse. Not even a vampire was that pale. He had a unremarkable face, one you could easily forget, if it wasn?t for his eyes. One was amber and the other was grey. The siblings knew who he was and looked at each other. They would settle their differences until that man was dead and ash. They ran at him and were instantly repelled by some force. He hadn?t even moved. ?Stop it both of you. The two of you are giving me gray hair.?

?Then shave your head like I did.? Brother said.

?And ruin his gorgeous hair like you did?? She said snidely as she stood.

?Are you going to argue about everything, Annalesca? Just because you?re my oldest doesn?t mean you can talk back to me.? He crossed his arms and flicked a finger in her direction, which sent her flying into her brother who just stood, he had dropped his sword and was able to catch his sister.

?I thought I was the oldest?? Brother asked puzzled.

?Technically, you?re the youngest. You and Charon. I just messed with the birthing order. Didn?t stop you and Charon from dying. Oh well.?

?What do you want?!? She screamed at him as brother put her down.

?To return you to life.?

---

Edwina was trying to think but her thought kept getting interrupted by a loud harpy and a drow arguing.

?You need to tell him, Ly! He needs to know!? The harpy was saying.

?As long as I have this ring on, no one has to know.? The drow hissed back.

?I will tell him if you won?t!?

?Do that and you?ll be sleeping with the cock-a-roaches you love so much!?

?Edwina, what do you think of this?? The harpy yelled.

?I don?t know!? She shouted out to them.

?Now that?s not really an answer.? The old woman said.

?Fine! Yes! T-?

?That?s all I need.? The crone laughed.

?What? I wasn?t talking to you!? Edwina shrieked.
---

?Damn, I?m too late!? The man said. ?Annalesca, Talona plans on taking your memory you must fight her.? He shouted as she started to fade.

?I don?t understand! What does Talona have anything to do with it??

?She hates me, I never treated her right. I almost died of poisoning.? He said as he ran to them. ?Please my children, forgive me for allowing this to happen to you, Annalesca.?

?What about me? Don?t I warrant an apology??

?No, you?re dead and spoiled. You listened to the taint more than me.? Brother started to say something but she got hers out first.

?Guys, this is about me! What?s going to happen??

?I?m sorry.? He said and the world was fading around her.
---

?I wasn?t talking to you! Anni can find her our way back. I know she can.? Edwina protested.

?Too late!? The crone laughed. She spread her hands and a naked, curled up Anni appeared. She waved her hand again and suddenly Anni was screaming. ?The deadliest of my infections lie within her now. Not even your druid will be able to cure her.? Speaking of which, Jaheira and Ly came running into the caravan.

?By Silvanus! What have you done Talona??

?Shit! God! There?s a god in here!? Ly said, pointing and promptly fell out. Talona laughed and disappeared.

?What have I done?? Edwina said as she went to her lover, turning her over onto her back, to find that her eyes were rolled back in her head, only the whites showing. There were blades clasped in each hand. They glowed with unearthly light, they fell to the caravan floor as Anni twitched and moaned in pain. ?Anni, please, look at me.? She held the half elf in her arms, when she felt it. Something moved between them, something sickening and diseased. She fell away from her lover and started to scream as the infection filled her mind and down Edwina fell to the floor. Sicken and diseased as Talona had wanted Anni.

[SaintZenn]

Chapter 32: Who?s that god?

She had cried silent tears until there were no more, just streaks down her gray skin. She hadn?t bother to eat for the last ten day, her stomach felt as hard as a stone. She did not need to eat or drink. She needed him to open his eyes and look at her. She held his hand the whole time not moving, only to leave his side when she had to use the bushes or cause an accident. They had found most of their gear under the caravan?s floor boards. They were all dressed, except for him. He only had on a simple loincloth. When they started this travel, the four of them had all been naked women. Now it was three women and a man. Edwina had taken her disease, the full force of it and was suffering from it. In the past ten day, she, Edwina, hadn?t spoken outside of dreams as she slept. She had finished her menses and as soon as Jaheira thought it was safe, she had used the spell to change him back to himself.

Jaheira tried her best spells, but they needed a cleric, one that had not caused this. She was too racked with grief and guilt to properly call on her god. So they found a place to set up camp and waited. For what they did not know. For the infection to break? For Minsc, Anomen, and Yoshimo to get their lazy asses over here?

Well, Anomen could come and whisk her away that was all fine and dandy to her. To Ly, that is. Ly couldn?t stand being here, she had grown used to the unquiet of the city. Nature had always scared her. Jaheira finally stopped harping on her to tell Anomen the truth of her existence. Ly couldn?t imagine the pain that Anni was going through, watching her lover suffer because of her. She wondered what she would do if Anomen was suffering and missed him. She loved him but if he ever found out her secret, it was splitsville for them. The drow stared off into the night sky and pondered life in general.

?Anni, come, you must rest. You are in no condition to continue. You haven?t eaten, drank or slept since this happened.?

?I don?t deserve to.?

?You didn?t know that you would do this.?

?If it wasn?t for Sarevok, our potions would be reversed. You telling Edwin, to sleep, eat and drink.?

?Hardly, I?d tell that coño to wait on you hand and foot, if he wasn?t already.?

?Coño? I don?t think that?s a drow word.?

?Of course not, I?m from Ust Natha, but I traveled with some people to Maztica, a while ago.?

?Maztica? Where is that??

?West from Faerûn, across the Sea of Swords, the Trackless Sea, and 'Tayola', the Eastern Ocean.? Ly replied with a shrug. ?Took forever to go there. Swore I?d never going on another fucking boat again.?

?Why did you go there?? Anni took her eyes off of Edwin and looked at her newest companion. Something Ly had been trying to get her to do anyway.

?I was, rothe, slave. I had no choice. I was caught my first day out into the sunlight. Some nasty dajjin'slen caught me. They liked my other form, didn?t know what I was. So they chained me up and took me with them.?

?How did you escape?? Ly kept her head low but her eyes flickered to a point beyond Anni.

?I didn?t. They sold me to the local yeyo seller.?

?What?s yeyo??

?You know how good chocolate is? Well you take coco leaves and you mix them up with stuff, right?? Her eyes flickered again, good, Anni couldn?t see Ly?s god behind her. ?It get this white powdery like feel and you snort it through your nose.?

?I?ve never heard of such a thing.?

?Of course you haven?t, you really think that Amn and Baldur?s Gate are going to let yeyo into this country so easily??

?What does it do??

?Make you feel good. Real good. You should try it sometime.? Another look back and her god had stopped and was giving her a deathly glare. ?Or maybe not. It?s addictive. Makes you paranoid. And drow are already paranoid. Of course it didn?t help to find out that there?s drow out there too. The fuckers are every where. Fucking cock-a-roaches.?

?Why do you hate your own kind so much??

?I could ask the same of you.? Ly replied. ?You haven?t spoke of what happened after you disappeared.?

?I don?t want to talk about it.? Anni started to turn back around, so Ly did the only thing she could think of, she leaned back and fell out of the caravan. ?Ly! Are you alright?? Anni said as she came out of the covered caravan.

?Yeah, just landed on my head. Don?t really need that.? She said as the girl helped her up. When she was on her feet again, she smiled. ?Come on now, enjoy the fresh air.?

?I want to be there when he wakes up. If he wakes up.? She said in a small voice and started to climb back inside. Fortune was on Ly?s side as it looked as if Anni couldn?t get up by herself, in fact she couldn?t even see into it. Ly smiled and put her hands on the girl?s shoulders and kept her from frantically jumping up and down.

?Calm yourself. You?ll be there when he wakes. I know he?ll wake up. Just let him sleep for now.?

?You don?t understand, this is my fault. I should be lying there half dead, dying.?

?I don?t think it was that bitch?s intent for you to die. Who knows, he may be made of stronger stuff than you know. He came after you even though you tried to get rid of him. Twice.?

?How did you know about that??

?Like I?ve said, I?ve been spying on you guys for a while. Everyone wants to know the oh-so-evil Bhaalspawn.?

?I hate that!? She said turning to the drow and stomping her foot. ?Just because I?m descended from an evil god, everyone automatically assumes that I?m evil and that they must know me! I was raise by Gorion nothing more to it. It?s not like I had such an exciting life! I?m just a normal woman!?

?Hey, I didn?t mean anything about it.? Her eyes flickered back. Good, her god?s work was done. ?Here, let me help you up into there, okay?? Anni blinked and nodded. With the drow?s help she was able to get back inside the caravan and back to Edwin?s side. Ly smiled and joined Jaheira at the fire.

Anni curled up next to Edwin, holding his hand and laying her head on his chest. His heart was beating stronger than it had been. She sat up and touched his forehead. It was cool! His fever had broken and his breathing was normal. He hadn?t been like this minutes ago. She said a prayer to the gods and wrapped her arms around him. ?Please, please be okay Edwin.? She pressed a kiss to his lips and was pleasantly surprised when he kissed her back. His hands came up, one on the back of her neck and the other on her backside. He turned and pressed her into the floor boards of the caravan, never stopping the kiss as his hands went to the front of her robes. He couldn?t quite get his fingers to work as he wanted and in the end, he just raised her robe and trailed his hand up her hairless leg to an equally hairless junction. He ripped away the loincloth and pushed himself inside of her. He smiled as he found her ready. (Of course what woman wouldn?t be ready for him?)

In the end, Anni was on top, her robe ripped by the activities. Edwin had his eyes closed and was still in the mood for more as soon as he rested a moment. (He was no mere mortal and only need a second or so to recover.) He was kissing her again, taking his time to undo the rest of her robes. He slipped the outer robe from her shoulders and started on the inner robe. (What was with this woman and so much clothing?) He was finally able to bare her skin to the air, to his touch. He pushed her to the caravan?s floor as he kissed her stomach, well it was more tongue than lips.

?You have scars, my moon goddess?? He asked.

?Moon goddess, Edwin?? Anna laughed as he circled her navel.

?Well you are a moon elf aren?t you??

?Half, dear Edwin. Don?t forget I?m just half. Otherwise I?d be some floppy eared drunk with tattoos.?

?Yes, I can imagine.? He smiled and used his mouth for something else then. After a while he came up for air and covered her body with his and they were lost again. Afterwards this time, he asked her something which caused her to yell.

?That?s not funny, Edwin!?

?I?m sorry if I?ve forgotten, but I ask you to tell me.?

?How could you have forgotten?? He cradled her and smiled.

?I have been with many a woman but none like you.?

?And a men.? She muttered.

?How do you know this??

?Edwin, you?re starting to creep me out. Stop it.?

?I?m sorry but I simply don?t know you.? He replied.

[SaintZenn]

Chapter 33: Interference

Edwin sat in the silence of the morning. The girl was gone, it bothered him to a point, but what bothered him more was what they had talked of. Either she was telling the truth or she was insane. He would like to think of her as insane because if she was telling the truth... Well, let?s just say that Talona had no idea of who she was messing with. If she was telling the truth, did he really want to remember? Maybe she was leaving out some things, things that had made him want to forget. He knew that the girl couldn?t have hurt him physically, maybe emotionally?

No. He decided. He was not one to allow himself to be hurt. What did that leave? He couldn?t question Jaheira or Ly at the moment, as Ly was off praying to her god and Jaheira was hunting for food. And the girl? She had slipped away before the sun rose. He had seen the pink rosy disk she wore around her neck and could only assume that she worshiped Lathander. Perhaps she was off to pray also? He could never awake like Lathanderians, but then again the girl hadn?t slept after he told her he simply didn?t know who she was. She had thought him joking when he remembered his companions but he couldn?t get her to see she wasn?t one of them.

He stroked his beard. Of course there were things in his memory that didn?t make sense. He had holes in it. The great battle against Sarevok, who had defeated the Bhaalspawn? And why was he traveling with people he couldn?t stand? There was something about Imoen being held by the Cowled Wizards, but why would they ask for his help? Imoen could barely stand him, the feeling was mutual. So maybe the girl was right? Maybe he was missing something that was important, but why did he forget? He had been sick, terribly sick, everything had hurt. It had even hurt to think. All that time he was sick he could hear a voice, soft and gentle, just like the hands that soothed his brow. He had much to think about

---

Anna sat in a circle of flowers as the dawn rose. She lifted her face to the light, hoping it would cleanse her of her problems. She still felt hollow inside, no, it wasn?t that. She felt like someone had cut out her heart and was dangling in front of her, just out of reach. Edwin had no memory of her. She didn?t know which was worse that he didn?t remember her or that he had made love- no fucked her, without knowing who she was. No, the worst part about it all was when he saw and felt her scars. His words still clung to her. He said he did not know her and that... She sobbed.

?A flawed beauty as yourself is meant to be pitied, not loved. I doubt I could ever love someone as scarred as you.? That?s what he had said. He couldn?t remember her from when she wasn?t scarred and now she was just to be pitied.

?Damn you, Bodhi. Damn you.? She whispered to the morning. Anna had never felt more like a freak then she did at this moment. Maybe she should run away and join the circus as the ?Scarred Woman?. She laughed hysterically. She didn?t know what she was going to do. What had attracted Edwin to her in the first place? She remembered jumping off that bridge, shedding her robes and swimming down to him to rescue him. He had been in that ridiculous robe, one with so much gold on it, it weighed him down in the river. She had breathed air into his lungs while he was under the water, fighting with him to lose the robe. She had finally had to knock him out and pull him out of the robe, up to the river bank. It was the first time she had ever seen a naked male, outside of a book that is. She had pressed on his chest over and over again until he coughed up the water and was awake. He didn?t know what she was and she didn?t know what he was, but there had been a moment that their eyes met. She knew now it was in that moment that she loved him.

But what about him? When did he realize he loved her? He had never told her directly that he loved her. He just always agreed with her when she said, ?I love you.?. Did that mean he really had never loved her? Now she knew how Sarevok had felt. She had forgotten him and he was miserable. Her memory had come back once she started seeing him and knowing him. Maybe the same would work for Edwin? Tears slid down her grey cheeks as she thought of a life without Edwin.

?Do not cry, my child.? A man?s voice came out of the light. Standing in front of her was a golden-skinned athletic built man just in the blooming of manhood. He was dressed in the dawn?s colors of pink, yellow and red. He was sitting on a log right in front of her.

?You morn what you believe to be lost but it is not. There is no need to suffer.? She turned her head and there was another man standing there. He was in a grey monk?s outfit, he was short, burly and balding.

?Who are you?? She asked the two men. Her heart skipped a beat, deep down she knew who they were, but she needed to hear it with her own ears.

?You know who we are.? The monk said smiling. ?As does he.? She looked behind her and there was another. This one she had never seen in human form, well, only that once in the Abyss. It was Bhaal, walking up behind her. She let out a growl and she realized that she had no weapons to attack him with.

?Why are you jackasses here? This is my realm.? Bhaal snarled.

?We are here to help you Bhaal.? The monk said.

?You never helped me when I was a god or when I was a mortal. I know that Revan called for your help, Ilmater. She was an innocent and you let her die!? Bhaal screamed at the god of suffering. Anni blink and didn?t know what to say or what to do, so she decided the best course would to be to get the hell out of there. She heard them arguing about a woman named Revan and her destruction. Some how this name struck a cord in her. Tears came to her eyes and she could picture a woman, a moon elf, with long black hair, wearing her colors of violet and red. The woman had a kind face and always smiled for them. Them? Who was them? This was confusing. Anna sat in the circle of flowers and felt tears run down her face. Why was she crying?

The golden skin man came over and touched her arm, she felt the warmth of dawn bloom inside of her. ?Why am I crying?? She whispered, trying to keep Bhaal and the monk from overhearing her.

?A long time ago, you had a mother named Revan. You saw her death twice, once as a mortal and the other as a spirit.?

?Why don?t I remember this??

?You cursed, or maybe it was a blessing, yourself and your sisters as to never remember your mortal lives and for none of you to ever obey your father again.?

?What happened? Did he kill us? And who is us?? Anni asked confused.

?Come we will talk.? Bhaal and the monk were too busy arguing to notice her and the man leaving the area, going farther into the woods. They came to a clearing and sat with the sun backlighting him. As he spoke she could see barely see him in the sun?s glory. ?I will give you the final hour of your former life and the destruction of Revan.?

---

Annalesca cracked her eyes open, it was hard because she was covered with blood, there was a dagger in her stomach. That?s how they left her. She was the only one left alive. Mom had been killed first, a slit to the throat, then they burned Imoen?s tree that she bonded with. She had watched in horror as Imoen burned herself as the tree died. Then there was poor Jessie. She had gone the quickest, they had simply killed her familiar and she couldn?t survive it. Where was Daddy when you needed him? Her tears mixed with the blood on her face to form a red film across her eyes. She thought of how everything could have been better. They should have gone to Thay this year, but after Daddy found out about her and Imoen?s would be boyfriends, ?Win and Yu, he refused to go back. She was seventeen! She had a right to look at boys!

She let out a sob and groaned as the pain in her stomach worsened. Why couldn?t Daddy just let her be in love, she would always be his baby girl, but now she was dying. There would be no more mornings with the fam?, no more boys, no more sisters. Taltos! Where was her familiar? She heard the door to the house open and something slithering across the floor, along with foot steps. Then there was blackness and she knew no more.

Annalesca woke on a bed that was covered with blood, her blood. She felt stiff and she hurt. She didn?t feel the dagger anymore, only a hollow emptiness where it had been.

?Annalesca, Annalesca, please don?t die. I beg all the gods and goddess, please spare her.? Her father?s voice came to her and she felt anger. This was his fault. She felt something in her that warmed her cold body. She realized it was hate. She hated her father. He was kneeling next to her and she was on a bed, making them level with each other. ?I?m sorry, I?m so sorry I wasn?t there to protect you. Please forgive me.? She turned and opened her eyes and stared into his strange eyes.

?I... hate... you. I wish that none of us... remember you in the afterlife. I... wish it... upon you.? She said with her final breath.

---

?I remember, then I went to join my family in the House of the Triad. I was so happy to see them. Mom had been changed into a deva, she was so beautiful. And she was summoned away and never came back. We were told by others that she had been destroyed by the evil aura of the new deity, Bhaal. I wished death upon him. And then I knew no more until Sarevok was holding me as a child.? Anni said, tears running down her face. ?If it wasn?t for my wish, Daddy would have been kinder. He would haven?t died inside that day.?

?You do not need to blame yourself, only to learn and understand.? The deity said. He stood her up and walked her towards the woods. ?We will only hope that your father understands all of this. That he can forgive himself. Do you forgive him? Do you still hate him??

?I don?t know. If he would have just accepted that I was a grown up then we would have gone to Thay that year and probably stayed. It?s his fault. I?m not the one that needs to forgive him. It?s Mom. For all the times he cheated on her, for every time he wasn?t there. Don?t get me wrong, he was a good Dad, but he was never there. I mean, he was there for the important things, birthdays and holidays but not when you really needed him. Half the time, the only way to see him was to sneak up on him on the roof.?

Anni stopped and smiled. ?He wasn?t the mighty assassin that everyone makes him out to be. He was flawed. He tried to pretend that he didn?t have a heart but he did. The most I saw him was at night after my nightmares. I would tell him everything I had saw and he would calm me.? She frowned then.

?He knew what was going to happen, he just didn?t want to give up any of us. Then he goes on to godhood to get us back. He should have just lived his life out and came to the House of the Triad. He could have made things all right. He didn?t though. He became obsessed with power and killing to hid his own pain.? She sighed. ?He really only wants the best for us, doesn?t he?? She asked.

?You would have to ask him, but you have other pressing matters. Consider what you have learned this morn and go with light in your heart.? The deity disappeared and left her in the forest alone. She didn?t know which way to go to get back. The trees parted and cleared a path for her. She walked forward into the path and wondered all about this morning?s revelations. Little did she know it wasn?t over.

Anni wonder for the first time if this was nothing more than a dream. After all weren?t the gods not allowed to interfere? The more she thought about it the more it made sense. Bhaal wouldn?t have been here in human form, right? She thought of the fact that if all she saw was true... Oh by the gods and goddess! She had had sex with Imoen and Imoen was her sister! Her blood sister! Anni start to retch and fell to her knee and puked. Her stomach didn?t have anything to throw up and she could only dry heave. She wanted to boil in some water. Guess it was her fault for not knowing.

She felt someone soothing her back, someone with small hands. They lifted up her hair, struggling with it and put a cold cloth on the back of her neck. She finally was alright and was able to look at the person who helped her. It was a small boy around the age of ten, he was dress in all black, he even had black hair and black eyes. ?Who are you?? She asked.

?Malek.?

[SaintZenn]

Chapter 34: Finding Familiars

Edwin was in the back of the caravan with Ly, busy playing Wizard in the Dungeon. At the moment they were having an argument.

?How can you be a level twenty already??

?Well how can you be a level forty??

?I?ve been playing this game since I was a child! That was long before you were even a twinkle in your great-grandmother?s eye!?

?Well I?ve been playing since I was a kid. You think that just because I started a new game, I should start all over??

?Well I think since you won the last game you should start over!?

?Like I would re-level myself just because I won the first in the series! (What kind of idiots would do that!)

?Well, I?ve never beaten the game but I would take the levels away.?

?You would willingly take away levels because you completed the first game? (Ridiculous!)

?Well, that?s what the game makers wanted you to start over.?

?It?s idiotic! (Never would I start over!)?

?Well, okay, but I?m going to kick your ass, coño.?

?We will see. (Foolish Drow, I will conquer you!) He exclaimed.

---

Jaheira was minding the fire that was cooking the rabbits she had caught for dinner. They were outside of the city. Just far away enough that no one would notice them. She sat besides Anni. They had found the young half elf in the woods, sleeping in the light, with a smile on her face. A rather silly smile. One she still wore. Anni looked content, sitting next to her as she stared at her diary. She was trying to draw something, but it looked rather like stick figures. In their group, Edwin was the talent with the arts. Though she would have to disagree with his fashion sense and mostly everything else he did. She wondered if Edwin awaking had anything to do with that smile that was on the girl?s face. That brought another thought to her mind.

?Anni, do you know what day today is??

?No clue.?

?It?s the eighth of Eleint.?

?And?? Anni went about doing her sketch.

?Today is your birthday... Your twenty-fourth.?

?Is it? I don?t think it?s my real birthday. I think today is just the birthday that Gorion gave me. As much as I treasure it, without Gorion, it?s pointless. I don?t think about it anymore.? Anni said solemnly.

?As little as it means to you, I have a present for you. Something Gorion wanted you to have.? The druid held out a scroll. Anni stored her book back in her bag and looked at the scroll.

?You never let me have one of these!? She said astonished.

?Gorion want to wait until you were more grown up, I think you?ve reach that time.? Jaheira received a big hug from the girl.

?Off! Off!? The druid laughed as she pushed the girl away.

?Let?s cast this!? Jaheira chuckled, all the time aware of Ly and Edwin arguing in the back of the caravan. Anni jumped up and walked a few feet away all the while the druid watched with some amusement. Anni held the scroll up and studied it for a moment before she started the incantation. The wind picked up, clouds covered the moon, lighting crackled in the distance and thunder rolled. She read the scroll and it turn to dust. The skies cleared and light shone down on the meadow they were resting. ?Did I do something wrong?? Anna asked, disappointed.

?Look behind you!? Jaheira jumped down and stared. Turning Anni was shocked to find a winter wolf there. It was massive, it?s shoulder almost was as tall as her and it was long. So shocked she let out a little scream and hid behind Jaheira.

-Scared you?- It asked.

?Yes! Don?t do that!? Anni chided.

-Sorry.- It chuckled.

?Are you my familiar?? Anni asked as she walked towards it.

-Heh. No.-

?Oh.? There was a thud and screaming from inside the caravan and Edwin and Ly falling out. They backed away from it and out slid a snake. A big snake. A really big snake. It was only half way out of the caravan and it already measured thirteen feet. It was a large amelanistic reticulated python, the gold pattern was replaced with bright lemon yellow, the gray areas with white, and the black areas with an almost translucent lavender color. Anni knew at once who and what this snake was. ?Taltos!? She said with joy. ?You survived my death, didn?t you? You?ve grown since I?ve seen you.?

-Of course I did. I?m meant to live no matter what happens. I?ve been Bhaal?s loyal subject since you passed... You do not plan on dying again, do you?-

?No, of course not. How did you...??

-I was created by Lord Myrkul. I die but can be reborn. If only you didn?t have to wait for your father to do the same for you.-

?What is that thing! It?s fucking huge!? Ly said as she hid behind the loin clothed Edwin. They didn?t have any clothes to fit him, and it wasn?t like he didn?t mind showing off his body.

?It?s a snake. A rather large one. And heavy, it landed on my lap. (Talk about having a snake between your legs.)?

?I can see that!? Ly shrieked as it moved.

?Taltos? Can you still change your size? Something smaller, perhaps?? Anni asked.

?Anni, if that is your familiar, why is that wolf not attacking us?? Jaheira asked.

-Hunt for drow. Found her!-

?Aww, come on Nanook, you wouldn?t kill me now would you?? Ly said as she started to back away.

-Not kill, just maim.-

?Come on Nanook, he?s safe! He?ll be fine!? The wolf howled and started closer to come closer.

?Nanook? Can you not hurt her? She?s a friend.? Anni said as she stood in the wolf?s path.

-Her? All she does is backstab.- The wolf growled.

?Come on, you know that Yuri?s my best mate! I only did what I was told. And I had to get you away or they might have executed him. But you found your way back didn?t you?? Ly laughed sheepishly.

-Don?t like the plan. Want Young Master back.-

?Don?t worry, we?ll all be going there soon.?

-Next time I bite your head off.- The wolf laid down away from the fire and glared at the drow.

?Holy shit, how big is this snake?? She said as more of the snake came out.

-I am twenty seven feet long and weigh two hundred and seventy five pounds.-

?How do you propose that we take either of you with us? (Must stay away from the snake... or is the wolf more dangerous?)

?Taltos, if you please?? Anni said with some amusement as she walked over to the snake. He lifted up and started to shrink as he rose. He was wrapped around Anni?s shoulder at a mere three feet. ?See, he?s a good snake. He comes quite handy at times.? Taltos? pink tongue slithered out as he stared at the Red Wizard. She nodded her head in response to the snake. ?Don?t tell, it could ruin everything.? She whispered. The snake hissed. ?Taltos, I?m warning you. I?ll put you in a box. With spiders!? She threatened. The snake passed out. She sighed and went back to the fire and sat down.

?Why does she get a familiar and I do not!? (The unfairness!) Edwin yelled.

?Calm yourself Edwin. I have one for you too.? Jaheira chuckled. He strolled over and took the scroll.

?It?s not as if I need a familiar, it will only compliment my power. (Now for something more powerful than the girl.)? He read the scroll by the fire light and it crumbled. They all heard a screeching chirping. Edwin looked pale. ?No, this is impossible. (NO!!!! How could this be?).?

?What is it Edwin? Is there a problem?? Anni asked when he buried his face in his hands.

?It?s called Jack and it wants to know where all the rum has gone.?


---

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[SaintZenn]

Chapter 35: Troubled Times

The Lathanderian was sleeping besides him. He was still puzzled over what was happening. He really didn?t feel anything towards her, though he did enjoy her body and her creative mind. It was still dark outside and he was awake. He had been having nightmares....no they were more something else....visions, perhaps?

He had lit a candle and picked up his journal. There were letters from people he couldn?t remember. As try as he might, he didn?t feel anything looking at these letters. He didn?t know who the correspondents where. He should know who they were but he didn?t. Strangely it didn?t bother him. He couldn?t miss something he didn?t know about.

Then there was the more interesting pages, he was always a student of art, he felt his sketches were quite good. The disturbing thing was the amount of pages dedicated to the Lathanderian. He had apparently labeled each one. The first one was of her with Imoen, it was labeled ?The Bhaalspawn?. Her hair had been shorter and she looked unharmed. She was laughing in the sketch, her eyes light and open. She was the Bhaalspawn?

He remembered his mission was to come to the Sword Coast and find and bring back the Bhaalspawn. Why had he not done so? He flipped a few pages ahead and stopped at one. It was entitled, ?First kiss.? It was him and her in some type of crypt, he was behind her and leaning over her as she stretched up to meet his lips. The picture stirred something in him. He touched his face and found himself smiling. He didn?t remember this but it was strange. He had an urge to make love... wait... since when did he refer to sex as making love?

His smile was wiped off his face as he came to the next picture. This was called ?The Killer Within?, He was sprawled on the ground and she stood over him with the Sword of Chaos in her hands. Her eyes gleamed unnaturally and the smile on her face gave him chills. He looked down at the Lathanderian, she looked so innocent in sleep, if this sketch was true she had almost killed him. How did he escape?

-You stabbed her. She came to her senses.- A voice whispered in his mind. He shook it off. He was hearing things now. Just great. The next sketch had a letter attached to it. He opened and read it.

Edwin,
I'm sorry for what I said to you. You're not weak. You're actually one of the best mages I've ever known. I wanted to push you away before either of us were hurt. I would rather you hate me than be disgusted by me. I can't tell you what I'm hiding from you, I would rather you not have that memory of me. I hope you can forgive me one day and understand why I did this. I don't want to hurt you ever again Edwin. I almost killed you, I can't stand to see that happen ever again. Please forgive me.
Anni.

He read it a couple of times and didn?t know what she was hiding. He looked at the sketch and felt his heart lurch. She was laying on a bed, her arm stretched out and blood flowing from the wrist. ?She Tried To Escape?, was what he had titled this one. He turned to the girl next to him and pick up her wrist, there was a scar there over the vein. He stared at it thoughtfully and knew that she loved him and had been willing to die to protect him. He had never had anyone like that. Maybe she could have more than his pity....

The next one was a product of his imagination, he just knew. She laid on a bed, the sheets were a blood red surrounding her were pillows of gold coloring. Her long hair was spread under her and she had on a seductive smile, her hand held out, beckoning the viewer. What was most surprising was that she had no scars. ?The Goddess Calls?. So this is what she looked like at one time. Who had given her the scars? Some of them looked like claw marks, others looked like it was from knives. There was no faking of these sketches, he recognized his own hand. He never drew someone or some thing unless it was interesting or he liked it. He had a lot to think about.

He closed his journal and blew out the candle. He touched the girl lightly, his hand running over her arm. He leaned down and kissed her gently, not disturbing her.

---

The plan was for Ly to sneak into the city and steal Edwin some clothing. The caravan, Ly admitted, belonged to the Copper Coronet. They had a reputation of smuggling slaves. They had been allowed to do so under Mae?var?s rule, Ly had been meaning to put a stop to it but she never got around to it. After Ly returned with the clothing, Edwin and Anni, as they were the least to be recognized, were to go to the Copper Coronet and find out what happened to the men.

Ly was scared that they had been forced in becoming gladiators in the pits, or worse. Edwin stayed inside the caravan, as he was busy with his spells. Nanook was still sleeping on his back, his giant paws swiping the air every so often. Taltos was off hunting for food. Jack was no where to be seen. While Ly tended the fire, Jaheira motioned for Anni to follow her away from the camp. They were in the woods and Jaheira stared hard at Anni. Something clearly disturbing her as she tried to find the words.

?I must leave you, after this business with Irenicus is over, of course.? Jaheira said softly.

?Why?? Anni asked afraid of the answer.

?I cannot continue to live an adventurer?s life. I have responsibilities.?

?Is it the baby you speak of?? Anni asked softly.

?How did you know?? Jaheira was shocked.

?I?m a Lathanderian, one of my dogmas is creation of life. All life. I can see it. You have a glow about you.?

?I do not know what to say. Only I do not glow.?

?Maybe not to others, but I can see it. You?re carrying twins.?

?Yes. I would prefer if you didn?t tell anyone. Especially your Red Wizard.? She said sternly.

?About that... Edwin?s memory was affected by the illness.?

?It didn?t sound like it.? Jaheira joked, but sobered up as she saw the misery on the half-elf?s face. ?What is it, child??

?Whatever the poison was it wiped out his memory, I was told it may not be permanent, but I don?t think he can get pass the scars. He basically said I was to be pitied and not loved.?

?Scars? Scars from what?? The druid looked puzzled.

?From Irenicus and Bodhi.?

?Child, why have you not told me before? With proper healing you can have them removed!? Jaheira?s smile faded at the sight of Anni?s face.

?We can?t waste the money, we need it to rescue Imoen.? She said as she looked down at her feet.

?Anni...child, you know we have twice the amount of gold need to rescue her. Tell me why you haven?t gone to a healer about these scars, or at the very least me!? Anni looked at her hopelessly, opening her mouth but said nothing. She went to walk away and Jaheira grabbed her by the arm.

?Don?t touch me!? Anni shouted in fear. She wretched her arm away, terror plain on her face.

?Anni! What is wrong child?? She asked truly concerned. ?Are you hurt??

?No.? She whispered.

?Then tell me why you were so scared just now. You have flinched away from me since our escape from Irenicus, the only woman you allowed to touch you is Edwina. You will occasionally touch others like Ly or myself, but not like you used to. What happened in that horrible place, please let me help you.?

?I can?t. The scars are mine to bare for my inability to save anyone. I was weak, I couldn?t save anyone. We would still be there if it wasn?t for the Shadow Thieves. Everything that has happened is my fault. Even now that I?m out of there, I?m still mucking up. I-?

?Stop this at once! None of this is your fault! Next thing I know, you?ll be taking on responsibility for Edwin?s loss of memory.? The druid looked at her. ?By Silvanus, you blame yourself don?t you?? They shared a look. ?You do, don?t you? Anni, it?s not your fault.? The girl turned away. ?Listen to me it?s not your fault.?

?Of course it is! It was meant for me, and I gave it to him.?

?Accidently! You know you would never do anything to hurt Edwin, you love him to much.?

?Yeah and I killed it. I?m going to suggest to him that he goes home, back to his family. Back to his beloved Teacher Dekaras. It?s for the best.?

?Anni, you can?t mean that. You do realize that-?

?Don?t say anything about that out loud. I can?t risk it getting back to anyone, especially not him.? Anni said.

Edwin sat back and opened his eyes. -Thank you Jack for spying on them for me.- He told his familiar. He wondered what secret the Bhaalspawn was keeping from him. He would continue to travel with her in hopes that he would regain his memory. Maybe it wasn?t even necessary, the girl was a mess. He knew he couldn?t take her back to Thay, the wizards of home would find her weak, most likely ending up using her for spell components. He normally had contempt for those like her but from his sketches and the way she took everything on her small shoulders... He didn?t know what to think.

As he waited for his clothes to arrive he started to reread his letters and could only wonder, Who was this Teacher Dekaras?

[SaintZenn]

Chapter 36: Slipping Away

It was just Edwin and Anni, him in red robes, that almost looked his own (They seemed to be very expensive) and her in the robes Edwina had been wearing. They were Anni?s but they had been stretched in the chest area. They first had gone up to their rooms in the Copper Coronet, finding the room still locked as they left them. She used a spell to unlock the room that belonged to Edwin and her. Inside they found everything they way they had left it. Her weapons were where she had left them including her healing supplies. She went over to the bed and was sorting out what she needed. She felt hands on her back, his body pressing against hers. She froze, not knowing what to say or do, he leaned over her and pressed his chest to her back, his arms circling her waist.

He started to nip the back of her neck and he knew she couldn?t help the little sounds she made. His hands came up and cupped her breasts and gently massaged them. Despite her scarred body he found her attractive (He did have a thing for half-elves). He had been with women who had far worse scars. From what he had heard, hers came from two people whose names evoked anger in him. He didn?t know why, but it did. He didn?t care for the others they were suppose to be rescuing, he cared more about sating himself.

As he turned her around and started on the laces on her robes, his mind didn?t stay focused on his task. He was working on automatic as he thought. He had no reason to stay with the group, he knew they were on a quest to rescue Imoen and destroy Irenicus and Bodhi, but really what did it hold for him? He couldn?t take her back to Thay, therefor he couldn?t go back to Thay. Especially since he had killed Degardan to protect the Bhaalspawn. He remembered that much. The City of Coin wasn?t welcoming to wizards, he didn?t know where to go. There may be profit in following her group, there would definitely be fulfilling of lust with her. There would also be power and he loved power in his hands more than anything.

He bent down and kissed her roughly, giving up on undoing her robes. His hands went to his own robes and undid the lower buttons. Then he walked her towards to the wall. He easily picked her up, pulling her robes up to her waist, and found her ready for him. She broke the kiss and cried out as his first stroke slammed her against the wall.

?Edwin! Ah, I don?t think-? She gasped.

?Good, let?s keep it this way.? He kissed her again. He made love (Why did he kept calling it that!?) to her against the wall, he was more gentle to her than he was with most women. He didn?t know why, but remembering the scars he felt the need for some gentleness, but not that much. When he finished he rested his head on her shoulder, breathing deeply. Being with her was an experience. He had felt something again while being with her. He didn?t know what to call this something. He kissed her again while he composed himself. He held her up until her legs were steady enough to hold her. ?Can you hold your own?? He asked of her.

?Yeah I think so.? She smiled at him uncertainly. ?That...um... was nice.? A blush came over her cheeks.

?I didn?t hurt you, did I?? He asked for some reason unknown to him.

?No, I enjoyed it.? Her blush increased, especially when he chuckled.

?You like it rough then? I?ll have to remember that.?

She looked at him with veiled eyes and whispered softly. ?I like many a thing rough, you just never asked.?

?Not that I remember, how remiss of me. I noticed your technique on top was lacking, how many men have you slept with prior to me? ( I can hardly imagine her a harlot, but the demure ones are always wild.)?

?Just you. You were my first.? She admitted shyly. He had to smile, he couldn?t ever remember being a woman?s first. Mostly of the women he slept with were highly trained and he didn?t sleep much. He still had his body against hers. Edwin couldn?t help it as he kissed her. So he had been her first? That added a bonus to traveling with her. He could train her exactly as he saw fit. He could tell she was eager to please, one of those do gooder types. This would indeed be a profitable situation. Of course he would have to convince her not to send her home. He knew a spell... He, of course, would be strong enough to resist the spell?s back lash.

---

Anni was drowning in guilt and lust. She knew she shouldn?t be taking advantage of Edwin like this. But it felt too good, too right. They had started at early morning and by time he had his fill it was noon. He was amazing! Each time she didn?t think she could go any farther, he would push her, forcing her to go more than she had ever. As far as losing his memory went, it was great for her sex life. Never had she felt so much pleasure. Or did so many things with him. When they were finally finished, she could barely believe it all. They didn?t speak and she couldn?t really look at him. They straightened out their clothing and head downstairs.

Lehtinan didn?t know about Anni or the other women being sold as he didn?t recognize Anni. He did direct them to the back to enjoy the pleasure chambers or the pit fighting. They agreed to try the pits first. They sat with the nobles, a few of the women giving Edwin apprising looks, while disregarding Anni. They watched as a dwarf came out of the back with only a dagger on him.

?I will not fight! This is barbaric! How can you allow this practice to continue?? The dwarf yelled.

?You are a slave! You will fight or die! Or you can just die without fighting but put on a show for our guests!? The ring announcer said. They watched as a troll was released and tore the dwarf apart.

?Bah! This is the worse slave fighting I?ve ever seen. (I much prefer when there?s more of a fight.)? Edwin commented as they walked away. ?At least give them something to fight for. (Or trick them into thinking there?s something to fight for.)?

?Edwin, slavery is horrible for any reason!? Anni told him in a surprised whisper.

?You do know that slavery is practiced in Thay, do you not??

?Yes but-?

?Let us just finish this.? They walked down back to the way they came and found another door that was guarded. ?Let?s see what?s behind door number one, shall we?? Edwin motioned for her to wait. He walked up to the guard and engaged the man in conversation. They were laughing as they entered the door. He looked back and motioned her to follow. Inside she found him covering the man?s mouth as he kissed him, Edwin?s hand went to his dagger and slit the man?s throat. He held the man?s mouth until he struggled no more and dropped him.

Edwin turned around, wiping blood off his lips and just waited for her to say something. She was shocked, she had never seen Edwin kiss a man, much less kill on with his own dagger. ?The ends justify the means.? He simply said and started down the hallway.

?Taking of life is never justified.?

?How else do you suppose we would have gotten down here? Charm your way in? Hardly.? He scoffed. ?There are quicker ways. After all, isn?t the belief that life comes from death??

?Yes, but-?

?No buts then. Let us continue.? She didn?t know what to say, so she agreed. In the back they found the cells for the slaves.

?Ah ha! I told you my witch would come! And here she is with the evil wizard! Eh? But what is this? She?s a he again.? Minsc said as saw them.

?My lady ?tis good to see you again!?

?This is good, I can?t seem to pick the locks anyhow.? Edwin didn?t know who the foreigner was but he took an instant dislike to him.

?I?m so glad you guys are okay! Now how do we get you out?? Anni said as she ran over to their cell and then she noticed something. First it was only the three men and little children inside but it was more than that. The door wasn?t locked. Anni crossed her arms and raised an eyebrow. ?Do you three realize that the door is unlocked?? The men hung their heads. She noticed that all of them, including the children, were wearing some sort of collar. ?What are these collars??

?They are used in Thay to discourage new slaves. They explode if the slave tries to escape.?

?How bad of an explosion??

?Enough to kill only them. It's usually considered better to harm a single slave as an example than to punish many equally (which lowers morale).?

?What do your people do with slaves then?? Anni asked aghast.

?Red Wizards who need live subjects for their latest spells use slaves as part of their experiments. Even should the slave become useless in all possible tasks as a result of this experimentation, it's forbidden to free slaves (the penalty is enslavement). As a result, ruined slaves often are either encouraged to become parents or are killed. Children resulting from any slaves are automatically slaves belonging to the owner of their parents.? Edwin rambled off, not noticing the look of horror on Anni?s face.

?Do you own slaves Edwin??

?Not at this time, I assume that once I have made enough by traveling with you, I will return and buy and breed my own slaves.?

?Thay is an evil place with evil people!? Minsc exclaimed.

?Oh? Rashemen is better? As I recall, males with magical abilities are taken away from their families and forced to become vremyonni.? Edwin snipped.

?No! Minsc would know of such a thing!?

?Your Wychlaran would have known of such a thing. After all it is for them that the vremyonni slave away for.?

?No! Minsc refuses to believe the evil lies of the evil wizard. Dynaheir was good! Dynaheir would never hurt anyone.? Minsc was becoming increasingly angry. The others could only watch as Edwin infuriated him further. He started to say something more and Anni tuned him out and concentrated inwards. Her eyes bled to black and she could see what she wanted now. She very rarely used this ability, as useful as it was, it was a Bhaal power. Using it opened her up to the taint but she felt she had to know. It was much like her infravision, except this allowed her to see auras. She looked at Minsc and smiled as she saw he was as green as always, Yoshi was blue, a true dark blue while Anomen was a lighter blue. Then it came down to Edwin, she had to force herself to look as she was scared to find out the truth. Deep, blood red. No hints of the blue he once held. ?Her? Edwin was gone and in his place was a true Red Wizard.

-YOU CAN BRING HIM BACK. WITH HIS PAST LIFE HIDDEN DEEP INSIDE, YOU CAN BRING BACK THE ONE YOU ONCE KNEW.- Bhaal whispered to her

?What if he?s been hiding his true self all this time? I don?t think I like this person that he is now.?

-I AM A GOD OF DEATH, NOT OF TRUTH OR LOVE. YOU MUST JUDGE FOR YOURSELF.- Bhaal quietly went away.

?Edwin, stop agonizing Minsc.? Anni quietly but firmly told him. When he didn?t, she lost her temper and backhanded him. ?You will listen to me. I am the leader here, not you, wizard.? She shocked herself and the others. Edwin turned on her, pushing her against the wall where the others could not see.

?Next time you raise a hand to me, it had better be in foreplay. Otherwise I will retaliate. ( This weakling thinks she can take on me? Hardly.)? He had his hands gently around her throat.

~Kill him~ Something that was not Bhaal, whispered in her mind. She shook her head free of the voice and the compulsion away. She crossed her arms and glared at Edwin.

?Edwin, why are you picking a fight with Minsc? What do you personally have against Rashemen??

?They are the enemies of Thay.? Edwin sounded confused, his brow scrunched up tight.

?I know that, but what has Minsc or his Wychlaran do to you??

?Do not say that word!? He hissed as his hands tightened on Anni?s neck, she put her hands over his and gently pried them apart. ?I hate Wychlarans! (All the harm they do!) They took away his power because he refused to be their slave and of all things, they planned to bred him! It took a long time for me to realize what they meant but I remembered.? He said in a small whisper as he didn?t want the others overhearing.

?Who Edwin? Who did they do this to?? She asked him quietly.

?I can?t see him anymore Anni, I can?t even remember his name.?

?Who was it that raised you?? She was scared of the answer.

?I remember my father but that is all.?

?What of Elvira? And Dekaras? Can you remember them?? He closed his eyes and took a steadying breath.

?I know those names but I do not know them.? He opened his eyes and looked at Anni with loss. ?Those names remind me of the holes in my memory. It hurts.? He leaned down and surprised her by kissing her. ?It doesn?t feel as bad when I?m with you. I don?t know why.? He whispered against her lips.

?Oh, Edwin.? She kissed him and held him for a moment long enough that they heard the others clearing their throats. ?Let?s free the others, and then we can talk more. Okay?? He nodded. They walked over to the others and discuss the best way for them to get rid of the collars and free all of them. Edwin suggest that there would be an orb, much like with the thralls they encountered when freed Haer?Dalis, they would need to find it and destroy it. Yoshimo suggested that it might be with the beast master and gave them the details of the beast pens. They walked to the empty pits and were facing an entry that wasn?t well lit, but they could make out a human and a tiger.

?Do you have Fireball memorized?? Edwin asked quietly.

?Yes, several in fact. Why??

?We are going to stand here out of sight and send a few in there to deal with the beast master and his pets. Then we will pick from the corpses.? It was a good idea, after all it was just the two of them. Both of them started chanting, quickly releasing two fireballs from their hands. Anni peered in and saw the tiger was dead and there was something blue shining in the darkness. Hands grabbed her back just as the shine became an explosion. Blue flames poured out of the entry, almost catching the two of them.

?What was that?!? Anni gasped as the flames died.

?Most likely the slaving orb. The others should be free now.? She smiled at him and he felt that feeling again. They headed back and on the way out of the pits, an angry looking Minsc was headed their way. The others trailed behind him with worried looks on their faces.

?Minsc are you alright?? Anni asked knowing the look in his eyes. It was the last thing that she said as the punch that he threw at Edwin caught her in the jaw, knocking her out.

[SaintZenn]

Chapter 37: Major Backfire

Lehtinan was dead, the slaves were freed and children were running all over the place as Jaheira walked through the Copper Coronet. Most of the slaves had no where to go, most of the children didn?t remember where home was. It was sad but there was nothing she could do for them except appealing the to local Harpers and seeing if they could find the children?s homes. The grown slaves had decided to stay and work here for Bernard and he in turn now had a new boss. Jaheira Woodrunner. She was proud of herself for helping to settle the balance. Sure, Ployer was on the loose, but when the ?shipment? of the slaves didn?t come he would be dealt with the very people he sought to sell them to.

Now the rest of the party was a little unbalanced to say the least. Minsc and Edwin had been put in the former slave cells until Anni was awake. It had been a good thing that Anomen had been on hand as Anni had been knocked out from a blow by her protector. Anni had lost two of her teeth and her jaw had been dislocated. She was resting now, Jaheira could only guess that the girl was beyond tired when she ordered the two men to be locked up.

-It was Nightal when we defeated Sarevok. Khalid and I left in Hammer, returning in Mirtul, to find the girls gone. Then it was a few days later that we were captured. What happened in those missing months? Why is she so afraid of me? Surely she doesn?t think I blame her for his death? It wasn?t her fault after all. If only she would open up to some one.- Jaheira thought. She also thought of her last time with Khalid, the night before they were captured. It was on that night that she had gotten pregnant. Her babies would be due in Kythorn of next year. She placed a hand on her stomach and allowed herself a soft smile. Soon Irenicus would be dead and all this would be over...

---

?Think about it my overly large, (yet small minded) berserker. Why else would she not be resurrected?? Edwin laughed.

?No! You lie! The evil wizard lies!? Minsc shouted from his cell across from the wizard?s. ?Minsc will stomp the buttocks of the evil wizard and Boo will eat his eyes!?

?Stop it both of you!? Anni yelled as she walked into the room. ?Edwin please wait for me in my room.? She said as she unlocked his cell. He only raised an eyebrow and left. She turned to Minsc and scowled at him. ?Minsc, you hurt me!? She yelled. ?I had to regrow two of my teeth and have my jaw popped back in place. Do you know how much that hurt?? She said but regretted it as she looked at Minsc. He looked so sad and she felt like she was kicking a puppy. She opened the cell door to his and hugged him. ?Minsc, I know you want to protect me, but you can?t just fly off the handle like you did earlier. Okay??

?Minsc and Boo are wondering, is it true that you didn?t resurrect Dynaheir because she was with the evil wizard??

?WHAT?!? Anni drew back fast enough that she tripped over her feet but he caught her before she fell. ?I am going to kill Edwin for putting that idea in your head.?

?Boo thinks it best if you think before you snack, oops act.?

?Wise words for a hamster.? Anni smiled faintly at Minsc. ?Please you must promise me that no matter what happens that you won?t hurt me again. Let me handle Edwin. You protect me from physical harm. Let me manage my own misery and happiness. Okay??

?Minsc will do as you have asked.?

?Thank you Minsc. Now go with the others while I handle Edwin.? She hugged her Rashemi protector and left to her room. She was shaking with something by time she got there. She felt heat and cold alternately, she felt sick with herself. Had Edwin really slept with Dynaheir? Anni had never felt bad about not resurrecting her, was this the reason why? Why would he remember his enemy and not his lover? If she was that. Had she held his heart at one time? Was it lost forever to her? Or did he really never love her? She remembered asking him, once, was he trying to tell her he loved her. She had been in a vulnerable spot, having just tried to kill herself. Had she backed him into a corner? She didn?t know and didn?t know what to think. She would just have to face the Edwin she knew now, knowing it was never going to be the same.

---

Ly sighed in happiness, and then promptly swallowed a scream as she climaxed. Oh yes, Anomen was making up for lost time as if his life depended on it. If she was like other Drow female, it would have, but Ly was content to just have fun. He was a creative lover and one that loved her, it was enough for her even if he wasn?t experienced. ?Ano, kiss me.? She giggled.

?As you wish.? His beard tickled as he kissed her neck, then her mouth. She hugged her own muscle man and sighed with happiness.

?I do love you Ano, with all of my black heart, or whatever color it is.?

?I love you too Ly. I don?t believe that anyone like you could have a black heart.?

?There?s still some things we need to talk about. I have to tell you about m-not now!? Ly gripped her head in frustration and listened to what her god had to tell her. She shook her head after the message so she could think.

?What is wrong my love??

?Anni...Edwin! Edwin is about to do something really stupid!?

---

Anni had planned on giving Edwin a piece of her mind and booting back to Thay without any further...stuff. But here she was with him, him tracing runes on to her skin with her riding him. She didn?t know what the runes were for, but with each one he traced, she felt closer to him. She couldn?t stop herself and he was drawing her in with this. This was all some how more intimate than all the times before. He finished his incantation with a shutter and his hands rested on her hips. His nails dug into her as she tightened around him. She leaned forward and bit the side of his very sensitive neck, causing him to cry out and climax. It was right at that moment everything went wrong.

The door burst open and the lovers where being pulled apart. Minsc had a naked Edwin by his throat and was shaking him while Ly and Anomen were fighting with an equally naked Anni.

?What is going on here?!? Anni shouted at them as they dragged her out of the room.

?Put Edwin down and watch him until I come back!? Was Ly?s reply. They dragged Anni stark naked out of the room and down the hall to the bathing area, which was blissfully empty. The two of them threw Anni into a bath of hot water. ?Cast Dispel Magic on her to clear her mind. I?ll go and make sure that Minsc hasn?t killed Edwin.? Ly walked out and Anomen did as he was told. As soon as the magic washed over Anni, her mind cleared and she felt cold inside. She felt like something was missing and was flooded with memories not her own.

She was a child staring up at a man with a hawkish nose, dressed all in black. He had a cane but didn?t need it to walk. She felt love beyond love for this man, he was a hero, except smart and didn?t die. No one could beat him. No one.

She then saw a beautiful woman next to him, she would one day make her proud. She would show her that she didn?t need her protection, after all she was a grown Red Wizard. Wait... something was wrong. Anni wasn?t a Red Wizard, yet she had another?s memories... These were Edwin?s memories! Why did she have them? What in the Nine Hells was going on?!

Anni sat in the water, letting it warm her and she felt hollow inside. ?What?s going on? What did Edwin do?? She asked Anomen, who had his back turned to her.

?From what Ly told me, it?s a Nethese spell that he picked up from the book of Kaza. It?s to bind two souls together. That?s all that she told me. She said it would have been... bad, if he finished that spell.?

---

?Minsc, you can go.? Ly told the great man. He released Edwin with a shake and walked out. ?Edwin, do you have any idea what you were doing with that spell?!?

?I know perfectly well what I was doing. (These simian monkeys think they are above me!)? He said as he pulled a sheet around his body.

-YOU DARE TO ENDANGER MY LITTLE ANNALESCA, WIZARD?- A voice came to him, chilling him to the bone.

?Do you really? You lost your memory and you?re trying to make up for it by making Anni a slave to you!?

?It was nothing like that! (Damn how does she know?)?

?You could have had anything go wrong! You risked her life for your foolish male pride!?

-YOU DID YOU KNOW.- The voice came again.

?No! I did no such thing!? Edwin yelled over the drow and the voice in his head.

?You did!?

-FOOL.-

?Both of you shut up!? Edwin yelled gripping his head.

?Both of who? What are you talking about coño?? Ly whispered to him.

-OH, THIS IS RICH. YOU CAN HEAR ME, CAN?T YOU EDWIN?-

?Who are you? Where are you?? Edwin yelled, oblivious to the drow.


-OH, I THINK YOU KNOW WHO I AM EDWIN. I JUST NEVER THOUGHT TO BE IN THE HEAD OF THE MAN THAT CONSTANTLY TRIES TO SCREW OVER MY DAUGHTER, FIGURATIVELY AND LITERALITY... HEH HEH... BOO!-

[SaintZenn]

Chapter 38: The Bard?s Lament

Anni sat facing the mirror, examining the mark. One could say it was rather like a tattoo, but it was not. They had tried dispelling it but it didn?t do any good. It should have come off, Jaheira and Anomen tried their best spells but nothing. It was a magical mark, that much they knew. It covered her left breast, right over her heart. They had even tried taking a knife to it but it proved that it would hold up to even the Chaos blades. Well, the truth was they couldn?t get a blade near it, it had a small but strong enough repel on it that it was like trying to connect magnets together. The only thing it let near was Anni?s hand.

She had finally had enough of it and asked everyone to leave her. Once they had left she tried talking to Bhaal but he didn?t answer her. Well something answered her, it had a high pitched voice and gave her the vague impression that she knew it. It said, ?The great and almighty Bhaal cannot answer at the moment, oh yes! Please try back later. Time for the shiny ones.? Sighing with defeat she decided to turn to the one person who might know what was going on. Taking out the music box that had been given to her, she wrote on a scrap of parchment a plea of help and inserted it inside, closing the lid, she turned the charm. It played a pretty song. It always played something different when it was played. This time was no exception. She didn?t know the song, he must have been listening to something new.

?The human animal is a beautiful and terrible creature, capable of limitless compassion and unfathomable cruelty. If you wish to find that which becomes the dividing line between mankind and other biological classifications, it rests not in brain size, dominance, or even emotional capability, but lies in the unique capacity for human beings to reflect on their actions and show regret, what is most certainly the ability to empathize, that gives them their position. All animals understand love and affection, but only man shows the propensity to place himself into the shoes of another life form. Losing this capability, among individuals of this species, reduces them below their much heralded position, and readies the climate for the likely fall of man, the fall from grace.? He said from behind her. She turned and stared. ?But you are neither human or elf. So what does that set for you??

?I know that I have a good capacity for compassion and I have been cruel in the past. But I don?t know... Is that quote from any place with elves??

?Sadly no. All the elves on that world have died. You called for a reason I assume.?

?I didn?t know who else to turn to. Bhaal?s not answering and I slept through the dawn. I don?t know what to make of what happened with Edwin, it feels like there is a part of him inside of me, and this mark. What is it?? He knelt down and looked at the mark. It was a perfectly detailed tattoo of Edwin, with some exceptions. He had a red and gold wing and horns, he was naked, laying on his side, one hand on his chest, while the other was held out to the viewer.

?An incubus. How imaginative.?

?Is that what it is? How do I get rid of it.?

?How did you get it? This should be impossible, at least for your kind.?

?It was a spell that he got from the book of Kaza. I can?t tell them apart, I don?t know which one it was.?

?Kaza? Do you have the book?? She handed it to him. ?Ah, Kaza wasn?t just a wizard, he was Virrcan.? He flipped through the pages of the old book. ?He wrote this to better understand his ?condition?. He wanted to share his works with the world, only it was forbidden. Virrcan secrets are closely guarded. I?m guessing that Edwin has done what only a Virrcan male can do.? He sighed.

?What has he done??

?He has bound himself to you. That there is his mark. His inner self.? She sighed as she closed her robes and stared at him.

?What can I do??

?You can kill him.? He said tonelessly.

?What!? No!? He looked at her and sighed. ?Just tell me what this does.? She demanded.

?All men elf, human, Virrcan, etc, will see this and know you belong to him.?

?He did this to keep me from sleeping with another man?? She asked in a deadpan voice. ?He?s the one that can?t keep his thingy in his pants.?

?You mean, cock? And last time I looked he was wearing robes.? She blushed. ?At any rate it?s more than just that. You have some of essence, what makes him him.?

?I have his memories, they are of a few people in his life, but nothing of me.?

?Do you worry that he never loved you?? He inquired.

?Yes.? She whispered.

?When a Virrcan uses this spell, usually the male is marked too, but you didn?t let down your shields to allow him to, did you??

?Shields??

?Metaphysical. They always come crashing down between two people during the height of passion.? She was blushing.

?You mean when... towards the end?? She stammered.

?I forgot how wonderfully shy you can be.? He chuckled. ?But yes.?

?Well, Edwin did, but before I could Ly came in and separated us.?

?So wonderful that drow was around...? He had a strange look on his face. Taking the book of Kaza, he opened it and looked at one of the old pages. ?Edwin must have used this spell. Do you have his translations?? She handed him his spell book, opening it to the right page. He chuckled as he read it. ?He put the ?to? in the wrong place. The book?s spell is ?Enslave to a female.? His translation is, ?To enslave a female.? He wanted you to his self without anyone being able to separated the two of you.? He paused. ?This spell has two parts, the giving and accepting. He gave but you didn?t accept. If you had, his soul would be yours now. He would be bonded so tight to you that you wouldn?t know where you left off and he began. As it is, you?ll be able to hear his thoughts, rather his emotions, his memories are now yours and he will be drawn to you as a moth to a flame.?

?How do you reverse it??

?You can?t. There is nothing to do about it now. All you can do is live with it. Send him away if you must but he?ll never be able to sleep with another woman without thinking of you. He has forced love on himself.?

?You know this spell personally don?t you??

?Afraid I do. I am a god as you know, there is a counterpart to me, a goddess. She is everything I am not. We fought each other at first. We didn?t want anything to do with our godhood, much less each other. I wanted to be the ?good? god and told her to give her right as goddess up. When she didn?t I killed, I killed her family. She then started to kill my people. It was a mess.? His wings hung down to the floor behind him.?

?What happened??

?Annalesca, the name means, ?The goddess?. That?s why I was so interested in you. I thought you might be her. I want her back so badly. I messed up, I want another chance. I can?t find her though, the real Annalesca, all I?ve found are ones with her name and her looks, like you.? He continued before she could speak. ?I gave my being to my Annalesca and now she?s gone, I can?t tell the difference between a depecha or an Annalesca. All I know is I?m drawn to women with the name Annalesca. And they happen to all share features.?

?What are you getting at??

?Seeing Edwin?s mark on you fills me with rage. I want you as my own. I?ve always wanted you as my Annalesca. I couldn?t test and see if you were the real one as you were too young. But you are a woman now, I can only come to you if you invite me. I can take away the curse of Bhaal, I can make you Virrcan. I promise to make you beyond happy. Just say yes.? He was one his knees in front of her, he held one of her hands to his face, his black eyes searching hers for some hope.

?Why don?t you tell her what will happen to her baby if she agrees, Simon?? A voice came out of the darkness as a bolt was drawn back in the silence. Ly stepped forward aiming her crossbow at the god.

?Nothing made on this world can kill me.?

?Good thing it wasn?t made on Abeir-Toril.?

?You?re bluffing.?

?Am I?? Simon stood and let his wings open. He looked quite menacing, at least to Anni but the drow didn?t flinch.

?Who do you serve? You cannot lie to me.?

?Two gods, that neither have nor want worshipers. One wants what you want, the other wants you gone.? She said, the words jerking from her mouth as if it hurt to tell the truth. ?Of course, now that you made me tell that, I?m torn with who to shoot or with what.?

?Ly!? Anni was shocked.

?Sorry, but neither one of them want you changed in any way. So back to the baby question, tell what would happen to her baby if she did say yes.?

?Simon??

?You would lose the baby. Transformation is... difficult on the body.? He admitted reluctantly.

?Why don?t you tell her the rest about your people? Like how the females can only get pregnant if they have a male bind themselves to her, much like dear Eddie has done. Most of your kind see his mark and they?ll think she?s a Salvous. No man would want her. Then one day in her long and lonely life, you would find the real Annalesca and you would abandon her. And let?s not forget that time moves differently on your world, if she wanted to come back, she would find this world changed.? Ly smirked at the god.

?Simon, how could you ask me such a thing? And what is a Salvous?? Anni demanded.

?A soul collector.? Simon said sullenly. ?You?ll lose everything if you stay here, including your malk-? A bolt was fired at the music box, splitting in half. A portal of darkness opened and Simon was sucked into the void. Anni could only stare in shock.

?I lied, the bolt was just a normal one, but without his conduit to this world he can?t stay.?

[SaintZenn]

Chapter 39: Advice or just plain torment?

Note: Character abuse ahead! Men, you have been warned.



?You know the first time I found out about her having a boyfriend, I packed us up and went to another continent. That led to her death and the rest of my family?s. Having you in the picture and your constant scheming is not making me happy.? The man with the two toned eyes said.

?Well obviously the first time was your fault for her death. This time is your fault also, as if the first time never happened, you would not be here. (And not bothering me.)? Edwin replied.

?Ah, but if it wasn?t for you acting like the group?s camp follower, then I would have never found the way to Annalesca?s mind.?

?Who are we talking about again?? He just wanted to sleep, problem was he was already asleep.

?Annalesca, my daughter.?

?And who are you again??

?You know that I am Bhaal.? Bhaal fairly shouted at Edwin.

?Well if you are really then shouldn?t you be a giant red and black lobster thingy?? Edwin snickered.

?No, since you are not one of my children, I can appear before you as ?Bhaal the mortal?, I need not my godly form to talk to one such as you.?

?Ha! At least I didn?t have to force your daughter to love me, she, of course, fell in love with me as any blushing virgin would.?

?Not that you remember. Of course a, now how would you say it?, a simian as yourself had to make her jealous before you deflowered my oldest.?

?Don?t you have children over the age of five hundred?? Edwin smirked.

?They are just fuel for my rebirth, my real family is Annalesca, Imoen and Jessie.?

?Oh? You won?t even own up to that fanatic Sarevok?? Bhaal looked away, then smiled.

?No, he failed me in every way. If I had known, I would have never knocked up Revan again, but that?s what you get when you have sons. They are often like their fathers. Like you.?

?I am nothing like my father!? Edwin shouted as he made to cast a spell at the former god.

?Yes, feed me your hate, Edwin. Emotions only make me stronger.? He laughed at the Red Wizard.

?I hope someone kills you again. (Where is a death spell when you need one?)?

?You know you have an awful bad habit of talking to yourself. Is that because your mother was too ashamed of her relationship with your father or is it that she didn?t want another spoiled brat like you??
?You have me at a disadvantage as you well know I cannot remember my mother.?

?Ah, but I know. Wouldn?t you like to know??


?I will regain what was lost one day, I need no help from you.?

?Ah, but that is my point, you do. I know everything about Annalesca, past and present.?

?Who says I want to know about your daughter?? He countered.

?Well, since you screwed up that spell and are in complete love with her, I think you do.?

?I do not love your daughter.? Edwin got up and turned away, Bhaal simply reappeared in front of him.

?I know you Edwin, and I happened to know what Simon tried to pull. Wouldn?t you care to know?? He thought for a moment who Simon was. Ah yes, the demon god with black wings, the one who had kissed Anomen.

?Why should I care??

?He offered her to leave this world, become his queen, among other things.? Edwin?s heart raced and he was suddenly scared. She wouldn?t leave him would she? Who was he kidding? She had every right to leave him. No that couldn?t happen! Bhaal was right, he had forced himself to fall in love with the Bhaalspawn with that spell. All he wanted was for her to be his! ?See that?s the problem, you can?t see past your own insecurities to see that she was always yours. Pity.? Damnit! Bhaal was reading his thoughts.

?Fine, what did she chose?? He asked with a sigh.

?What do you think?? Edwin?s heart stopped for a moment, he fell to his knees as a single tear ran down his face. He had always been told he was reckless and couldn?t use demon summoning spells (much less Nethese scrolls) until he could be him at chess three times in a row. Who was ?him?? He was grasping at the hidden thoughts in his mind, trying to distract himself from the pain, but no matter how hard he tried, he couldn?t get past it. What had he done? ?As much as it cheers me to see you cry... no wait, I think I?ll let you wallow in misery for a while.? Bhaal laughed as he watched Edwin.

The room sifted and for a moment he was in a black void, then it changed slowly into a plain room. It had bare wall except for some childish paintings of a dragon. There was a set of wooden swords propped against the wall, a table with a chess set and four books. He didn?t know this place, but he did know the person in the window seat sharping a huge sword. -Sarevok.-

?You know she hates coming here, so I can it?s actually a pleasure to be here. I would prefer if I was alone but beggars can?t be picky.? The huge man said. ?A shame really that she had to save you time and time again. I just really don?t like you Edwin. Never did. After all, Winiski asked Thay to send their strongest wizard after her. And they sent you, why?? He mused. ?It must be because I asked for their most... naw, I?ll keep that a secret.? He chuckled and looked up from his sword. Edwin started to interrupt but found the only sound that came out of his mouth was the clucking of a chicken. Sarevok roared with laughter.

?Oh, no! I think I?ve stopped the grand wizard from speaking in this dream! In time you will be able to control the dreams, but for now your at all our mercies. Bhaal, myself and that.? He point with his sword at creature that shocked Edwin. ?That is the taint, it has taken the form of Anna?s Slayer. One day she?ll be able to call upon it at will. The creature hissed and slammed itself against an invisible barrier. ?It will not affect you like it does Anna. In fact you?ll find that it holds all of Anna?s emotions, just magnified. I never had access to the Slayer form, it figures that Anna does. Bhaal always did favor her. Now, I?m sure you have questions for me. You may speak.?

?Why is this happening to me?? Edwin sighed.

?From what I understand, you have bound yourself to her. You miss translated the spell, again.? Sarevok grinned.

?How do you know of this??

?See this ring?? He held up his hand. ?This is a soul binding ring, you notice that Anna has one that is almost it?s twin on her hand?? Edwin nodded. ?I gave her that ring to keep us together. In truth it has bound us closer than just being siblings. She is learning to use the ring, even if it is subconsciously. She is learning battle tactics and I am learning empathy. At the moment I am stuck in a pocket plane in Bhaal?s realm, near the Throne. If I stare hard enough I can see Bhaal sitting on his throne, nothing but bones. Now ask me the question you really want to know. Unless you?re scared to know??

?Bah! I fear nothing!? He was silent for a few moments, then stuck his chin out and held his head high as he dared Sarevok to not answer his question. ?What did she chose??

?She stayed.? He stood and slammed his sword into the floor, where it stuck. ?That, of course, brings me to the reason of why. I have a duty to her as a big brother and it?s time I took care of something.? He grabbed the Red Wizard and slammed his fist into his face. ?You bastard! She just turned twenty-four and what do you do? Not use protection spells!? He back handed Edwin, splitting open his lip open, he let Edwin drop to the floor. ?As Minsc would say, ?A boot heel to the backside of evil!?.? Then kick the wizard in the ass. He knelt down, wrapping his arm around Edwin?s throat. ?You knew that she was a Lathanderian, dogma to bring new life where ever she goes??

?I don?t know what you?re talking about!? Edwin choked.

?She?s carrying your child!? He released him and walked away, putting his sword out of the floor. ?Didn?t you wonder who ?Malek? was? I know she?s talked about him in her sleep. You cast that spell because you thought there was another man, it was just your son!? He grabbed the wizard by his robes and picked him up. ?I should run you through for all the pain you?ve put my sister through. When I find a way out of this realm, I shall do just that.?

?I didn?t know! (How could this have happened?)? Edwin whimpered as he was held off the ground by the man who made Minsc look small.

?Do you enjoy pain Edwin?? He asked the wizard before brutally impaling him through the stomach. ?Because I enjoy giving it.? He laughed and let the wizard fall to the ground. The Red Wizard found himself falling through the floor into a black void.

---

?Edwin? Are you okay? Edwin, look at me.? Anni put a soft hand on his cheek, forcing him to look in her eyes as he woke. His hands went down to where Sarevok had stabbed him and was relieved to find out that he was intact.

?I am fine.? He softly.

?What were you dreaming about? You look very pale.?

?Nothing, I am fine.? He wasn?t about to tell her what her family was doing to him. He could defend himself from them. No, he didn?t need anyone?s help. No one at all.

?If you say so. I... I came in here to say good-bye.?

?Good-bye??

?I wrote a letter to Master Dekaras asking him to come here to retrieve you and take you home. Back to Thay.? She said as she stood. ?The Shadow Thieves told me that he?s around. I hope he doesn?t take the letter too badly and decide to kill me or you. You?re better off with him.? Edwin sat up and grasped her arms.

?I am not leaving you.?

?Well, I?m leaving you Edwin. I?ve had enough of you! I can barely stand the sight of you.? She said as she pushed him away.

?If that was true you would have left with Simon.? He said with confidence.

?How do you know about Simon asking me to leave? Did Ly tell you??

?No, your brother Sarevok told me before...nevermind. (She doesn?t need to know about that.)?

?You talked with Sarevok? How??

?From what Bhaal told me, I?ve connected my subconscious with yours as a result of the spell.?

?Just great.? She put her hands over her face. ?Look you?re going home and that?s that.? She started to stand but he grabbed her again and pulled her down on top of him. Before she could get out more than a squeal he flipped over, pressing her into the cot. He kissed her, his hands going to her robes. ?What are you doing?!? She shrieked when he moved his mouth from her to nibble on her sensitive ears.

?Changing your mind, of course.?

?Really??

?Yes.? He smiled to himself as he felt her hand enter his robes, glide over the flat planes of his stomach and further down. The next thing he knew was blinding, twisting, yanking pain! He choked on a cry of pain, by the gods he had never felt such pain! He was pushed off the cot and dumped on the floor. Then he felt pain in his back as he was kicked.

?I am not someone you can just fuck to get your way with!? Another kick landed. ?I hate you Edwin! I hate you! You truly sicken me and what makes me even sicker is that you lied about yourself and everything to get yourself into my bed! You never loved me at all!? She screamed at him.

?That?s not true Anni, you know I love you.? He gasped with pain. He had turned to face her and saw her crying.

?Yeah because of some spell! You never really loved me, you just wanted my power! I swear if this was anything like Wizard in the Dungeon you?ve made me slip three levels of aliment!?

?Anni I love you and you love me. You know you do.? He said without gasping, though he was still in pain.

?I loved the old you. I spent a year waiting for you to change into a nice person and you did along the line but now you?re pre-Anni. I don?t want to repeat a year of suffering.? Tears were literality pouring down her face. ?A little time ago I would have done anything to be with you, but I?m tired Edwin. I don?t want this anymore. I don?t want you anymore.?

?Liar. You love me as much as I love you or you wouldn?t have lashed out at me. You wouldn?t have stayed. You would have left with Simon.? He said fairly smugly.

?I stayed because I want children... because I?m carrying your child and in six and a half months I will have a son.?

?Six and a half?? He asked puzzled.

?Some time ago, I was granted a spell by my Morning Lord, Lathander. I use it once a month and it quickens the baby?s growth by a month. Jaheira has used it for her past pregnancy and assures me it?s perfectly natural for an woman to speed up the term. The process is a little tiring though and twice as much energy is consumed, naturally.?

?I have never heard of such a thing.?

?It?s really only known by cleric and druids, it?s not surprising that you wouldn?t know about it. As I recall, your teacher was woefully shy about teaching you about sex education. The first and last time he brought it up, you called girls icky.? She managed a laugh. ?You mainly learned about sex in wizarding school. Then there was the time you joined a Sharess cult and your teacher had to drag you back to your studies and that was after your mother gave you the talk on ?erotic onslaughts?. I now know where you came up with that silly term.?

?It?s not silly.? He muttered as he stood up and started towards her. ?As far as the cult goes, my parents never suspected a thing. It was only when Teacher Dekaras noticed that there was lacking knowledge that I should have known for that year, since I dropped out of wizarding school to join, he became suspicious when I became vague in my answers.?

?You have your memory back?? She eyed him warily.

?No, I can remember things as you talk about them.? He reached out and brushed her cheek with his hand causing her to jerk back.

?Don?t touch me. Unless you want to get hurt again.?

?Anni, I know this is against your nature. You don?t like hurting people.?

?You do.?

?My enemies, but not my lovers. Not the woman I love.?

?Stop saying that! It?s just the stupid spell you screwed up making you feel that way. Ly told me that it will lessen with more time and space between us. That?s why you?re going back to Thay.?

?I don?t want to go back to Thay! The hell with Thay! Anni, I am not leaving you. I have to be there for you, especially now that you?re-?

?Don?t you dare bring Malek into this fight! I?ve been taking care of myself since Gorion died. I was fine taking care of myself.? She shouted at him. Before she could move out of the way he ripped open her robe, (pleasantly surprised to see that she was just wearing the inner one) and put a hand over the largest of her scars.

?You call this taking care of yourself? You were tortured, for months on end, now you go- Look at them! Now you go to fight the monsters that did this and you?re leaving behind someone who will be able to help you. Who loves you.? He ended softly. She was crying again. He sat her down on the cot, pulling the rest of the torn robe free. ?And these,? He said as he touched her thigh. ?You cut yourself. Did you ever tell me why??

?I?m not a cutter!? She protested. She cried harder. ?Don?t tell anyone about them.?

?I won?t.? He said quietly, then waited for her to speak.

?When I do it, I feel like something has been released in me. All my problems go away as I see the first sign of blood. But they come back, so I cut again. Pain gets rid of Bhaal. Gets rid of the pressure. It frees me. At least it use to. I started when Gorion died, Imoen?s the only that knows and Sarevok somehow knows. I?ve tried cutting since I escaped from Irenicus but it?s not the same anymore. It still gets rid of Bhaal but that?s it. The pain just reminds me of everything that I went through. It reminds me of Bodhi. It just hurts. Everything hurts all the time.? She couldn?t stand looking at her body anymore and pulled the torn robe around her.

?Anni, I?m not leaving.? He said after a moment.

?Then stay in Athkatla, but you?re not coming with me. I plan on stopping Irenicus and...?

?And?? He prompted after she didn?t talk for a minute or so.

?I don?t know. I have to fight in the coming war, but it could be years until it starts...? She sighed.

?I?m coming with you. I l-?

?Stop saying that!? She hissed at him. She stood and started towards the door. ?This is good-bye Edwin.? A hand on her shoulder stopped her. She didn?t move as he tried to turn her around. After a few moments and the words, ?Insufferable woman.? He moved in front of her and put his hands on her cheeks. He made her look up at him and then bent down and kissed her gently.

?The pain will go away, you just need to get it out. Stop punishing yourself, stop hurting yourself, you didn?t do anything to deserve the pain. I made a deal with Talona to bring you back to me because I love you. Maybe I pushed you too soon, too fast. I forgot who I was to you. I?m willing to give it another chance, forget what happened and let?s start over.? He gently said. ?Please.? He abandon all his pride and put all his being into that one word.

?Good-bye Edwin Odesseiron.? She left without another word.