Settling into the Manor (Parts 1 & 2)

I knew it couldn't have been that easy!

Of course the Shepherds from Nightstone were successful in tracking and killing the assassin but it never is cut and dry, at least not in Waterdeep! The assassin turned out to be a dark elf, and however dangerous that may be, he carried with him an amulet that Damara seemed to recognize, something from her home. Could it be that Dark Elf had something to do with the massacre of her village? And why was he in Waterdeep? Was he alone? It is unlikely one of their kind would travel so far afield without companions. If there are others of his kind here in the city, why are they here...and will they come looking for revenge?

But before that mystery could be plumbed, another twist presented itself, Ziraj himself attacked the Shepherds in some sort of test. I remember him being careful...but it seems to me the years have changed that carefulness into paranoia. I don't see why he couldn't just offer his services and support to them. Perhaps this gang war and the schism of the Zentarim has him on edge and as wary of allies as he is of his enemies.

At least the companions succeeded in whatever test it was he provided. He has now pledged his aid and the offer of training to them. Though the might of the Zentarim, as fractioned as it might be, is a potential resource as well. One that the companions should take care to cultivate, if it doesn't cost them their lives or honor. For while Ziraj was my close friend and ally, I don't know that the Ziraj of today has the same code of honor he once had. Only time will tell. At least he and the other Doom Raiders know of the enemy that may be hunting them even now. I hope this will give them the edge they need to survive. I owe them that at least.

But the Zentarim are not the only allies these companions have now. On personal invitation from Varja Safar, Blackstaff of Waterdeep and head of Force Grey, the companions visited Blackstaff tower and took on an assignment on behalf of the city. It seems almost unbelievable, but they have brokered a deal with a young bronze dragon living in the harbor, securing his peaceful conduct and discretion for a monthly fee and the promise to aid the Blackstaff should the city have need of him. Varja all but offered to make them full members of Force Grey! It is a good thing they have found such allies as Force Grey and the Zentarim with the enemies who may be mounting against them.

And what of the warnings of Hlam the monk?

"No matter good deeds or evil, innocent blood shall spill on Founders' day."

And

"Evil's twin hides its face for now. Expect that to change before winter's end."

I don't know what these ramblings are supposed to mean, but even I have heard of Hlam the Fist of the Sun and know to be wary of whatever tidings he brings.

At least the companions are finding comfort in their new home and seem to be settling into the neighborhood. They even met a trio of orphaned youth who seem to be living in the abandoned house across from the manor in Trollskull alley.

After saving the orphans from a mimic, they certainly are beginning to make a name for themselves in the neighborhood. I even overheard some of the neighbors are planning to throw them a party! Absolutely delightful! Their neighbors seem to be quick to help them as their exploits grow in number. Falla taught Bennu and Trella the art of crafting healing draughts, Tally lent his wooden breastplate to Damara, the smiths, Embric and Avi, helped them smelt and exchange their silver trade bars. Even Fatima, the old woman running the post, seemed to offer helpful history about the manor they now reside in.

Could it be true that this hag that once lived in the manor, running it as an orphanage and eating the children, could be the same one that came under the employ of Caliban the wizard? A coincidence such as this seems difficult to believe but stranger things have happened.

Stranger indeed, like the invitation to dinner with the Lord and Lady Cassalanter! The companions better take care with this meal, for while such high folk may make welcome allies, it is all to easy to end up offending their noble sensitivities and causing them to become enemies instead.