The enemy ship floated past, locked in the ice, and Athgar pulled forth more of his magic. Fed by the burning ballista, he called forth thick black smoke to obscure the pirate's vision. The enemy vessel was soon engulfed, making any ranged fire impossible.

The Swift, now clear of the enemy, turned once more to resume its journey.

Captain Runell joined them on the aft deck. "That was well done," he said, "I'm glad they didn't have mages like you."

"It was our pleasure," said Natalia.

"Much as I'm thankful," said the captain, "I'm wondering why you didn't just set the whole ship on fire."

"There are slaves aboard," said Athgar, "I'll not sentence all of them to a fiery death."

Captain Runell nodded his head in understanding, "A good point, and one I'd forgotten. It seems you're well suited to this line of work. You can sail aboard my ship anytime you like."

"Thank you," said Athgar, "I appreciate it."

Brother Cyric came forward to congratulate them. "It seems my skill at arms was not needed this day, I thank the both of you."

"I would have thought you'd be eager to come to grips with them," suggested Athgar.

"No," said Cyric, "though I can fight, I do not take pleasure in taking the life of a man. Your solution was much more...elegant."

Corassus

Autumn 1103 SR

Athgar gazed across the bay to the fortress that lay beyond.

"Impressive, isn't it?" said Cyric.

"I've never seen anything so large," said Athgar, "but then again, I hadn't seen a city until this year. Tell me, are all castles so large?"

Cyric barked out a laugh, "No, this is one of the largest ones, but you have to realize how many people it holds. There are close to a thousand Temple Knights living there."

"That many?" asked the Therengian. "I had no idea. How am I to find one man among so many?"

"You must take things one step at a time," suggested Cyric. "Get settled into Corassus first, then learn the layout of the city. A plan may come to you in due course, but in the meantime, I shall make some discreet enquiries and see where they lead."

"Thank you," said Athgar, "I appreciate the help. Will you be staying at the fortress?"

"Saints, no," said Cyric, "my place will be at the mission."

"The mission? What's that?"

"It's a large structure down in the poorer section of town. I believe it used to be a place of worship long ago."

"A church?"

"Not to my religion," Cyric continued, "but I believe your people might feel at home there."

"Why would you choose that as a place of operation?"

"It was the only building available in the area. The Brothers of Saint Mathew tend to the poor and sick, what better place to find them than the slums."

"I don't envy you your job," offered Athgar.