"It is frustrating to see new construction at the fortress when we are so in want of aid," Cyric fumed.

"I am in complete agreement," offered Brother Caerwell, "but there is nothing we can do. I've forwarded requests to the Archprior himself, but little seems to come of it."

"Perhaps, I shall visit him," said Cyric, "and remind him of our responsibilities."

"Would you?" asked Brother Caerwell. "It would mean so much more, coming from a Temple Knight."

"I will see what I can do," confirmed Cyric, "but first I must see to my companions. If you'll excuse me?"

"Of course," said the brother, "I have kept you far too long already."

Cyric bowed respectfully, then made his way down the hallway. At one time it had been the central room of this ancient temple, but now makeshift beds replaced the benches, and the stench of corruption and death permeated the place.

He entered the library, immediately recognizing his acquaintances from the Swift.

"Natalia, Athgar," he greeted, "so good to see you both. I trust you've been well?"

"More or less," said Athgar, "though I'm afraid we've come into a little trouble."

Cyric noted the burn marks on Athgar's tunic, "Are you injured?"

"No," the Therengian replied, "I managed to halt the flame in time."

"He's inhaled a lot of smoke," interrupted Natalia, "I'm worried it has hurt him."

"Let's take a look, shall we?" Cyric offered. "Have a seat, Athgar, and I'll need you to take off your tunic."

"Why?" he asked.

"So I can listen to your lungs."

"Very well," he grumbled, removing his shirt. He sat down, and then Cyric bent over him, placing his ear to Athgar's chest.

"It sounds clear," said the knight. "I rather suspect you heal quickly from smoke inhalation."

"Why is that?" asked Natalia.

"I've read it true of many Fire Mages," replied Cyric. "You're a lucky man. Tell me, what happened to you, the smell of smoke is quite pronounced."

"We attacked a pirate ship," offered Natalia.

"By yourselves?" asked Cyric in astonishment.

"No," said Athgar, "we were aboard a pirate hunter. We were successful, but the enemy set fire to their ship."

"Yes," added Natalia, "and Athgar, here, was caught in the hold when it went down." She moved over to stand beside him, her hand placed gently upon his shoulder, her voice cracking as she spoke, "If I hadn't been there he would have perished. I used a spell to allow him to breathe underwater, then pulled him out. The ship was already submerging by that time."

"This pirate ship," said Cyric, "did it hold any information of value?"

"It confirmed my theory that the Cunars are behind the slavery," said Athgar, "but I'm afraid we have no proof."

"What was the nature of this information? Can it be trusted?" asked Cyric.