"Then, I shall expect a full written account. In the meantime, you will speak of this to no one, do you understand? If word got out about this, it would cause dissension in the Church."

"But surely my investigation-"

"Your investigation is under my authority now," said the Archprior. "Do you understand."

"Yes, Your Grace," said Cyric, "of course."

"Good, now you must be on your way back to your mission. You have given me much to think of, Brother."

"Thank you, Your Grace," said Cyric, bowing deeply. He turned, leaving the office of the Archprior, closing the door behind him. As he strode back down the hall, he thought about the Archprior's words. Would he begin an investigation? Cyric thought it unlikely. Archprior Legault appeared more interested in maintaining the status quo than investigating slavery. Perhaps it was time to try another approach.

Cyric reached the stairs, but instead of descending, he walked up to the third floor. If the Order of Saint Mathew was unwilling to investigate, perhaps there were others that might think differently.

The Search

Autumn 1103 SR

"This Archprior Legault," said Athgar, "do you think he'll investigate?"

"I have my doubts," replied Cyric. "He seems more interested in keeping his own position secure. You won't do that if you're asking embarrassing questions."

"So what do we do?" asked Natalia. "If the Church itself is unwilling to investigate, we're at a dead end."

"No!" swore Athgar. "I'll never give up. My people have died or been enslaved by these Temple Knights. They need to pay the price."

"Are you suggesting," asked Natalia, "that we find this man and simply kill him? That wouldn't accomplish anything."

"At least justice would be served," said the Therengian.

"It's not the only option," cautioned Cyric. "While I was in the fortress, I made a discovery."

"What kind of discovery?" asked Athgar.

"It seems," continued Cyric, "that the fortress recently received a new commander. A Cunar, with a scar on his face."

"You've found him!" exclaimed Athgar. "Who is he?"

"His name's Commander Morvus," said Cyric, "but you won't be able to get to him. He's surrounded by hundreds of his men."

"There must be something we can do!" said Athgar. "It's frustrating to think that we've found our prey, only to discover he's untouchable."

"I wouldn't say he's untouchable," said Cyric, "but a direct assault is not the answer."

"Go on," prompted Natalia, "what is it you propose we do?"

"We need proof of his crimes," said Cyric. "He must keep records somewhere."

"Why would he?" asked Natalia. "He'd hardly incriminate himself. Anything of that nature would be dangerous to him."

"Yes," agreed Athgar, "but Brother Cyric is correct. He can't be slaving all by himself. He'd need men to help him, and that means payments to keep their silence."

"I agree," added Cyric, "not to mention contacts with the pirates. That means a record of payments received, dates to meet, and so on."