《Blood and Honor: Honor among Thieves》 Prelude- The End of Bad Days??? Earth-North American Alliance Nevada Penal State- Former City of Reno Dead Dog Bar Aaron sat on his barstool sipping his drink as he watched the news. The world was finally going to join him in hell, it made him smile as he watched the playback as Miami was turned into a nuclear wasteland. Maybe whoever was nuking cities would blow up Atlanta next. At least he would finally smile. "You want a refill?" Bernie asked. "You know, you are lucky you are one of the few places that have clean water within ten miles. It has brought you a lot of goodwill with the locals Bernie. You think those people blowing up cities will ever nuke Nevada?" Aaron asked the man as he slid the little cup over. Bernie filled it with crystal clear water, "Why would they? No one cares about us. You know as well as I do, anyone serving twenty or more years gets thrown into this state. From what I understand, less than one percent of those who can go free at the end of their time, actually get out. Either they are killed off by others, die of starvation or dehydration, or kill themselves. We aren''t worth wasting a nuke on." Aaron considered his words and nodded, "Yes we were the written off of society. Throw all the animals together and let them watch us tear each other apart. They don''t care about us, we aren''t human anymore." Aaron responded in disgust. "Relax boy, that anger might keep you alive in here, but it can also get you killed. If you want to fight, join the Brawlers League, they welcome newcomers all the time. They will even make sure you don''t get killed since you help keep the aquifers running." Bernie told him and Aaron went back to sipping his water. Aaron was an Engineer, strait-laced once he got out of high school and went to college. His brother, on the other hand, Josh, was the trouble maker of the family. "We got a retrieval team incoming!!" one of the bouncers called out from the window. The bouncers lined the walls, they kept the peace of the Dead Dog. If anyone broke the peace, you got a one way trip off the balcony down twenty stories. Even the most hardcore crazy gangs did not cross the neutrality of the Dead Dog. "So what...no one has broken any of the Wardens rules, and as far as I am aware, no one''s time is up," Bernie replied as he cleaned a dirty glass but more than one bar patron was eyeing the doors and thinking of leaving. No one fucked with the retrieval teams. They worked for the Warden of Nevada. The inmates had attacked a retrieval team once in the twenty years that Nevada had become a Penal State. The Warden in retaliation leveled three city blocks with drone strikes and killed dozens of inmates. Ever since then, the inmates have walked lightly and are very wary of the retrieval teams and making sure they know they are not combative with them. "Sorry to disappoint you boss, but they are heading right for this building." the bouncer replied and another bouncer started snapping out commands and collecting weapons from both the bouncers and patrons to be locked away until the retrieval team left. "I wonder what sorry shit they are coming for." Bernie mused. "You have more than earned it Bernie, hopefully, you are the one they are coming for," Aaron replied as he continued to sip his drink. Ten minutes later a six-man team entered the bar and Aaron was looking around in amusement waiting to see who they would grab, "Inmate Aaron Sumner, lay down on the ground and place your hands on your head. Comply NOW!!" Aaron looked stunned at the man before slowly complying...what the hell was going on he wondered as h cuffs, a collar, and a cloth bag were placed over his head. The last thing he saw was Bernie looking worriedly at him, then darkness.
When the hood was removed, Aaron blinked a few times to get used to the light again as he looked around. He was in an office and a large man in a nice suit was looking at him and studying him. His old friend and lawyer, Bill, was standing next to him smiling at Aaron. "How''s it hanging Bill? I never expected to see you again." Aaron asked the man who smiled even bigger, but he could see a little worry as well. Two years in hell on earth will change any man. "Mr. Sumner, how is your day going?" the large man that was sitting down across from him. "Well the turndown service sucked, but I had the most amazing little chocolate on my pillow when I woke up. It was in the shape of a severed head...so kinda creepy, but it tasted pretty damned good and I didn''t die so I have no complaints. What about you Warden?" Aaron replied with a grin. The Warden smiled, "Not too bad Mr. Sumner. A week ago today, your brother was shot multiple times. On his death bed, he confessed that he helped set you up. That you were completely innocent of the crimes you were found guilty of. He told the police where to find the murder weapon, and they recovered it. Your record has been expunged, your rights and liberties are henceforth reinstated Mr. Sumner." the Warden told him and Aaron ground his teeth in frustration. "So my dream of escaping, hunting my brother down and slowly killing him for setting me up to go away for life is out the window...Well, I will settle for pissing on his grave at least. When can we get out of here Bill?" Aaron asked as the security guards moved forward removing his restraints.Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site. "The paperwork is done, I have an aircraft standing by to fly us back to Atlanta," Bill replied as he continued to study Aaron who slowly stood so the Warden and his security people wouldn''t freak out. "Mr. Sumner I am surprised you are not angry with us most would blame us in part at least." the Warden commented. "You guys here in Nevada, I don''t blame at all. The prosecutor, the judge, my brother, my ex...I blame them. Don''t worry Warden, I don''t have any revenge fantasies against you or your people." Aaron told the big man who nodded and offered his hand to shake. Aaron considered it then took it and shook it before following Billy out of the office and towards freedom.
Earth-North American Alliance Southern Territories- Atlanta "So...the world is going to hell. BlackRock Entertainment has turned its most profitable game into a real second world for those who want to escape can. Well, that''s good to know." Aaron told Bill as he moved through his old house. It had been left undisturbed since he had been sent away. Bill had made sure neither Peter or Helena had been able to get anything from him financially after his conviction. "What are you going to do?" Bill asked. "Listen, Bill, you have stood beside me these last two years after Peter and Helena fucked me over. He might be dead, but she deserves to die for what they did to me. I can let the judge and prosecutor skate, but she knowingly and willingly helped set me up to send me away for life. Do you even know why?" Aaron asked and Bill just shrugged his shoulders. "I have no clue. I have some theories, but that''s all they are. Nothing that could give you a real answer. Listen, I am telling you this as your friend, let it go and start over. Make the jump into Fate Online and start over there. Leave all this behind. I am...Getting you out and free was the last thing I am doing. Katie and Monica are already inside and waiting for me. My kid made it and I hope you do too Aaron. Helena isn''t worth it. That''s all I am going to say on the subject. Goodbye, brother and good luck." Bill told him before hugging him and leaving. "Nadine, is my FIVR Capsule still hooked up to the network?" Aaron asked the V.I. "Yes Me. Sumner, it is." Nadine responded immediately. "Make sure any patches for Fate Online are downloaded please and sync it with my communicator so I can keep an eye on it," Aaron commanded as he looked at the gun on the table. It was an old snubnosed revolver. Powerful enough to kill at close range, so he would have to get very close to her, which was fine with him. "It is done Mr. Sumner, updating will be complete in...six hours," Nadine informed him before he grabbed hin things and left.
Aaron studied her, she was crying and tied to a chair and gagged. The men he had hired were being paid in FIVR Capsules and would already start the process of transferring to Fate Online by now and beyond any persecution or the laws of Earth very soon if not already. "Well Helena, its good to see you again.'' Aaron commented as he pulled the gag from her mouth. ''Please feel free to scream, yell, cry. We are in a very secluded part of the city and underground, no one will hear you or care." Aaron told her as he grabbed the pinky on her left hand and promptly broke it. Her scream filled the room, but despite the remoteness of their location, it had been prepared with sound-absorbent materials. Being in Nevada for a couple of years had earned him some very interesting friends. They had the connections to get everything set up and ready in a short amount of time. "I''m sorry Aaron." she cried and he glared at her and broke two more fingers. "You think I give a shit what you are sorry for. There is no excuse, no reason why you two did what you did. You killed a coworker of mine, a friend, then set me up for it. He had a family, kids..." Aaron emphasized the points by breaking more fingers earning more screams. "PLEASE STOP!!" Helena cried out and Aaron slapped her. "I remember crying and begging for you to tell the truth...I ended up with a life sentence. Everything I built, everything I cared about was taken from me by Peter and you. The two people I cared most about betrayed me...'' Aaron pulled the hammer from the tray and slammed it down on the nearest toe before standing up and moving away to let her grow accustomed to the pain. He took off his shirt and pants. ''You think that hurts...having a name carved into your flesh, that hurts. Having brands put on you like a cattle...that hurts. Having some small broken bones, that''s nothing." Aaron pointed to the old scars he had been given until he had proved his worth and earned the untouchable status by repairing various systems around Reno to give the people there some basic amenities. Helena continued to cry, but he knew it was self-pity, not for what she had done. "Your sister is going to be picked up sometime over the next day unless I call the dogs off. What those people are going to do to her are going to make what I have done too you look like you stubbed your toe. Why did you two set me up? Why kill one of my friends and frame me? You two were not in love. Neither one of you could get to my money or business. Why did you do it?" Aaron grabbed her head and yanked it back forcing her to look at him. "Promise me she won''t be harmed and I will tell you," Helena replied and Aaron sneered at her. "Your word isn''t worth shit too me. Tell me and if I believe you, I promise I will end this now. Don''t and I will send a team in to keep you alive for days before they let you die. Your sister will be sent to a Mexican whore house, she will never be allowed to die. She will live a long life full of suffering. She will be told why every day she is suffering, and when she dies as an old whore, she will curse your name as she dies. " Aaron told her before moving back. Helena continued to cry but she nodded and started to speak. Aaron listened to everything before stepping back, "You got all that?" he called to the room and the door swung open and uniformed police flooded the room. "Yeah, we got it all. I am surprised you didn''t kill her Mr. Sumner?" the lead cop stated. Aaron snorted in disgust, "No...I want her to live and suffer for what she has done. A pretty face like that, the boys in Nevada are going to love her. I hope you enjoy the rest of your life bitch, you have my word I will be thinking about you for a very long time." Aaron told her before turning and getting dressed before leaving. "Does this make us even?" the officer called to the retreating figure. "Not even close," Aaron called over his shoulder, but he was done with this world, it was time to face the new world. Aaron hoped it had fared better than this one, but...he would soon find out one way or another. Chapter 1- Hard Landing Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor- City of Nythi Thalas Aaron opened his eyes and looked around, a few things jumped out at him immediately. One he was in an alleyway back behind a building, two he was laying in some trash which was on par with everything that had been going wrong with his life, three a beggar was eyeballing him and his clothing until his hands darted to where his daggers should be on his belt. The beggar moved off immediately leaving Aaron alone to his own devices. Aaron checked his HUD, a twenty-four-hour clock had started ticking down, it would signify the moment the ''Log-Out'' option was no longer available to him. Aaron didn''t care, he had nothing left back on earth waiting for him. He had several Notifications and Alerts waiting for him, but it was no surprise considering he had been gone from this world for so long. Two years for him, but eight years for Ithea. Not that the time difference mattered to him anymore, this was his home now, for good. Aaron rolled to his feet and staggered a little bit as he pulled up his Notifications and Alerts. Notice... Since the last time you logged in, several MAJOR changes have occurred Immortal. Due too this, the following has occurred... ---Your Stat and Skill Points have been refunded ---Check your Skill Trees, some Skills have been modified or removed, new Skills have been added ---Some Common Skills have been changed, see your Character Sheet for more details Alert... Due to Inactivity, the following has occurred... ---You have lost all Fame/Infamy ---You have lost all Experience towards the next level...Level (31) ---Some Achievements and their corresponding rewards have been lost. ---Reputation with the Thieves Guild has dropped to...Neutral ---Rank within Thieves Guild...Heir Apparant...has been lost ---Rank within Thieves Guild is...Probationary...See the nearest Thieves Guild leadership about securing membership ---Divine Curse of Kiaransalee (Ire of Vengence) has been lost ---Reputation with the Matron Council has increased too...Neutral ---Reputation with the Kingdom of Zeren''gor has increased too...Neutral ---All funds not stored in a safe location or at a bank have been lost ---Your Bind Point has been lost, it is HIGHLY recommended that you seek out a new safe location and create a new Bind Point as soon as possible Alert... Aaron closed his eyes and silently fumed...He had lost everything, again, due to his brother''s choices. First, he had to get off the street, if he remembered correctly, the city guards of Nythi Thalas were not exactly kind to beggers or thieves and he was in his basic newbie gear. He quickly checked his inventory, most of his gear was there, but some items had been removed. It was probably due to his Reputation losses with the Thieves Guild, but he would have to check later, now he had to get out of there. Aaron quickly walked out of the alleyway and into a silent street, there were only a few people on it currently. Mostly commoners, but he saw two city guards and a Matron with a half dozen House Guards. Aaron gave them all a wide berth and his eyes on the ground. The Drow were odd like and would take any challenging look head-on. Being a male in a female lead society didn''t help either, originally Aaron had thought it had been a nice idea with all the Racial Abilities the Drow offered, but living within the society was a whole different matter entirely. Most male Immortals would flee for the surface or other parts of the Underdark once they realized they were largely second class citizens within the Kingdom of Zeren''gor. Due to this, the Drow Race as a whole, and the opportunities present were largely unknown to males. However, an enterprising person such as a Thief might find the Drow kingdom a place ripe with opportunities. This is why Aaron had chosen the Rogue base class, and had joined the Thieves Guild and had attained the Thief Primary Class while his brother Peter had gotten the Enforcer Primary Class. Aaron had figured his brother planned to become a Brawler Advanced Class, but with him going to prison he had no idea what his backstabbing brother had done since. Helena had gone the Mage and had become a Priestess. She had planned to become one of the many followers of the Drow Pantheon and specialize as one of the Priests of the Drow Gods, but without Aaron''s money to prop them up, all their dreams had probably fallen to the wayside. That thought brought a small smile to his face and a giggle that caused more than one person to look at him, but he ignored them as he moved deeper into the city. As he did, the crowds grew thicker and it let Aaron get to work on relieving people who were not careful enough with their valuables. The small market had netted Aaron a few Gold and Silver before he moved off before he attracted the attention of the city guards or worse, the Thieves Guild. Currently, he wasn''t ready to face them, not yet anyway. So that meant going to a place a Thief would not normally go to...
Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor- City of Nythi Thalas Mercenary District- The Undefeated Warrior "It''s three silver for a night, it will include a meal and you can take a bath as well.'' the innkeeper stated as he leaned slightly away from Aaron who frowned and nodded his head in agreement as he placed his pilfered wealth on the counter and got a key in return. ''Dinner will be ready in just over an hour, go take a bath...please." the man stated before waving him off. Aaron smiled at the Duergar and bowed slightly before heading up to his room and a bath. In less then ten minutes he was soaking in chest-deep hot water as he scrubbed the dirt and smell away. His clothing, armor, and weapons were in the wardrobe and would be magically cleaned within the next hour. Aaron could have jumped into the shower but after everything that had happened on Earth and with what he discovered here, he needed time to think and to absorb the changes to what had happened. Aaron first brought up his Class information. Spoiler: Spoiler Base Class: Rogue Description: The Rogue class are the thinkers and tactical in their battles. They can do immense damage with their surprise attacks, but do not have much health for a stand-up fight. They prefer hit-and-run tactics or standing back and raining death from a distance. Popular Classes: Assassin, Ranger, Thief, Hunter Effect 1: Increase Poison Resistance by 5% Effect 2: Increase Attack/Movement Speed by 5% Effect 3: Dagger(s) and Light Armor Proficiency will grow at an Increased Rate Effect 4: Stealth and Backstab Combat Skills Restrictions: Light Armor, Cannot wield 2-Handed Melee Weapons (Not including Staves) Note* Rogue class damage is determined by the Dexterity Stat. Ability Unlocked... Name: Teleport Description: I go where I want too!!! Benefit 1: Break any movement impairing Effects/Debuffs Range: 10 Yards Cast Time: Instant Restriction: You have to see where you are going and cannot Teleport through solid objects Cost: 100 Stamina and Mana Cooldown: 5 Minutes Primary Class: Thief Description: The Thief is a master of infiltration, opening things that people want to stay locked away, and talking his way in and out of situations. Effect 1: Charisma sub-Stat Unlocked/Increased by +5 Effect 2: Luck sub-Stat Unlocked/Increased by +5 Effect 3: Perception sub-Stat Unlocked/Increase by +10 Effect 4: Increase Dodge Chance by 5% Effect 5: Neutral Alignment Restrictions: Light Armor, Cannot wield 2-Handed Melee Weapons (Not including Staves) Abilities Unlocked... Name: Scrappy Fighter Description: Some people need to be stabbed in the eye. Benefit 1: Decrease Cooldown of Backstab by 25% Benefit 2: Increase Damage of Combat Skills/Abilities by 10% Benefit 3: Increase Chance to cause Bleeding by 5% Cost: Passive, N/A Cooldown: N/A Name: Lock Down Description: I am a man of the people, I just give them what they want. Benefit 1: Decrease Infamy by 10 per Day Benefit 2: Decrease Infamy by 50 per Day if imprisoned Benefit 3: Decrease the Chance at being recognized by Guards/Inquisitor''s by 10% Requires: Infamy of 100+ Restriction: Infamy will not be lowered less than 100 Cost: Passive, N/A Cooldown: N/A Aaron whistled, Lock Down was a huge boon for any Thief. Being sighted stealing or on any Burglary increased one''s Infamy be a minimum of one hundred. Infamy would also increase in proportion to what was stolen and the value as well if they could link you too the crime and the Inquisitors were very damned good at their jobs. Lowering one''s Infamy had always been a problem once gained without paying fines out the ass, now Thieves had an innate Ability that lowered it to a certain point. Aaron flipped over to his Character Sheet to review what he had there...He had eighty-seven Stat Points to spend. Rogue did not have huge resource pools like Warriors and Mage types, they depended on surprise and overwhelming force or causing damage over time effects. Since he was no Assassin, Aaron had to depend on Bleeding and Open Wound Debuffs for those times he got into combat. So since he was not resource-intensive, he had to put the bare minimum into Strength and Intelligence. He still had to put some into Constitution as well so he could survive more than a bitch slap also. Since he automatically earned one point into Dexterity and Agility each level, those two stats were far more advanced than his others, which was sitting at a bare minimum of ten points each. After some consideration, Aaron dumped ten points into Constitution, Strength, Intelligence, and Wisdom before putting twenty into Dexterity and the last seventeen into Agility before looking at his Character Sheet one last time before closing it.
Name Aaron Sumner Level 30 Experience 0/15,000 Base Class Rogue
Constitution 20 Health 1,100 Melee Damage 5.9 Prrimary Class Thief
Strength 20 Health Regeneration 5 per Second Ranged Damage 1 Advanced Class ---
Dexterity 59 Stamina 1,100 Spell Damage 1 Utility Class ---
Agility 56 Stamina Regeneration 5 per Second Critical Hit Chance 1% Gathering Profession ---
Intelligence 20 Mana 1,100 Dodge Chance 12% Crafting Profession ---
Wisdom 20 Mana Regeneration 5 per Second Parry Chance 6% Fame ---
Carry Capacity 200 lbs Stat Points 0 Skill Points 20 Infamy ---
With all the fresh fish jumping into Fate Online, he would be head and shoulders above the competition for now. The older Immortals that had been here for a while though would have a clear edge over him...the thought frustrated him to no end if only his brother hadn''t fucked him over!!! Aaron dismissed the frustration, for now, it wouldn''t help him and he had too much to do concerning the Thieves Guild and getting used to being in this world again. With a thought, he brought up the Rogue Skill Tree.You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author. Spoiler: Spoiler Rogue Skill Tree... Name: Grace under Pressure Tier: Initiate Description: I have nerves of Steel!!! Benefit 1: Increase Dexterity and Agility by (Level X.25) Benefit 2: Increase Stamina/Mana Regeneration by (Level X.25) Cost: Passive, N/A Cooldown: N/A Stalker Branch... Name: Stealth Mastery Tier: Initiate Description: Master Assassin or Master Thief, if you are not a master at ''Marco Polo'', you ain''t shit!! Benefit 1: +10% Decreased chance of being seen while Stealth is active Benefit 2: +5% Decreased chance that you will be heard while Stealth is active Requires: Stealth Cost: Passive, N/A Cooldown: N/A Name: Dash (Requires Level 25) Tier: Initiate Description: Beep, Beep...Wow, he is fast!!! Benefit 1: Cover short distances rapidly while in Stealth Range: 10 Feet Cast Time: Instant Requires: Stealth Cost: 100 Stamina and Mana Cooldown: 30 Seconds Name: Vanish (Requires Level 30) Tier: Initiate Description: I am not the Rogue you are looking for. That won''t wo---BLUE CAR!!! Benefit 1: Break Combat and lose all Aggro Benefit 2: Activate Stealth Range: Self Cast Time: Instant Cost: 200 Stamina and Mana Cooldown: 5 Minutes Name: Magnetic Personality Tier: Initiate Description: He can sell snow, to an Eskimo Chance of Success: 25% Benefit 1: Increase your Chances of talking your way out of a situation. Benefit 2: Charisma will increase the Chance that Magnetic Personality will affect your target by (Charisma X.5) Benefit 3: Luck will increase the Chance that Magnetic Personality will affect your target by (Luck X.25) Range: 5 Feet Duration: Until Cancelled Cast Time: Instant Restriction: Single Target Cost: 50 Stamina and Mana per Minute Cooldown: 30 Seconds Street Smart Branch... Name: Rogue''s Eye Tier: Initiate Description: Some people have an eye for artwork or women, I have an eye for those things people want to be kept hidden. Benefit 1: Increase Chance to detect traps/Stealthed enemies by 10% (Passive) Benefit 2: Increase Chance to find hidden doors, passages, chests by 5% (Passive) Active Effect: +25% Chance to detect Stealthed foes, traps, hidden doors, passages, chests AoE: 10 Feet Range: Self Duration: Until Cancelled Cast Time: Instant Cost: 50 Stamina and Mana per Minute Cooldown: 30 Seconds Name: Deft Hands Tier: Initiate Description: It''s not my fault!! Your money jumped into my pocket!!! Benefit 1: Increase Chance that Pick Pocket will succeed by 5% Benefit 2: Luck Stat will increase Pick Pocket chance by (Luck Stat X.25) Cost: Passive, N/A Cooldown: N/A Name: Sap (Requires Level 25) Tier: Initiate Description: Oh, look. Birdies!!! Benefit 1: Stun a target Range: Melee Duration: 30 Seconds Cast Time: Instant Cost: 250 Stamina Cooldown: 5 Minutes Name: Evasive Moves (Requires Level 30) Tier: Initiate Description: Suck it UP and RUN!!! Benefit 1: Increase Dodge Chance by 20% Benefit 2: Decrease Chance to be struck by Critical Hits by 10% Range: Self Duration: 15 Seconds Cast Time: Instant Cost: 300 Stamina Cooldown: 10 Minutes Name: Dagger Mastery Tier: Initiate Description: The pointy end goes in the other guy, right? Benefit 1: Increase Base Damage of Knives/Daggers/Dirks by 10 Benefit 2: Increase Chance to cause Bleeding Damage by 5% Cost: Passive, N/A Cooldown: N/A Scrappy Fighter Branch... Name: Shank Tier: Initiate Description: He shouldn''t have looked at me like that! He has a lazy eye...idiot. Damage: 50 + (Melee Damage X1) Benefit 1: Increase Chance to cause Bleeding/Open Wounds by 10% Benefit 2: Increase Critical Hit Chance by 5% Range: Melee Cast Time: Instant Cost: 100 Stamina Cooldown: 1 Minute Name: Fan of Blades Tier: Initiate Description: Damage: 75 + (Melee Damage X.5) per Blade Benefit 1: Launch up too (4) Conjured blades at a target or targeted area Benefit 2: Increase Chance to cause Bleeding Damage by 10% Range: 10 Feet Cast Time: Instant Cost: 50 Stamina and Mana per Blade Cooldown: 1 Minute Name: Perferrate (Requires Level 25) Tier: Initiate Description: Hmmm...Yeah, I will get you a bandage for that. Benefit 1: Increase the Chance to cause Bleeding by 10% Benefit 2: Increase the duration of Bleed effects by 5 Seconds Cost: Passive, N/A Cooldown: N/A Name: Dual Strike (Requires Level 30) Tier: Initiate Description: Yes!! I did it. I stabbed him in the eye, throat, ear, guts, all over!! He farted and it stunk!!! Damage: 150 + (Melee Damage X2) per Blade Benefit 1: +25% Chance to cause Bleeding/Open Wounds Benefit 2: +10% Critical Hit Chance Range: Melee Cast Time: Instant Requires: Dual Wielding Cost: 200 Stamina Cooldown: 3 Minute Archery Artwork Branch... Name: Bow Mastery Tier: Initiate Description: Death from a distance...As long as they die. Benefit 1: +10 Base Damage of Bows Benefit 2: +5% Chance to cause Bleeding Wounds Cost: Passive, N/A Cooldown: N/A Name: Stunning Shot Tier: Initiate Description: What, what happened...Works every time. Benefit 1: Stun your Target Range: 5 Yards Duration: 10 Seconds Cast Time: Instant Cost: 200 Stamina and Mana Cooldown: 5 Minutes Name: Precision Shots (Requires Level 25) Tier: Initiate Description: Thread the needle. Its ten feet away!!! Benefit 1: Ignore 5% of Targets Armor Benefit 2: Increase Critical Hit Chance by 1% Cost: Passive, N/A Cooldown: N/A Name: Rapid Fire (Requires Level 30) Tier: Initiate Description: It''s not a machine gun, but hey, what can you do? Benefit 1: Increase Attack Speed by 30% Benefit 2: Increase Damage by 5% Active Effect: Decrease Accuracy by 5% Duration: 15 Seconds Cast Time: Instant Cost: 300 Stamina and Mana Cooldown: 5 Minutes Name: Kill Chain (Requires Level 30) Tier: Initiate Description: Everyone has to die sometime, I am just helping them along. Benefit 1: Increase Melee/Ranged Damage by (Level X.25) (Passive) Benefit 2: Increase Critical Hit Chance by 1% (Passive) Active Effect: Increase Melee/Ranged Damage by 25%, Increase Critical Hit Chance by 10% Range: Self Duration: 30 Seconds Cast Time: Instant Cost: 500 Stamina and Mana Cooldown: 1 Hour Name: Lucky Bastard (Requires Level 35) Tier: Initiate Description: That damned bastard, how did he do that. Benefit 1: Damage Immunity (Duration 5 Seconds) Benefit 2: Recover 10% Health Benefit 3: Increase Health Regeneration by 25% (Duration 20 Seconds) Requirement: Killing Blow Cost: Passive, N/A Cooldown: 12 Hours Note* Bleeding= Melee/Ranged Damage X.25 per Second (Duration 10 Seconds), Can stack up too 3 Times Note* Open Wound= Melee/Ranged Damage X.5 per Second (Duration 10 Seconds), Can stack up too 3 Times Aaron immediately discounted the Archery Artwork Branch, he would never depend on a bow or crossbow to fight his battles. They were useful tools at times, but if it came down to a fight, he would meet it with a blade. After some consideration, Aaron put one Skill Point intoGrace under Pressure,Stealth Mastery,Magnetic Personality,Rogue''s Eye,Deft Hands, and to make sure he could deal some damage he put one point intoDagger Mastery,Shank,Fan of Blades, andPerferrateand confirmed his purchases as he felt new knowledge flood his mind. Aaron was excited,Rogue''s Eyewas new since the last time he had been here, butKill ChainandLucky Bastardwould have to wait. He had to purchase at least two finale Skills in any of the Skill Branches too unlock the two finale Skills. With another thought, he dismissed the Rogue Skill Tree and brought up the Thief Skill Tree. Aaron smiled as he started to read....life was about to get very interesting. Chapter 2- Dressed Up and Ready to Go Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas Mercenary District- The Undefeated Warrior Spoiler: Spoiler Thief Skill Tree Name: Gentlemen Thief Tier: Initiate Description: You sir, are a scoundrel and gentleman. Benefit 1: Increase Dexterity and Agility by (Level X.3) Benefit 2: Increase Attack/Movement Speed by 10% Cost: Passive, N/A Cooldown: N/A Cat Burglar Branch... Name: Magic Touch Tier: Initiate Description: I can almost just touch it...and it goes away. Benefit 1: Trap Disarm now works on Magical Traps as well as mundane Benefit 2: Increase the Chance that Disarm Trap will succeed by 5% Cost: Passive, N/A Cooldown: N/A Name: Skeleton Key Tier: Initiate Description: You can almost get into anywhere. Benefit 1: Increase the Chance that Lockpicking will succeed by 5% Benefit 2: Decrease Chance that you will trigger a Trapped Lock by 5% Cost: Passive, N/A Cooldown: N/A Name: Anonymus (Requires Level 25 to Unlock) Tier: Initiate Description: Your just one of the many. No one special. Benefit 1: Cannot be Analyzed Benefit 2: Breaks any Tracking Marks Benefit 3: Nullify Fame/Infamy Range: Self Duration: 30 Seconds Cast Time: Instant Restriction: Use of Combat Skills/Abilities will break the effects of Anonymus Cost: 300 Mana and Stamina Cooldown: 1 Hour Name: Vault Breaking (Requires Level 30 to Unlock) Tier: Initiate Description: If they can lock it away, you can break into it. Benefit 1: Increase Lock Picking, Trap Detection, Trap Disarm Chance of Success by 25% Benefit 2: Decrease Chance that you will trigger Trapped Lock by 10% Benefit 3: Decrease Chance Lock Picks will break by 10% Range: Self Duration: 30 Seconds Cast Time: Instant Cost: 400 Stamina and Mana Cooldown: 6 Hours Name: Combat Instincts Tier: Initiate Description: The 5 ''D''s'' of Dodge Ball are... Benefit 1: Increase Dodge Chance by 10% Benefit 2: Increase Parry Chance by 5% Cost: Passive, N/A Cooldown: N/A Streetfighter Branch... Name: Ruthless Fighter Tier: Initiate Description: It''s important not only to know when to stike but how hard as well. Benefit 1: Increase Bleeding Damage by (Melee X.25) per Second Benefit 2: Increase Duration of Bleeding by 1 Second Cost: Passive, N/A Cooldown: N/A Name: Flurry of Strikes Tier: Initiate Description: AHHHH!!! He is kinda over doing it... Damage: 150 + (Melee Damage X1) per Strike Benefit 1: Increase Attack Speed by 10% Benefit 2: Increase Critical Hit Chance by 5% Range: Melee Duration: 10 Seconds Cast Time: Instant Cost: 200 Stamina and Mana Cooldown: 3 Minutes Name: Sleeping Powder (Requires Level 25 to Unlock) Tier: Initiate Description: Place a target in a deep slumber. Then rob him BLIND!!! Benefit 1: Place target into a deep sleep Range: 5 Feet Duration: 1 Minute Cast Time: Instant Restriction: If target is damaged, they will wake Cost: 200 Stamina and Mana Cooldown: 5 Minutes Name: Smoke Bomb (Requires Level 30 to Unlock) Tier: Initiate Description: Jedi mind tricks don''t work on you. I bet this will though. Benefit 1: Reduce Accuracy by 50% (Within), 25% (Without) of Enemies Benefit 2: Increase Chance that you can activate Stealth while being seen by 10% AoE: 10 Feet Range: Self Cast Time: Instant Cost: 500 Stamina and Mana Max Amount: 2 Cooldown: 10 Minutes Name: Swindler Tier: Initiate Description: You are a right bastard, you know that!!! Benefit 1: Increase Charisma sub-Stat at +5 Benefit 2: Increase Luck sub-Stat at +1 Benefit 3: Increase the Chance that Magnetic Personality will Succeed by 5% Cost: Passive, N/A Cooldown: N/A Gambler Branch... Name: Bribe Tier: Initiate Description: Some people cannot be led to water, some you have to draged there. Chance of Success: 25% Benefit 1: Where words fail, silver and gold will not. Benefit 2: Charisma sub-Stat will increase the Chance that Bribe will affect your target by (Charisma X.5) Benefit 3: Luck sub-Stat will increase the Chance that Bribe will affect your target by (Luck X.25) Range: 5 Feet Cast Time: Instant Requirement: Magnetic Personality Skill to be active Cost: Passive, N/A Cooldown: N/A Name: Flickering Shadows Tier: Initiate Description: Dude, you are not Batman, get over here. Benefit 1: +5% Decreased chance of being detected while Stealth is active Benefit 2: Increase Movement Speed while Stealth is active by 5% Cost: Passive, N/A Cooldown: N/A Name: Favored by Hermes (Requires Level 25 to Unlock) Tier: Initiate Description: Patron of Thieves, Saints, and Sinners. He like''s me. Benefit 1: Decrease Infamy gains by 10% Benefit 2: Decrease Chance to be struck by any Critical Hits by 1% Cost: Passive, N/A Cooldown: N/A Name: Midas Chance (Requires Level 30 to Unlock) Tier: Initiate Description: Steal from the rich and give some to the poor. The rest will stay in my safekeeping. Benefit 1: Increase Copper/Silver/Gold Drop by 10% Benefit 2: Increase Magical Items Drop Rate by 5% Cost: Passive, N/A Cooldown: N/A Name: Prince of Thieves (Requires Level 30 to Unlock) Tier: Initiate Description: You are the Thief among Thieves. Benefit 1: Increase Dexterity and Agility by (Level X.3) Benefit 2: Increase Melee Damage by (Level X.25) Cost: Passive, N/A Cooldown: N/A Name: The Devils own Luck (Requires Level 35 to Unlock) Tier: Initiate Description: The Evil Eye, the Devils Luck, I cannot be beaten. For now. Benefit 1: Increase Luck sub-Stat by 50% Benefit 2: Increase Dodge/Parry/Critical Hit Chance by 15% Benefit 3: Increase Lock Picking/Trap Detection/Trap Disarm Chance by 15% Active Effect: Karma''s Wrath* Range: Self Duration: 30 Seconds Cast Time: Instant Cost: 1,000 Stamina and Mana Cooldown: 24 Hours Note* Karma''s Wrath= Nullify Luck sub-Stat, Decrease Dodge/Parry/Critical Hit/Lock Picking/Trap Detection/Trap Disarm Chance by 50% (Duration 1 Hour) Holy crap,Swindler, andAnonymuswere completely new, theDevils'' own Luckwas amazing, but theKarma''s WrathDebuff made Aaron wince. They had to balance an ability like that due to it being almost overpowered. Then Aaron sawMidas Chanceand smiled again. Any real guilds that did a lot of Dungeon dive probably had at least one there with a maxed outMidas TouchSkill. Theives were probably the weakest class damage-wise, but they more than made up for it with their Stealth Skills and ability to detect and nullify traps. Aaron took a deep breath and invested one Skill Point intoGentlemen Thief,Magic Touch,Skeleton Key,Combat Instincts,Ruthless Fighter,Swindler,Bribe, andFlickering Shadows.Bribewas the odd Skill Aaron didn''t understand fully, but a quick search of the Wiki revealed that the Skill built uponMagnetic Personalityand that offering actual money, to whomever you were trying to influence, triggered the effects of the Skill. Aaron dismissed the information and flipped back to the Rogue Skill Tree, he still had three Skill Points left. After a few moments, he invested another Skill Point intoStealth Masteryand invested one point intoDashbefore closing out his Skill Tree and finishing up his bath.Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.
Aaron looked at himself in the mirror, he stood just over six feet wall with a runners build, ghost-white hair, and red eyes with flakes of silver in them. Everything was clean and none of it smelled like the heap he had appeared in. Most of his clothing was in different shades of black, his shoes were the odd man out though. They were made from some odd material and shifted between black and grey that made the eyes want to slide off them. It was probably the reason why no one before him had ever found them. Aaron had gotten very lucky finding them, and he only found them when he had literarily stumbled over them in the dungeon. Stumbling over them had caused a hilarious series of odd occurrences, the first face planting in a Dungeon with no one except a Boss around. The boss, hearing Aarons cursing, had checked out what was going on which resulted in him screaming his head off as a fifteen-foot tall Ogier started to literarily try to shake him to death. His party at the time had been laughing so hard at Aaron, they had almost let him die. Finding those boots was probably the first big fight between him and Peter since they were kids. Peter had wanted Aaron to give them to him to sell to the highest bidder or even a guild, Aaron had wanted to keep them and finish the associated quest. Eventually, Aaron had given his brother five thousand dollars and told him to fuck off until he got his head out of his ass and apologized for being a selfish idiot. Peter was always the short term thinker, the boots were a long term investment and if he ever could find the other pieces of the set and complete the quest, Peter would have been far richer then. In the end, they never mended fences and Aaron had been setup. Aaron dismissed the gloomy thoughts as he brought up the stats on his gear to review one more time. Spoiler: Spoiler Name: Cowl of the Apprentice Thief Quality: Rare Armor Type: Light/Head Armor Rating: +20 Properties: Increase Dexterity and Agility by (Level X.25) Properties: Increase sub-Stat Perception by 3 Properties: Increase the Chance to detect Traps by 5% Requirment: Thief, Level 20, Nuetral Reputation with the Thieves Guild Durability: 200/200 Description: The Thieves Guild has a long industrious history of thieving. Walk with pride that you have joined their ranks. Name: Studded Blackened Leather Shoulder Guards Quality: Rare Armor Type: Light/Shoulders Armor Rating: +20 Properties: Increase Dexterity and Agility by (Level X.25) Properties: Increase Parry Chance by 5% Properties: Decrease Chance to draw Aggro by 5% Requirment: Rogue, Level 20, Dexterity and Agility 25 Durability: 100/100 Description: Small brass buttons were interwoven into these leather shoulderguards, perhapps they will provide some added protection. Name: Cloak of the Apprentice Thief Quality: Rare Armor Type: Light/Cloak Armor Rating: +15 Properties: Increase Dexterity and Agility by (Level X.25) Properties: +5% Decreased chance of being seen while Stealth is active Properties: Decrease the chance at being struck by a Critical Hit by 3% Requirment: Thief, Level 20, Nuetral Reputation with the Thieves Guild Durability: 200/200 Description: The Thieves Guild has a long industrious history of thieving. Walk with pride that you have joined their ranks. Name: Studded Blackened Leather Breastplate Quality: Rare Armor Type: Light/Chest and Back Armor Rating: +60 Properties: Increase Dexterity and Agility by (Level X.25) Properties: Increase Health/Stamina/Mana Regeneration by (Level X.25) Properties: Increase Melee Damage by (Level X.25) Requirment: Rogue, Level 20, Dexterity and Agility 25 Durability: 150/150 Description: This leather breastplate has been rienforced with pieces of iron to protect you while you cut your enemies down. Name: Leather Bracers of the Road Brawler Quality: Rare Armor Type: Light/Wrists Armor Rating: +20 Properties: Increase Dexterity and Agility by (Level X.25) Properties: Increase Attack Speed by 5% Properties: Increase Critical Hit Chance by 2% Requirment: Rogue, Level 20, Dexterity and Agility 25 Durability: 100/100 Description: These simple leather bracers shall protect you as you rain terror and destruction down on your enemies. Name: Gloves of the Gifted Apprentice Quality: Rare Armor Type: Light/Hands Armor Rating: +30 Properties: Increase the Chance that Pick Pocket will Succeed by 5% Properties: Increase the Chance that Lock Picking will Succeed by 5% Properties: Increase the Chance that Disarm Trap will Succeed by 5% Requirment: Thief, Level 20, Nuetral Reputation with the Thieves Guild Durability: 200/200 Description: The Thieves Guild has a long industrious history of thieving. Walk with pride that you have joined their ranks. Name: Leather Belt of the Night Stalker Quality: Rare Armor Type: Light/Belt Armor Rating: +20 Quick Access Slots: 6 Properties: Increase Dexterity and Agility by (Level X.25) Properties: +5% Decreased chance of being seen while Stealth is active Properties: +5% Decreased chance of being heard while Stealth is active Requirment: Rogue, Level 22, Dexterity and Agility 25 Durability: 100/100 Description: The leather belt has some Runes inscribed on it that seem to absorb the darkness around it. Name: Blackened Leather Pants of the Night Walker Quality: Rare Armor Type: Light/Legs Armor Rating: +40 Properties: Increase Dexterity and Agility by (Level X.25) Properties: Increase Dodge Chance by 5% Properties: +5% Decreased Chance of being heard while Stealth is active Requirment: Rogue, Level 20, Dexterity and Agility 25 Durability: 150/150 Description: These leather pants has some Runes inscribed on it that seem to absorb the darkness around it. Name: Treads of the Ghost (Unique Set 1 of 5) Quality: Ancient Artifact (Scalable) Armor Type: Light/Feet Armor Rating: +25 Properties: Increase Dexterity and Agility by (Level X.3) Properties: Decrease Stamina costs to Run/Sprint by 25% Properties: Increase Movement Speed by 10% Properties: Increase Dodge Chance by 10% Properties: Increased Chance to ignore Movement Debuffs by 15% Secondary Properties: Increase Physical/Magical/Poison Resistance by 5% per Set piece worn Secondary Properties: +15% Decreased Chance of being Seen/Heard while Stealth is active (Requires 2 Pieces) Secondary Properties: All Skill costs are Reduced by 25% (Requires 3 Pieces) Secondary Properties: Increase the Chance that Pick Pocket/Lock Picking/Disarm Trap will Succeed by 10% (Requires 4 Pieces) Secondary Properties: Increase Luck sub-Stat by 10 (Requires 5 Pieces) Soulbound: Aaron Sumner Requirment: Thief, Level 20, Dexterity and Agility 30 Durability: 500/500 Description: The Ghost was one of the most prolific Thieves in the history of Ithea, he stole from the Dwarves, Humans, Elves, Orcs, Drow, and some say even Dragons. He didn''t care about the worth of the item, but the uniqueness of the item and the challenge in taking it. Name: Ruin Quality: Epic Weapon Type: Dagger Damage: 30 Properties: Increase Dexterity and Agility by (Level X.25) Properties: Increase Melee Damage by (Level X.25) Properties: Increase Critical Hit Chance by 3% Properties: Increase Backstab Damage by 15% Requirment: Rogue, Level 22, Dexterity and Agility 30 Durability: 200/200 Description: This pitch black blade is inscribed with Runes that glow with a sinister light. Name: Slash Quality: Rare Weapon Type: Dagger Damage: 25 Properties: Increase Dexterity and Agility by (Level X.25) Properties: Increase Chance to cause Bleeding by 5% Properties: Ignore 5% of Hostiles Armor Requirment: Rogue, Level 22, Dexterity and Agility 25 Durability: 150/150 Description: This silvery blade has some odd Runes inscribed on the handle. Name: Hand Crossbow of Slaying Quality: Rare Weapon Type: Engineered Damage: 25 Range: 5 Yards Properties: Increase Dexterity and Agility by (Level X.25) Properties: Ignore 5% of Hostiles Armor Properties: Increase Chance to Knockdown Target by 10% Requirment: Drow, Rogue, Level 22, Dexterity and Agility 25 Durability: 150/150 Description: Hand crossbows are unique to the Drow, it is one of the few Engineered feats that Dwarfs and Duergar have not been able to replicate. Name: Necklace of the Apprentice Quality: Rare Accessory Type: Necklace Properties: Increase Dexterity and Agility by (Level X.25) Properties: Increase the Chance that Pick Pocket/Lock Picking/Disarm Trap will Succeed by 5% Properties: Increase the Chance to detect Traps by 5% Requirment: Thief, Level 20, Nuetral Reputation with the Thieves Guild Description: The Thieves Guild has a long industrious history of thieving. Walk with pride that you have joined their ranks. Name: Mark of the Thief Quality: Epic Accessory Type: Ring Properties: Increase Dexterity and Agility by (Level X.3) Properties: Increase Melee Damage by (Level X.25) Properties: Increase Critical Hit Chance by 3% Properties: Increase the sub-Stat Luck by 3 Requirment: Thief, Level 20, Nuetral Reputation with the Thieves Guild Description: The Thieves Guild has a long industrious history of thieving. Walk with pride that you have joined their ranks. Note* The Ghost Set consists of the Cowl of the Ghost, Cape of the Ghost, Wristguards of the Ghost, Gloves of the Ghost, and Treads of the Ghost Aaron studied the ring, it was a plain silver band but with two small golden dice engraved into it. Anyone who earned their way into the guild was issued the ring so that any of the underworld guilds would know them by sight. With one last look around, Aaron slipped out of the room and downstairs to eat and figure out his next move. Chapter 3- Old Rival and New Boss Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas Broken Quarter Aaron studied the Peach Pit, it was an Inn and one of the fronts for the Thieves Guild. He had spotted already half a dozen sentries around the place, so it was still active by the guild. The question was, who was in charge and how frigid would his reception be? Aaron wouldn''t know until he went inside and talked to those in charge, but once he did...His probationary status could be removed and he could be reinstated or he could be kicked out of the Guild itself. If he was kicked out, he honestly had no idea what he would do with his life at that point. Aaron thought ''FUCK IT!!!'' as he emerged from the shadows and dropped out of Stealth as he crossed the street. Several of the sentries looked at him and his flowing gate but disregarded him after a moment as he approached the door. The Enforcer there looked at him and noted his ring immediately before stepping aside and allowing him entry. The feel of the Peach Pit was dour, the last time he had been here it had been full of life, singing, gambling. Now it was as if they were waiting for the ax to fall. Aaron frowned, what was going on he wondered as he headed over to the bar. It took him a moment but Willy eventually recognized him and surprise-filled his face. "Where the hell have you been?" Willy asked as Aaron walked up and tossed a couple of copper onto the bar. He had lifted more money on the way here, to replenish his dwindling funds. "Prison on Earth. What has been going on? Is Jerimiah still in charge?" Aaron asked back as Willy placed a small stein in front of him and Aaron took a sip. It looked like piss, but it tasted pretty damned good. Willy shook his head slightly, "Jerimiah died about two years after you stopped coming to Ithea. Jonas is in charge now, and well he wasn''t always the sharpest knife in the sheath as you well know. All the old guard had mostly moved on, died, or were demoted to menial positions. Jonas knows he can''t get rid of all of them otherwise his superiors would remove him. As it is...everything hangs upon a thread. Thievery is no longer the priority, they mostly promote cutthroats and bullies. Truly the art has been lost since you disappeared and Jerimiah died." Willy informed him and Aaron placed a Silver piece on the bar, which promptly disappeared. "Where does your loyalty lay?" Aaron prodded as he let his eyes scan the room as he sipped his beer again. "With the guild, as always. However, if it gets any worse, I am fairly certain the Thieves Guild will revoke our charter, and you know what that means." Willy emphasized the point as much as he could. If the Thieves Guild revoked their charter, they would send a force to clean house and kill most if not all the local members within the city. They would bring in fresh blood and new leadership, so either Jonas had to turn it around quickly or risk death. The better question was why he was doing this though. Jonas wasn''t the smartest, but even he knew the Thieves Guild would take him out if his bottom line dropped too much for too long. So what or who was giving him the confidence to thumb his nose at the Thieves Guild, Aaron wondered as two men joined him on either side of him. "So fish, are you paid up, on your guild dues?" the man on his right asked as he bumped into him. The man on his left chuckled as he hemmed him in. Aaron rolled his eyes at their pitiful antics to try and intimidate him. Willy paled a little bit and stepped back and away from the group as Aaron''s hand flashed out and slammed into his new talkative friend''s throat causing him to reel back as he choked. Aaron kept moving the same hand and promptly drove two of his fingers into the eyes of the man on his left causing him to scream in pain as he stumbled back. Aaron then turned back to the man on his right who was glaring at him as he reached for his club, but Aaran moved quicker and grabbed the man''s head by his hair and used his whole body to slam the Enforcers head into the bar repeatedly until he collapsed at his feet. Aaron turned back to his small stein and calmly picked it up and started drinking again. "I wanted it noted Willy, they are both alive. Back in the day, I would have been well within my right to blind them or even kill them." Aaron pointed out to the bartender who snorted and shook his head before pointing to another Enforcer that was at the end of the bar glowering at him. "Do you know who I am?" the Drow asked as he stood from his seat. "I am guessing...ass-face?" Aaron quipped causing the Drow to frown. "No...its" the Drow started but Aaron interrupted him. "I don''t give a shit. I need a face-to-face meeting with Jonas, now. Not after you are done threatening me. If you continue with your idiocy, I will really start killing people until I get a meeting with your boss.'' Aaron told him as he looked around and started speaking louder so that everyone within earshot could hear. ''Targeting and working a fellow guild member was a huge no at one time, I see this Chapter has fallen harder than I originally thought. Thievery is an art form. Anyone can use a club or fist to steal something, taking it from your mark without them realizing you have it, takes skill you apparently lack. Now be a good little boy and runoff and tell Jona that Aaron Sumner is here and wishes to speak to him, now." Aaron stated loudly as he looked around. More than one head nodded in agreement and more then one inquisitive look was thrown his way from both Locals and Immortals.Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original. The big Drow frowned and looked at someone behind him who moved off deeper into the inn. "Know this, if Jonas doesn''t wish to see you, I will enjoy killing you immensely." the Drow threatened and Aaron just smiled and winked at him as he continued to sip his drink
Aaron looked around the office, he had so many memories of this place. The man here had taught him much about Thievery and the balance the Thieves Guild maintained within itself and with the other underworld Guilds. Jonas apparently had not been paying attention to the same lessons. "What the hell are you thinking Aaron? You come in here and challenge the authority of one of my Lieutenants? I can have you killed for that." Jona threatened and Aaron turned and just stared at him. "We were always rivals Jonas, but I always respected you. Hell, I even liked the fact that once you set your mind to something, there was almost nothing in this world that could stop you from doing it. So what the hell happened? What happened with Jerimiah? What happened to the Guild I remember?" Aaron asked the Drow who frowned and looked away. Jonas looked tired and worried, but he also had a manic energy about him. He was hiding something, Aaron could figure that much out, but what was he hiding. "When you first disappeared, your brother still came back to our world. All he did was get drunk and cause problems. It came to the point that even as your brother, he was becoming too big of a problem so Jerimiah kicked him out of the Guild. After that, your brother stopped coming as far as we were aware. Jerimiah died about two years after you disappeared. I tried holding the Guild together, but its a hell of a lot harder than I ever thought it would be. Since you disappeared, Jerimiah made me Heir. So I automatically was placed in charge. Now...now I regret ever taking the position." Jonas informed him. "What happened to him? How did he die? Where are all his old Lieutenants?" Aaron asked and Jonas shrugged. "Some died, others fled to other cities and joined other parts of the Guild. The few that stayed were placed in other positions, less stressful after I became Viscount of the city.'' Jonas replied as he stood and looked around the room. ''It still feels like he is here, you know. They never did find out what happened to him. The authorities and the other Guild Leaders respected him, some even feared him, but none of them could tell us what happened too him." Jonas lamented, A notification popped up but Aaron dismissed it for now. "Yes, well we all know the risks, eventually he was going to be killed on one job or another. I just didn''t expect that man to die. I was fairly certain he was going to outlive us all." Aaron replied and Jonas nodded his head. "Moving on. Your reinstatement, I can do it, but you have to prove yourself. I cannot wave that, not even for you Aaron. Prove to everyone here that Thievery is still alive. Outside the city is an old temple, it''s still in use and occupied. The High-Priestess there has a scroll in her quarters, get it and return to us here. That will disabuse any doubts about you or the art form of Thievery." Jonas stated as a Quest Notification popped up. Guild Quest Issued: The Artwork of Thievery Description: Anyone can beat someone up or kills someone and take money from their corpse. Thievery is an artform to take from them without them knowing it. Outside the city of Nythi Thalas, is an old temple that has fallen to disuse. To prove yourself to the local Thieves Guild and earn your way back in, you must go to the old temple and infiltrate the High-Priestess''s room and recover an old scroll. Once you have the scroll return to the Peach Pit and give the scroll to Jonas Ele''tharamas. Odd Scroll: 0/1 Success: Aquire the Scroll from the nearby Temple and return to the Thieves Guild afterwords Failure: Do not acquire the scroll, get caught, kill anyone, or fail to turn it over Restriction: Cannot be spotted, caught, or kill anyone Rewards: 2,000 Experience, 25 Gold, Full Reinstatement within the Thieves Guild Do you accept the Quest? YES/NO Note* If you fail this quest, you will be cast out of the Thieves Guild. Aaron smiled at Jonah and only let him see the cockyness. Inside he was worried, he hated temple and stealing from them. It was an easy way to end up with a Divine level curse on your ass and it took a lot of groveling, money, and useless quests to get them removed. "Well brother, I will be back soon enough brother." Aaron turned and left without saying anything else. He quickly pulled up the other notification that had popped up and started reading. Secret Quest Issued: Justice for the Dead Description: Your old mentor and former leader, Jerimiah Long, was killed some time ago. The only thing you were told was that he was murdered. Why, how, and who are completely unknown at this time. Find out what happened to your old mentor and perhaps you can find out what is going wrong with the local Thieves Guild. Perhaps you should go to his old estate and start your investigation into his death there. Difficulty: Hard Why was Jerimiah Long killed: --- How was Jerimiah Long killed: --- Who killed Jerimiah Long: --- Success: Find out Why, How, and Who murdered the former Viscount Jerimiah Long of the Thieves Guild Chapter of Nythi Thalas Failure: Do not find out Why, How, and Who murdered the former Viscount Jerimiah Long of the Thieves Guild Chapter of Nythi Thalas Rewards: 2,000 Experience, Unknown Aaron frowned, he seemed to be stepping from one shit pile to another, so much for his life going up, he thought as he left the Peach Pit. Chapter 4- Dont Take Jobs from Rivals Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- Outside the city of Nythi Thalas Abandoned rundown temple my ass, patrols of armored Drow roamed in and around the grounds. Worse there were a few Driders as well. However, what caught his attention was the recent signs of battle that had occurred here. Scorch marks, bloodstains, pieces of ruined armor, all signs that someone had thrown down a fight to get into the temple. Yet he still had a quest to infiltrate the place, and that is what he would do. Aaron activated Rogue''s Eye as he studied the areas around the temple. Nothing other then a few hidden sentries jumped out at him. They were all well placed, but there were a few holes within the patrols. Aaron would have to be extra careful not to be spotted by the stealthed sentries, but the job was doable. Aaron continued to walk the perimeter for the next hour before finally settling on an approach. He was going to have one shot at this and if he got caught, it was all over. Two hours later, he had figured out the guards'' patrol routes, routine, and when the stealthe sentries moved or relieved. Aaron quickly moved forward, using Dash when needed to cover distances quickly. He had to be careful using it though, those under Stealth became vulnerable when using the Dash ability. It was similar to Teleport and Shadow Step, but far shorter ranged and with a cooldown that was far shorter than either teleport ability. The only thing that came close was a Mage''s Blink Skill, but he was no Mage. As Aaron approached the steps he slowed and activated Rogue''s Eye if there were too many traps on the stairs he was screwed. There were two traps and three triggers, the triggers he could easily avoid, but the traps...He immediately got to work on them. Less then a minute later, he moved quickly and entered the basement, he was inside!!
It was another hour to work his way through the various corridors to avoid the members of the temple and the few guards within. Yet his patience had ensured that he had managed to finally get to where he needed to go. Another ten minutes got him past all the magical and physical defenses of the door and inside the room. It also brought up his first real problem since he had entered the temple. Aaron rolled his eyes at that thought, the problem had been building since he had taken the Quest. It was a lesson Jerimiah Long had one day given to him after about six months of being in the guild. "Boy, there are sometimes on a job when you are right before what you want or need to steal. However, your instincts tell you to don''t do it. Some Thieves call it a conscious, others know its a thieves natural instincts that some scores are not worth it. When you get that feeling, listen and do what it tells you to do no matter what." Jerimiah had told him. Aaron''s instincts were screaming for him to walk away from the job and the guild. Why he had no idea but his former teacher had never steered him wrong. Plus the fact of the spider icon being displayed over the bed kinda grabbed his attention. One thing he had never been dumb enough to do, was to cross the priesthood of Lolth. Those Priests had a long repertoire of nasty spells and earning the grudge of the leader of the Drow Pantheon was not something he wanted to earn. So...why was the scroll so important? Was Jonas trying to get him killed or earn a Divine Curse? If Jonas actually wanted the scroll, why? He was no Priest and only females could become Priests to Lolth, so he couldn''t even use it if it was related to being a Priest. Too many questions and not enough answers for his taste. From what Aaron could see he had three options, one cut and run. Leave the Thieves Guild behind and forget about everything he had done and built before he had gone to prison. Two, he could ignore his instincts and steal the scroll. It was probably the worst option to choose but he could do it. Three, he could go back empty-handed and try to wrest control of the guild from Jonas and hope he could drum up enough support to do it. Another really bad option... Aaron looked at the sleeping figure on the bed and smiled, option four, get more information from another source. Aaron liked option four and his instincts thought he was foolish but the least bad option. Ten minutes later he was gazing at the furious Priestess bound, gagged, and blindfolded in front of him. "First off, can we dispense with you being pissed off. No threats, or anything like that. I know you want to shove a Divine Curse right up my ass, but we have more important things to do. I don''t want to kill you, but I need answers and since you are here, I am hoping you will provide them. Nod if you understand.'' Aaron prodded her with the knife in his hand. The Priestess growled something but the gag made it incoherent but she nodded her head. ''Now nod if you are willing to answer some questions. I don''t want to know anything compromising about you, your Goddess, or your Priesthood I swear. Will, you answer my questions? Nod your head if you agree." Aaron prodded her once again and after some consideration, she nodded slowly. Aaron smiled and withdrew the blade from her skin but kept it in hand. "Good, I appreciate the cooperation. Now if you haven''t figured it out yet, I am here to acquire something. The scroll on the stand over there to be specific. However, I have some...reservations about this. A few things just don''t add up about it. So I was hoping you could enlighten me about it and why someone would want it. Can you do this for me?" Aaron asked the bound Priestess who had frozen when he mentioned the scroll. After a few moments, she nodded her head in agreement. Aaron smiled and looked at the scroll, it looked very ordinary and he couldn''t determine anything special about it. "I assume it has no intrinsic value?'' Aaron asked and the Priestess shook her head. ''This is not the first time someone had tried to come and steal it, correct?" Aaron asked and once again the Priestess shook her head, agreeing with the question. Aaron frowned and shook his head in disgust. "I assume they tried brute force and you stopped the attempt, correct?'' Aaron prodded and the Priestess nodded her head in agreement. ''That is why you have all the security outside and patrols within the temple...I really need to speak to you, will you parley with me? Will, you not attack me or use magic or scream for help if I remove your gag?" Aaron asked the Priestess who thought it over and begrudgingly nodded her head.A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. Aaron removed the gag but slapped his hand over her mouth, "If you betray this parley, you will die first. Do not mistake my curiosity for this situation for weakness Priestess. Understand?" Aaron asked her as his dagger lay against her chest and could easily reach her heart. Aaron slowly removed his hand but the Priestess did not scream out or use magic. "The scroll has little value to most people, but immeasurable wealth to some. It is one of the scrolls that can activate the magical defenses of the city of Nythi Thalas. There are four in total, two have gone missing over the last six months. We have no idea where they are located currently but I believe whoever hired you to do this job, wants them. Why I have no idea. Yes, there were two assaults on this temple, both were handily beaten back." the Priestess replied causing Aaron to frown. "So a third party is at play...I don''t like being used as a pawn in games.'' Aaron mused as he studied the Priestess and smiled. ''What about we change the rules to the game. Add another player so to speak. Would you be amiable to this?" Aaron prodded the women and cocked her head. "You? Why?" the Priestess asked and Aaron decided to be honest. "I believe the Thieves Guild of Nythi Thalas is being manipulated from the outside or has been compromised. I feel a certain sense of responsibility because I should have been here and now I am trying to clean up the mess that has occurred because I was gone." Aaron replied and the Priestess frowned. "You are an actual Thief and not one of the thugs that currently inhabit the city?" the Priestess replied and Aaron smiled. "No, I am no thug but I have no problem killing when necessary. However, I was taught that it was a matter of pride and art to be able to steal something from someone without them knowing it or hurting them in the process. You can thank my teacher for that lesson, he was far from a good man but he had a good heart." Aaron mused as he recalled his memories of Jerimiah Long. The Priestess smiled, "You were apprenticed with an actual gentlemen thief, then you know there are certain rules that should never be broken and others that should always be respected?" "Of course Priestess, that is another reason why I am talking to you instead of stealing the scroll now stop wasting time, can we work together or not?" Aaron prodded her. "Allies have more open and frank discussions. They also have trust." the Priestess replied and Aaron chuckled softly. "You want me to trust you before we have made an agreement...I might be crazy for doing this much, but I am not stupid enough to do that." Aaron replied as he studied the room again as he felt like he was being watched. "Too bad, this was going so well." the Priestess replied with a smirk just as something slammed into him from behind. The Priestess shrieked in surprise as they rolled over her as Aaron felt two fangs slam into his back and bite down causing half of his health to disappear in a blink of an eye. Battle Alert... Debuff Shadow Venom: 20 DPS (Duration 10 Seconds) Debuff Shadow Grasp: Cannot activate Stealth (Duration 1 Minute) Battle Alert... Aaron cursed as he threw himself to the side to try in dislodge the spider but the damned thing hung on like a tick. He snarled and activatedStep through Shadowsand appeared above the smirking Priestess as he drove his boot into her jaw causing it to crack and ending her smug smile before turning back to face the spider. It was quickly reorienting on him and Aaron thrust his hand forward as he triggered Fan of Blades and conjured four blades as they shot out of his hand and slammed into the spider''s face eating away about half of its health. Aaron smiled as he drew his second blade and jumped forward as the spider hissed at him and moved out of the way before he could strike it. Before Aaron could close with it further it spat something at him and it slammed into his legs causing him to slow to a crawl. Battle Alert... Debuff Shadow Web: Decrease Attack/Movement Speed by 75% (Duration 30 Seconds) Battle Alert... Aaron cursed as he grabbed a Healing Potion and downed it in one gulp as he did his best to keep the spider in front of him. Aaron smirked at the spider as he activatedTeleportand appeared behind it as he triggeredShank. Before the blade slammed into the spider though everything froze. "Please do not harm my child more than you already have. I do believe you asked for an alliance between you and one of my Priests. I do believe something can be arranged.'' Aaron slowly turned and looked to see a beautiful Drow woman sitting on a chair staring at him. ''A mix of ruthlessness and brutality, I can work with you." she smiled as Aaron cursed, he was going to kill Jonas for this. Chapter 5- A Spiders Web Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- Outside the city of Nythi Thalas Minor Temple of Lolth "Please sit down." Lolth gestured to a chair that she conjured as Aaron paced back and forth. Aaron looked at the Goddes then the chair and smirked. "Yeah, I am good standing." He tried to smile but gave up on it as the Goddes smirked and sat forward a little bit. "As you wish. Did you have to be so hard on my Priestess?'' Lolth asked as she waved her hand at the bound women and energy surrounded her healing her instantly and slicing through her bonds. The Priestess came awake with a snarl on her face and glared at Aaron but before she could say or do anything Lolth spoke, "You will do no harm to this man. He is a welcome guest and a possible ally. You will treat him as such until I say otherwise, is that understood girl?" The Priestess was instantly mollified as she regained control of her anger she bowed to the Goddess but she still glared at Aaron. "Of course mistress, it will be as you say. How may I serve?" Lolth smiled, "Since our guest has declined the offer, please sit down. Now as far as a temporary alliance between my priests and you to get to the bottom of why the Thieves Guild has changed and is acting against the interests of this city, yes I believe I can support this alliance. It serves my interests to get to the bottom of this and I know Vhaeraun wishes to know what is going on within the Thieves Guild as well." Lolth stated but Aaron smirked at the Goddess coy smile. Everything about her was a lie and manipulation, he wouldn''t trust anything from her or her Priests he didn''t have too. Lie''s and manipulations were Lolth''s bread and butter, if she was acting in good faith, she wanted something more...but what. "You don''t trust me?" Lolth asked with amusement. Aaron snorted, "Would you if you were me? Your staple is to make a temporary alliance with someone and then when the opportune moment strikes, you stab them in the back. You rarely ever leave an ally alive and you only ally with someone because you want something. So...I am considering withdrawing my petition to ally with you." Aaron told the Goddes who''s smile grew with every word. "I don''t know if I would consider that a compliment or insult," Lolth replied. "Neither, these are simple facts. You use people, then cast them aside when they are no longer useful to you. I might, just might, have been able to work with your priests to figure out what is going on, but with you in the mix...I think I would be healthier in the long run if I bowed out and left you all to destroy yourselves." Aaron replied and Lolth frowned. "I want to live. I want my children to live. That is what I want. The Thieves Guild might be compromised, but I am unsure. They do not fall under my purview so I need someone within the inside to determine if they are compromised or not." Lolth responded and the Priestess gasped at her before regaining control of her emotions. "Who?" Aaron prodded and the Goddess shook her head. "I want you to investigate the Guild. I will not influence that with what might be. Figure it out on your own." Lolth responded and Aaron nodded his head. "I need that scroll to retain membership within the Thieves Guild. Since its a key part of this cities defenses, I am hesitant to steal it. Is their anyway you can copy it so I can succeed in my quest and regain my full membership of the guild?" Aaron asked and Lolth tapped her lips as she thought and made a gesture as she studied the scroll and another scroll just like it appeared before Aaron. "Take that, it will pass a basic examination but a more studious examination will not be fooled. Also if anyone tries to use it, it will of course not work. Now, my Priestess here will be my contact with you. Report anything you find to her and if you need any assistance, she will organize it. Find out what is going on with the Thieves Guild before its too late." Lolth stated and a Quest notification appeared. Divine Quest Issued: Tangled Web (Stage 1) If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.Description: The Thieves Guild of Nythi Thalas is either being influenced by a third party and/or has been compromised. Lolth has charged you with finding out what is going on and report back to Priestess Thiera Lanthul. She will also provide any assistance that you need in your endeavors. Difficulty: Hard Success: Find out who is manipulating the Thieves Guild and/or has infiltrated their ranks. Failure: Do not find out who is manipulating the Thieves Guild and/or has infiltrated their ranks. Requirements: Level 30, it is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that you find some allies within the Thieves Guild to assist you Rewards: 5,000 Experience, 10 Gold, Increased Reputation with Lolth, Vhaeraun, Unknown Will you accept? YES/NO Note* Divine Quests are usually more difficult than any other type of Quest on Ithea. Undertake them with the understanding they almost always require multiple stages and that they are almost impossible to complete alone. Aaron grimaced, "Once we figure this out and root it out, we are free and clear of your influence. We are not turning the Thieves Guild into a recruiting ground for you or any god, is that understood?" Aaron asked the Goddess who smiled and winked causing him to growl and take a step towards her as he knives appeared in his hands. The spider and the Priestess both moved to intercept him but stopped at Lolths gesture. The Goddess studied him and nodded her head, "You would have made an amazing Priestess, to bad you are a man. Yes, I understand and will not influence your Guild in any way." Aaron accepted the Quest and looked at the Priestess. "What do you know about the death of Jerimiah Long?" Aaron asked her causing her to frown. "He was murdered and whoever did it, burned the body and damaged his home in the process. The Assassins Guild watches over his former home and deters anyone from going within and kills anyone who tries. No one, not even the Thieves Guild, has tried to claim it from them. Why do you ask?" Thiera replied. "He was my mentor before I had some problems of my own. His murder might have something to do with what is going on now, I won''t know until I solve his murder though." Aaron replied as he grabbed the fake scroll and put it into his inventory as he moved to the door.
Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas Outer City Aaron studied the house, it was in the merchant''s quarters in a well to do neighborhood. Nowhere near as upscale as one of the Noble House''s and Matron, but a sense of wealth had surrounded it. Now it was scarred and one whole wing was damaged and partially collapsed from what had happened here years ago. Aaron clenched his fists as he studied the home from the outside looking for anyone laying in wait. So far, he hadn''t spotted anyone but that didn''t mean that no one was there. As he took his first step forward he felt a knife materialize against his neck and back as someone dropped out of Stealth behind him. "This is your one and only warning friend. FUCK OFF and don''t ever come back here." the Assassin hissed in his ear. Aaron cocked his head and smiled, "Is that any way to say ''hello'' to an old friend Joe?" Aaron asked causing the man to jerk back and turn him around. The Assassins eye widened in recognition as he pulled his hood back and pulled him into a hug as he laughed. "DUDE!!! Where the hell have you been? I heard rumors, but no one would ever tell me anything." Joe Mendez was the Assassins Guild equivalent to where Aaron had been when he had been sent to Nevada. "Yeah, well you don''t get to come to Ithea when you are living in Nevada. As far as rumors go, well if any of them mention my brother and ex set me up for a murder, then yes they were true." Aaron replied and Joe paled and considering he was a Drow, that was saying something about an Assassin. "Damn man, how and why? Do you know? How are you here if you got sent away, that is an automatic life sentence." Joe replied as he leaned against a nearby wall. "Why, I have no idea. My ex spun a story about how she and my brother were in love and they wanted to steal my money, but it was all bullshit. I had a good friend keeping an eye on all my financials and them, they were never together, so I still don''t know why. As far as how I got out, my brother made a death bed confession and got me out. It cleared me and they pulled me out of Nevada within a week. Considering what was going on in the world, it wasn''t exactly the best thing, but it gave me a chance to come here...which apparently is a shit show." Aaron told the Assassin who snorted in amusement. "Well, I am sorry they set you up and yeah, the Thieves Guild is a shit show ever since he died and your old buddy took over. Why are you here Aaron?" Joe asked all business. "I am trying to figure out who killed Jerimiah. He was my friend and mentor within the Thieves Guild. I owe him this much. Will you let me pass?" Aaron asked Joe who smiled and nodded. "Standing orders, you are the only one that can enter. I just never thought I could actually follow them. Good luck and be on your guard, Jerimiah was a clever bastard and whatever secrets he left behind, they will be well guarded." Joe said before turning and disappearing back into Stealth. Aaron looked back at Jerimiah''s house and prowled forward low and slow as he activated Rogue''s Eye, nothing popped out at him but that meant nothing. If he was a betting man, Aaron would bet everything that the inside of the house was far different from the outside. Chapter 6- Ghost of the Past Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas Outer City- House of Jerimiah Long Dark, foreboding, and creepy, all things a dead man''s house should be, this house covered. Then again with no lights on and no one living here, it was to be expected. The main entryway was cleared of traps from what he could see, but everything lay untouched. Nothing had been taken by anybody which said something about a dead man when everyone refused to mess with your stuff even after being years dead. Having the Assassins Guild watching and making sure no one stole your things, definitely deterred any would-be thieves, looters, or squatters. It was...nice, it didn''t show the wealth the man had, but if you knew what you were looking for you knew whoever lived here was wealthy. It was the High-Elf Statues, Heart Wood flooring, Human paintings, and Dwarven stonework that all subtly gave it away. A man of means and the ability to get anything he wanted. Yet it all remained here unclaimed by the Matrons of the city or any Guild. The first time Aaron had entered this place, he felt like it was a home away from home, the only thing he felt now was the cold emptiness of a home without an owner. Aaron shook off the melancholy of the past as he activated Rogue''s Eye and pushed onwards, it was time to find his old friend''s secrets and maybe who killed him.
Aaron twisted and flipped through the air and managed to completely avoid the blades, but the gouts of fire singed part of his cloak, but he landed clear of both traps. Aaron cursed under his breath as he looked at the minefield of the corridor he had managed to finally get through. There were still a bunch of traps left active because he couldn''t or wouldn''t disarm them. He had managed to disarm about a third before giving up and just pushing through and doing his best to avoid any damage. Aaron''s health bar was about two-thirds full now and he had several slices and cuts on his gear and flesh from multiple traps, but he had made it. Aaron shook his head and studied the door in front of him. He reached for the handle then stopped as he cursed himself before activating Rogue''s Eye. From what he could see there were no active traps or defenses, but he could see a few passive words that were alarms and might be tied to other defenses. Aaron got to work and managed to disarm four of the wards, the fifth refused to go away though no matter what he did too it. "Dammit Jerimiah, I am trying to figure out who killed you, WORK WITH ME A LITTLE BIT!!" Aaron cursed and yelled and for some reason, the ward disappeared and Aaron immediately dropped into Stealth as he looked around and drew his knives. Nothing leaped out at him and he spotted no one, so he put his knives away and tried the door handle causing the door to swing open on its hinges. Aaron scoped out the room and looked for any defenses or defenders but nothing leaped out at him. Aaron slowly stalked into the room as his eyes continued to scan looking for traps and defenses. Yet nothing happened...Aaron felt almost disappointed than the door slammed shut behind him causing him to flinch as the whole room lit up red under his Rogue''s Eye. Aaron dropped out of Stealth as he cursed but could not move around but before he could do anything the red glow dissipated and an opaque form of Jerimiah appeared in front of him, "Took you long enough to get here boy!!" the old Thief chastized him. Aaron glared at the magical construct. "If you were not dead, I would seriously think about shanking you for all the traps you placed in your home," Aaron told the construct who smirked and winked. "Well, you were the only one within the local Thieves Guild that could get through my defenses. Those that mattered and could get through knew I named you my heir and everything within this house is yours by right. Including leadership of the Thieves Guild. So...what went wrong?" Jerimiah asked as he started pacing back and forth in front of him. Aaron rolled his eyes, "I was set up for a murder I did not commit, on Earth. I was sent away for a long time and only recently got released. It was a death bed confession my brother gave that cleared me. Considering he was the one who did it, it was the least he could do." Aaron replied causing the construct to freeze in surprise. "I thought he had something to do with your disappearance, and since you were no longer covering for him, I drummed him out of the Guild. Not long after that, he stopped coming to Ithea as far as I was aware. However, what did I teach you about dead enemies?" Jerimiah prompted and Aaron frowned. "Unless you cut their throats or carve out their hearts, they might not be dead. Take care of your enemies yourself.'' Aaron replied and stared at the construct. ''You don''t think he is still alive, do you?" Aaron asked and Jerimiah shrugged his shoulders. "Unless you saw his cold dead body, assume otherwise. In other words, it''s better to overestimate your enemies then underestimate them. Now, what have you figured out about my death? What is the current state of affairs within the Thieves Guild of Nythi Thalas?" Jerimiah asked Aaron. "Whoever killed you, they burned down part of your home to cover their tracks and destroy any evidence they left behind. The Thieves Guild of Nythi Thalas, to say the least, is a complete mess. There is no balance between those who are artists with Thievery and street toughs. Jonas...Jonas has led the Guild badly and he is either in league with an outsider or he pawn to them. Who and why I don''t know yet. The Priests of Lolth are willing to work with me because someone wants the scrolls that control the magical defenses of Nythi Thalas. They have two so far, but the other two are still safe for now." Aaron told the construct who grimaced. "Why the hell would the Guild not intervene if Jonas was in charge..." Jerimiah pondered and Aaron immediately responded. "Willy believes the Thieves Guild is about to revoke our Charter. Most of your former lieutenants have moved on, died, or were given new positions after you died." Aaron told the construct which frowned. "Go to my desk, top drawer is my journal, I didn''t always record my thoughts on this construct. If the real Jerimiah had any inkling of who was coming for him, it would be there. He truly wanted you to be in charge of the Thieves Guild after he retired or died. He never planned for if you got arrested on Earth." Jerimiah told Aaron who moved to the desk and quickly inspected it before opening the indicated drawer. Aaron pulled out the small leather-bound journal and started reading from the back.
Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas Broken Quarter- Peach Pit "So there I was, in the Temple District but naked after having stolen the painting. The city guards are out with both House Guards and Priests combing the area. I douse myself in alcohol and start singing while Ben gets away. Of course, I get ''caught'' and Matron Theranon is there. She is studying me like I am a piece of shit she found someone had dragged into her home and she is accusing me of stealing the painting. I in my ''drunk'' state ask her what the hell she is talking about.'' Aaron is explaining as the others are listening and he could see Pete fuming in the background but could do nothing. ''The City Guards offer to arrest me for being rude and naked, but I had already shown them that my inventory was empty. They couldn''t hold me for what I did not have. Finally, I got tired of Matron Theranon bitching and whining, so I grab her and kiss her and tell her, ''I know you Matrons are kinky as hell, so if you want to tie me up and fuck me. You can, but my safe word is peaches.'' The Guards are laughing and more than one Matron had shown up at this point in time." Aaron told them and finally, Pete interrupted. "Enough, Jonas is waiting. You can tell your bullshit stories later." Pete admonished him and more than one glare went his way but the Enforcer glared at them right back and grabbed Aaron. He smiled and drove his knee into the man''s balls causing him to gasp in pain before he punched him in the throat causing him to collapse. "You forget one thing my friend, give the people what they want.'' Aaron hissed into his ear before driving the hilt of his dagger into his temple on knocking him out. ''Now where was I...Oh yes, another Matron offered to accept the offer if Theranon did not wish too and I was actually starting to get nervous. If you guys aren''t aware, Drow Matrons can be sadistic bitches and unparalleled lovers, but be careful before jumping into bed with them. So I thought quickly and I slapped a City Guards ass. Well, that decided the issue as they chained me up and dragged my ass away." The roar of laughter drowned out the stomping feet as Jonas walked into the room and glared at him then looked at Pete and shook his head in disgust.This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version. "What are you doing Aaron? You know the drill after a job come back and report in..." Jonas prompted and Aaron gave him a tight smile. "Except when it goes bad. Then you sit down, drink, and tell a few stories to lighten the mood or did you forget all of Jerimiah''s lessons?" Aaron fired back as he conjured a dagger and threw it causing the blade to bury itself in the doorway next too Jonas. The guild leader of the local thieves narrowed his eyes at him and the toughs next to him took a step forward but Aaron conjured another two daggers and threw them at the Enforcer''s feet causing them to stop. "No, I did not forget any of Jerimiah''s lessons. I just didn''t agree with all of them. I am in charge now and my word and wants are what matter, not a dead old man." Jonas replied as he glared at Aaron who frowned and conjured his last blade causingFan of Bladesto start its cooldown. Aaron gave him a tight smile that showed more teeth than anything else, "You didn''t learn enough apparently. Number one rule, this is a business. Do not hold anything back that could fuck up a job, and you held a lot of information back didn''t you Jonas. Tell me, has the Thieves Guild decided on if they are going to revoke the Charter or not yet?" Aaron asked causing more than one person to frown and listen up. For those who didn''t understand the meaning of the phrase, they were quickly being told by their compatriots. "We are in no trouble of having our Charter revoked, so don''t start any unfounded rumors, Aaron. Now let''s go to my office and finish this discussion." Jonas replied and Aaron snorted. "Money is down across the board. You have alienated the Smugglers, the alliance with the Assassins is broken, and the Beggers have not been paid in six months...So either you are actively trying to mess up everything or you are incompetent.'' Aaron replied causing all the older thieves to grumble as Aaron laid out all their troubles. ''Now as far as the job you sent me on. You lied about everything. It was an old temple, you got that much right, but it was heavily protected by soldiers and Driders. Why didn''t you tell me I was going to be stealing from the Priests of Lolth?" Aaron called out earning more than one gasp from the crowd and cursing. This time it was from both Thieves and Enforcers, no one wanted to get on the bad side of Lolth. "Enough, did you finish the job or not?" Jonas asked as he whirled around and Aaron smiled as he pulled the scroll from his inventory and fast balled it at Jonas. "Of course Jonas, I am not an Enforcer like Pete. I don''t have to attack a place with overwhelming force to try and steal one little scroll and fail spectacularly." Aaron replied with a smile. Guild Quest Complete: The Artwork of Thievery Description: Despite Jonas withholding critical information from you, you managed to recover the ''scroll'' from the temple of Lolth. Only time will tell if securing your admittance within the Thieves Guild was worth it or not. Odd Scroll: 1/1 Success: Aquire the Scroll from the nearby Temple and return to the Thieves Guild afterwords Failure: Do not acquire the scroll, get caught, kill anyone, or fail to turn it over Restriction: Cannot be spotted, caught, or kill anyone Rewards: 2,000 Experience, 25 Gold, Full Reinstatement within the Thieves Guild Alert... Your status within the Thieves Guild has been reinstated with all the rights, responsibilities, and privileges of any Thief within the Guild Alert... Jonas made the scroll disappear and threw a small bag at Aaron who caught it deftly. "Do you have enough gold to cover my fees? Should I count this to see if its light or not?" Aaron asked causing the man to snarl as he turned and left. "Best to be careful Aaron." Willy cautioned him but Aaron shrugged his shoulders. "You know what that scroll was?'' Aaron asked and Willy winced and nodded. ''Then you know Jonas has either gotten us into something really bad, or he went off the fucking deep end. I need answers, Willy. Not more questions." Aaron told the innkeeper and bartender. "Answers to that lay below the city if you want answers, go to the undercity. Talk to Silvia, she might be able to narrow your search down. You know she never liked Jonas, she always thought he was a slimy bastard that could be taken down a peg or two if not outright killed." Willy replied and Aaron nodded his head in agreement. Guild Quest Issued: Dark Secrets Description: Willy, the ever-present heart of the Thieves Guild, has indicated if you want to figure out what is going on with Jonas Ele''tharamas the leader of the local Thieves Guild chapter, you might want to investigate his activities within the undercity of Nythi Thalas. Also, Willy indicated the Assassin''s Guild leader Silvia Foxwright has been keeping an eye on his activities and may be able to help you with finding out what is going on. Success: Find out what Jonas is up too in the undercity Failure: Do not find out what Jonas is up too in the undercity Rewards: 2,000 Experience, Unknown Note* This quest is mandatory due to Tangled Web Divine Quest. Aaron dismissed the information as he drummed his fingers on the bar, he wasn''t looking forward to his talk with Sylvia. She was a very dominant woman, but Jerimiah had earned her respect and love Aaron believed. He had no idea what type of welcome he would receive with her despite her orders to her underlings...With a curse, Aaron finished his drink and headed out time to get some sleep and he needed to think. Chapter 7- The Truth Hurts Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas Broken Quarter- The Trusty Dagger "You sure you want to talk to her? She could order your death just as easily as talking too you." Joe advised him. Aaron shrugged his shoulders, "I understand that, but its a chance I have to take. I need to talk to Silvia." Aaron told the Assassin. "Your funeral dude. I just don''t want to hear any whining if she sends you to respawn." Joe replied as he led Aaron to Silvia who was quietly talking to two other armed and armored figures. All three looked up and discarded Joe, but studied Aaron openly. "So, what is the story...Oh yes, the prodigal son returns. I suppose its batter late, then never I suppose. I already received word that you are exploring his old home, I have no problem with this. As far as I am concerned you are the only one that could rightfully inherit that house and everything within it. Now I assume you are here to figure out what your former brother, Jonas is up too?" Silvia asked and Aaron nodded. "Yes I am, but first I have something left for you from Jerimiah. He asked that I deliver it to you." Aaron responded as he pulled a sealed letter from his inventory and placed it in front of the Assassin. Silvia froze at the sight of it, "Did you open this?'' She asked and Aaron shook his head. ''Good, I appreciate you showing discretion and respecting our privacy. You could have used this to your advantage." Silvia pointed out and Aaron snorted. Secret Quest Complete: Beyond the Grave Description: You delivered Jerimiah''s letter to his former lover and friend, Silvia Foxwright, head of the local Assassins Guild. What the letter contains, you have no idea, but it has bought you some goodwill and respect from the Assassin. Success: Deliver Jerimiah''s letter to Silvia, the Assassins Guild leader in the city of Nythi Thalas Failure: Do not deliver Jerimiah''s letter to Silvia, the Assassins Guild leader in the city of Nythi Thalas Rewards: 500 Experience, Increased Reputation with the Assassins Guild of Nythi Thalas Alert... Your Reputation with the Assassins Guild of Nythi Thalas has increased to...Friendly Alert... "No, I couldn''t. Not and still have his respect or my own. Jerimiah tried to be honest with you as much as he could be, I will try to uphold that with you if that is ok with you." Aaron prompted and Silvia smiled. "I would appreciate that greatly over what the current leadership of the local Thieves Guild has created. I will be as honest as I can in return. Anything else you wish to speak about before we talk about Jonas." She hissed out the name as if it was a curse. Aaron slowly drew a knife from his inventory and laid it on the table, "I found that in his home. I know its a common weapon issued to Assassins Guild members, but I believe it is a planted item and was not actually used in Jerimiah''s death." Aaron told Silvia who arched one eyebrow. "Why would you think that? Because we were intimate? Because we were allies? I very well could have ordered his death." Silvia replied and Aaron snorted. "I have no doubt you could have ordered his death, but you did not. One, he loved you. If someone would have paid the Assassins Guild to kill him, you would have done it yourself and he would not have fought you if you went to kill him. Two, he did fight whoever attacked him, and Assassins have a lone wolf complex, they usually do not work in teams. Three, that knife was planted after the fire, either by the people who did kill Jerimiah or those that ordered it. Not you Silvia." Aaron explained and the Drow smiled and nodded her head as the Assassins beside her started to reevaluate him. Silvia smiled, "Don''t mind my companions, it has been a while since they have seen an intelligent Thief and not a brain dead thug that Jonas prefers to employ. Gentlemen, this man was trained and apprenticed to probably the finest Thief that has ever graced this city, Jerimiah Long. He is also the proper leader of the local Thieves Guild as far as I am concerned, not that impertinent brat Jonas Ele''tharamas. Now leave us, I have to talk to my old friend about what Jonas has been up too since he had left.'' Silvia dismissed the two Assassins who stood and bowed before leaving promptly. Joe started to follow suit but Silvia gestured for him to sit, ''It would be best for you to stay Joe, I do believe you will be Aaron''s point of contact within the Assassin from now on. Now, let us begin, what would you like to know?" Silvia prompted.
Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.Undercity Aaron stalked through the shadows and darkness of the Undercity alone, a part of him had wished he had taken Joe''s offer of assistance to help scout the area, but this was Guild business, and a Thief would take care of it. For now at least. Silvia had warned Aaron that whatever Jonas was hiding down here, he was willing to kill anyone that came to close to it without permission. It was also an act of war against the other underworld guilds for claiming a part of the Undercity, but they were willing to let it go as long as Aaron fixed it. So, this left Aaron alone, creeping around in creepy tunnels in the dark. At least it would help him avoid detection as he moved along under Stealth. He had already avoided two patrols of whoever Jonas had guarding this part of the Undercity, but he had found nothing in particular significance that would tell Aaron what was going on. So he slunk and spied, but so far he found nothing and he had been coming this part of the Undercity for an hour, and he was about to start to backtrack. Then another patrol came near and Aaron found a place to stop and wait as they drew near and walked by. Well, he was still within the are Jonas was claiming within the Undercity. Eventually, the tunnel widened into a room. There were at least a dozen Enforcers about and two Thieves. What pulled Aaron''s attention was two robed and cowled figures working on a wall engraving Runes and Sigils on the wall. Whatever they were working on would be about ten feet tall and twenty feet wide by the time they were done. "I don''t care what you have to do, we are on a schedule. We need the fourth scroll sooner, rather than later boy." another robed figure chastized Jonas who glared at him. "I am doing the best I can. I am on the brink of war with the Assassins, Beggers, and Smugglers Guilds. Aaron, the man you promised that was taken care of forever, is back. I now face the possibility that he will usurp my authority and overthrow me as Viscount of Nythi Thalas Thieves Guild. Not to mention our actions have angered a great many powerful people within this city.'' Jonas replied as he paced back and forth in front of the robed figure. ''Now I also have the Princes breathing down my neck and threatening to void out Charter, that means we all die. So excuse me, if I am a little worried about other things then your precious scrolls. Anyways, what''s it matter, the Portals won''t be finished for another week, we have time to find the forth scroll and get it." Jonas replied dismissively and the robed figure snarled a word and a bolt of energy shot out of his hand and slammed into Jonas causing him to cry out in pain as he collapsed. Two of the Enforcers stepped forward but the Mage spat more words and sickly green energy wrapped around them and slowed them down as other Enforcers grabbed them. "You think to defend him. This whelp couldn''t even kill your former leader Jerimiah Long without my assistance. You stupid boy, the faithful follow my direction first and foremost, not yours. You have your position because I assisted you in killing your former mentor. By his blood, your allegiance to the Lady was cemented and our backing was given to you.'' the Robed figure snarled out as he stalked over to Jonas and slapped him. ''Did we choose the wrong apprentice? I hesitated to choose Aaron because I thought he was too independent and strong-willed, but at least he can think and formulate plans. So, take care of him. Keep him busy for the next week, then it won''t matter who you might be going to war with or who you have pissed off, this city will belong to us." the Robed figure spat on Jonas in contempt before walking away. He came close enough to Aaron for a tag to appear above the man''s head, Level thirty-five Chaos Priest appeared above the robes man''s head before disappearing again. Aaron glared at Jonas, after everything he had read from Jerimiah''s diary, the way things played out before and after his death, and the current state of things, Aaron believed Jonas was behind their former teacher''s death. He never suspected Jonas would have a direct hand in Jerimiah''s death. Worse, these were the people that were behind his imprisonment, but why? Back then, this place was just a game before it became a refuge, it made no sense. Aaron took a calming breath and left the room, he had to finish scouting out the area then get out of there and make plans. The time for retribution was coming, but not now.
Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas District of Pleasure- Last Chance Aaron watched as people drank, danced, kissed, groped, and bet at various games on the floor below. The Last Chance was a very well-liked gambling house and cat house in the outskirts of the city, but it was also considered neutral territory. The social norms of the Drow were mostly suspended and the owners liked to keep the atmosphere of the place happy and joys which conflicted with the Drow norm. "Master Sumner, your room is ready and your guest is waiting. Not the normal patron of our fine establishment, but the rules were explained too her. She begrudgingly agreed, that woman needs to get laid." Aaron turned to Mistress Jocylon and smiled, "Most Priestess''s of Lolth need more than to get fucked hard, they need someone to make sure their head is on the strait and not completely messed up. Thank you, Mistress, for your hospitality and assistance. I am certain I will be having another meeting in this fine establishment sooner rather than later. Can you ask if Silvia, Jerome, and Lina are willing to meet me as soon as they can?" Aaron asked the proprietor of the establishment. The beautiful Drow woman stalked closer then grabbed Aaron''s head and pulled him in for a kiss before grasping his ass and pulling him closer and moaning into his mouth before stepping back and smiling. Then she slapped him hard, "That is for letting anyone play you. The kiss was because I missed you. Yes, Aaron, I will set a meeting with the Assassins, Smugglers, and Beggers, but I have no idea if they will respond or not. Watch your back Aaron, the Thieves Guild needs you, but they are not the only ones." Jocelyn stated before pinching his ass and then sauntering off leaving Aaron with a stupid grin on his face before he shook it off, she probably acted that way with more than one man and women than him he reminded himself before heading for one of the less-used rooms within the Last Chance. Aaron closed his eyes and mentally prepared himself before opening the door and entering the room where Thiera Lanthul waited for him and glared at him as soon as he entered the room. "AHHH, my so-called ally...thank you for coming," Aaron told the Priestess of Lolth as he walked in with a mocking smile on his face. Chapter 8- Street Brawl, Drow Style Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas District of Pleasure- Last Chance Aaron strolled around the table as he looked around the room, not much had changed just some artwork and paint. "If you cannot tell, Thiera, this place is special. It encourages truthfulness and honesty. It...discourages people who choose to lie. So I would recommend that you be as honest as a Priestess of Lolth can be. Now, that works both ways, I cannot lie to you either. Now, let''s keep the questions simple.'' Aaron explained before sitting down from the Priestess. ''Do you think or believe that Lolth is playing both sides? Remember, yes or no." Aaron asked Thiera''s bloody and beaten form. Few were willing to kidnap a Priestess of Lolth, but they had more than one volunteer to soften her up once she was here. "Why are you playing these games. We are allies, are we not?" Thiera asked in return before spitting out a glob of blood. Aaron smiled, "If you are not lying to me or manipulating me, then yes I am your ally. Now answer my question, do you think Lolth is playing both sides? Yes or no please." Aaron responded causing the Priestess to fidget. "I don''t know," she responded. Aaron frowned and conjured a knife, "Answer the question, anything other then yes or no and this knife will find itself in your throat. Do you think Lolth is playing both sides?" "I don''t know the answer to that question!! Does she have the capacity? Yes. Is she? I have no idea!!!" Thiera yelled back. "Are you really allied with me?" Aaron asked the Priestess. "YES!!" Thiera shouted back with a glare. "Then why is it that I found four of your sisters in the Undercity working with Jonas and his group? They were doing something to the more...reluctant members of their group to bring them over to their way of thinking. Why are Priestess''s of Lolth working with them if your Goddess ordered you to assist me?" Aaron responded causing the woman to pale and slump back in her chair. "Describe them in detail," Thiera responded softly as her face firmed and a different look came over her face. Aaron shrugged and started.
Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas Inner City Aaron was receiving hard looks from more than one city guard or house guard, but he didn''t care. It had been a shitty day and he knew Jonas wouldn''t do anything to him within the Inner City. One of the guards or Matrons could kill him and get away with it, but the Thieves Guild was in enough trouble as is without adding murder within the more densely populated and better off portion of the city. So Aaron strolled along the popular streets and drank as he tried to think of a way to end the current situation. He was not thinking about the fact someone he once trusted killed a friend and helped engineer his imprisonment on Earth. He was also not ignoring the Quest notifications that were blinking on his HUD waiting for him to finish reading whatever updates they provided. Aaron finished the bottle of wine and switched it out with a fresh one when someone slammed into him. Aaron shook his head to clear it as he gazed upwards to a towering man glaring at him then he looked down at the broken wine bottle and smiled. "You broke my drink, and I had just opened it," Aaron told him. "Well, maybe you houseless should stay out of my way." the man replied with a sneer. Aaron gave him a winning smile, "I didn''t know assholes had an official House now. Truly you must be proud the Queen recognizes that you are a huge gaping asshole. I am sure the Matrons appreciate you taking one for the team." Aaron replied causing the warrior to glare at him as he reached for the sword on his back. "Truly House Lethan has fallen far as they have decided to kill drunks wandering the streets. Tell me, does your Matron give you so much time that you can walk around and kill these people randomly? Perhaps your House should start looking for a new First Sword?" another older male asked as his hands drummed on a pair of sword hilts. The asshole took a step forward as his sword cleared its sheath, "I would expect nothing less from a bastard from House Bourne to try and protect a piece of trash in the street. He is a commoner and unaffiliated with any House. He should not be here." the larger man spat back causing the older man to chuckle but he did not draw his blades. "We allow you to walk the streets, so I do not understand why you find the fact that this Houseless is walking a streets a problem." the older man replied as Aaron continued to study the broken bottle before final rolling to his feet and noticed House Lethan warrior was backed by three others while the House Bourne was backed by nobody. Great... "How about this, you owe me two silver for the wine bottle and we all go our own separate ways. I won''t even demand an apology for the party foul of breaking my drink." Aaron added to the conversation. The large warrior took a step forward but then the older man matched him as his blades cleared their sheaths, "I am your opponent this day if you choose to press the issue." Aaron studied the mans'' back, "Thanks old man, I like playing with assholes as much as the next guy, but even I would be hard-pressed to take care of four of them at one time." Aaron quipped causing the older man to smile as the large Warrior of House Lethan darted forward and the old man met him, his swords a blur.This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon. Aaron looked at the three charging companions and thrust his hand forward as he triggeredFan of Blades. The leading man screamed in pain as all four blades slammed into his chest and Aaron followed right behind the conjured blades as he darted forwardRuinandSlashin his hands, stabbing and slashing. The two unwounded men tried to box Aaron in but he triggeredStep through Darknesscausing the Warriors to stumble a little bit as their swings found nothing but air. Aaron smiled as he triggeredBackstab, the man in front of him screamed asRuinpierced his spine, but it turned into a gurgle asSlashslid across his throat before Aaron danced around the dying man and engaged the remaining two men. Aaron looked back and could see the older man dancing around the House Lethan as he parried and slashed absently while studying Aaron. Aaron discarded the man and his fight and concentrated on his own, he still faced one unwounded opponent.
Less then five minutes later, Aaron was walking away with his new companion and four colling corpses were behind him. "Do not worry about the city doing anything, that fight would be considered House politics, although House Lethan might do something about it. I am Natash, First Sword of House House Bourne." the man offered. "Thank you for your assistance Natash, I am Aaron Sumner of no House," Aaron replied as the man studied him and their surroundings as they continued to move. Aaron grimaced at the few new cuts on his armor and clothing. "So, besides getting drunk, why were you here in the Inner City? I thought the apprentice of Jerimiah Long would be more...cautious in his choices." Natash responded and Aaron shrugged. "It''s been one of those days where it has gone from bad to worse. I needed a drink and I felt like walking without having to wonder if my enemies were right behind me. Thus the Inner City stroll.'' Aaron replied quickly. ''Now how do you know Jerimiah?" Aaron prodded and Natash smiled. "Both on a personal level and professional, he was what I would consider a true friend and ally at times. That does not mean he wouldn''t rob my House blind if we had anything he truly wanted though." He added with a chuckle. "So you know that I am a Thief, most of those aligned with one House or another would just walk away. Why didn''t you?" Aaron responded as they neared the gates of the Inner City. Natash smiled, "I know what a crucial service you Thieves provide in certain niches of our society and I also know that the Underworld of this city is on the brink of war and that you were supposed to take over if anything happened to my old friend but you stopped coming to Ithea for some reason. Now you are back and I am hoping you will take up his former position. If so, I do believe you will find unspoken support from the Houses if you can stabilize the situation. I will even train you if you wish and no I will not expect you to join House Bourne." the older male responded and another Quest notification popped up. Class Quest Issued: A Duelists Offer Description: Natash, First Sword of House Bourne, has offered to train you as a Duelist. This is an Advanced Class and takes true skill to master. Success: Accept Natash''s training Failure: Do not accept Natash''s training Requires: Level 7 in two Weapons Proficiencies Rewards: 2,000 Experience, Unlock Duelist Advanced Class, Unlock Duelist Skill Tree Will you accept this Quest? YES/NO Aaron considered the offer and accepted it, as a Thief he seriously lacked any combat-oriented Skills and his combat build as it was, already complimented him towards the class itself. "I accept, but I have things I have to deal with before I can undergo any training." "That is perfectly fine, I understand responsibilities and duties. Message me when you can train and if you need assistance in sorting out certain problems, let me know and I will assist you." Natash told him before bowing slightly and leaving. Aaron dismissed the Quest information as he thought about it, then pulled up the other Notifications. Guild Quest Complete: Dark Secrets Description: You managed to infiltrate and scout out what Jonas was doing in the Undercity. Jonas has allied himself with Priests of Chaos. They are building stationary Portals under the city and forcibly converting people to their cause. Success: Find out what Jonas is up too in the undercity Failure: Do not find out what Jonas is up too in the undercity Rewards: 2,000 Experience, Increased Reputation with the Thieves Guild Secret Quest Complete: Justice for the Dead Description: You found out through investigating your former friend Jonas, attacked and killed Jerimiah Long with the assistance of a Chaos Priest. Jonas helped kill Jeimiah in exchange for control of the Thieves Guild of Chapter of Nythi Thalas. Difficulty: Hard Why was Jerimiah Long killed: So Jonas Ele''tharamas could take control of the Thieves Guild of Nythi Thalas How was Jerimiah Long killed: Fighting, Stabbed in the back and throat was slit Who killed Jerimiah Long: Jonas Ele''tharamas and ''Chaos Priest'' Success: Find out Why, How, and Who murdered the former Viscount Jerimiah Long of the Thieves Guild Chapter of Nythi Thalas Failure: Do not find out Why, How, and Who murdered the former Viscount Jerimiah Long of the Thieves Guild Chapter of Nythi Thalas Rewards: 2,000 Experience, Secret Quest Atonement for the Dead Secret Quest Issued: Atonement for the Dead Description: You have found out that not only did Jonas Ele''tharamas betray the Thieves Guild to outsiders, but he also helped kill the former Viscount Jerimiah Long, your friend, and mentor. Hunt down and kill Jonas and the Chaos Priest for what they have done. Difficulty: Hard Kill Jonas Ele''tharamas: 0/1 Kill ''Chaos Priest'': 0/1 Success: Kill Jonas Ele''tharamas and the unknown Chaos Priest Failure: Do not kill Jonas Ele''tharamas and the unknown Chaos Priest or let them escape Rewards: 4,000 Experience, Unknown Note* This Quest is mandatory due to the Divine Quest Tangled Web Divine Quest Complete: Tangled Web (Stage 1) Description: You managed to figure out what is going on within the Thieves Guild Chapter of Nythi Thalas. It has been compromised and its leader, Jonas Ele''tharamas, has allied with the forces of Chaos. Worse, the Priests of Lolth within the city have been compromised, how extensive they have been compromised you do not know. Difficulty: Hard Success: Find out who is manipulating the Thieves Guild and/or has infiltrated their ranks. Failure: Do not find out who is manipulating the Thieves Guild and/or has infiltrated their ranks. Requirements: Level 30, it is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that you find some allies within the Thieves Guild to assist you Rewards: 5,000 Experience, 10 Gold, Increased Reputation with Lolth, Vhaeraun, Tangled Web (Stage 2) Divine Quest Issued: Tangled Web (Stage 2) Description: Due to the events that led to the current situation, the Assassins Guild, Smugglers Union, and Beggers Union see the current situation as an internal matter and will not interfere directly. Gather a force large enough and assault the Chaos foothold and stop them from completing their plans at all costs. Time: 7 Days (Current Time: 6 Days, 12 Hours, 13 Minutes) Difficulty: Hard Success: Stop the invasion of Nythi Thalas and foil Jonas Ele''tharamas plans Failure: Do not stop the invasion of Nythi Thalas and foil Jonas Ele''tharamas plans or let the Chaos Priest and Jonas Ele''tharamas escape Requirements: Level 32, Stage 2 cannot be completed alone. Gather Allies to fight by your side and save the city of Nythi Thalas from the forces of Chaos Rewards: 5,000 Experience, 10 Gold, Increased Reputation with Lolth, Vhaeraun, Unknown Aaron finished reading the Quest information and dismissed the information, it was time to start organizing help with what people were willing to help. Chapter 9- Makeing Deals Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas Inner City- Temple District Quest: Eliminate the Competition Description: Jonas has allied himself with Priests of Chaos. You cannot get to them, yet, but you can weaken his position. Eliminate the former Priestesses of Lolth that are assisting him so that they cannot create anymore forced converts. Corrupted Priests Slain: 0/4 Success: All 4 Corrupted Priests are Slain Failure: Either the Priests escape or warn Jonas of your actions Rewards: 2,000 Experience, Increased Reputation with Lolth Aaron watched as the four Priestess''s walk along the streets, their hoods pulled up to hide their identities, but Aaron already knew who they were and what they were doing. After some manipulations, Aaron had gotten both the Priestess Thiera and Lolth herself to sign the kill orders to get the Assassins Guild to assist with hunting down and killing the corrupt Priests. It would protect the Assassins Guild from any reprisals hopefully and it made Silvia Foxwright happy. Joe was across the streets deep in the shadows of the alleyway there, Aaron could see a faint outline but beyond that, he couldn''t see anything else of the man. Two more Assassins were stationed up the street and another two were trailing behind the four corrupt Priestess''s to make sure none of them got away. They needed to die quickly, if they got time, they could fight back and maybe even escape. So the plan was to hit them hard and fast, for the Assassins it would be easy with their Poisons and combat-oriented classes. Aaron was the weak link in the plan, which made Natash''s offer to train him all the more tempting. Aaron dismissed the thoughts as he concentrated on the here and now, becoming a Duelist could wait, first, he had to survive this. Aaron pulled his knives from their sheaths as he moved forward as he triggeredDashas he closed with the cloaked figures while Joe triggeredShadow Stepappearing behind the other trailing Priestess. Both their daggers lashed out as they both triggeredBackstab, causing both women to gasp as their legs collapsed as spines were severed. Aaron twisted the knife ruthlessly before burying his off-hand knife in the Priestess''s throat as her health bar nose-dived. Aaron triggeredStep through Shadowsas the lead Priestess started to turn and buried both daggers into the woman''s kidneys causing her to freeze up in pain as her companion started to turn and cast a spell. A golden cord looped around her head though and cut off whatever spell she had started to cast as Joe triggeredGarrot. The thin wire charged with Mana sliced through the woman''s throat and deep into her flesh causing blood to fountain outwards. Aaron triggeredShankand slammed his main-hand knife deep into the woman''s side causing her to groan and collapse. Aaron quickly moved to slit throats and loot the two bodies as Joe followed his example, they had to get out of there quick. As far as the Temple of Lolth was concerned, these were ''loyal'' Priests and their deaths would be deployed but the investigations in their deaths would go nowhere. "You know he will know someone is moving against him when these four don''t show up." Joe pointed out as they walked away from the looted corpses. "Jonas knew his time was ending as soon as I showed up. He knows I would know something was wrong within the Thieves Guild as soon as I arrived. I plan on organizing those I think are free of his influence. Get them stronger and geared for when we take down those that have been twisted by him and those Priests." Aaron replied before offering his hand to the Assassin. The man smiled and shook it. "Goodluck brother, we are limited in what we can do, but Silvia is green lighting any kills on those we know have been corrupted by Jonas or his Priests. Watch your back." Joe told him and disappeared into the darkness. Aaron looked around one last time and followed the Assassins example.The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.
"The answer is no. I have gone legit, I own a shop now, I have no interest in getting involved with the Guild again." Robert told him in response. "Come on Robert, we both know there is no better pick-pocket in the city than you. A couple of years of walking the strait and narrow, will not have changed that." Aaron told the man who glowered at him. "It''s not only that. I have a wife and kids now. I want to watch them grow up. I cannot do that if I die or end up in jail now can I?" Robert replied and Aaron frowned but understood the man''s stance. If he had been in his shoes, he would have probably chosen the same. "Ok, well you can''t blame me for trying. I understand and will respect your choices, my old friend. What about any of the other guys?" Aaron asked and Robert snorted. "Those that lived through accidents or unexplained deaths you mean...Those that lived through Jonas taking power fled for the most part. The lucky few that stayed, are all on the legal side of the street now. None of us want to take the chance to lose our various businesses or families.'' Robert replied as he studied Aaron. ''Listen, Aaron, you are a good guy and would make a good Viscount. With everything that happened though, no one that got out is coming back. You are going to have to recruit your own circle of lieutenants to trust and rebuild the Thieves Guild around. For what its worth, good luck." Robert told him and Aaron nodded his head and placed his purchases in his inventory before leaving the general store.
Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- Outside the city of Nythi Thalas Minor Temple of Lolth "Your four wayward sisters are taken care of. How are things going on your end?" Aaron asked Thiera. The Priestess glared at him, "I am doing as well as I can within the parameters you have set. I have three other Priests and a dozen Temple Guards I can bring to the fight. How many Thieves can you bring to the fight?" Thiera asked in return. "Not enough, and most will be lowbies, but I am certain they are all free of Jonas and the influence of the Chaos Priests. I have them all running Dungeons in and around the city trying to get them to a higher level and their Skill Trees unlocked, but it takes time and we only have the week to do it. So maybe a dozen or so, when its all said and done. We need more people, people that can survive in a fight." Aaron responded and Thiera nodded her head in agreement. "We might have to bring some of the Houses into this." Thiera pointed out and Aaron snorted in contempt. "Yes, because the Matrons are the examples of trust and the Chaos Priests would never think of recruiting one of the cities Houses into his schemes...." Aaron replied causing Thiera to glare at him as she blushed. "What do you suggest?" Thiera replied as her fingers drummed on her knife hilt and whip as Aaron was sure she was thinking of what she would do to him after this fight was over and the city was secure. "I have reached out to some old friends to see if they are willing to help out. Most are out or have no interest but I am still waiting on some others to respond. What do you know of Jerimiah''s relationship with House Bourne?" Aaron replied in return. Thiera frowned, "Nothing, they had no relationship with Jerimiah or the Thieves Guild as far as I am aware. Why?" Aaron dismissed her question with a wave of his hand. "Message me if you need me, I am going to try and track down some possible help I can pull in. I will be gone a day at least." Aaron told her as he pulled up his hood and left the office, more questions and thoughts on his mind then there had been.
Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- Western Passages outside the village of Kin''lan "Come on Quincy!!! I know you are out there!!!" Aaron yelled out as he slowly walked through the Underdark tunnel. Quincy had been Jerimiah''s chief Enforcer and trainer for new Enforcers before Jonas had come to power. Apparently, a job had gone bad and he had almost died two months before Jerimiah had died. The man had fled with a core group of people he trusted after Jerimiah had died, leaving Nythi Thalas and its troubles behind him. He had quickly set himself up as a brigand and mercenary. Now Aaron was trying to reel him back in, or at least get his support for one last fight. Aaron was hoping revenge would prove to be a good motivator. Two men and a woman stepped out of the darkness to surround him, "What do you want boy?" the woman asked and Aaron gave her his best charming smile as he activatedMagnetic Personalitywhile keeping his eyes on her. "I am just an old friend of Quincy. I was hoping to talk to him. If he wants me to leave him alone after that, I will gladly leave without a fuss afterward." Aaron replied and the woman looked at her two companions who shrugged. The woman''s eyes came back to him as her hand drifted to the sword and knife hilts, "What if he doesn''t want to talk to you." "I am certain if he doesn''t wish to speak to me, he will have no problem telling me himself. Plus we are old acquaintances, we used to work together a long time ago. Tell him Aaron Sumner wishes to speak to him. If he says no, I will be on my way." Aaron replied with his best congenial smile while he was prepared to useFan of Blades. The woman took a small step back and Aaron could see she was doing something with her interface, and assuming their camp was close enough, she was probably messaging Quincy directly or someone who was near him. "You can come, put the sack over his head though. Put your weapons in your inventory, otherwise, I will get them." the woman told Aaron after a few moments. Aaron sighed but complied with her demands as one of the men took course sackcloth and covered his head. The woman grabbed his hand and started leading him deeper into the Underdark. Aaron just hoped they were not ambushed or attacked by anything or anyone along the way.
Aaron tried not to sneeze, but failed as the hood was removed, much to the amusement of the others around him. "Sorry Quincy, give me a second," Aaron told him between bouts of sneezing. "Take your time!!" the large Drow responded as he lost his usual scowl and laughed as Aaron gained control of his breathing. "Did you put anything in that hood?" Aaron asked as he took deep breaths. "Nope, but that was a great way to break the ice. I will have to remember that one." Quincy replied as he sat down on a crate. "Glad I can still amuse you. I assume you know why I am here?" Aaron prodded and Quincy nodded his head. "Yes, you want my support in taking out Jonas and his ilk. What do I get in return?" Quincy asked and Aaron considered his options. "What do you want?" Aaron asked, better to figure out what he wanted to see the position he was in. "Jonas appointed some little toady as Baron of Kin''lan and the surrounding area. I want him gone one way or the other. Once he is gone and Jonas is gone, I want to be appointed Baron of Kin''lan and the surrounding area. I will kick up fifteen percent until you get out of debt with the Guild. Once we are ok, it will drop down to the normal ten percent." Quincy replied and Aaron winced. "Twenty percent until the Guild is no longer breathing down our necks. I want you and a dozen of your best, any magic support you are willing to lend as well, to help take out Jonas and his people. I also want your recommendation on someone to head up the Enforcers of Nythi Thalas. Someone we both can trust to fill the position and can train new people." Aaron countered and Quincy leaned backward and looked at two Drow with him. They both nodded after a few moments in the agreement of Aaron''s conditions. The art of compromise, no one was completely happy with the end. "Agreed," Quincy replied and offered his hand to shake as a Quest appeared. Guild Quest Issued: Cleaning House Description: Part of being in charge of the Thieves Guild requires the art of compromise and being able to make hard choices. The local Baron of Kin''lan was appointed by Jonas and is loyal to him only. Quincy has agreed to help in your insurrection of Jonas and his people if you remove Adrian Johnson from power in the local area. Kill Adrian Johnson: --- Success: Kill or discredit Adrian Johnson Failure: Do not Kill or discredit Adrian Johnson Rewards: 2,000 Experience, Quincy and a group of his Enforcers/Bandits will assist you in your attack on Jonas and his loyalists Chapter 10- Cleaning House and Taking Names Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- Village of Kin''lan The Drunken Charlton Aaron studied the room and the crowd, Kin''lan was an overgrown village on the verge of becoming a full-fledged town. It was sitting at a crucial junction within the Underdark between the city of Nythi Thalas, Aran''Dor, and territory controlled by the Duregar. One day the village might become a full-fledged city, but it was not there yet. The Thieves Guild had noticed the potential growth and had placed a Guild Baron here almost a decade ago. The investment had paid well. All the nearby raiding bands paid up to the Guild, and what little thievery within the town only occurred at the ok of the Thieves Guild. All independents had long been pushed out or killed. The local Beggars Union had gladly given Aaron all the information he needed for a couple of gold. Now he knew who liked and who hated Adrain, where he ate, where he held business, where he slept and even who he was sleeping with. Surprisingly, he had seduced or been seduced by the local Matron that was in charge of the growing village. A bold move, and could be a dangerous or extremely valuable relationship for him both in the short and long terms. The local Thieves were happy and boisterous, but they had very little actual work. The pickpockets were the most active within the group since any Thievery could be easily be tracked in such a small community. However, pickpocketing in a local market was a completely different animal. It also allowed them to track what merchants they could and could not raid once they left the village for the more densely populated parts of the Underdark. "So why you here again?" one of the Thieves asked. "Just getting away from Aran''Dor. Helped pull a job, gained some Infamy and need to sit back and relax for a bit. Had a friend suggest this place as being out of the way and less likely to get into trouble." Aaron responded and the man, John smiled. "That is very true, not much going on around here. They got a couple of Dungeons close by, but unless you plan on going into Duergar territory or another city, there isn''t much to do. Kin''lan is a trade hub, plenty of traffic in and out, so it will be easy for you to blend in." John told him and Aaron smiled. "That is what I am betting on. So, what can you tell me about the local Chapter? Anyone to avoid or anyone I should cozy up too while I am here?" Aaron responded as he let his eyes trail over to Adrian where he was sitting and eating with a few acquaintances. John followed Aaron''s look and snorted, "Arrogant little shit. Thinks he is a big shot because he is in charge here and the local Viscount favors him because he sends a steady stream of coin into his pocket. Only his lapdogs like him, so best stay clear of him. One of these days that little shit is going to piss off the wrong man and end up waking up with a slit throat." John told him and Aaron studied him. "So he isn''t well-liked?" Aaron asked and John snorted in disgust. "Not even a little bit. He doesn''t help with anything at all. He has even lost control of the brigands that are located in the tunnels along the trade routes. The guy in charge of them, he is a far better leader and Adrian knows it and tried to kill him. Instead, Adrian almost died and Quincy almost killed him. Since then, he hasn''t left the village." John told him and Aaron smiled. "Well, things change all the time. What might be one way one day, might change the very next day." Aaron told him as he looked at the clock on his Quest ticking down.
Getting into Adrian''s home had been easy compared to Jerimiah''s, laughably so in fact. The two sentries that had been watching the place were easily bypassed and the few traps and defenses had been disabled easily. Honestly, it worried Aaron that the man that was supposed to be in charge of the Thieves Guild interests in this area protected his home so...badly. Either the man was careless or too arrogant to protect his personal interests so casually. It gave him yet another reason why he didn''t like the man, and why he should be eliminated instead of allowed to retire to another profession. Arron shook his head in disgust as he recovered several correspondences between Adrian and Jonas with a basic outline of what he had already discovered. Yet it still begged the question of why they wanted to invade an outlying city of the Drow kingdom.If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. Strategically Nythi Thalas held value if the kingdom of Zeren''gor faced an invasion from the Duergar, but the Duergar were far from a united kingdom. They fought themselves as much as they fought outsiders. Sure Mul Duram was making a concentrated effort to bring all the Duergar Clans under their banner, but it was a war far from over. It was a concern for another day Arron decided as he placed all the letters into his inventory before he activated hisRogue''s Eyeas he studied the rest of the room. Three hidden compartments and one secret passage later Aaron had finished plundering and discovering all of Adrian''s secrets. None of them caused Aaron to respect the man any more or less. After some consideration, Aaron sat down in his chair and kicked his feet up as he waited for Adrian to come home. Aaron smiled to himself, the show was going to be interesting, to say the least, but necessary.
Adrian stumbled a little as he walked down the street and chuckled. "I think I actually had too much to drink tonight," he told Mara who smiled. "You are always more adventurous when drunk," she said with a smirk and Adrian smiled at her. "Just make sure you don''t leave any marks and I have to be able to walk around tomorrow. I have a meeting I cannot postpone or reschedule." Adrian told her as he gave her a leering smile causing the Drow woman to slap his ass. "As long as you obey the rules once we start, you should be able to walk tomorrow...Did you leave your door open?" Mara asked and Adrian jerked to a stop. His guards were still back at the Drunken Charlton. Everyone in the village knew this was his home and they knew not to mess with it. Adrian grabbed his daggers and moved forward through the open doorway. The inside was still in pristine condition but he immediately could see that his traps had been disabled. "Should I call the guard?" Mara asked and Adrian hissed at her. "NO!! I have no idea who did this, but do not interfere." Adrian told her as he strode forward deeper into his home until he got too his office. Another Thief he did not recognize was sitting in his chair with his feet on his desk. He studied him and the contemptive sneer played over the other man''s face then his eyes fell on Mara causing him to roll his eyes. "Tell your whore to leave, this is business Adrian, and we do not want witnesses to business do we?" the man asked him and Adrian frowned but nodded his head in agreement when he spotted the man''s guild ring. "I apologize Mara, but you are going to have to leave. I forgot I had a meeting set up for tonight. I will contact you later." Adrian told her and Mara glared at Adrian and the uninvited guest before she turned and slapped Adrian before walking away. The man smirked, "You have a way with the ladies, don''t you...'' the man quipped as he slowly stood, ''I assume that you heard that the Nythi Thalas Chapter of the Thieves Guild is about to undergo an Audit. Consider this one yours. Close the door, now!!" the man commanded him and Adrian took a step back and absently closed the door.
Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- Western Passages outside the village of Kin''lan Aaron strode up to Quincy and tossed him the ring he had grabbed off of Adrian''s corpse. "Sorry about the blood, but he started wiggling and screaming when the stabbing started. Bastard got lucky and my first stab missed his heart." Aaron commented and Quincy chuckled as he studied the ring before nodding absently. "Damn...how did you get close enough?" Quincy asked as he started cleaning the ring. "He might have thought I was part of a commission investigating his actions or lack thereof. I did not dissuade him though. You might want to get your people moving and you can take over Kin''lan peacefully. Goodluck Baron." Aaron told him and Quincy looked at him and nodded once before bowing slightly. "Thank you, Viscount, your faith will not go unnoticed and you have my support. We will be there as agreed upon.'' Quincy responded, then after some consideration, he continued. ''What are you going to do now?" Quincy asked and Aaron smiled as he read the popup before responding. Guild Quest Complete: Cleaning House Description: After infiltrating the village of Kin''lan, you managed to get close enough to eliminate the current Baron of the village. Congratulations on ruthlessly crushing part of your opposition''s support. Kill Adrian Johnson: Dead Success: Kill or discredit Adrian Johnson Failure: Do not Kill or discredit Adrian Johnson Rewards: 2,000 Experience, Quincy and a group of his Enforcers/Bandits will assist you in your attack on Jonas and his loyalists "Adrian was not the only Baron Jonas has, I plan on visiting the others and cleaning house while I also help the green Thieves in Nythi Thalas get better at what they do. I probably should run some dungeons as well since we got a fight coming but there is only so much time." Aaron responded as he pulled a Portal Scroll from his inventory and activated it. Chapter 11- Bargins and Boons Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas District of Pleasure- Last Chance Three days had passed, and Aaron was nearing exhaustion before he had finally made it back to the city. All the Barons had been dealt with though and any support Jonas had depended on from them had been removed. The information he had found though had proved beyond any shadow of a doubt that Jonas needed to be replaced. "You look like shit!!" Thiera commented as she entered the room. Aaron gave her a tired smile, "Don''t hold back, tell me how you really feel." Aaron smirked at her causing her to frown. "Now children, behave while in my home. If you wish to spill blood, leave." Mistress Jocylon admonished them. "I am sorry mother...'' Aaron responded with a winning smile causing the owner of the Last Chance to laugh before shaking her finger at him while patting her whip. ''All the Barons have been accounted for and Jonas cannot count on them to support him or his plans. Quincy is now one of my Barons and will be coming to Nythi Thalas in the next day or so. He will bring another dozen fighters and two or three Mages as well." Aaron told them causing Thiera to smile for the first time. "Good, how many of your Thieves will be ready?" the Priestess asked and Aaron grimaced. Locals could join the Thieves Guild at level ten, Immortals twenty, but he only had about two dozen he would trust to bring to a fight. Most of them were in the mid-twenties now even with running multiple Dungeons. Aaron himself had managed to crawl up too level thirty-three over the last couple of days. "Not as many as I had hoped, but hopefully enough to make a difference. After I get some rest, as our learned colleague has pointed out I need, I plan on overseeing some combat training. Now, what has happened since I left?" Aaron replied quickly. Mistress Jocylon smiled, "Jonas is very paranoid at best and your antics have caused him to go to ground. He is sure you are behind everything, but he has no proof. So he relocated to the Undercity to the section he had his people seal off. I have no idea how many he has with him, but all his inner circle is there with him. He left orders for you to be killed on sight if you go to the Peach Pit, so I would avoid it for now." Mistress Jocylon informed him. Aaron grunted in acknowledgment, "Do you think whoever is there will actually follow those orders? I know Willy won''t." Aaron told her. "Ar you really willing to risk death so close to completion of our plans?" Thiera asked. Aaron stared at her, "The Thieves Guild and anything associated with it is my problem. I will deal with it as I see fit.'' Aaron told the Priestess who looked on the verge of blowing up. ''However, you are correct. I will not deal with the Peach Pit, or any hold outs there, now. It can wait for a later date after everything has been settled with Jonas." Aaron told her causing the Priestess to grumble under her breath about males and idiots. Aaron chuckled as he stood, "Ladies unless there is anything else, I plan on seeking my bed." Aaron told them and Mistress Jocylon dismissed him before Thiera could say anything else.
Twelve long, hard-earned, hours of sleep later Aaron woke to another male Drow in his room staring at him with a smirk. He didn''t recognize him, but if he wanted to harm him, he would have done it in his sleep. "Well, hello there," Aaron told him earning a smirk. "Lolth did tell me you were arrogant and impertinent, you would call it being a smart ass I believe." the Drow responded earning a smile from Aaron as he rolled out of bed and started checking all his gear. "Very true, so who are you. I assume you are a part of the Drow Pantheon considering you mentioned Lolth. What do you want?" Aaron replied back before plucking a fruit from a nearby table and started carving it up. He tossed a piece to the other Drow who caught it and smelled it before taking a bite. "I want to help you out. Jonas killed someone I favored and invested in and I want to assure his downfall." the Drow responded and Aaron snorted. "With Gods, it is never that simple. With the Drow Pantheon, that rule applies even more so. So want to try again?" Aaron replied and the Drow laughed. "I am serious Aaron Sumner. You have the potential to go very far, even without my assistance. You found the Treads of the Ghost without any assistance from me, I can help you find the other pieces of the set and help find his stash. With that, you could become King." the Drow responded and Aaron chuckled. Aaron sat down and faced the Drow, "That position is rumor only, even if it existed, the Prince''s and Princesses would not follow me. As far as Jonas goes, I can deal with him and the Chaos Priests on my own without your assistance." Aaron told the God. "Those Priests and what Jonas has done are mere symptoms of what is coming. It''s going to be far worse before we have a chance for it to get any better Aaron. With my help, you can help the Guild prepare for what is to come. You are going to be doing what I want anyway, so you might as well receive some perks." the Drow responded and Aaron frowned.Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings. "Why are you really doing this Vhaeraun? I am not evil, nor will I become evil." Aaron retorted and Vhaeraun laughed. "You are a Thief, you steal from others to enrich yourself. That is considered evil. I want to help you because Jonas and his allies killed Jerimiah. Someone I considered both as a friend and someone I had invested in as an agent on the Mortal Plane. He should not have died, but he did. Now, will you accept my Blessing or not?" Vhaeraun asked and Aaron considered it. Any Blessing of any God was permanent until they removed it. "What would you expect in return for your Favor?" Aaron asked as he sat back to start negotiating with the God. Vhaeraun smiled but it did not placate Aarons worries at all, "Keep doing what you are doing. Once in a while, I will send a Quest your way. More than likely it will help you and not hinder you." The God responded and Aaron snorted. "I decide if I take the Quests and you won''t cause any problems if I decide not to accept the Quests. No repercussions by your actions or anyone you can command, blackmail, call in favors for, etc..." Aaron hedged and the smile grew. "Of course not, your words are beginning to hurt my feelings, Aaron.'' Vhaeraun replied but then he made an odd gesture and a cape appeared in the bed next to Aaron. ''Go ahead and look at it and pull up its information. Consider it an incentive to accepting my proposal." Aaron frowned, the cape was made of similar materials as his boots. Spoiler: Spoiler Name: Cape of the Ghost (Unique Set 1 of 5) Quality: Ancient Artifact (Scalable) Armor Type: Light/Cape Armor Rating: +20 Properties: Increase Dexterity and Agility by (Level X.3) Properties: Decrease Falling Damage by 50% Properties: Increase Elemental* Resistance by 10% Properties: Increase Dodge Chance by 10% Properties: Increase Fame gains by 10% Secondary Properties: Increase Physical/Magical/Poison Resistance by 5% per Set piece worn Secondary Properties: +15% Decreased Chance of being Seen/Heard while Stealth is active (Requires 2 Pieces) Secondary Properties: All Skill costs are Reduced by 25% (Requires 3 Pieces) Secondary Properties: Increase the Chance that Pick Pocket/Lock Picking/Disarm Trap will Succeed by 10% (Requires 4 Pieces) Secondary Properties: Increase Luck sub-Stat by 10 (Requires 5 Pieces) Soulbound: --- Requirement: Thief, Level 20, Dexterity and Agility 30 Durability: 500/500 Description: The Ghost was one of the most prolific Thieves in the history of Ithea, he stole from the Dwarves, Humans, Elves, Orcs, Drow, and some say even Dragons. He didn''t care about the worth of the item, but the uniqueness of the item and the challenge in taking it. Note* Elemental= Fire, Earth, Water/Ice, Air/Lightning Note* The Ghost Set consists of the Cowl of the Ghost, Cape of the Ghost, Wristguards of the Ghost, Gloves of the Ghost, and Treads of the Ghost "Consider that as a gift and little bit of what we could do working together.'' Vhaeraun added after Aaron sat back after reading the stats. ''We both know in a straight fight, you can and will kill Jonas, but this isn''t going to be a straight fight in a back alleyway. This is going to be an all-out grudge match and those Chaos Priests are going to fight at his side. They invested in him and his control of the Thieves Guild here. You need a counterweight to balance everything out. Do the smart thing, Aaron." Vhaeraun told him and Aaron nodded his head in agreement. "Don''t treat me like a servent and don''t expect me to jump when you snap your fingers. Deal with me in good faith and I won''t betray you. Agreed?" Aaron asked the God who smiled and nodded. Alert... You have received... Vhaeraun''s Favor You have gained... Infamy +100 Fame +100 Alert... Note* You can only have one Favor at a time. Only the God giving it can remove it. See your Character Sheet for more information about the Favor you have gained. "Good, now that that''s out of the way. Make sure you kill that bastard, I liked Jerimiah he was a good man and deserved a better death than the one he got. I would say good luck, but I already helped you with that. Until we see each other again." Vhaeraun winked and disappeared. Aaron sighed and hoped he had made the right choice, then he brought up the information of Vhaeraun''s Favor and nearly choked on his drink as he read. Spoiler: Spoiler Name: Vhaeraun''s Favor Description: I Vhaeraun, the God of Male Drow, Thieves, and Evil (Due to being a Thief or Male in a Female dominated society, I don''t know) give my Favor too Aaron Sumner. This boon shall help you in bringing Jonas Ele''tharamas and those like him that have betrayed the Thieves Guild, to justice and on your journey as a Thief. Remember the lessons Jerimiah taught you and we will get along fine. Benefit 1: Increase the Rate that Pick Pocket/Lock Picking/Trap Detection/Trap Disarm Skill will grow Benefit 2: Increase Perception and Charisma sub-Stats by +10 Benefit 3: Increase Luck sub-Stat by +20 Someone knocked on the door then came in as Aaron stood and conjured a dagger. Mistress Jocylon smirked at him, "Jumpy are we?" Aaron snorted and dismissed the dagger as he picked up his new cape and added it to the wardrobe before pulling out a coin purse and putting ten gold into it before tossing it to Jocylon. "Keep that for me. Its a bet against myself that I just made an agreement that will someday come back to bite me in the ass. Hopefully, I never come to collect it. Feel like breakfast?" Aaron told her, causing her to raise an inquisitive eyebrow at the remark but didn''t say anything. Chapter 12- Knife in the Dark Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas Warehouse District "How is everything going?" Aaron asked as he dropped out of Stealth causing the sentry to jump slightly. "Jesus, FUCK!! I know we can Resurrect Aaron, but dammit, are you trying to give me a heart attack.'' Davis replied as Aaron smirked at him. ''Everything is fine. Everyone is happy that the Smugglers agreed to put us up and give us a safe place to stay until everything settles down. Everyone is wondering when that will happen though?" Davis asked pointedly and Aaron smiled before clapping him on his shoulder. "Everything will be done soon my friend one way or another. I am about to go tell everyone they have a day to finish up any remaining preparations to make, after that within twelve hours it will be done. Don''t go running off now Davis, you will be relieved to get any unfinished business done." Aaron told him before pulling back his hood and entering the warehouse. It had been converted from a place of storage into a training area for new Guild members. An Agility course, places to spar, locked doors and chests of various types and grade, a Stealth room and a Trap room. A place Aaron was sure Jonas had forgotten about, but Aaron had not. The young Thieves and new members of the Guild had been ecstatic to be able to have a safe environment to practice and hone their skills. "Hey Margie, how is everything going?" Aaron asked causing the woman to give him a hard eye and snort before she went back to studying the various groups below. "They learn quickly and if we survive, you got a good core of new Thieves to work the streets of Nythis Thalas that won''t depend on smashing someone''s skull in to steal from them." the Human woman replied. The hard woman was an excellent Thief and had come recommended by an old acquaintance that trusted her. She had quickly earned the respect of all the new Thieves by leading by example, or by breaking a few bones. She was also an excellent trainer for all the common Skills any Thief would need. "Do you have that list of names?" Aaron asked her and she grunted. "Aye, they will be ready when you need them. We are taking a big risk waiting as long as you are." Margie admonished him. Aaron gave her a hard look and she shifted uncomfortably, "It gives them more time to train and level, giving them more experience and increasing their chances at surviving the coming fight. I do what is necessary for the Guild and our people Margie, that''s one of the reasons why I brought you on board. To help them learn skills they will need, both in the coming fight and for afterward." Aaron told her. "Well, at least you are planning on succeeding. From what I understand the deck is stacked against us." Margie replied and Aaron gave her a cocksure smile he didn''t feel and winked. "So we got them right where we want them. Keep the training going, I have to go check on some aces I plan on pulling out of my slave or ass." Aaron replied causing the woman to smile and wink.
Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas Inner City- House Bourne Aaron wove his blades in a defensive pattern as his opponet pressed him hard, "KEEP IN THE CIRCLE!!" Natash bellowed at him and Aaron absently checked where he was and noticed he was inches away from breaking out of it and automatically losing. With a curse, Aaron smacked one of his opponents'' blades to the side and shoulder checked her causing her to stumble backward and buying Aaron some time to go on the offensive. "Better!!" Natash called out from outside the sparring area as they continued to dance back and forth but it was only a matter of time until Aaron''s opponent finished the fight. She was more experienced using swords and was a little bit quicker as well. Finally, a minute later Aaron lost one of his blades as his opponents'' sword slammed into his knuckles causing Aaron to curse as he dropped it, his opponets follow up attack swept Aaron''s legs out from under him and placed a sword blade at his throat. "DEAD!! Every blow has an objective, but not every blow has to be a killing blow.'' Natash stated as he walked around talking to both students, ''You can kill an opponent with a dozen bleeding wounds, or with one thrust through the heart. Does it really matter as long as they are dead? Keep moving, until your life has fled your body, you can still fight. Remember this, always. A Duelist is not just the weapons in their hands, their mind and bodies are weapons as well. Hone them all to razor sharpness and you can become almost unbeatable. UNDERSTAND?" Natash yelled out. A chorus of ''Yes First Sword'' was returned before he bowed to the assembled candidates as the class started to break up. Aarons opponent eyed him and bowed, very slightly, to him. "You fought well, for a male. Perhaps I will see you again," she commented to him before turning and leaving. Aaron looked at Natash who was standing there trying not to laugh, "Relax my friend, that is Corina, First Heir to House Ishala, the First House of the City and Stewards of Nythi Thalas. It is well known she had very little respect for the male species, so take that compliment as gold. The second part is an interest in seeing you as part of her Household someday. She has no idea who you are." Natash said with a smirk. Aaron shuddered, "I have no wish to join any House and I will be discrete when I decline her invitation. Perhaps I will let slip what Guild I am associated with and it will dissuade her from inquiring any further." Aaron commented and Natash shrugged his shoulders. "Possible, or it might entice her further, who knows with women until it''s all said and done. I have read some concerning reports though lately...should I be worried?" Natash replied as he threw a waterskin at Aaron who caught it deftly.Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation. Aaron frowned, he would have to be cautious. Guild business was not discussed with outsiders, just like House business was not. Yet he had already involved Lolth and her Priests, so... "What exactly have you heard?" Natash gave him a hard look but Aaron shrugged it off, if he was going to be Viscount, he would be that man. That included not being bullied by the First Sword of a House. After a moment Natash gave him a smile a grudging nod of respect before replying, "Rumbles in the Undercity, possibly civil war or even war within the Underworld Guilds. It makes certain people nervous and they wonder how long until it spills onto the streets." Natash stated. Aaron frowned as he took a deep drink from the water skin before handing it back to the First Sword, "It will all be settled soon, one way or another. If we lose, I don''t think your people will have to worry very long, they will probably be killed soon after." Aaron replied and Natash frowned. "Is that a threat?" the First Sword asked and Aaron looked at him then laughed. "From me, not at all. From the ones, I oppose, very much so. They are the ones that are behind Jerimiah, having me imprisoned on Earth and other actions. Now if you will excuse me, I must be off. Too many things to do and very little time to do it." Aaron replied. "Can you stop them?" Natash asked. Aaron smiled and winked before leaving.
Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas Outer City Aaron could feel the eyes on him and smile at their ineptitude at following him. Upon entering the less patrolled and wild part of the city, Aaron had picked up more than one eye on him. It had taken them five minutes before they had finally gotten close enough for him to identify them. Pete and a couple of his cronies, probably the ones he had made fools of before everything had gone to shit. More than one Begger had made covert offers to help, but Aaron had dissuaded them. He was also certain that at least one Assassin was ghosting behind them. None of them should interfere due to this being internal politics. At least Aaron hoped not if he built his leadership on the corpses the other Guilds dropped, he would be questioned at every turn. No, he had to do this alone or not at all. Aaron smiled, killing Pete one of Jonas Lieutenants, was too good of an opportunity to let pass up. The next turn Aaron took, he dropped into Stealth immediately and moved towards the nearest alleyway as he studied the three Enforcers desperately looking for him. He chuckled and shook his head as they started to spread out, but at least they stayed within sight of each other. Aaron had to be careful, they had the Rogue Skill Tree and access to Rogue''s Eye. One glance at him would probably highlight him as bright red in their eyes. So with a frown, Aaron started climbing the nearest building. Fifteen minutes later, with plenty of grumbling, cursing, and intimidation was thrown at the few bystanders Pete and his groupies were on the verge of giving up. Aaron was considering what he wanted to do, he didn''t want them getting away and getting back to the Undercity. Before he could decide what to do, another robed and cowled figure appeared on the street and marched up to Pete and slapped him and started yelling at him. Aaron''s grip the hilts of his daggers tightened as the popup appeared above the man''s head identifying him as a Chaos Priest. Whatever he was saying scared Pete''s companions because they immediately left leaving the big bruiser alone with the Priest. Aaron was too far away to make whatever he was saying clearly. "What are you doing?" Joe asked causing Aaron to flinch. "Asshole, waiting for an opportune moment. Stay out of the way and don''t get blasted by the Chaos Priest." Aaron told the Assassin as he moved across the roof of the building trying to get close enough to hear what the Priest was saying. Too late, the little impromptu meeting was breaking up and like a scolded schoolboy, Pete stomped off with the Priest trailing him at a more dignified pace. Aaron smiled as he drew his daggers and triggered Step through Shadows, appearing behind the Priest. With thought and flash of movement, both daggers found themselves lodged into the Priests neck and kidneys as Aaron triggered Backstab and Shank. The Chaos Priest stumbled and collapsed at his feet as its health bar appeared and just as quickly disappeared. The noise of the Priest falling attracted Pete''s attention as Aaron released one of his daggers and thrust his hand forward conjuring and throwing four knives with Fan of Blades before retrieving his off-hand knife. Pete was sent back reeling as half his health disappeared as the blades sunk into an arm and his chest. Nothing critical, but it would hurt and make him bleed. With a shout, the Enforcer charged him and Aaron darted ahead, as his daggers lashed out as he slid past Pete cutting grooves into the man''s legs drawing more blood and making him stumble. Aaron and Pete wheeled around to face each other, the Enforcer lashed out with a club, but Aaron ducked under it and kicked at the mans knee causing a ''pop'' and scream as he started to collapse. Aaron moved forward and buried one dagger into the man''s eye while the other slit his throat causing blood to fountain out as the Enforcer jerked once then died. Aaron quickly looked around, but the other Enforcers were long gone now. He quickly looted the two bodies, but only the Priest had anything of note and it was all Chaos Aligned gear. Useless to him or the Guild unless he could get an Enchanter to strip the Alignment away. "Not bad, I think you missed you calling," Joe commented as he appeared from the nearby shadows. Aaron gave him a bemused grin, "Well, there is always next time if I die by one of this guy''s daggers." Aaron showed him the nasty looking knife he had picked up. Spoiler: Spoiler Name: Chaos Touched Sacrificial Knife Quality: Uncommon Weapon Type: Kris/Dagger Damage: 30 Properties: Increase Intelligence by (Level X.25) Properties: Increase Spell Damage by 10% Enchantment: Fates Folly* Requirement: Chaos Aligned, Chaos Acolyte Durability: 100/120 Description: Chaos Blades are becoming more and more common on the Mortal Plane of Ithea. Beware both Local and Immortal, neither is beyond the reach of Chaos. Note* Fates Folly= Immortals killed by this blade have a 30% chance that their current Avatar will be destroyed. Joe winced and looked away, "Fucking dumbass. At least we don''t die, die. Patch Thirteen fixed that." Joe replied and Aaron nodded, but what happened if Chaos found away around that. She had already found a way to destroy Avatars, which should have been impossible, how long until she found a way to kill Immortals permanently. Aaron shoved the thought away for later as he made his way deeper into the outskirts of the city. Chapter 13- Lets get this Party Started!!! Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas Warehouse District Aaron studied the groups in front of him. Thiera Lanthul, three other Priestesses, two Driders, and a dozen Temple Guardians, Quincy with twenty of his best and two Wizards, and Margie with two dozen of their best Thieves. With this, they would either succeed or the city would fall within hours. Did they have enough...Aaron had no idea until they got down there. "Hey boss, can you come out here for a minute, we got a situation," Davis called from behind him and Aaron studied him and nodded. Emerging onto the street revealed Natash with nearly two dozen men and women, Aaron gave the First Sword a hard stare that he ignored, "I thought you could use the help, so I brought along some of the best in the city and four Wizards." Aaron kept the stare on him as he responded. "They understand you are not in command, they do as they are told or be left behind. Agreed?" Aaron responded and another figure stepped up. "We understand Aaron Sumner, we will do as you command concerning this," Corina replied with a smirk. Aaron rolled his eyes, "I am a Thief girl, aim higher.'' Aaron told her before looking at the others. The little smirk on her face grew though. ''Get inside, we will talk once everyone is within." Aaron told them before turning and heading back inside the warehouse. Ten minutes later, Aaron looked down on the now four groups. Each was separated by various divides, but if they didn''t put those aside, this city would die within the next twenty-four hours. "Before anything else happens, thank you for coming. For those who don''t know the stakes of what is coming, we are about to fight for the fate of this city and the people within it. If we fail, more then likely most if not all the inhabitants will die.'' Aaron told them trying to meet all their gazes. ''For those who do not know, Jonas Ele''tharamas allied himself some time ago with Chaos Priests. They killed Jerimiah Long so that Jonas could take over the Thieves Guild of Nythi Thalas. Everything they have done since then had been a build-up too tonight." Aaron told them and more than one person had a look of disgust on their faces as they listened too him. "We have one chance at this, if any of you are unwilling to step up and fight, you need to stay behind. Once we are committed, there is no going back. So, make your choice now.'' Aaron told them as he vaulted the guardrail and landed below rolling to his feet before he turned and approached the wall as he activatedRogue''s Eyeto manipulate the Runes on the wall. The wall moved and the floor fell away to reveal stairs leading down and into the Undercity. ''One last thing, no mercy. These people, they don''t deserve compassion or any leniency. They will not offer it to you." Aaron stated before turning and drawing his daggers. Quincy grabbed his shoulder, he had a large two-handed mace resting on his shoulder and wore metal-studded leather armor. "For Jerimiah." "For Jerimiah," Aaron repeated before dropping intoStealthand ghosting ahead, the other following soon after until the warhouse was empty and the entrance closed behind them.
Dark and dank was the best description for the Undercity of Nythi Thalas. Carved into the bedrock below the city, it was even more ancient than the city sitting on top of it. Parts of it were ruins of an older settlement that had once been built here and had probably been wiped out when the Drow moved into the area. Now it was part of the Undercity that was primarily used by the various underworld Guilds and neutral territory for them as well until Jonas had gone and claimed a part of it for the Thieves Guild and Chaos Priests as a staging area. Now Aaron and the others were on their way to kill everyone down there and disrupt their plans. If everything succeeded anyway they would disrupt their plans. Aaron was pushing forward with two other Thieves pacing him and watching his back. A part of him itched with the fact that two other Stealthed and armed figures were behind him. Yet he would have to learn to trust them if he wanted to become the Viscount of the Thieves Guild of the city. The sounds of voices drifted from up ahead and Aaron slowed and signaled the others that they had company up ahead. They nodded and their pace slowed to a crawl to what it had been. Aaron ghosted forward light on his feet, his daggers in his hands ready to deflect or lash out. The tunnel revealed two Enforcers talking and completely confident no one would oppose them. Aaron activatedRogue''s Eyeto make sure no others waited nearby and carefully looked the tunnel over. He looked back at the other and signaled for them to target one of the Enforcers while he dealt with the other. With a quick nod, they silently split up as they approached the Enforcers. Aaron slowed even further as he got closer, he kept his daggers low and across his forearms so not too reflect what little light was in the tunnel. Once he was in range he triggeredDash, closing the gap almost instantly before activatingShankandBackstabas his daggers plunged into his target causing him to appear as the Enforcer died. The other Enforcer gasped and prepared to scream but the daggers of the other Thieves lashed out and he died in an eyeblink. "We drag their bodies back and around the corner. Joey, send word for the others to move forward and keep an eye on the tunnel until we get back." Aaron commanded causing the two others to get too work as he grabbed the man he had killed by the arms and started dragging him away.A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.
Three different Portals, so Aaron had the larger group break up into three different strike teams. Each one with the primary objective to destroy or disable the Portals and kill everyone they could. Any Immortals would be captured if possible, killed if necessary. Natash and his group were with Aaron since he wasn''t sure of the First Swords motives in coming. He also didn''t trust Thiera as far as he could throw her, so he tasked Margie with watching her and leading the Thieves with her team. Davis led the third team of Thieves with Quincy leading the overall group. Aaron studied his opposition, Jonas and two Chaos Priests were arguing, while another half dozen Priests were working on the Portal. A dozen Enforcers were throughout the room from what Aaron could see. HisRogue''s Eyerevealed no stealthed beings within the room. The Portal itself was already starting to draw power and based on the Priests chanting and working on it, they had minutes before it was fully ready. Aaron moved back down the hallway where the majority of his group waited and he immediately started talking to them. "In the back of the room against the far wall is the Portal, it is already powering up. Six Chaos Priests are working on it currently, those are our primary targets. In the middle of the room are Jonas and two more Chaos Priests, and a dozen Enforcers throughout the room. I studied the room, I could not find any other stealthed individuals. Natash, how do you want to play this out?" Aaron asked the First Blade. The Drow gave him a feral grin, "Your Thieves willStealthout and hit the Priests working on the Portal first and foremost. My people will deal with the Enforcers, as soon as your Thieves finish off the Priests, they will assist with the Enforcers. The Wizards will do what they do best.'' Natash replied before looking at the two robed figures who gave him tight smiles and shrugged. ''We will hit Jonas and his two companions." Natash finished and Aaron nodded his head in agreement as he looked at the eight Thieves with him. Most wore cocky grins or smug smiles, "Watch each other''s back in there and get the Priests, we cannot allow them to power up that Portal, understand?" Aaron told them and they nodded acknowledging the order. "I am guessing we are going to be the distraction?" Aaron asked Natash who winked and smiled. "Yes we are, we are going to walk right out there in the open. When the Wizards appear, that will be the signal to attack." Natash added as he looked around the group who nodded their heads in agreement and understanding. Aaron smiled as he drew his daggers with a twirl, "Let''s get the show on the road."
"I don''t care what assurances you give me, I want my people out of here," Jonas told the Chaos Priest, ahh divisions within the ranks. The Chaos Priest turned and smirked at him, "You think I care what you want. You made agreements boy in return for our assistance with your problems. We delivered on everything we promised, now you have to be here until we say otherwise. Everything will be done within a few hours, so go sit down somewhere and relax." "You know what, I couldn''t agree more. Go sit down somewhere Jonas and let me slit your throat.'' Aaron stated loudly as he walked into the room. Jonas jumped and whirled as he drew a pair of clubs from his belt. ''What''s wrong Jonas, you seem a little jumpy. It''s not like you did anything that would cause me to want to kill you, right?" Aaron commented as he slowly walked closer too him. "Aaron!! Why are you here?" Jonas responded causing Aaron to smirk at him. "Oh, we are going to do the cliches, are we? Ok, well I am here because someone set me up on a murder charge. Oh, and someone murdered a close friend of mine, Jerimiah. Remember him? You were always slow on the uptake Jonas. So tell me, when exactly did you decide to stab me, us, in the back. Before or after I was arrested." Aaron asked Jonas while he ignored the Priests. All eyes were on him now, and not on the other Thieves infiltrating the room and making a slow way towards the Chaos Priests near the back wall. "Don''t be so surprised Aaron, only one of us was going to inherit Jerimiah''s position. We both knew it was going to be you, then an opportunity arose and I took it. You would have done the same in my shoes." Jonas replied. Aaron smiled and chuckled, "No, I wouldn''t have. Then again, that''s why you guys choose him right?'' Aaron asked the Chaos Priest. ''He was easily influenced. You could give him something he wanted desperately. You could get rid of me. Something he could never do alone." Aaron prodded and the Chaos Priest smiled and bowed slightly. "Well, you are an Immortal and our ranks are very diverse. Our people are true believers no matter where they are from. Earth or Ithea. It was easy enough for our Earth Brothers to figure out your identity, then it was only a matter of setting you up. The weak link was getting your brother and girlfriend to go along with it. So the better question is, how are you here?" the Chaos Priest asked. Aaron smirked, "I guess my brother had a stroke of a guilty conscious, on his death bed he confessed I had been set up and cleared me of any and all wrongdoing. It set me free. Don''t think you can depend on my ex either, I made sure she will never come to this world again.'' Aaron told the Chaos Priest. ''My question is, who''s had the idea was it to kill the old man. You Jonas, or your little handler? I know, you could not take him alone. You had to have help killing him. So did you get impatient or was it your Chaos Priest friend here?" Aaron asked them both. "Does it really matter? He is dead by my hand and I am Viscount. You will never take the position until you have killed me and I am not as weak as I once was. I have had years to get better Aaron and you cannot beat me now." Jonas replied as Aaron smiled. "I suppose not, you are all dead anyway. You sealed that decision in stone when you killed Jerimiah. Personally, my Plan A was to wall you all in here and let you starve to death. Less bloodshed, less work. It would have been easy to do since you are in a dead-end section of the Undercity.'' Aaron told them as he received a pair of messages from Margie and Quincy, they were in position. ''Then I took a BIG chance and scouted out what you were doing around here. Plan A went out the window and Plan B came into existence. I hope you didn''t judge us all based on this fool? Some of us do have pesky feelings, and put more important things above our personal ambitions." Aaron told the Chaos Priest who frowned. The explosions and screams within the other chambers started, Aaron smiled and darted forward causing Jonas to snarl as he raised his weapons, but Aaron disappeared in an eyeblink. "You forgot Jerimiah''s number one rule!!! Why give a guy a straight fight, when you can stab him in the back!!" Aaron hissed out as the Chaos Priest tried to scream as he clutched at his throat as blood poured from his slit throat. Then the room turned to hell as the Wizards appeared at the mouth of the tunnel and started flinging spells and the Thieves dropped out ofStealthas the Priests working on the Portal started to die. Aaron gave Jonas a tight smile as he darted forward, his knives swinging. Chapter 14- Blood Debt Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas Undercity Natash and the others appeared dropping out of Stealth or appearing from the nearby shadows and immediately engaged the Enforcers around the large room. It was complete madness and bedlam, perfect for what Aaron wanted. Aaron was a whirlwind of steel constantly shifting, stabbing, and slashing. Despite his size, somehow Jonas was keeping up with him. "Suprised brother!!" Jonas baited him. Aaron laughed as he danced around the larger man, "No, but considering how long I have been gone, I should already be dead at your feet. It just proves how weak you really are." Aaron quipped back causing Jonas to snarl as red energy surrounded him and his speed increased. Aaron laughed as he wove his daggers in a defensive movement while dancing away from the larger man. As strong and fast as he had become, Aaron was still faster. However, the Enforcer needed just one shot to down him for the fight. Aaron was also distracted by the ongoing fight around them, making sure all his allies around him were fine. A few were fighting alone, which was against the plan. With a snarl, AaronTeleportedacross the room and slammed his daggers into an Enforcer that had been about to brain one of Natash''s allies. The Enforcer staggered once before collapsing. "Fight with a partner!!" Aaron admonished the man before turning just in time to catch a kick to the chest as Jonas appeared. Battle Alert... Debuff Winded: Stamina Regeneration negated (Duration 10 Seconds) Battle Alert... Aaron tried to breathe as Jonas stalked closer with a smirk. Aaron winked at him before castFan of Blades, the four conjured blades darted towards the surprised Enforcer who spun away almost immediately. Three of the four missed and the one-hit slammed into his arm. Aaron was on him in a heartbeat slashing and stabbing causing Jonas to back peddle as Aaron cut and nicked his arms whittling away at the man''s health. "You don''t understand Aaron. You have no idea what they are capable of or what they have backing them." Jonas desperately stated as he backpedaled across the room but Aaron wasn''t giving up. "You think that excuses your choices?" Aaron gasped out as he slowed his assault to conserve his Stamina which was down too one third while Jonas'' health was about fifty percent. "No, but the army they have...tens of thousands, hundreds of thousands. All just a portal away, they just need a foothold. We can be a part of the new order Aaron. The Thieves Guild cannot stop them, Aaron, we can survive." Jonas added. "At what cost!!" Aaron responded before launching a barrage of slashes at the Enforcer who deflected and dodged every one of the attacks. Jonas smiled and triggered another ability causing Aaron to fly backwards as his health dropped like a rock. Battle Alert... Debuff Chaos Tainted: Recieve 10% more damage from all sources (Duration 1 Minutes) Battle Alert... Aaron shook his head as he looked to see Jonas standing there glaring at him. "You fucking went over too them. You little bitch. You traded Jerimiah for that fucking Chaos Priest, at least he cared for you." Jonas snarled a reply as he brought his club back to finish him off, but Aaron triggeredVanish. "NO!!!" Jonas cried out as Aaron disappeared intoStealthleaving the Enforcer swinging wildly around to hit him. Aaron moved as quickly as he could before stabbing outwards as he triggeredBackstabandShank. Jonas screamed in pain and rage as he collapsed bleeding out as Aaron twisted his blades causing the other man to whimper in pain. "WAIT!! Wait, I can help you!! Your brother is alive!! He is here on Ithea. I can help you find him!!" Jonas tried to placate him.Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there. Aaron ripped out the blades eliciting another scream before grabbing Janas'' hair and yanking his head back. "For Jerimiah," Aaron whispered into his ear before cutting his throat. Jonas convulsed as blood sprayed everywhere as Aaron looked up and around. All the fighting was dying out as the superior trained troops Natash had brought worked in concert with the Thieves and finished off the Enforcers. So much death and trouble for the ambition of one man, Aaron was disgusted by it and promised himself he would never let himself become like Jonas. He quickly looted the body and recovered the ring of office. He would study it later once they were out of the Undercity and his meetings with the Assassins Guild, Smugglers Union, and Beggers Union had concluded. Margie and Quincy filtered into the room, both were bloody but alive. "The two other Portals have been wrecked, this is the last one we need to deal with," Quincy told him and Aaron nodded absently. "Can you get your Mage''s to break this one?'' Aaron asked the Brigand who nodded and barked out orders to his people. ''Get all our people and allies out of here. Don''t leave any wounded or bodies behind. Arrange for the trash to be burned." Aaron told Margie who gave him a grim smile before moving off. "What about him?" Natash asked as he walked up and pointed to Jonas. Aaron looked down at the corpse and sheathed one of his daggers while keeping the other out as he started sawing through Jonas''s neck to cut off his head. They would need proof that the debt had been cleared. Once he cut the head off the stashed it in his inventory before going to the Chaos Priest and looting him as well. "That is all I needed from Jonas, now he cannot be brought back to life by Necromancer or Priest. How are your people doing?" Aaron asked the First Sword. "All of us survived. Your life is far more interesting then I was led to believe a Thief should live." Corina commented as she sauntered up causing both Natash and Aaron to roll their eyes. Aaron gave her a charming smile as he laid his hand on her shoulder, "I am a Thief girl, and as soon as I finish off my business with the Chaos Priests, you have my word I will visit your families estates in the city.'' Aaron told her with a wink before showing the pendant in his hand that had been around her neck. Then Aaron slowly grabbed her hand and placed the pendant in it before stepping back from her glare. ''Glad we understand each other. Now, where are our errant followers of Lolth?" Aaron asked looking around. "Right here, Thief!!" Thiera called out as she walked up with the three Priestess and dozen Temple Guards. "Good, wouldn''t want anything to happen to my valuable allies.'' Aaron commented causing several nearby Thieves to chuckle at the sarcasm. ''Our business here is concluded. We need to leave. I will be by tomorrow to see you. Don''t cause any problems." The Priestess grimaced but nodded before turning and following her Thief guides as the little impromptu meeting broke up.
Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas District of Pleasure- Last Chance Aaron looked around at the three others, Silvia was here representing the Assassins Guild and herself, Tony represented the Beggers Union, and Roxy represented the Smugglers Union. "Well boy, why are we here?" Tony prodded and Jonas gave him a tight smile. "Tony, when I was a wet behind the ears overeager Thief, you could call my boy. Don''t now, understand?'' Aaron responded before pulling Jonas''s head out of his inventory and putting it down on the table. ''Jonas is dead, those that followed him have been eliminated, his allies are dead. Questions?" Aaron asked as he sat down. He was still covered from the grime of the battle and he was tired. Honestly, he should have met them tomorrow, but Aaron wanted to calm their minds and let them know it would be business as usual from now on. Silvia gave him a sad smile, "Thank you, Aaron, I know you at one time cared for him as a brother. Thank you for killing him." The Assassin told him. Aaron nodded his head in acknowledgment before pulling the second head out of the lead Chaos Priest, "Do any of you know this man?" Aaron asked as he looked at the others. Tony and Silvia passed but Roxy did not. "I have seen him with one of my lieutenants. Who is he?" Roxy asked as she frowned. "That would be the head Chaos Priest in charge of this whole shit show. You might want to have a closer look at your organization to see if it''s been compromised. That''s how they got Jonas, promises of power and leadership." Aaron told her and Roxy grabbed the head. "Do you mind if I take this with me. I would like to make a point with my people and this can help." Aaron gestured for the Smugglers leader to take it. "Anything else?" Aaron prodded. "I assume you will be taking over the Thieves Guild?'' Tony asked and Aaron nodded his head. ''Good, it''s in desperate need of leadership that knows what it is doing. Jonas was never leadership material, he was just a thug. I gladly welcome you to the position cousin." Tony offered his hand and Aaron took it with a tired smile. "Will you also take over his house, you know he would want you to have it." Silvia pointed out. "I have not decided yet. There are some things there, I still have to retrieve, but if I will take ownership...I will let you know Silvia, one way or the other. Now one last thing, this is the list of Immortals within the Thieves Guild that have been working with Jonas and by extension the Chaos Priests. I have already Black Listed them, I would suggest you do the same." Aaron told them before the others made a few other comments and suggestions before breaking up the meeting. A more in-depth discussion would happen at a later date, this was just a formality for the weary leadership of the cities underworld.
Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas Broken Quarter- Peach Pit The Peach Pit was loud and boisterous from the Thieves that celebrated their victory over Jonas and his followers. Most of the occupants that were there had been in the fight in the Undercity, most but not all. Aaron strode over too the bar before letting out a loud whistle and it was taken up letting everyone know to be silent while he talked. Aaron was one of the few people who could do this without getting kicked out of the Inn. "Listen up, I am about to add something to this place that has not been increased in nearly a century. A head to the traitors rack.'' Aaron pulled out the bloody head out of his inventory and slammed it down on the spike next to the three bleach white skulls. ''For those not aware, Jonas is dead." Aaron calmly stated and a roar of approval sounded from most of the occupants but not all. "Most of you were with me today. You fought against the corruption within the Thieves Guild. We won, at a too high of a price. We lost two Brothers, never forget that. For those who did not join us, you will be questioned and your activities will be monitored for the foreseeable future. If you don''t like it, there is the door. Don''t worry about it hitting you on the way out, because my boot will be up your ass.'' A roar of laughter sounded and quickly died down as Aaron shushed them again. ''Daniel Thraklana, you did well today and over the last week. You will accompany Quincy when he leaves. You will undergo training with him for the next couple weeks and when you return, you will be head Enforcer and Enforcer Trainer for our Chapter if you are willing to accept." Aaron told the man who smiled and blushed before stepping forward. "No sir, I have no problem accepting those duties and responsibilities," Daniel responded as he read something on his interface. "Margie, I hope you like our training facility, because if you agree you will be the head Trainer for Thieves within this Chapter. Will you accept the position?" Aaron asked the Human woman. She raised her stein in salute, "Damned straight Viscount, I will accept the position." She responded before downing her drink. "Baron Quincy, thank you for providing assistance and someone I could trust when I had very few people I could call upon. I will never forget what you have done for me and the Guild today." Aaron told the large man who smiled and stood. "You buy a round for me and my boys, and we are square Viscount!!" Quincy replied drawing a roar from the crowd and a smile from Aaron then a wink. Aaron hopped off the bar and pulled twenty gold from his inventory and handed it to Willy, "Let them enjoy their night my friend. How are you doing?" Aaron asked the bartender and owner of the Peach Pit. "Better now that Jonas is gone. Your night is not over though, you have a guest waiting in the office, she has been waiting patiently but she will know you are here now. I would suggest you don''t keep her waiting. Make sure you have the ring!!" Willy told him and Aaron nodded as he took a deep breath and strode off down the hallway. Chapter 15- Proposition Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas Broken Quarter- Peach Pit Aaron entered the office and closed the door before turning and studying the woman sitting behind the desk. She was about six feet tall and statuesque, if there were Amazons in this world, she would be a living example. Aaron knew the simple dress she wore was a facade to hide who she truly was. Princess of the Thieves Guild of the Drow people and the most powerful Thief in Zeren''gor. She was dangerous as hell and Aaron was certain if she wanted him dead, he could do very little to stop her. "I hear you hade a busy night. So is it done? Is the corruption within your Chapter cleansed or do I need to send a Commission?" In other words, did she need to send the Thieves Guild equivalent of an Inquisitor and support kill team? "We are still combing through the remaining members of the Chapter. Most if not all the corruption has been neutralized. I have provided proof to the Smugglers, Assassins, and Beggers that I have dealt with the problem and informed them of any Immortals that have been corrupted as well." Aaron told her and she nodded her head before extending her hand. "Give me the ring." Aaron gave her a tight smile and recalled it from his inventory and placed it on the desk between them causing her to smile in return. "Jerimiah always said you could read more in any situation and once you got some experience under your belt, you would be a real power within the Guild. Someday maybe even Duke or higher...You are not there yet Aaron and before you judge me, you should be aware that Jerimiah wished to give you a chance to deal with the situation before I was forced too." the Princess told him before laying a letter down in front of Aaron and gesturing him to take it. After a moment Aaron picked up the paper and started reading. Aaron, If you are reading this, then the worst has happened. I am dead. I am sorry son, but there was nothing I could do about it. As hard as I was on Jonas, I could not kill him. You were both sons to me even though you were from a different world. Dark times are coming for both the Guild and our world. A corruption that has infected our Guild is now spreading throughout the world. Chaos is coming and her agents are working behind the scenes to secure power in every people and in every way of life. They can be anyone, anywhere. They are masters at infiltration and turning people to their cause. DO NOT UNDERESTIMATE THEM. Cultivate your followers and earn their trust and love as I have taught you. Do not keep them at arm''s length, treat them as family and they will never betray you. Become Vicount and maybe someday, something more. Remember all the lessons I taught you. Trust Cynthia, she can be distant, but she is true and a real Thief. Everything I am, or ever was, is yours now. Jerimiah Viscount and leader of the Nythi Thalas Chapter of the Thieves Guild A couple of chicken scratches at the bottom of the letter confirmed it was from Jerimiah, the code was only known to him and his immediate family and never handed over to the Guild. "Everything he owned is yours now. I am asking you to take the ring and position of Viscount of the Nythi Thalas Chapter of the Thieves Guild. Will you accept this position?" Cynthia asked as she picked up the ring and offered it to him. Alert... You have been offered the Title of Viscount and position of Leader of the Nythi Thalas Chapter of the Thieves Guild. Will you accept? YES/NO Alert... Note* If your position within the Thieves Guild becomes general knowledge to the public, you will become a Wanted criminal. A Bounty will be placed on you for Capture and/or Death, and your Infamy will increase by 1,000 that cannot be decreased by Skills or Abilities Note* If you accept this position, you will be responsible for all actions taken by Guild members within the city of Nythi Thalas. Note* This is not a formal Title and is not recognized as such by the kingdom of Zeren''gor "So are my suspicions correct? How far has it spread?" Aaron asked before accepting or denying the position. Cynthia frowned and shook her head, "I don''t know. I know I can trust you, but beyond that..." Aaron cursed, "How can I trust you? How do I know you have not been compromised?" Aaron asked the leader of the Drow Thieves Guild. Cynthia smiled, "If I was, you would be dead and you would never have succeeded at killing Jonas or stopping the invasion of the city. So, I must insist on your decision now or I will be forced to offer it to Quincy." Aaron grimaced and then mentally clicked on accept. More Notifications appeared but he minimized them to deal with them later. He still had to deal with everything after the battle as well, so he was developing a serious backlog. "Thank you, Aaron, I hope I won''t disappoint you and so far, you have not disappointed me. Now take a look at the bookshelf over there and tell me what you see." Cynthia told him and Aaron snorted. "I have checked this room for hidden locations, I raided them all when Jonas went to ground earlier this week. There is nothing here." Aaron told her and Cynthia smiled. "Third shelf down on the left. There is a knot of wood, push it in and to the side. It will reveal a hidden keyhole that can only be activated by your Vicount ring.'' Cynthia told him before tossing him the ring with a laugh. ''You know a lot, but you don''t know everything." She told Aaron who grumbled as he moved over to the bookshelf and easily found the knot of wood and checked it with hisRogue''s Eye. It still looked like wood and it didn''t glow at all in his eyes. Aaron shook his head at his own stupidity and canceled the Skill as he followed Cynthia''s instructions revealing a small circular indention. Aaron equipped the ring then inserted it in the slot and turned it. The bookcase moved too the side and the floor dropped down revealing a staircase that glowed subtly in his sight. Aaron activated his Rogues Eye and the glow intensified many times over and caused him to leap back from the entrance in fear of his life. You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story. Cynthia was laughing so hard she cried, "Don worry about the traps, the recognize you and will let you pass due to your rank within the Guild. Only Viscounts or higher ranked members can access that room safely." She told him after regaining control of herself. Aaron glowered at her, "You could have told me this before I opened it." Aaron told her as he relaxed a little and moved forward slowly with his hands resting on his daggers. "Do not worry too much, Jerimiah was the last recognized Vicount of this Chapter. I did not acknowledge Jonas as Vicount, thus he should never have been able to get access to this area." Cynthia stated as she followed behind him. "How do you know for certain?" Aaron asked as he kept his pace slow and steady. Cynthia smirked once again, "I know this because the defenses are tied into the Peach Pit itself. If someone unauthorized breached the defenses, the bar and inn above would have exploded taking the interlopers with it." Aaron stopped and looked at her with an arched eyebrow. Talk about overkill he thought before continuing. "So what is this place?" Aaron asked. "Safehouse, armory, bank, place where you can work, sleep, and rest when you need too. Being a Guild leader is demanding, but we take care of you as well and keep you safe." Cynthia replied as the entered a large office space and private quarters. It reflected Jerimiahs house. Subtle hints at wealth without too much in your face gelding. "The wardrobe will contain some things you will need, make sure you wear them, you are representing the Guild now. I expect you to be dressed like a Viscount, I excuse your appearance today due to the circumstances, but it will not happen again. Now, this is Jerimiahs will, it confirms you are his Heir to his estate and wealth. If you encounter any problems, notify me and I will make them go away. Questions?" Cynthia asked as she handed over a sheaf of papers. "How do we go about getting rid of the outside influence within the Guild," Aaron asked and Cynthia frowned. "You will have to do that. I am watched constantly. I am supposed to be at a party right now in the capital, that is the only reason why I managed to slip away. I trust you to deal with it, just keep me in the loop as much as you can. As a new Vicount, you have a month to report in person too me. Take that time to get a plan together, and tell me then. Agreed?" Cynthia asked and Aaron frowned. He was taking all the risks but did he have a real choice in the matter... "Agreed for now," Aaron told her and she smiled. "Remember, clothing my Vicount, you are a leader and its time you looked like one." With a wave Cynthia took off down the short tunnel they had entered through leaving Aaron to his thoughts. He quickly finished inspecting and checking out the rooms. He found a second entrance which was just as heavily defended as the first, if not more so. The only time he ever saw defenses like this, were in prisons. Aaron shuddered and hoped he never was trapped down here. As comfortable as it was, it would be the equivalent of being buried alive. Aaron stripped himself of his armor and threw it in the wardrobe, he would look at whatever Cynthia wanted him to see later. He needed a bath and sleep. He messaged Willy and asked that a dinner be sent to his office in thirty minutes so he could eat before sleeping. Then he started the tub, it wasn''t a shower but a good long soak would help him relax and decompress as he started to read the Notifications and Alerts. Secret Quest Complete: Atonement for the Dead Description: Despite their efforts, you managed to slay both the Chaos Priest and Jonas. Jerimiah will hopefully rest easier now that his murderers are worm food. Difficulty: Hard Kill Jonas Ele''tharamas: 1/1 Kill ''Chaos Priest'': 1/1 Success: Kill Jonas Ele''tharamas and the unknown Chaos Priest Failure: Do not kill Jonas Ele''tharamas and the unknown Chaos Priest or let them escape Rewards: 4,000 Experience, Vicount and Leader of the Nythi Thalas Chapter of the Thieves Guild available, Your Reputation with Silvia and the Nythi Thalas Chapter of the Assassins Guild has increased Divine Quest Complete: Tangled Web (Stage 2) Description: You cobbled together a large enough group and managed to foil the Chaos Priests plans to invade the city of Nythi Thalas. Congratulations on taking your first step in battling for the heart of the Thieves Guild and perhaps something more. See Priestess Thiera Lanthul about your reward and about Stage 3 of the Tangled Web Quest Line. Time: 0 Days Difficulty: Hard Success: Stop the invasion of Nythi Thalas and foil Jonas Ele''tharamas plans Failure: Do not stop the invasion of Nythi Thalas and foil Jonas Ele''tharamas plans or let the Chaos Priest and Jonas Ele''tharamas escape Requirements: Level 32, Stage 2 cannot be completed alone. Gather Allies to fight by your side and save the city of Nythi Thalas from the forces of Chaos Rewards: 5,000 Experience, 10 Gold, Increased Reputation with Lolth, Vhaeraun, See Priestess Thiera Lanthul Secret Guild Quest Complete: Moving on Up!!! Description: You have attained the lowest Management level rank within the Thieves Guild. This means more responsibilities but also more money and LOOT!! Success: Attain the rank of Viscount within the Thieves Guild Failure: Decline the rank of Viscount within the Thieves Guild Rewards: 2,000 Experience, 500 Fame, You Reputation with all other Viscounts or higher ranked members within the Drow branch of the Thieves Guild is now Neutral Secret Guild Quest Complete: Peace Keeping Description: Despite the events that have happened, you proved both your own personal power and your ability to pursue what was right in the eyes of your fellow underworld leader within Nythi Thalas. You have averted an all-out war between the various underworld guilds. Good job?!?!?! Success: Kill and supplant Jonas as leader of the Thieves Guild of Nythi Thalas Failure: Do not kill or supplant Jonas as leader of the Thieves Guild of Nythi Thalas Rewards: 2,000 Experience, 100 Fame, Your Reputation with the Assassins Guild, Beggers Union, and Smugglers Union Chapters of Nythi Thalas have increased and underworld operations can begin once again. Alert... Your Level has increased by...2. (Current Level 37) Your Dexterity and Agility have increased by 2. You have gained 6 Stat Points and 2 Skill Points. Alert... Aaron snorted, between the fighting and Quests, he was not surprised his level had jumped again. A beep in his ear told him Willy had messaged him back saying his food was at his desk and that it was covered so it would stay warm until he got back. He also said that Cynthia had left and apparently put another dozen gold down for the Guilds tab for their celebration. Aaron chuckled, a lot of people were going to be hungover tomorrow when they woke up. He shook his head in amusement and pulled up the stats on his new signet ring. Spoiler: Spoiler Name: Signet Ring of the Viscount Quality: Legendary Accessory Type: Ring Properties: Increase Dexterity and Agility by (Level X.3) Properties: Increase Health/Stamina/Mana Regeneration by (Level X.25) Properties: Increase the Chance that Pick Pocket/Lock Picking/Disarm Trap will Succeed by 5% Properties: Increase Critical Hit Chance by +5% Properties: Increase Luck sub-Stat by +5 Enchantment: Poison Ward* Enchantment: Detection Ward* Soulbound: Aaron Sumner Requirement: Thief, Viscount Rank within the Thieves Guild Description: The Harlequin is considered a fool and entertainer, let them laugh while you rob them blind. Distract and take what you want. Remember Thievery is an Art and the way. Note* Poison Ward= The ring will vibrate if it detects poisoned food or drinks nearby. Note* Detection Ward= Allows user access to certain Guild areas hidden from others. Aaron smiled as he read the information then dismissed it as he got out of the bath. Time for food and then a long warranted sleep. Chapter 16- Stepping Up Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas Broken Quarter- Peach Pit Aaron looked at himself and laughed, the so-called armor was clothing more than anything. The shoulder pads were a mix of cloth and leather, but overall the armor was built more for looks then physical protection. It was primarily black and grey so he could still use it on jobs, but he felt like a damned wannabe noble between the doublet, leggings, and silk shirt. "You want my honest opinion?" Maggie asked with a huge smile behind him. Aaron glared at her over his shoulder, "Yes." "You look like a damned noble man!!!" Magie replied before laughing so hard she started crying and fell out of her chair. "I am going to change back into my leathers," Aaron told her with disgust written across his face. The benefits of the clothing were not worth this. Maggie stopped laughing and threw up her arms to stop him, "NO!!! You wanted to become Viscount, now you are. You cannot go back now. Part of the responsibilities of being the Viscount is wearing that clothing. Its tradition and what this Guild has grown apart from for far too long. Please don''t!!!" Magie told him and Aaron begrudgingly nodded. "Are you going to wear the sword and dagger with it?" Maggie asked and Aaron shrugged. Just like the clothing, the paired sword and dagger looked pretty but hid a deadly power. It was all very ornate and pretty and Aaron had always wondered why Jerimiah wore the clothing and now he knew. Both blades were wickedly sharp, so they were serviceable and didn''t just look pretty. The shortsword was shaped after the standard Drow shortsword with a slight curve too it. The knife was a long knife, almost a foot long and double-edged. He pulled up the stats on his new equipment one more time. Spoiler: Spoiler Name: Sword of the Gentleman (Set 1 of 2) Quality: Epic (Scalable) Weapon Type: Shortsword/1-Handed Sword Damage: 35 Properties: Increase Dexterity by (Level X.3) Properties: Increase Melee Damage by (Level X.3) Properties: Increase Critical Hit Chance by 3% Properties: Increase Attack Speed by 5% Secondary Properties: Increase Parry Chance by 5% Secondary Properties: Increase Duration of Flurry of Strikes by 10 Seconds (Requires 2 Pieces) Soulbound: Aaron Sumner Requirement: Thief, Vicount Rank within the Thieves Guild or Higher Durability: 300/300 Description: A Lord or Lady you must personify, but when it comes to it, you must also destroy your enemies. These blades have been crafted to look pretty, but are far more dangerous then they seem. Name: Dagger of the Gentleman (Set 1 of 2) Quality: Epic (Scalable) Weapon Type: Long Knife/Dagger Damage: 30 Properties: Increase Agility by (Level X.3) Properties: Increase Critical Hit Chance by 3% Properties: Increase Attack Speed by 5% Properties: Increase Backstab Damage by 25% Secondary Properties: Increase Dodge Chance by 5% Secondary Properties: Increase Duration of Flurry of Strikes by 10 Seconds (Requires 2 Pieces) Soulbound: Aaron Sumner Requirement: Thief, Vicount Rank within the Thieves Guild or Higher Durability: 300/300 Description: A Lord or Lady you must personify, but when it comes to it, you must also destroy your enemies. These blades have been crafted to look pretty, but are far more dangerous then they seem. Name: Shoulders of the Noble Thief (Set 1 of 5) Quality: Ancient Artifact (Scalable) Armor Type: Light/Shoulders Armor Rating: +30 Properties: Increase Dexterity and Agility by (Level X.3) Properties: Increase Fame gains by 5% Properties: Decrease Infamy gains by 5% Properties: Increase Parry Chance by 5% Properties: Desperate Evasion* Chance increased by 5% Secondary Properties: Decrease the Chance at being struck by a Critical Hit by 2% (per Piece Worn) Secondary Properties: Increase Reputation Gains by 10% (Requires 2 Pieces) Secondary Properties: Decrease the Cooldown of Skills by 25% (Requires 3 Pieces) Secondary Properties: Increase Luck sub-Stat by +5 (Requires 4 Pieces) Secondary Properties: Combat Prowess* (Requires 5 Pieces) Soulbound: Aaron Sumner Requirement: Thief, Vicount Rank within the Thieves Guild or Higher Durability: 500/500 Description: Leadership within the Thieves Guild is defined by a few things, their ability to make hard choices, to see the bigger picture, and to think many steps ahead of their competition. These men and women hold up the facade that they are part of the gentry, but are far more. Do not underestimate the Viscounts of the Thieves Guild for you might find yourself missing more than your monetary valuables. Name: Doublet of the Noble Thief (Set 1 of 5) Quality: Ancient Artifact (Scalable) Armor Type: Light/Chest & Back Armor Rating: +40 Properties: Increase Dexterity and Agility by (Level X.3) Properties: Increase Constitution by (Level X.25) Properties: Increase Health/Stamina/Mana Regeneration by (Level X.25) Properties: Increase Melee Damage by (Level X.25) Properties: Desperate Evasion* Chance increased by 5% Secondary Properties: Decrease the Chance at being struck by a Critical Hit by 2% (per Piece Worn) Secondary Properties: Increase Reputation Gains by 10% (Requires 2 Pieces) Secondary Properties: Decrease the Cooldown of Skills by 25% (Requires 3 Pieces) Secondary Properties: Increase Luck sub-Stat by +5 (Requires 4 Pieces) Secondary Properties: Combat Prowess* (Requires 5 Pieces) Soulbound: Aaron Sumner Requirement: Thief, Vicount Rank within the Thieves Guild or Higher Durability: 500/500 Description: Leadership within the Thieves Guild is defined by a few things, their ability to make hard choices, to see the bigger picture, and to think many steps ahead of their competition. These men and women hold up the facade that they are part of the gentry, but are far more. Do not underestimate the Viscounts of the Thieves Guild for you might find yourself missing more than your monetary valuables. Name: Belt of the Noble Thief (Set 1 of 5) Quality: Ancient Artifact (Scalable) Armor Type: Light/Belt Armor Rating: +20 Quick Access Slots: 8 Properties: Increase Dexterity and Agility by (Level X.3) Properties: Increase Wisdom by (Level X.25) Properties: Increase Chance to cause Bleeding Wounds by 5% Properties: Increase Dodge Chance by 5% Properties: Desperate Evasion* Chance increased by 5% Secondary Properties: Decrease the Chance at being struck by a Critical Hit by 2% (per Piece Worn) Secondary Properties: Increase Reputation Gains by 10% (Requires 2 Pieces) Secondary Properties: Decrease the Cooldown of Skills by 25% (Requires 3 Pieces) Secondary Properties: Increase Luck sub-Stat by +5 (Requires 4 Pieces) Secondary Properties: Combat Prowess* (Requires 5 Pieces) Soulbound: Aaron Sumner Requirement: Thief, Vicount Rank within the Thieves Guild or Higher Durability: 500/500 Description: Leadership within the Thieves Guild is defined by a few things, their ability to make hard choices, to see the bigger picture, and to think many steps ahead of their competition. These men and women hold up the facade that they are part of the gentry, but are far more. Do not underestimate the Viscounts of the Thieves Guild for you might find yourself missing more than your monetary valuables. Name: Leggings of the Noble Thief (Set 1 of 5) This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.Quality: Ancient Artifact (Scalable) Armor Type: Light/Legs Armor Rating: +30 Properties: Increase Dexterity and Agility by (Level X.3) Properties: Increase Strength by (Level X.25) Properties: Increase Movement Speed by 5% Properties: Increase Dodge Chance by 5% Properties: Desperate Evasion* Chance increased by 5% Secondary Properties: Decrease the Chance at being struck by a Critical Hit by 2% (per Piece Worn) Secondary Properties: Increase Reputation Gains by 10% (Requires 2 Pieces) Secondary Properties: Decrease the Cooldown of Skills by 25% (Requires 3 Pieces) Secondary Properties: Increase Luck sub-Stat by +5 (Requires 4 Pieces) Secondary Properties: Combat Prowess* (Requires 5 Pieces) Soulbound: Aaron Sumner Requirement: Thief, Vicount Rank within the Thieves Guild or Higher Durability: 500/500 Description: Leadership within the Thieves Guild is defined by a few things, their ability to make hard choices, to see the bigger picture, and to think many steps ahead of their competition. These men and women hold up the facade that they are part of the gentry, but are far more. Do not underestimate the Viscounts of the Thieves Guild for you might find yourself missing more than your monetary valuables. Name: Jeweled Pendant of the Noble Thief (Set 1 of 5) Quality: Ancient Artifact (Scalable) Accessory Type: Necklace Properties: Increase Dexterity and Agility by (Level X.3) Properties: Increase Intelligence by (Level X.25) Properties: Increase the Chance that Pick Pocket/Lock Picking/Disarm Trap will Succeed by 10% Properties: Increase the Chance to detect Traps by 10% Properties: Desperate Evasion* Chance increased by 5% Secondary Properties: Decrease the Chance at being struck by a Critical Hit by 2% (per Piece Worn) Secondary Properties: Increase Reputation Gains by 10% (Requires 2 Pieces) Secondary Properties: Decrease the Cooldown of Skills by 25% (Requires 3 Pieces) Secondary Properties: Increase Luck sub-Stat by +5 (Requires 4 Pieces) Secondary Properties: Combat Prowess* (Requires 5 Pieces) Soulbound: Aaron Sumner Requirement: Thief, Vicount Rank within the Thieves Guild or Higher Durability: 500/500 Description: Leadership within the Thieves Guild is defined by a few things, their ability to make hard choices, to see the bigger picture, and to think many steps ahead of their competition. These men and women hold up the facade that they are part of the gentry, but are far more. Do not underestimate the Viscounts of the Thieves Guild for you might find yourself missing more than your monetary valuables. Name: Desperate Evasion Description: Some people are born lucky, others make their own luck. Chance of Activation: 25% Benefit 1: Dodge a Killing Blow with unnatural speed and dexterity Benefit 2: Luck sub-Stat increases Chance of Activation by (Luck X.5) Requires: 20% Health or less Cost: Passive, N/A Cooldown: 10 Seconds Name: Combat Prowess Description: A Vicount can see probabilities and his chances of success in combat. This Ability helps you survive those nasty encounters. Chance of Activation: 25% Benefit 1: If triggered threats and attack arcs are highlighted bright red Benefit 2: Decrease Chance that you will be taken by surprise attacks Benefit 3: Perception sub-Stat Increases Chance of Activation by (Perception X.5) Active Effect: Time is Slowed Duration: 5 Seconds Requires: Combat Cost: Passive, N/A Cooldown: 30 Seconds Note* The Noble Thief Set is comprised of...Shoulders, Chest and Back, Belt, Legs, and Necklace Note* The Gentlemans Set is comprised of...Sword and Dagger The properties of the armor were all better then what he currently wore, and the weapons were hands down better than his daggers. With grudging respect, he grabbed them and equipped the paired dagger and sword before tossing his daggers into his inventory. Until he found better weapons, he would use these. "Let''s go face the comments and jokes, I have things to do today," Aaron told Maggie who bowed slightly with one more shit-eating grin before spinning away and out of the front office. Wolf whistles and jeers from the crowd greeted him as he entered the main floor of the Peach Pit, Aaron gave them the one-fingered salute with blush and grin. If they did not truly approve they would have been quiet instead of outgoing. "Well, you finally look the part. If only you would act it instead of the over-eager kid." Willy added with a smile as he studied Aaron''s figure. "I think I look dashing and dabonier," Aaron replied with a wink and smile causing the other man to laugh before settling down. "I assume you have a full day ahead of you Viscount?" Will asked and Aaron nodded. "Yes, I have to go see a Priestess and I have some training with a First Sword. Do you have anything for me?" Aaron asked and Willy nodded as he pulled a small box from under the bar. "She wanted to give this to you as a gift. She wanted you to have it but not affect your decision to take the job or not." Willy told him and he understood immediately who it was from. After some thought, he threw it in his inventory for later inspection before leaving the Peach Pit. Time to go see a Priestess and figure out what was next on the agenda.
Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- Outside the city of Nythi Thalas Minor Temple of Lolth Of course, they were both there waiting for him when he arrived, Lolth and Thiera were present for the meeting. Why the Goddess had to there Aaron had no idea, but she had insisted for some reason. Due to it being a Temple of Lolth, Aaron was surprised that Vhaeraun was present. Apparently, he had gotten permission from the senior Goddess so he could be. "There is the man of the hour!!" Vhaeraun cheered with a smile and wink. "Yes, your new pet has done a trick and Chaos incursion has been blunted. The war has not even started yet, settle down." Lolth admonished him and Aaron rolled his eyes. "We should be celebrating, the threat has been ended and our alliance can be dissolved so everything can go back to the way it should be Mistress," Thiera responded politely but her glare towards Aaron let him know as soon as Lolth gave the ok, she was going to kill him. She was a fool, no wonder she had been assigned to this minor location Aaron thought. "Well genius, tell me on a day-to-day basis how many plans does your mistress spin?" Aaron asked her before either God could respond. "She makes many plans I am sure," Thiera responded with an arrogant smirk. Aaron nodded and gestured for her to go on...Her confusion was apparent though and Lolth sighed. "Ok...I guess I am working with your B-Team, that''s ok I can work with her. Lolth is not the only being that makes plans within plans. Or schemes to get what she wants. From the Lore and history I have read, Chaos is the original schemer and manipulator. Meaning if she had a plan to invade the Drow kingdom, she had more then one plan to attain that objective. This probably just slowed her down. Either way, you missed the bigger picture." Aaron told her without elaborating on the fact. Lolth was studying him more intently now and had a small look of surprise on her face while Vhaeraun had a smug look of superiority on his face and was occasionally shooting looks at Lolth. "If only you had been born a woman, the things we could do together," Lolth stated before shaking her head. Aaron gave her a wink, "Well if I hadn''t heard rumors about the things you do in the bedroom, we could still do a lot of things together." Aaron told her causing Vhaeraun to smirk and cover a laugh with a cough. "Enough, what were you talking about?" Thiera prodded. Aaron looked at Vhaeraun and he gestured for Aaron to explain, "The Thieves Guild is a continent-spanning organization. Its a part of every Race and society with thousands of members. If they infiltrated our Guild here, they can do the same anywhere else. That is why Lolth and Vhaeraun are working so closely together on this.'' Aaron explained slowly as if too a child. ''We can go anywhere and infiltrate any society in a matter of days. If Chaos gains control of the Thieves Guild or any of the prominent Underworld Guilds, we will more then likely lose the coming war." Aaron explained too her and Theira gave him a ferocious grin and confirmed her stupidity. "So we just kill you all. That will make the problem go away." Theira replied with smug confidence. Lolth gave her a look of disgust as if she was reconsidering having her as a follower. "You have no idea what would happen without the prominent Underworld Guilds. It would be pure chaos in the underworld. You think it was bad here when Jonas was in charge and let the reins loose, that was just a glimmer of the true anarchy that would occur if we did not exist.'' Aaron told her. ''Believe me, I know we are not what is defined as ''good'' but the other option is far worse. Society as a whole across all Racial lines needs the Underworld Guild to control the chaos and anarchy." Aaron told her causing the Priestess to frown and look at Lolth who nodded her head in agreement while Vhaeraun''s smug smile just grew. "So what do we do about it?" Thiera asked and Aaron smiled, maybe there was a little hope for her after all. "That is what we are here to discuss," Aaron responded and started to fill them in on everything he knew and had deduced so far about Chaos and their infiltration of the Underworld Guilds. Chapter 17- Rebuilding Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas Inner City- House Bourne Aaron wove his blades in a defensive weave in front of him as Natash launched a lightning-fast assault against him. He managed to deflect about half of the blows and avoid the others, but the pace was tiring and his Stamina was steadily draining away under the assault. Aaron moved backward and to the side to try and find some relief, but the First Sword kept after him waiting for an opening. Aaron battered the man''s blades to the side and dove around him and coming to his feet as he turned to face his opponent. Natash was already there and his blade was against his throat. "Never turn your back on an enemy. Take a minute to recover and we go again." the First Sword told him before backing off. "Is there any way you can get me into House Ishala''s estate?" Aaron asked the man as he took deep breaths to recover his Stamina and try to calm his nerves. The First Sword frowned, "Why?" Natash asked. Aaron chuckled, "I promise, I have no wish to steal anything, you have my word for what it is worth." Natash nodded, "It is accepted. You need to build up your public face anyway now that you have inherited Jerimiah''s position. The public knew him as a merchant that conducted business through intermediaries. You can be his heir to his business to the public, only a few people will know what you really inherited.'' Natash told him and Aaron nodded in agreement. ''There is a party celebrating the city founding, I can get you in for that but it is tomorrow. Make sure you are prepared, your normal clothing and adventuring gear will not be suited for this part. Also, Corina will see your name on the list, she may try to remove it or let you play your hand. Fair warning." Natash told him and Aaron gave him a smile as he raised his bladed. "It wouldn''t be worth it if I could just walk in unopposed. I also have the proper clothing and will be ready. Meet you here or there?" Aaron asked in return as they started to circle one another. "Meet me here, I must escort the Matron and her Heir too the party. All the Families of the City will be there present, so be on your guard and try to not get into any fights. I will not be able to protect you there." Natash told him before rushing forward his blades spinning in an intricate weave as Aaron met him head-on.
Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas Broken Quarter- Peach Pit Aaron rubbed his eyes as he read the reports, Jerimiah always made it look like everything was done so smoothly. Either he hid more than Aaron ever knew, or Jonas had let more then he had originally thought or had figured out slip through the cracks. A loud banging on the door made him look up from the ledgers with a growl he respond. "COME!!!" Aaron barked out. Willy popped his head in, "Sorry Aaron, I know you are busy with catching up on paperwork, but a guy named Shifty is here from Bara''knas. Said you wanted to speak to him." Aaron glared at him, "I swear, if Jonas was still alive, I would kill him again for leaving me all this paperwork. Send him back, please. Willy, can I get some food too when you get a chance." Will smiled and winked before closing the door. Jonas had sporadically kept the ledgers up to date. Aaron had no idea what was correct or where most of the accounted money was. It was madness even for a follower of Chaos. How did he pay for anything when he didn''t even know where the money was. The twitchy man known as ''Shifty'' knocked and entered after Aaron responded. "Sir, I did as you commanded. We found four more within our group, we managed to track down and kill three of them but the last one got away. I brought the outdated payments with me.'' the man said before placing small sackcloth on the table that clinked before taking a step back. ''Do you need me to do anything else, Viscount Sumner?" Aaron studied the man and pulled one of the rings he had taken off the now dead Barons, out of his inventory. "Will you accept the position of Baron, Shifty? You are highly respected with the Thieves and Enforcers of Bara''knas. You have been honest with me as well. If you are willing, I want you in the position of Baron there to oversee the Thieves Guild operations there." Shifty looked at the ring, then at him. He knew what would happen if he failed him and with a sort of reverence he grabbed the ring and put it on. "I won''t fail you, Viscount, you can count on the Thieves of Bara''knas if you ever have need of us." Aaron smiled at him as he stood and shook the man''s hand. "I know Shifty, congratulations on the promotion. Feel free to spend the night here and I will pick up any tab you have. You have done a good job.'' Aaron told him as he walked him to the door and looked at the man standing guard there. ''Can you ask Willy to come back here, I have a few questions for him." the guard nodded before moving off down the hallway. Less than five minutes later and two more pages Willy knocked and entered again. "I forgot to ask, but do we still have any trustworthy accountants on the payroll? I mean real accountants that count coins and ledgers, not those who make cutbacks by slitting throats." Aaron asked the man.Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. "Jerimiah had three on the retainer, I do believe Jonas fired them all though. I can get you their names and addresses though, I can make no promises on if they will be willing to be rehired though." Willy responded and Aaron nodded. "Send them an invitation to a meeting at the Last Chance, I will give them my pitch there. Hopefully, they will agree to be rehired, if they do not, I hope to get some recommendations. Tomorrow I will be going to the Inner City for my big debut as Heir to Jerimiah Long''s heir to his business. So if anyone has any requests tomorrow it will have to wait." Aaron told Will who smiled and chuckled as he left the office while Aaron continued to grumble under his breath about looking pretty. He didn''t mind looking good, he just wasn''t a damned noble.
Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas District of Pleasure- Last Chance Aaron looked at the two men and woman that sat looking bored, "Thank you all for coming. I know your relationship with our organization was strained, but I appreciate your willingness to show." Aaron tried to give them a winning smile but two disgusted snorts and one rolling set of eyes made it difficult to keep plastered there. "Jonas threatened to slit our throats, and kill out families, before terminating our contracts with no pay or references. We cannot exactly go to a Merchant and say we have been dealing with the Thieves Guild for a decade, can we?" the lead accountant Sam responded. "I know you each got paid five silver a week. I will double it and pay you a bonus upon completion of balancing our current books. If you are unwilling to accept employment from us, would you be willing to point us to some Accountants that are trustworthy willing to work with our organization." Aaron responded and the others froze in surprise. "You are willing to pay us one gold per week and a bonus upon balancing your current books. How bad is the current job?" Sam asked and the others sat back letting him take the lead. From what Aaron remembered, he was the lead accountant for Jerimiah, but Aaron had never really met them other than at passing. "Yes, one gold per week. The current accounting of everything is...insane to say the least. It will be a hard job, but I will not expect you to kill yourselves too do it though. Ten hour days with time off for any emergencies when necessary until everything is caught up. Then back to regular eight hour days, with rotating shifts with one of you always on the job like you used to be." Aaron replied. Bill and the others looked at each other and begrudgingly nodded their heads in agreement. "One gold per week with a bonus upon completion of the initial balancing. We cannot give you an estimate on a time frame for the initial job until we see all the paperwork." Bill told him and Aaron smiled and nodded as he offered them the rings that would identify them as Guild Friends when passing through their territory and to not touch them. "Thank you all. When you can, go to the Peach Pit, you will receive your initial payment when you get there." Aaron told them before leaving them to their food and conversation.
Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas Broken Quarter- Peach Pit Aaron groaned as he looked at the Noble Thief Armor Set, he was inspecting it for any damages and frayed ends. If he was going to play at being a successful merchant and rich boy, he was going to look damned good at it. Everything was ready and Natash had messaged him earlier while he was getting the accountants settled in for their daunting task of digging the Thieves Guild out of the hole Jonas had put them in. Aaron pulled the wrapped package out of his inventory and pulled the small note attached too it. It was in her flowing hand and made Aaron snort in amusement. Aaron, I acquired this for Jerimiah when he started making inquires about it and the other pieces. I noticed when I met you, that you had acquired two other pieces of the set. I wanted to give this to you, but only after we had finished our discussion. I did not want it to influence your decision in any way. Goodluck Viscount. Cynthia Sterling Princess of the Drow Thieves Guild. Spoiler: Spoiler Name: Hood of the Ghost (Unique Set 1 of 5) Quality: Ancient Artifact (Scalable) Armor Type: Light/Head Armor Rating: +20 Properties: Increase Dexterity and Agility by (Level X.3) Properties: Cannot be Blinded by Skills/Abilities Properties: Increase Perception sub-Stat by 10 Properties: Increase Chance to Detect Traps by 10% Properties: Increase Critical Hit Chance by 5% Secondary Properties: Increase Physical/Magical/Poison Resistance by 5% per Set piece worn Secondary Properties: +15% Decreased Chance of being Seen/Heard while Stealth is active (Requires 2 Pieces) Secondary Properties: All Skill costs are Reduced by 25% (Requires 3 Pieces) Secondary Properties: Increase the Chance that Pick Pocket/Lock Picking/Disarm Trap will Succeed by 10% (Requires 4 Pieces) Secondary Properties: Increase Luck sub-Stat by 10 (Requires 5 Pieces) Soulbound: Aaron Sumner Requirement: Thief, Level 20, Dexterity and Agility 30 Durability: 500/500 Description: The Ghost was one of the most prolific Thieves in the history of Ithea, he stole from the Dwarves, Humans, Elves, Orcs, Drow, and some say even Dragons. He didn''t care about the worth of the item, but the uniqueness of the item and the challenge in taking it. Aaron chuckled as he looked at the hood. Like the cape, gold threading had been woven into the edge of the hood, but other then that and the odd coloring, it was rather plain-looking. Three out of five pieces of the set and the last two would be the most difficult pieces to acquire based on the hints given. Aaron added it to his wardrobe and too what he would be wearing to House Ishala''s party tomorrow. Chapter 18- The Art Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas Broken Quarter- Peach Pit Aaron looked at Bill and the others stunned, "A month...I will pay your two gold per week until the job is done. If you can get it done in two weeks." Aaron told the accountants. He needed the account books balanced out and to find out where all their money was. Someone would eventually come calling for the Guilds payout and Shifty had given him the only funds they had on hand. Quincy would have his fees in within the week. He had no idea when the other two possible Barons would show up, but he would give them a week to get their houses in order before doing anything. Bill looked at the others, they shrugged and he turned back too him. "Two gold per week until we are caught up. We will work out of here but no more than twelve-hour days. Agreed?" Bill offered and Aaron took the man''s outstretched hand with a smile. "Agreed. I know it will probably be bad news, but whatever it is, just give it to me. I don''t want us to face a commission or have our Charter revoked.'' Aaron told them. All three nodded but all were clearly exhausted having worked all night. ''Go get some sleep. Either go home or grab a room here, up too you. Start work tomorrow." Aaron told them and they all nodded in thanks as Aaron placed two gold coins in front of each of them before leaving. "How we looking?" Willy asked as he stepped up to the bar. Aaron snorted in disgust, "Two weeks if we are lucky and Bill and his people can pull a miracle out of their asses. They are exhausted from working all night if they choose to stay here, send me the bill." Aaron told the bar and inn owner who nodded in agreement. "Are you going to authorize a party for us, for Founding Day?" Willy asked and Aaron chuckled. "My funds are stretched thin covering everything. Until we find out how badly Jonas bent us over the barrel, I don''t know what money we have to use for parties.'' Aaron replied and Willy just kept staring at him. Aaron threw his arms up in frustration, ''FINE! I will find the money somewhere, just don''t let it get out of hand and don''t burn down the place." Aaron told him causing Willy to smirk. "From what I remember, it was you, your brother, and Jonas screwing around that almost burned the place down," Willy replied before laughing. "Exactly, so I know what I am talking about," Aaron replied quickly. Willy laughed harder, "Shouldn''t you be going and getting pretty for your hotie-totie party in the Inner City?" Aaron glared at him and stomped off to his renewed laughter.
Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas Inner City- House Ishala Estates Dark lights lit the pathways leading into and around the estate. Dozens of Nobility and rich well off people were present, including several envoys from nearby cities and Races. Being clothed as he was, allowed Aaron to slip in among them once his name had been acknowledged by the Guards of House Ishala. Apparently, Corina was content to see what he would do or did not care. Either way, he was not here to steal anything despite what Natash or Corina might think. "I am sorry, who are you again?" the Merchant asked and Aaron smiled as he sipped at his drink "Aaron Sumner sir, the late Jerimiah Long was a distant uncle of mine. The family has been busy trying to figure out what to do with his estate and which of us would take over his holdings. Finally, it fell into my lap to take care of everything.'' Aaron replied as recognition flared in his eyes. ''Truly, it has been a sordid mess to clean everything up." Aaron lamented, but the feeling was real even if the context was not. The man frowned, "I thought another nephew of his took over, a Jonas or something." Aaron gave him a smile as he activatedMagnetic Personality. "No, I am sorry to say, my cousin died rather tragically. He made some bad investments, and they were called due rather recently. That is why I was appointed to take over. You see, the family never really approved of him taking over, so when they heard I was nearby, they asked that I take over the situation clean everything up that both deaths have caused.'' Aaron replied and he could feel the Merchant was starting to feel uncomfortable with this line of thought and the possible questions it could lead too. ''Tell me, how did you know my cousin Jonas?" Aaron asked as he moved closer too the man. The man frowned and tried to move back but the man behind him glared at him and he stopped. "He was a distant business associate. A passing acquaintance, nothing really to know." the man bumbled. Aaron smiled and moved a step closer, "Why don''t you tell me all about it. You might feel relieved and less pressured if you do. A guilty conscience can be so weighing." Aaron told him but before the man could respond Corina joined them. The man used the distraction to getaway. "So, Master Sumner, are you enjoying our fair city?" Corina asked with a sweet smile. Aaron let his eyes roam and noticed a half dozen of the House Guards and two other Drow females had floated closer. "I find it absolutely riveting. You have an interesting city here, far more lively than the last place I lived miss?" Aaron prodded causing her to smile. "I am Corina, First Heir of House Ishala, Master Sumner. I am glad you are enjoying your stay so far. Do you plan on putting down roots, or are you passing through?" Corina responded. Aaron gave her a charming smile as he grabbed her hand and kissed the back of it causing all her guards to move closer, "It is an honor to meet such a distinguished person. As far as putting down roots. I plan on moving into my late Uncles home after the renovations on it are complete. For the foreseeable future, I will be overseeing my family''s interests here. As I was telling the Merchant, the late Jonas Ele''tharamas took over my Uncles estate without my family''s blessing. He made some very bad investments and it led to his death sadly.'' Aaron told her as he moved closer. ''Certain heads of my family know they can trust me. I am now cleaning up the mess left behind by their deaths. Apparently, my cousin was not alone in making bad business decisions, so I have been tasked to see how bad it really is and root it all out." Aaron told her causing Corina to frown as she read between the lines.You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story. "So, do you trust the heads of your family?" Corina asked in response. Aaron gave her a sad smile, "I have no choice but to trust them to a certain extent. Either way, I have a task to perform, one which will require my attention for the foreseeable future.'' Aaron replied closing the conversation. ''Your family has done a marvelous job, do they do this every year?" Aaron asked steering the conversation elsewhere. Corina frowned, he could tell that conversation was not done. "Yes, my mother is the first Matron and Steward of the city. It is both a responsibility and a pleasure to host this party.'' Corina moved closer this time causing more than one guard to tense. ''You promise that you are not up to anything?" Corina asked and Aaron smiled and stepped back. "Thank you for the invitation Lady Ishala, but I do not think your mother would appreciate us disappearing so early in the evening. If you want some male companionship, I am certain there are more then a few here that would enjoy your companionship." Aaron told her before bowing to her. Corina glared at him before looking around and walking off, the guards flocking after her.
Aaron was busy feeling out the various Merchants when a couple of the House Guard cornered him, "The Matron wishes to speak to you. Follow us." the Guard told him and Aaron could see at least two others blending into the crowd. Aaron gave him a carefree smile and followed the Guards and they wove threw the crowds and into the main house. "Do I need to turn over my weapons?" Aaron asked and the Guard snorted. Battle Alert... Debuff Guards Mark: Recieve 5% more damage from all sources, Cannot activate Stealth (Duration 5 Minutes) Battle Alert... "Don''t worry, the Matron can defend herself if necessary and there is nowhere you can go that we won''t find you." the Guard responded. Aaron smiled at him but inside he was seething. This was all part of the plan and had prepared for it. He had begun to worry that they had not detected his break in earlier. The question was, had Corina given him away or not, or had he missed something when getting in and out of the main vault. If worse came to worse, he could fall back on Anonymus. It would break the Guard Mark and allow him to disappear into Stealth, but then his new facade would be destroyed on the first day. Better that than spending the next couple years in chains as a prisoner or worse, slave. "Nervous?" the trailing guard asked. "This might be my only chance at making any business arrangements with this House. Eager, nervous, are just a few feelings I have.'' Aaron replied absently. The guards looked at each other but said nothing more as the descended below the main floor and followed the long hallway to the main vault. ''Where are we going? I would assume we would meet the Matron somewhere else." Aaron absently asked. Neither guard chose to respond as the drew closer and closer to the vault. Turning the finale corner revealed another half dozen House Guards, two women, and the Matron studying the open vault doors. Several Golems were located on the inside just on the other side of the door, but they made no move to oppose Aaron or anyone standing there. From experience, he had learned that they wouldn''t move until someone crossed the threshold off the vault. "Ahh, Master Sumner, so glad you could join us. You seem to cause trouble wherever you go at my party, and you grabbed my oldest daughter''s attention. This is a rare thing considering no male has grabbed her attention in thirty years. If you were bound to a House, I would make an offer to them for you to spend more time with her to figure out what infatuation she has with you.'' Matron Ishala told him as she looked at him and studied his clothing and gilded blades at his belt. ''Now on to why you are here at my family Vault. Apparently, it was broken into earlier this evening, yet nothing was taken and the Golems were not even disturbed. Surprising a Thief of that skill breaking in, yet not taking anything at all. What is your opinion on the matter Master Sumner?" the Matron asked as she stepped into his personal bubble. "Well, he or she could have been looking for a specific item. If you did not have it, maybe he or she was not willing to risk stealing anything else.'' Aaron surmised or perhaps they were just testing your defenses to see if they could get by them." Aaron theorized. The Matron nodded absently and stepped into the vault and gestured for Aaron to follow her. He followed her as if he didn''t have a care in the world. "Both are sound theories, both were also my original thoughts as well. However, there is a third possibility.'' Matron Ishala told him. ''The Thief could have placed something inside the Vault." the Matron surmised. Aaron gaped at her, "You think someone left a weapon in here. An explosive or poison? Surely not." Aaron responded acting aghast at the idea. "NO!'' the Matron snapped. ''There are magical Wards and protection on this vault, if any weapon was left, it would be detected. If the worse were to happen, the vault would automatically be sealed and an explosion or gas would be contained." the Matron responded. Aaron nodded and smiled as if relieved. "So what do you think was left instead?" The Matron gave him a tight smile. "Something that was stolen some months ago. This item has an immense value to a very small group of people. Now it''s suddenly back...It makes me wonder why it was stolen in the first place or why it was returned." Aaron cocked his head at her in confusion, "Ok...well. I don''t know how I can help with that since I wasn''t here when the item was stolen, nor do I know what was stolen in the first place Matron." Aaron replied and the Matron nodded her head but continued to study him like a bug. "Your ''Uncle'' was a good man and had an understanding with certain powers within this city. I am glad someone is taking over the family business that understands that.'' the Matron replied with a slight smile. ''I will make certain that you will continue to receive invitations to necessary events, Master Sumner. I can see Master Long''s legacy is in good hands, you can go now." the Matron dismissed him. Aaron gave her a big naive smile and walked away and out of the vault. Chapter 19- Broken Contracts Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas Broken Quarter- Peach Pit Aaron groaned and stretched, everything had gone well for the first part of his plan. The second part would be even more difficult. How Jonas had acquired the scroll from the cities Keep was still unknown. Their best guess was that Jonas had either bribed someone or the Chaos Priests had turned someone high ranked within the garrison. The city Keep was independent of all House Politics and its soldiers were drawn from all the Houses of the city so that no one House could gain control of it. It was heavily guarded and fortified both from Physical and Magical means. Getting in would be a pain in the ass, to say the least. Even the city Engineers did not have the complete plans of the structure. Aaron took a sip of his water and sat back as he reviewed his options. Infiltration would be his last resort, if Jonas had bribed someone, that would be his best bet to get the scroll back within the Keep itself. If Chaos had an agent inside the Keep, he was screwed because they could just take it again. Aaron dismissed his thoughts for now. The scroll was locked away in the private suite buried below the Peach Pit. No one could get there without getting past the defenses even he could not crack. Time to deal with other things, he still had six Skill Points to invest and it was time to invest them properly now that he had the time to do so. He brought up the Rogue Skill tree and started to scan through it. After some consideration and thought, he invested two points inFan of Blades, it was just too useful to be able to conjure a weapon.Dual Strike,Kill Chain, andLucky Bastardeach got one point before he moved onto the Thief Skill Tree.Vault Breakingreceived one point and gave him a useful active Skill that could prove invaluable for almost any job, the cooldown was a killer though. Spoiler: Spoiler Rogue Skill Tree... Scrappy Fighter Branch... Name: Fan of Blades Tier: Adept Description: Did you do that on purpose...I am sorry, I get premature knifing, but hey, he is dead. Damage: 80 + (Melee Damage X.75) per Blade Benefit 1: Launch up too (6) Conjured blades at a target or targeted area Benefit 2: Increase Chance to cause Bleeding Damage by 10% Range: 10 Feet Cast Time: Instant Cost: 50 Stamina and Mana per Blade Cooldown: 45 Seconds Name: Dual Strike Tier: Initiate Description: Yes!! I did it. I stabbed him in the eye, throat, ear, guts, all over!! He farted and it stunk!!! Damage: 150 + (Melee Damage X2) per Blade Benefit 1: +25% Chance to cause Bleeding/Open Wounds Benefit 2: +10% Critical Hit Chance Range: Melee Cast Time: Instant Requires: Dual Wielding Cost: 200 Stamina Cooldown: 3 Minute Name: Kill Chain Tier: Initiate Description: Everyone has to die sometime, I am just helping them along. Benefit 1: Increase Melee/Ranged Damage by (Level X.25) (Passive) Benefit 2: Increase Critical Hit Chance by 1% (Passive) Active Effect: Increase Melee/Ranged Damage by 25%, Increase Critical Hit Chance by 10% Range: Self Duration: 30 Seconds Cast Time: Instant Cost: 500 Stamina and Mana Cooldown: 1 Hour Name: Lucky Bastard Tier: Initiate Description: That damned bastard, how did he do that. Benefit 1: Damage Immunity (Duration 5 Seconds) Benefit 2: Recover 10% Health Benefit 3: Increase Health Regeneration by 25% (Duration 20 Seconds) Requirement: Killing Blow Cost: Passive, N/A Cooldown: 6 Hours Thief Skill Tree... Cat Burglar Branch... Name: Vault Breaking Tier: Initiate Description: If they can lock it away, you can break into it. Benefit 1: Increase Lock Picking, Trap Detection, Trap Disarm Chance of Success by 25% Benefit 2: Decrease Chance that you will trigger Trapped Lock by 10% Benefit 3: Decrease Chance Lock Picks will break by 10% Range: Self Duration: 30 Seconds Cast Time: Instant Cost: 400 Stamina and Mana Cooldown: 6 Hours Lucky Bastardwas one of those Skills that was almost a waste. It was a useless skill to have, but when you needed it, t was more valuable than almost anything. Aaron closed out his Skill Trees as he stood and stretched his arms. He was started to grow accustomed to the new armor, but the weapons although superior to his own, he was still hesitant to use. Aaron drew the ornate blades and studied them, both the long knife and the drow short sword were ornate with gems, precious metals, but their blades were razor sharp. Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. Aaron considered going to the Thieves Guild training Warehouse to practice with the new blades but before he could make a decision someone opened the door without knocking causing Aaron to go on his guard immediately. The big bruiser''s eyes bulged as he saw the two razor-sharp blades in Aaron''s hands, "Sorry boss, but there are some people here to see you. They are demanding to speak to Jonas." the man said before closing the door. Aaron let out a growl of frustration before shoving the weapons back in their sheaths and switching them out for his old daggers,RuinandSlash. Once they were secure on his belt he straightened his clothing before striding out of the office and towards the front room. The Peach Pit didn''t have many Guild Members in it currently, most were off on various jobs, training, Dungeon dives, or personal business. The four-armed and armored Immortals standing in the middle of the floor were not associated with them in any way. The hostility between them and what few Guild members were going to turn into a fight if he didn''t defuse this soon. ''Theatrics and deception are two powerful tools that can be used almost on anything and anyone. Remember this.'' Jerimiah had taught him and it had both save his life and defused more than one situation. Aaron drew his blades and flourished them as he jumped and flipped onto the bar top. "WELCOME WEARY TRAVELERS TO OUR HUMBLE ABODE!!!'' Aaron called out as bowed slight and threw out his cape. ''How can we be of service to you?" Aaron asked as he looked at them. The four interlopers shook themselves, "Yeah, we had an agreement with Jonas. He was going to hire a specialist for us, and his time is up to get this safecracker. Where is he? We need to speak to him...Who the fuck are you?" the man replied. Aaron looked at Willy who frowned and shook his head. Aaron let his eyes travel across the room to all the Thieves and few Enforcers, "Ladies and Gents, do any of you know what this man is talking about?'' Aaron asked looking around. No one spoke up and the previous hostility had cooled and turned into a slow burn. ''No one has any idea what you are talking about. So if you want to speak, you come in here and ask to talk to a representative. You don''t come here loaded for war. Understand?" Aaron prompted that man who gave a begrudging nod. "Now as far as talking to Jonas, he made some very bad choices and investments. The powers that be decided to call him to account for everything.'' Aaron told them as he pointed to the head on the spike. ''You are going to have a tough time talking to him and I don''t think any Necromancer or Priest can bring him back from where he currently is." Aaron told them and the four Immortals looked at each other. "It doesn''t matter, this was a business arrangement we made with the Thieves Guild. We expect the contract to be fulfilled." the Tank responded and Aaron frowned. "Do you have a copy of this so-called contract?'' Aaron asked and the Priestess shook her head. ''Then you do not have any agreement with the Guild. See for those looking to hire the services of a Thief for a Dungeon, we have contracts for that. Actual documentation. If you do not have that, you never had an agreement with the Guild." Aaron explained to them. "Can we hire someone for a job?" the Priestess asked. Aaron gave his most winning smile and bowed slightly, "Of course dear lady, we might be bastards and gentlemen, but above all else were are businessmen.'' Aaron told her before hopping off the bar and approaching with his hand out. The Tank growled as his hand darted to his sword but Aaron was quicker and his dagger was against the man''s throat, ''That would be a mistake, my friend. We can be business partners, but if you draw that weapon in here, your just dead. Your names will be circulated within the Guild and you will never get our services here or anywhere else." Aaron warned him. "JAMES!!'' the Priestess admonished him and offered her hand to Aaron as she gave him a coy smile while glaring at the tank. ''Do not interfere, we need a Thief." Aaron gave her a wink before withdrawing his dagger from the tank''s throat, free of any blood of course. The other relaxed as Aaron took the offered hand and led the woman to his office, and the front of the Thieves Guild. "So, what place, vault, or chest are you trying to crack open?" Aaron asked as he poured two cups of wine, giving her one. "The Black Chest." the Priestess responded and Aaron gaped at her before laughing. The Black Chest was infamous, it was located in the Broken Maw Dungeon. It had never been cracked because it was in a particular cave within the Dungeon. As soon as you entered it, a count down started in which the cave would collapse. No one knew what was within in it and it was not a bugged chest or cavern, just extremely difficult to get into. "It''s an impossible job. The lock on the Black Chest is either Master or Grand Master Quality. The people that can crack it won''t do it for less than ten thousand gold, and either twenty-fiver percent of the contents worth or at least one item. That''s if they can beat the timer of the caves defenses and get out in time." Aaron explained. "Why doesn''t anyone just grab it then?" the Priestess countered and Aaron smiled as if indulging the whims of a child. Like the Ghost, the Black Chest and its contents were legendary and myth. "It''s fused to the floor of the cavern. Even if you broke it out, the cavern collapses immediately. Someone tried that, they suffocated to death instead of dying in the collapse, not a good death for even us Immortals. Apparently, the guy who tried it developed claustrophobia from the experience.'' Aaron told her causing the Priestess to frown. ''I am sorry, but Jonas swindled you. He gave you a pipe dream. Believe me, I would love to crack that thing open. Any Thief worth the name would love to have that notch on their belt, but it''s impossible." Aaron explained to her and it left her with a contemplative look on her face before she downed her drink and thanked him for his time before leaving. Chapater 20- Unwelcome Visitors Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas Broken Quarter- Peach Pit As Aaron and Deliliah entered the common room and both immediately noticed the difference. This time it was not a group of Immortals causing a problem, but two Enforcers and a little rat of a man talking to Willy who looked like he ate some sour food. One of the Enforcers tapped on the ratty man and pointed to Aaron as he entered the room. "Ahh, just the man I was looking for. Where is Jonas, his obligations are due." the man stated as he glanced at the Priestess and the other Immortals. Aaron turned towards Delilah, "My apologies, we will have to finish this discussion later, I would suggest you leave my dear." Aaron told the Priestess who frowned as he pointed towards the door but she made her way over to her party as she unlimbered her staff. "I think we are fine right where we are." She replied and Aaron shrugged before turning back to the man. "I apologize but Jonas is dead, whatever obligations will have to wait until the mess he has made of everything has been cleaned up. I am sure if you are patient, everything will work out fine." Aaron smiled at him but the ratty-looking man gave him a sneer. "Then you have inherited his responsibilities. This House owes Countess Theresa five thousand gold, payable now." Aaron tried to ignore the man''s condescending smirk, but he never did like taxmen in any form. "Tell me, when did she order you to come here, be specific please," Aaron told him as rested his hands on the hilts ofRuinandSlashas he took a slight step closer to the man. The mocking smile never left the man''s face, his arrogance let him ignore the fact that every nearby Thief was preparing themselves for a fight, but the man''s Enforcers were looking around and doing the math. "It was yesterday I received the order. Now I will take the payment that is owed, Countess Theresa." "Well, then I guess I know where your loyalties lay, and not with the Princess and the Guild.'' Aaron told the man as he triggered Teleport appearing behind the man as he placed his knives against the man''s throat and kidney posed to stab both if he moved the wrong way. ''Or are you mistaken?" Aaron hissed in the man''s ear as he froze in surprise that anyone would contemplate attacking him. "You would attack me!! Countess Theresa will see your Chapter revoked for this!!!" the man yelled out as his Enforcers froze doing nothing. "The only problem with your threat is the Princess of the Drow Thieves Guild promised me, we would have a month''s time to get everything in order. Your Countess is either working with the people that compromised Jonas or flouting her authority and making a move.'' Aaron replied before slamming his daggers forward, a gout of blood sprayed from the man''s neck as Aaron pushed him away and turned to the two Enforcers. ''Well gentlemen, you have two choices in front of you. Join him and death and obscurity, or run back to your Countess and tell her she made a grave mistake going against the Princess and me. What will it be?" Aaron asked as he moved closer too them. The two Enforcers looked at each other and back at him before turning and leaving. Kevin looked at Thom, "Get a group and make sure they leave the city, I don''t care how but I want them gone as soon as possible." Kevin told the other Thief who nodded and started calling out names as Kevin turned to Willy. "That is one way to deal with decent and people from other leaders. You know that will cost you in both the short and long term." Willy advised him and Kevin shrugged. "That arrogant prick would not back down and I would have to deal with the little shit firmly otherwise the others would feel like they could walk all over me and anyone else here," Aaron replied as a couple of Thieves grabbed the newest addition to the sewers and moved him while others put sand and sawdust over the blood pool to clean it up and within five minutes it would be as if it never happened. "Is it always this interesting around here?" the Tank asked and more than one laugh emerged from around the bar. Before Aaron could replay, the city Alarms started going off. "What did one of you guys do?" Delilah asked and Aaron snorted in disgust. This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. "That alarm is to signify an attack, it has nothing to do with us. Willy, lockdown. Smitt, Peters, Jerry spread the word to have everyone go to ground and stay safe. Normal operation is suspended until whatever is going on ends. Everyone else, gather supplies and whatever else we might need. Delilah, do you guys feel like taking a walk?" Aaron asked her and her friends as he twirled his knives causing them to heft weapons and head to the door. Aaron waved at Willy who nodded in acknowledgment as he left the Peach Pit to figure out what the hell was going on.
Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- City of Nythi Thalas Outer City Orcs, Goblins, and a few Trolls were the problem, a large raiding force from the Twin Fangs had appeared from the Underdark and some of it had managed to push past the gatehouse before they sealed the gates and were burning, pillaging, and killing anything and everything they could get too. "We got a force of about a dozen Goblins and Orcs around the corner, they are looting and killing anyone they can get their hands on," Aaron reported as he dropped out of Stealth. Jeremy and other others nodded as Aaron dropped back into Stealth and pushed forward. He skirted back around the corner and moved from one spot to another while keeping his eyes open for any unseen threats before scrambling up a nearby building and started crossing the rooftops as the other party members moved along the street openly and unopposed for now. Aaron activated Rogue''s Eye once again as he drew his daggers, it allowed him to spot the four archers stationed on the buildings providing extra security for the group. Aaron smiled as he quickly sent off a message to Delilah with what he found as he moved closer to the first Goblin archer. The Goblin tried to scream as Aaron clapped a hand over his mouth then shoved a dagger into the back of its head then twisted the blade causing it to spasm once as it died. He quickly looted it then moved on to the next archer, rinse and repeat until he cleared them all. Things had changed though, a Shaman or Druid had joined the small group and was lobbing magical bolts at the Immortals as they plowed into the raiders. Aaron triggeredStep through Shadowsand appeared behind the Orc spell slinger and triggeredBackstab. Over two-thirds of its health disappeared in a heartbeat as it staggered away from Aaron but he followed up his initial attack and drove his off-hand weapon into the Orc heart before twisting both blades and kicking the Orc off his diggers before rushing towards the ongoing fight. Fan of Bladessoftened them up, then he was dancing among their ranks, stabbing and slicing at kidneys, hearts, anything that was vital and would bleed a lot, he slashed or stabbed until the last Orc went down leaving the Immortals alive and the raiding party dead or dying. The others moved to loot while Aaron cleaned his blades then moved down the street to look around the corner. Aaron winced and moved back towards the others, "There is a far bigger fight going on out there, a solid group of the city guard is going toe-to-toe with a larger group of raiders. They got two Trolls with them, so the guard is holding for now, but I don''t know for how long." Aaron told them. "Sooner we clear them out, sooner the city will settle down," Delilah responded while looking at the others and Arron smiled and nodded as they pushed ahead again. Aaron had already updated Willy on everything going on, anyone who was not securing Guild holding and people, were out on the streets helping hunt down and kill the damned raiders. The better question though that ran through Aaron''s mind was how they had gotten passed the sentries in the first place.
Underdark- Black Web Region Kingdom of Zeren''gor Territory- Outside the city of Nythi Thalas He watched as bits and pieces of the city burn, he hated to do it, but it was a necessary distraction to track down the ones they hunted. He had given strict orders, minimal casualties among the Drow, fight only when necessary and bring them back at all costs. "Warchief, we have managed to capture most of them. One died in the fighting, but they retrieved his head, the others await you." he looked over to see one of his Captains and he nodded acknowledging the report before looking at the city one last time before turning away and striding down the slope. His armor creaked as he moved and drew the large double-bladed ax from his back as he approached the three bloody and broken figures in front of him. "I am so glad to see you three again. Its been so long." he managed to snarl out. The first one smirked at him and in reply one of the guards punched the back of his head causing him to collapse to the ground. The Warchief smiled as he whirled the ax up and down. The head spun away while the body spasmed in death. "Grab the head, we will take it back with us. Shanna, you are an Immortal, you will enjoy our hospitality for a long time, chain her and take her with us.'' the woman let out a wail as she blubbered as the collar was placed around her neck as she was dragged away. ''Saul, you helped corrupt and turn my people away from their path. We are still eliminating all your ilk from our ranks, but we are doing it. " the Warchief told him as he raised his ax again as Saul was kicked to the ground. "WAIT!!! I can help you find all your trai---" whatever he was saying ended when the ax slammed through his neck. Another Goblin scrambled forward grabbing the head as the others looted the bodies. "Once all the Bands have withdrawn from the city, we will go back home. We have a war to prepare for and a cleansing to finish. Sound the withdrawal, get them all out of the city, we have what we want from them." the Warchief stated before walking off as the horns sounded filling the cavern as the Orc Warhorde started to withdraw.