Year 3630, the Sixth Age, the tenth day of Winter

“How is business, Lyrndl?” Vhindr asked as he sat down at the table.

The Valenthōr Elf opposite him shrugged casually as she took a sip of her wine. For being an infamous criminal Vhindr thought that Lyrndl seemed very calm and confident as she sat openly in the middle of the tavern. But this was no ordinary tavern, the ‘Drunken Rat’, as it was called, was a dank place, dimly lit with air thick with smoke, and the tavern had a notorious reputation for sinister dealings. Everyone in Pentra knew of the Drunken Rat, even the High Commission, but none did anything. This was because of the very Valenthōr Vhindr was looking at, who was the architect of the tavern’s shady dealings. But try as they might the officials could never connect Lyrndl to the crimes. She was a very cautious elf, never one to take great risks, unless, of course, the price was right.

“The Tavern is doing quite well, detective Varrintine,” Lyrndl smiled at Vhindr, “Thank you for asking.”

Vhindr smirked and glanced around at the nearly deserted bar. Those who were there eyed Vhindr dangerously, ready to act as soon as Lyrndl gave the signal. Even the weasel looking bartender glared at Vhindr with his beady eyes. Just looking at the man now Vhindr could guess where the tavern got its unusual name.

“Let us skip the games, shall we,” Vhindr looked back to the elf.

“But games are so fun,” Lyrndl replied, her eyes sparkling.

“You know who I am,” Vhindr stated, “As I know of you and your business. I have no issue with you, nor am I here to try and put an end to your organization.”

The Valenthōr seemed disinterested in what he was saying as she adjusted her brown curls around her long ears and blouse.

“Although, I might turn my attention to it if I do not start to receive some respect and attentive ears to what I am asking,” Vhindr threatened in annoyance.

Lyrndl stopped playing with her hair then and turned a stern gaze upon Vhindr.

Vhindr did not back away and returned the elf’s glare, even as he heard the sound of the hired thugs standing up from their seats, ready to try and throw him out. Never taking her eyes from Vhindr’s the Valenthōr motioned the bodyguards to stand down.

“You are bold to threaten me,” Lyrndl remarked darkly, “In my own abode no less.”

“In a world where the Fog has suddenly vanished, those who can still use magicks can afford to be bold,” Vhindr replied simply and smiled to himself as he noted a flash of unease come to Lyrndl’s face for a split second.

“Indeed,” the Valenthōr replied calmly, “Now what do you want? It is obvious you have not come to inquire as to my business.”

“No,” agreed Vhindr, “I have come to ask about the abduction of Arell Starak.”

“I don’t deal in kidnappings,” Lyrndl was quick to say angrily, “So I know nothing about it.”

“I never accused you in dealing in kidnappings,” Vhindr smiled slightly, “What I am after is connected to the abduction.”

“I thought you wanted to skip the games,” Lyrndl sighed, “Speak plainly.”

“Indeed,” Vhindr nodded, “Documents pertaining to Arell’s investigation were stolen from her home in the Halfling Apartments. That is what I am asking about. Theft is more your area of expertise, is it not?”

Lyrndl shrugged and sipped her wine again.

“What do you know of it?” Vhindr pressed seriously.

“My organization had nothing to do with the theft,” the elf replied simply.

“That is not what I asked,” Vhindr was quick to say.

“Perhaps we should discuss payment first,” the Valenthōr smiled sweetly.

“Perhaps you should tell me what I want to know, before I start to get annoyed,” Vhindr replied menacingly.

“How dare you come into my tavern and start making threats to me,” Lyrndl growled back and she stood up.

Vhindr noted the thugs were also on their feet.

“You know well that all must pay for my services,” the elf continued confidently, “Be it a simple request for information or a grand heist. You may be a famous detective, Vhindr Varrintine, but in here. . .”

“Enough of this,” Vhindr cut in angrily and stood up, knocking his chair over in the process.

From his outstretched hand a sword created from the Fog appeared, its deadly tip suddenly inches from Lyrndl’s throat. The elf’s bodyguards were on their feet in a flash and jumping to their employer’s defence. But they went suddenly flying backwards as Vhindr made a simple gesture with his hand.

“Tell me what I ask, or I shall lay this place to ruin,” Vhindr glared at the elf.

Lyrndl smirked in response and she flicked her fingers at Vhindr causing a barrage of magickal blasts into his chest and face causing him to stumble back a few steps. Lyrndl was on the move in a flash and darting for the exit. But Vhindr was quicker and gathering his footing he sent a wave of magickal energy into the back of the fleeing elf that caused her to crash into a table and chairs.

Letting his sword vanish Vhindr confidently walked passed the stunned thugs and over to Lyrndl. The elf was quick to extract herself from the splinters and make another dash for the exit. But again Vhindr was quicker, and again he hit her with a blast of magicks. This time the energies launched Lyrndl into the stone wall of the tavern where magickal bindings held her in place off the ground. Spread eagled on the wall the Valenthōr watched with wide eyes and heavy breathing as Vhindr calmly approached.

Wiping away a trickle of blood from his lip with his thumb Vhindr stopped in front of the elf and sighed.

“It was as simple request, Lyrndl,” Vhindr remarked, “It hardly needed all this drama. I know you said you liked games. But surely we could have done this without all the bloodshed and bruises.”

The Valenthōr curiously smiled wide at Vhindr and laughed slightly as she pulled at the bindings that held her, a manic glint in her eyes.

“Hit me again,” Lyrndl smiled wide, “Then choke me while you have me against this wall, right now. Better have your way before I get free and show you my magicks.”

“You are still good with magicks, I shall grant you that,” Vhindr smiled slightly, ignoring the elf’s first remark, “But I assure you that you are nowhere near my level of skill. Now, if you would be so kind as to tell me what you know of the theft of Arell’s investigative files.”

“Come on, things are just getting interesting,” the elf smiled manically back at him, “Slap me with that ringed hand of yours.”

“Just answer my question,” Vhindr sighed.

“You’re boring,” Lyrndl pouted, “Fine. I told you my organisation had nothing to do with it.”

“Who did have something to do with it?”

“None of my people,” replied the elf, “And no one I know.”

“Go on.”

“Beat it out of me,” Lyrndl smiled, “I’ll enjoy it as much as you will.”

“Answer the question,” Vhindr said irritably.

“There is nothing else to say,” the Valenthōr huffed, “No thief in this city made that job. All those buildings like the Halfling Apartments still have solid magickal security thanks to runes. Only someone as skilled with magicks like yourself could be able to make such a steal, and there is no one in this city that I know would.”

Vhindr took a step back from the pinned elf and stroked his chin.

“Interesting,” Vhindr mumbled thoughtfully.

With a wave of his hands the magickal binding holding Lyrndl disappeared and the elf dropped lightly to the ground.

“And things were just getting interesting too,” the elf pouted.

“Here,” Vhindr said as he tossed a small pouch of coins to Lyrndl, “For the damages.”

Without another word Vhindr turned and quickly moved back through the tavern, passed the frightened thugs and back onto the streets of Pentra.

Outside Inüer burned brightly in the midday skies causing Pentra’s western docks to be stiflingly humid. The still waters of the Gornl Sea lapped dreamily against the wooden wharves and to the south Vhindr could just make out the craggy islands through the heat haze.

“So much for winter,” Vhindr remarked quietly as he wiped his brow and headed off along the stone and gravel roads through the poorly buildings.

He had not gone far when he saw a pair of guards come from under the shade of a building’s veranda and hail him.

“Master Varrintine sir,” called one guard as the pair came over to him.

“Do not fret,” Vhindr said with a smile, “I am quite capable of handling the likes Lyrndl by myself.”

“Indeed sir,” nodded the second guard, this one a tall broad-shouldered woman, “We are not here for that. Our new Captain wishes a word with you is all.” 

Vhindr smirked and shook his head, he had been expecting this to happen for some time now.

“Very well, lead the way,” Vhindr said and motioned for the guards to lead.

“We appreciate your cooperation,” the male guard remarked as they started off.

“Is there a reason why I should not be cooperative?” Vhindr quipped, causing the guards to look at him curiously.

“Not that I know of sir,” the female shrugged, as did her partner.

Vhindr smiled slightly and shook his head in amusement at the guards completely missing his quip.

Little else was said as the two guards led the way through the city streets and the unseasonably hot weather.

“Shouldn’t have gone for the winter gear so soon,” remarked the male guard as he removed his helm to wipe his forehead.

“Told you so,” laughed his partner, who wore a visibly lighter chainmail shirt and coat with the stars of Pentra patterned upon it.

The other guard continued to grumble as they made their slow way up to the top of the gorge to the city gates before taking the road towards the Pentrin Arch. Soon after they arrived at the guards compound and Vhindr was shown to the new Captain’s quarters.

“Master Varrintine, come in, please have a seat,” the Captain greeted as Vhindr walked into the large room. “I apologise for not meeting with you sooner, but I have been busy, as I am sure you can imagine.”

“That is quite alright,” Vhindr remarked as he took up a seat in front of the desk and quietly studied the man in front of him.

The Captain was a fairly young man, roughly Vhindr’s age of thirty. He was of average build and height, with light brown hair and brown eyes. A thin beard ran down passed his ears and along his jaw line to join with his goatee. It seemed to Vhindr that the man had only recently decided to grow such a beard, likely to give himself an air of superiority, but the Captain was yet to master the art of cultivating facial hair.

The man’s uniform was very new, as were his boots and belt. No doubt a quick purchase to accompany his recent promotion.

“My name is Gybron Von Beird, Captain Von Beird,” the young Captain announced as he sat down. “It is a real pleasure to meet you, Vhindr Varrintine. I have heard much about you.”

“And read much, it would seem,” Vhindr remarked and pointed to the pile of books on a nearby table top, “A new purchase to go with your office?”

Captain Von Beird seemed surprised before his smiled and laughed aloud.

“Nothing gets passed you, ay?” the Captain joked, “Now, look, I thank you for coming, I have wanted to meet with you for some time. So, tell me, how are you going?”

“I have been going well, thank you,” Vhindr replied with bemusement, “I have always enjoyed my time in Pentra. Although, it has been unnaturally warm recently. And I hear they have had snow in Nivalna even. Very odd if you ask me. No doubt some scholars will claim it is the beginning of the Great White Winter that will kill us all. But that seems foolish if you ask me. The most obvious reason for the temperature fluctuations would be the wave of Fog that rushed across the realms. Which makes me wonder, have there been many Nevāranciens through Pentra since their crafts were destroyed?”

“Some, yes,” the Captain stammered seeming confused, “But no, that is not what I was asking.”

“You did not ask me hear for light conversation?” Vhindr acted surprised, “But you just asked me how I was going.”

“I meant with Arell’s case,” Captain Von Beird said with frustration, “How are you going with Arell’s kidnapping?”

“I see,” Vhindr exclaimed, “I understand what you mean now.”

“Well?” the Captain pressed with clenched teeth when Vhindr did not continue.

Vhindr shrugged, “It is going well enough.”

“You spoke with Lyrndl about the file theft, yes?” Captain Von Beird asked.

“Yes.”

“And?”

“She told me some interesting things,” Vhindr replied simply, causing the Captain to become more annoyed.

“Listen well Varrintine,” Captain Von Beird said slowly and deliberately, “You have national fame for solving many difficult mysteries. But this is my city and I will have you tell me of your investigations. Step by step and move by move. Understand?”

“I always make a point to not discuss my investigations with potential suspects,” Vhindr replied calmly and the Captain’s eyes widened.

“I am a suspect?” Captain Von Beird got angrily to his feet, “How can you possibly think-”

“Quite easily,” Vhindr cut in seriously, “You took Arell’s position as Captain the moment she disappeared. And it seems that you are quite enjoying your new station. Did you purchase a new sword to go with your outfit as well I wonder? Surely you can see how it looks Captain.”

Gybron Von Beird clenched his jaw and sighed before he nodded slightly.

“For what it’s worth, I have never wished harm upon Arell,” the Captain said calmly as he sat back down, “She was a good Captain, and if she returned I would gladly hand back this office and title.”

“Of course,” Vhindr smiled dismissively and stood up, “Well, this has been pleasant, and if there there is nothing else, I bid you good day.’

“There is something else,” the Captain said before Vhindr reached the door, “This is my city remember. So, all your investigations will be overseen by this office. We are here to help to and bring the culprit to justice.”

“I do not need your help,” Vhindr replied, “This is personal, so stay out of my way. Good day Captain Von Beird.”

With that Vhindr exited through the door.

“I’ll be keeping my eye on you,” the Captain called after him as he skipped down the stairs and out of the guard compound.

As he headed back towards the city gates and the main streets of Pentra Vhindr’s thoughts returned to the information that Lyrndl had told him.

“Clearly it was someone with strong magicks, as Lyrndl pointed out,” Vhindr said quietly, “But what was Arell investigating that would cause someone that powerful to feel threatened? I must find out.”

*    *    *    *

Knocking the Darian barbarian's club high Legin retaliated with a devastating double punch to the man’s exposed torso. The impact of his blow shattered ribs sent the Darian flying backwards into a massive red rock boulder. With such force the man hit the stone that a loud crack echoed around the battlefield. As the Darian’s body crumpled to the sand Legin was shocked to see a large crack running through the boulder.

“Archers,” Legin heard Pip call out, “In the cacti.”

Thinking quickly Legin dived to the side as several arrows whistled passed him. Rolling to his feet Legin tapped into his seemingly unlimited and powerful Quia and conjured a ball of magicks. The summoned a ball of power pooled in his palm and glowed fiercely with Fog, making his whole arm tingle. With a flick of his wrist the ball of energy soared high into the hot sky before it catapulted into the edge of the cacti forest where the archers were positioned.  The ball of energy exploded in massive dome of light. Bits of the large cacti came flying outwards from the blast along with what was left of the archers.

Knowing there were more Darians to fight Legin gave the crater left behind by his attack little thought and turned back to the fight. But by now the battle was nearly over, and those Darian raiders still alive were fleeing the area.

“Kazārk Karoül,” Kōrrin roared as he sent the head of a Darian flying from its shoulders.

“Well fought, Pip,” Legin said with a deep breath as he came alongside his friend, “And good call with those archers. I thought I saw some movement over there before.”

“I’m just trying to keep up with you bro,” Pip laughed, “How’d you make that explosion?”

Legin shrugged, “It just came to me.”

Pip laughed again and shook his head in disbelief.

“Hey, Legin,” Kōrrin called as he made his way through the bodies, “The strapping of me shield broke again. Ye need to do it tighter.”

“I still don’t know why you don’t just sort out that Ironwood appendage you carved,” Legin replied with a sigh.

“I can’t just chuck it in some embers,” Kōrrin snorted back, “It needs to be done right. An’ until it is I need me shield properly lashed to me arm.”

“Whatever,” Legin grumbled, “I doubt I’ll need to again, we are almost out the wastelands now. Look you can just see the pass to the south from here.”

Legin raised his hand to his brow to shield his eyes as he looked south. Out of the heat haze two peaks loomed above the flat plains and marked the southernmost tips of the Amber and Iron Mountains.

“Well let’s stop gazin’ and start goin’,” Kōrrin declared and he stomped off along the dusty road, making Legin and Pip jump to catch up to him.

Whistling a fine tune Legin’s light steps easily matched the dwarf’s rolling pace and soon they were far from the place where they had been ambushed by Darians.

It had not been the first time they had repelled such an attack either. And in truth the ambushes had been the only real interesting things to happen during their journey through the Crimson Wastelands. Having made good time across the desert from the Yineth Plateau to Elestarl, the Blood Elf city and capitol of Cientrasis, they had found little welcome from the Elves.

Although, they had been allowed to stay a single night within the city walls, it was clear to Legin that after the events during the Battle of the Morrow Plains, which he had learnt about, things had gone downhill for the Blood Elves. In fact, it had gone downhill for all of the Elder Races as they had sided with the Nevārancien invasion force. Led by the Blood Elf ruler, Baelor, the Elder Races had attacked the armies of King Lienthor and Lord Cardonian as they were attempting to resolve their issues.

After the wave of Fog had ripped across the land, destroying the Nevārancien ships, the tides of battle had turned against the Elder Races and it resulted in a stalemate where an uneasy treaty had been signed by all parties.

But Legin had learned that moods and opinions of the Elder Races had become less pleasant or tolerable. The atmosphere within Elestarl had also been very tense, like a bow string about to snap, or the still silence before a storm. Needless to say Legin had been relieved to leave the city, not wanting to become caught up in the chaos that seemed likely to happen soon.

After departing Elestarl they had again made good time across the hot desert. Several times they were attacked by Darians, but those black skinned barbarians posed little trouble, especially with Legin’s power, Kōrrin’s strength and Pip’s determination. And now, a little over a dozen hot days later they were leaving the scorching sands of Anastarā, as the Elves called it, behind them.

That night they camped in the shadows of a large boulder and ate a good meal cooked over a small fire.

“Well, looks like we will be partin’ ways tomorrow,” Kōrrin remarked as he wiped his greasy hands on his sleeveless tunic.

“What? Why?” Pip exclaimed.

“What do you mean?” Legin also wondered with concern.

“Don’t give me that, ya knew it was comin’,” Kōrrin replied simply. 

“Maybe,” Legin grumbled, “But where are you going?”

“I told ya,” snapped the dwarf, “I gotta fire me Ironwood carving right. So I’m heading to me father’s home, Grün Narād, an their ancient forge high in the Iron Mountains.”

“Where?” Legin scratched his head.

“What’s Grün Narād?” asked Pip.

“Iron Wood, its commonly known as, “Korrin replied, “It be an ancient Dwarven Kingdom. Near as old as the Scarred Mountains. But it has been deserted for many centuries now. Me da an a couple of the others were the only ones left after an evil darkness consumed the halls.”

“And you want to go there?” Legin balked in surprise.

“I gotta do it,” replied Kōrrin firmly, “An don’t ya worry, the forge I’m talkin’ about ain’t in the actual halls. I’ll be right, an I’ll find ya in Pentra when I’m done.”

“Me and Pip could come too,” Legin offered, “It won’t be very long right?”

“Don’t rightly know,” shrugged Kōrrin, “And in fact I don’t really know where the forge is in the mountains.”

Legin shook his head and laughed slightly.

“You need to go to Pentra, Legin,” Kōrrin said seriously, “Just like I gotta do this.”

“I guess I understand,” Legin sighed.

“Don’t worry we’ll see each other again,” Kōrrin grinned.

For the rest of the night the talked of past adventures and laughed as they reminisced the good times. It was a pleasant time, and in Legin’s mind the next day came too soon. They did not say farewell straight away, however, and Kōrrin remained in company for most of the morning. But as the pass between the mountains loomed in front of them Kōrrin departed for the east and headed into the foothills of the Iron Mountains.

“Looks like it is just us two,” Legin remarked to Pip as they walked along.

“Just like old times,” Pip smiled back and Legin laughed.

“Like old times,” Legin agreed, “Come on, I’ll race you through the pass.”

Legin slapped his friend on the shoulder and set off at a jog.

“You will win, like always,” Pip grumbled as he caught up and together they jogged along the road.

Although the stretch of road was called the pass, and it did pass between the two mountain ranges, it was hardly what one would consider as belonging to the title. Both mountain peaks were in clear sight, but they stood many miles apart with flat land in between. So in actual fact it was simply a stretch of ground where both ends of the mountain ranges could be seen.

Legin and Pip were through this so called pass that same day. But where there was a typical drop in temperature when reaching the Aierthian Plains the heat followed them long into the night and next day. It was only when they reached Pentra did the heat subside.

“Home sweet home,” Pip remarked with a smile as they headed along the main road of Pentra.

“Smell that air, Pip,” Legin smiled back, “Brings back so many memories.”

Pip coughed, “Stinks if you ask me.”

Legin laughed aloud with his friend.

“Come on let’s head to the brothel right now,” Legin said with a smile, “I wonder what Jydeil will say when she sees me?”

“By The Five, what are you doing back here?” Pip offered with a laugh and Legin joined in.

As Legin walked along the familiar streets the sounds brought back so many memories, some good, but others just as bad.

“I hope Lyrndl has forgiven me,” Legin remarked.

“Doubt it,” snorted Pip, “I’d be more concern with Lord Dāvonesh learning of your return anyway.”

“That was your fault, Pip,” Legin was quick to say.

“No way,” exclaimed Pip, “You’re the one who was all lovey with his daughter.”

Legin laughed at that, “Good times. I wonder if Dennalla has married now?”

“Probably, you know what the nobles are like,” Pip shrugged and Legin nodded.

Legin and Pip continued to reminisce of old times and adventures they had in these streets. But as they drew closer to the Jaded Mermaid their conversation died down and Legin began to feel hesitant.

Around the next corner the brothel came into view and Legin stopped walking. The place looked exactly the same as he remembered it, it stood at the end of the cul-de-sac where a fountain sat at the center. Vines grew up the side of the three story building from the small gardens in front of the red painted doors. The whores could be seen typically patrolling by the fountain, though Legin did not recognise any of them. And the same stain glass windows glittered in the light.

“What’s wrong, bro?” Pip asked as they both gazed down the street.

“What if Jydeil doesn’t know anything, or doesn’t remember?” Legin replied softly.

“Don’t tell me you came all this way to back out now?” Pip exclaimed, “Isn’t knowing the truth, however harsh, better than forever wondering?”

Legin looked to his friend curiously.

“Very profound, Pip,” Legin smirked, “But you’re right, I have to find out.”

With a nod to himself Legin strode confidently down the street.

“I’ll wait for you here, bro,” Pip called after him, “You know Jydeil doesn’t like me.”

Legin waved over his shoulder and continued passed the fountain where a few of the working women called out to him, but Legin ignored them. Pushing through the front doors Legin walked into a familiar looking lobby and the all too familiar smell of incense filled his nostrils. Closing the door behind him Legin moved over to the desk which sat at the side of the main floor. All the doors were closed off and the staircase leading up into the building was blocked off by a red sash. At the desk an elderly and portly woman looked slowly up from her book, but her dull eyes quickly widened in shock.

“Legin?” the woman exclaimed and got to her feet.

“Hey Myrtl,” Legin replied sheepishly, “It’s been a while.”

“It is you,” the rotund woman beamed as she rushed from around the desk and gave him a crushing hug. “My word you have grown. But never did I think I would see you again.”

“I never thought I would be back,” Legin shrugged.

“So why did you come back?” Myrtl asked curiously.

“I need to know more about how I came to be brought up here,” replied Legin sincerely, “I need to talk to Jydeil.”

“Of course, my dear,” the woman smiled, “You know where she is, and for your information, she is Madam Jydeil now. Go on then, my dear.”

Legin nodded and hesitantly moved to the stairs, slipping under the sash he slowly took one step after the other, his feet making no sounds on the thick carpet. At the top of the stairs a hallway stretched out before him the muffled sounds of happy customers reaching back towards him. Legin ignored it and continued up the next flight of stairs to the third floor of the Jaded Mermaid. It was quiet up here, as it always had been, and memories of running about this floor as a child flooded back to him.

Legin had been mischievous and energetic boy, always causing trouble and receiving a stern talking to from Jydeil. A slight smile came to Legin’s face as he remembered having fun climbing the balconies and onto the roof, much to Jydeil’s horror.

Legin stopped walking as he came to a familiar door and he took a deep breath before he knocked upon the wood.

“It’s open,” came the call of a friendly voice.

Cautiously Legin opened the door and walked into the room.

“Legin?” exclaimed the blood elf as she dropped the pile of books she had been carrying. “By The Five what are you doing back here?”

Legin shrugged awkwardly, “Hey Jydeil. Surprised to see me?”

“Legin,” Jydeil said sternly as she walked over to him, “How many times have I told you not to slouch.”

Immediately Legin straightened his back and sighed. A sudden wave of emotion came over Jydeil then, of the like Legin had never seen before.

“Come here and give your mother a hug,” tears rimmed Jydeil’s turquoise eyes and she wrapped her arms tightly around him.

Closing his eyes Legin returned the heart felt hug. For many minutes they stood their embracing each other, all their thoughts of how much they missed the other poured into that one hug.

“I never thought I would see you again, my darling,” Jydeil smiled as she stood back from Legin, “Come and sit and tell me of your travels.”

“I will,” Legin smiled back, “But not now. The main reason I did return was to learn of my natural parents. I have been to so many places and not once did I see another person with a tail. I have to know.”

Jydeil nodded as she guided Legin to the chairs at the center of the room by the hand.

“You never told me about the time I was brought to the brothel,” Legin said as he sat down.

“You never asked,” the blood elf replied simply.

“I am now,” stated Legin, “Can you tell me, please.”

“I shall,” nodded Jydeil, “But I am not sure you will like what you hear.”

Legin nodded and firmed his jaw before motioning for Jydeil to continue.

“It was early one morning when a guard brought you to the brothel, all wrapped up in blankets,” Jydeil began, “He spoke of a woman who had drowned in the harbor and washed ashore. She had been heavily pregnant at the time and the guard and his partner believed you were lost as well. But by some miracle you were still alive. Having no way of caring for you himself the guard took you to the Temple of The Five, but they turned you away in belief you were a spawn of the Abyss. Here at the Jaded Mermaid was the last chance, else the guard stated he was going to give you back to the ocean. We don’t usually look after orphans, but I took pity on you and took on the responsibility of giving you a chance at life. And I couldn’t be more proud of how you turned out.”

A few seconds of silence slipped by as Legin sat there with a dumb expression upon his face.

“That’s it?” Legin asked, breaking the silence.

“Afraid so,” Jydeil shrugged, “I’m sorry I can’t say more. Perhaps the guard who brought you here might know, if he is still alive that is. Now what was that man’s name?”

Jydeil tapped her lips thoughtfully as Legin stared at the ground in a silent stupor.

“Taggar Mōrden,” Jydeil announced, “That was his name. Though I am not sure how you would find him.”

Legin blinked slowly as he came to grips with what the Zirarien had said.

“My natural mother drowned?” Legin asked seriously.

Jydeil shrugged again, “That is what the guard said.”

“How? And who is my father? Where were her family?” Legin ran a hand over his face.

“Like I said the guard could tell you more,” Jydeil replied calmly.

“What was his name again?”

“Taggar Mōrden.”

“Thanks,” Legin smiled as he jumped to his feet, “I’m going to go and find him.”

“Give me a kiss first,” Jydeil said seriously and pointed to her cheek, “And make sure you stay well away from Lyrndl’s side of town, you hear me.”

“Of course,” Legin smiled as he kissed his mother on the cheek, “Bye.”

“And stop wrapping your tail around your waist,” Jydeil continued sternly, “By proud of who you are.”

“Yes mother.” Legin sighed and smiled.

“Come back soon,” the blood elf called after him as Legin raced from the room and back down the stairs.

Legin was out of the building as quick as possible and running back up the street to where Pip patiently waited.

“Was she happy to see you?” Pip asked as Legin skidded to a stop.

“Always,” Legin smiled, “Come on Pip, no time to talk, we got to find someone.”

Pip shrugged and followed as Legin raced off again, eager to know more about the dark fate that had taken his natural mother.