Black Ice

- So you're one of them? - Waimond asked with some indifference. - If you feel any sympathy for your people, I wouldn't recommend going on this negotiation mission. A young brat is unlikely to resort to peaceful methods and will most likely prepare something nasty in case they refuse. As for your training... - The scout carefully examined Lugus, then took an unopened bottle of vodka from a drawer and handed it to him. - Here's your assignment; as soon as you finish it, you'll become a good Warden. - Lancaster's face stretched into a drunken smile. ____________________________________ When Joseph reached the apartments of the wizard mentor, he found him hurriedly gathering his things. Light leather armor, a one-handed blade, some vials with strange liquids, and other items that Joseph had never seen before in his life. Atelstan said he was going to "save an innocent child" and didn't have time to talk. ____________________________________ - Alright," said the first Warden. - Theochar, Nerghui, Joseph, Mike. We'll reach the border of Heligkight together, and then we'll split up. We leave in two days; use the remaining time wisely. ____________________________________ Dalingr hadn't gone anywhere, as expected, but this time he seemed to have guests. The servant asked the three Wardens to wait while the host finished talking, but they didn't wait because they had "urgent business." In the hall, there were three people: Dalingr himself, his wife, and an unfamiliar man with refined features and generally rather strange appearance. He had snow-white hair and blood-red eyes. "The Kagan's problem will soon be resolved," was the only phrase spoken by the stranger that Thorvar and the others heard before interrupting their conversation with their sudden arrival. The seated trio looked at the newcomers with interest. - Aren't these the same three Wardens who visited me earlier? - Dalingr asked rhetorically. - How can I help you? The Wardens described their problem, telling them about Elisee and Agatha, whom they had been forced to leave in Life Root. - Gentlemen, fortune has smiled upon you," said the stranger. - It so happens that I possess certain... abilities, and I am able to break the spell threatening the lives of the peasants. However, this will take some of my time, and therefore I must demand payment for my services. - The stranger turned to the woman. - Be so kind. - Dalingr's wife left the room and returned a few minutes later with old hand-drawn portraits. - They must die," Dalingr briefly explained to the three. - Kagan Oktai Naranbaatar, as well as khans Chagatai Sukhbaatar, Azamat Munkhdalai, Ganzorig Gankhuyag, Altantuyaa Sarnai. I am aware of the latest events that have taken place in the order, but I don't know if you are: Richard Grey's treaty with Oktai Naranbaatar is still in effect. The new Magister canceled this mission for his subordinates, but it seems he did not bother to inform the Khanate about it. And since all three of you are still members of this order, you should be able to handle this task without any problems by presenting yourselves as diplomats from the order. The death of the Kagan is mandatory. The rest is up to you, but keep in mind that for each one you kill, you can receive an additional 5000 coins on top of the 20,000 I promised for the overseas flower. - If you agree, I can start freeing the peasants' minds right now," concluded the stranger.