Dissolution

«Waerva told me Faeryl was a spy,» said Triel, «and sought to depart the city in order to report our weakness to her confederates. So I forbade her to leave.» «What proof did Waerva offer?» «She told me she learned of Faeryl's treachery from one of her informants.» Gromph waited a moment as if expecting something more.

«And that's it?» he asked at length. «With respect, Matron, may I point out that if you haven't spoken with the informer yourself, if you haven't probed the matter any further, then you really only have Waerva's word for it that the envoy is a traitor.» «I can't handle everything personally,» Triel scowled. «That's why we have retainers in the first place. I have not entirely lost touch with my—our interests in Ched Nasad, though their explanations and excuses do wear thin.» «Of course, Matron,» Gromph said quickly. «I quite understand. I have the same problem with my own retainers, and I only have Menzoberranzan's wizards to oversee, not an entire city.» «Why would Waerva lie?» «I don't know, but I've had some dealings with Faeryl Zauvirr. She never struck me as stupid enough to cross the Baenre. Waerva, on the other hand, is reckless and discontented enough for any game. Accordingly, I think it might be worthwhile to inquire into this matter ourselves.» Triel hesitated before saying, «That could prove difficult. Despite my orders, the Zauvirr tried to flee Menzoberranzan. I hired some agents of Bregan D'aerthe, led by Valas Hune—do you know him?» «I've heard the name mentioned,» Gromph replied. «He would make a fair addition to your little band of explorers,» Triel said.

«He's known to be more than passingly familiar with the wilds of the Underdark—a guide of some accomplishment, in fact.» Gromph bowed his agreement.

«Be that as it may, it was Valas Hune I hired to fetch Faeryl back. He completed his task well, and I gave the ambassador to Jeggred.» The wizard rounded on the draegloth. «What's the prisoner's condition?» he asked the creature. «Is she alive?»

«Yes,» said Jeggred through a mouthful of bloody meat. «I was taking my time, to prove I can. But you can't have her. Mother gave her to me. She just told you.» Gromph stared up into the half-demon's eyes. «Nephew,» he said, «I'm sore, frustrated, and in a foul mood generally. Right now I don't give a leaky sack of rat droppings whether you're a sacred being or not. Show some respect, lead me to this prisoner forthwith, or I'll blight you where you sit.» Clutching the rothй bone like a club, Jeggred sprang upward from his seat. Triel said, «Do as the archmage bade you. I wish it as well.» The draegloth lowered his makeshift weapon. «Yes, Mother,» he sighed.