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SUMMARY: The conclusion of chapter 2

The next day, after church, Tindolen came by with several laborers. The gem merchant carefully removed the wards on the display case, then opened it and palmed his topaz. It seemed to glow slightly and Tindolen sensed the gem was content with the events of the last week.

Turning, the elf left the laborers to dismantle the display while Tindolen went to find Evan. The merchant found him in the dining room with Frank. They were both seated at a table. Each held a stein of ale from which they sipped, relaxing. Across the room, Iriel was serving drinks at another table.

Evan saw Tindolen as he entered the room and called to his friend.

"Come to collect your gem, Tindolen?" asked Evan as the elf approached.

"Yes," replied the merchant, patting his vest pocket and sitting down next to his friend.

"So what happens to the Aglari now?" Evan inquired.

"I'm giving it to Daniel."

"The boy?" said Frank. "Why?"

"For several reasons, not the least of which is that it would be better for me if I no longer possessed it. I suspect the dark elves will be coming here, once word spreads of the sailor's capture and death. Since everyone here knows I own the gem, it is best for me to part with it."

Evan looked at the elf. "Where will you go?"

"Oldarmare," said Tindolen.

"And what happens to Daniel?" Evan asked. "As a dishwasher working here, he'll be as much of a target as you would have been."

"True," Tindolen began. "But I don't think he'll be working here much longer."

"Oh?" said Evan. "Are you going to fire him, Frank?"

"Not me," answered the innkeeper. "In fact I'm looking forward to my staff returning to work this morning now that St. Sebastian's week is over."

"Yes, well," said Tindolen. "That's really the interesting part. You see, several influential people I know have expressed interest in financing a small journey with Daniel and the other guards."

"To find the other Aglaril?" asked Evan.

"Yes," Tindolen said.

"Are you saying that I'm losing my entire staff?" Frank interjected.

Tindolen looked at Frank. "Yes, everyone except Molin."

"That's just great," Frank said sarcastically. "How am I supposed to run my inn?"

"Well, I've got several other nieces and nephews back in Oldarmare that I could send for. They could help out, if you like."

Frank grumbled and then, realizing he had little other choice on such short notice, agreed.

"I don't suppose you'd consider a different option," said Evan.

"And what would that be?" asked the merchant.

"Give the gem to me so I can present it to His Grace. I'm sure he'd be willing to mount an expedition to locate the gem."

"No doubt he would," said Tindolen. "But that would tip our hands to the dark elves. Plus you need someone who can talk to the gem. So you need Daniel regardless."

Evan had to concede both points. They did need Daniel and locating the gems as inconspicuously as possible would be of huge strategic importance once all the gems were found.

"When are Daniel and the others leaving?" said Evan.

"Well, I was hoping they'd go with you," said the merchant. "Strength in numbers you know, and they'll benefit from your experience on the open road."

"True," said the demon hunter. "But I'm expected at court. After reaching Wrightwood I can't help them."

"Perhaps you know someone at court who could take your place and guide them?" asked the elf.

"Yes, actually I do," said Evan. "But the person I'm thinking about will have to be convinced."

"I understand. Do what you can," said Tindolen standing.

Evan stood and extended his hand. "Well, then all the best and farewell on your trip back to Oldarmare."

Tindolen shook Evan's hand. "Thank you, my boy. Good luck with your wedding. May you know the happiness and joy that comes from two people sharing their lives together."

Evan watched Tindolen leave. Sitting down again, the priest thought about the changes that locating the other six Aglaril would bring to the world. Evan prayed they would be changes for the better.