A debt owed and a hunt begun

[Jirai]

How did one go about finding a man who had been dead?

And, moreover, how did one go about finding him quickly? Ariane had not spoken her wish for haste as such, but the hooded woman had understood well enough. The kohtist needed to be found soon. It was a challenge, and she enjoyed challenges.

She would begin her methodical search in the areas surrounding the town for the simple reason that it was easier for her to travel in an area not full of prying eyes. It took little effort to avoid the new Straka patrols.

She began her hunt.

[Carnath-Emory]

Slowly, their numbers grow.

It had begun with Jirai, this being a matter in which the drow's skills would prove particularly apt. Her innate guile, her woodsman's knowledge of the forestry that gave Myrken her name, her ability to move in circles near which Ariane could not approach... these were things that might lead them to Bromn before death found him in their stead. Thadius Dhrin was always a fine murderer, yes, but to torture he was a relative newcomer. They could not rely on him to keep his victim alive.

It had continued with Kerrak, and the men who served beneath and alongside him. From him, too, there was talk of debt -- although he'd never used that actual word. For how long would the name Orvere be invoked between them, at times of need? But like so many other questions, this one was irrelevant. Like the drow's, the onetime-Captain's aid was invaluable, as was the strength of his men. As Jirai searched about the town, Jons and his soldiers scoured the countryside. Even Thadius Dhrin, exquisite tormentor, could not escape them forever ... and soon, others still would join the search.

She would see to that.