-8- Sleight of Hand (Pt. 1)

Bosch and Dagon traveled the Long Road on foot, as neither was very fond of horses. It was five days since the two left Rassalantar, and their journey had taken them through two more towns and out of the protection of Waterdeep, where the land was lawless. To the east, the Hills of Jundar rolled into the horizon and to the west the edge of the Sword Mountains gave way to long stretches of plains and forest. This was one of the longest stretches of the road, where two days were required just to reach the next town of Triboar. They were aiming to be at the gates by morning. "Do you think the Keepers can help me?" Dagon asked as they walked. "I think if anyone can help you, they can," Bosch replied. "Some years ago we found a wizard's text in the Ruined City of Myth Drannor that detailed spell formulae for golem magics. I spent the better part of a year deciphering them with little success, but the text along with my notes should still be at the archives. If we can finish the work, then I know we can help you out." Dagon smiled as podrikevs do in the most peculiar manner. "Then I will do my best to help the Keepers and their cause. If we keep on this road and at this pace, we will reach Mirabar in another week, and there you will see these mines I speak of." The dwarf swore at Dagon's assessment of the situation. "We don't have a week to get there, much less get there and back. We are going to need some help." "Maybe Branam can help us," Dagon replied. Bosch stopped and turned back to see the podrikev reading a wooden sign. On the sign was painted the words 'Branam's Traveling Show' and it pointed to a small path down to a group of tents in the distance. Before Bosch could consider it any longer, he turned to see Dagon halfway towards the tents, talking to someone. "Well do consider my offer metal fellow," the man said as Bosch sprinted towards the two. "I will pass Branam, but thank you. Me and my friend need transportation to Mirabar. Do you know where we can find such a thing?" The man laughed as he swirled his cane. "Well, I can tell you to try hitching a ride with one of the caravans that run the trade route from Waterdeep, but without platinum, you have about as much of a chance getting them to agree as you would have if you were a troll." Bosch glared at Branam, who stood a good foot taller than him. "C'mon Dagon. We're wasting our time here." "Whoa, now wait there fellows. I never said I couldn't help you. Step into the booth of chance, and my friend Suglios will make you a deal you cannot resist." Branam pulled back the opening to the nearest tent which sat beneath a battered, wooden sign that read 'Suglios' House of Chance'. Before Bosch could reply, Dagon was already inside sitting across from a tall man in a black coat. Reluctantly, Bosch joined him.