...inside the Assembly of Light's opulent church in the Circle of Gawds, Neroon and Sir Dealaan Falamora kneel before the Altar of Light. Bright Sunlight streams through the clear sixty foot windows, illuminating the throng of worshippers, faithful, and curious who were caught up in the procession from the wharf. The church has not been this full in many a Godday. Lantern Xookaer, the leader of the Zoan faithful, holds the Cup of Peace high and the choir raises its voices in song:
"Oh shine on me to make them see such a wonderful sight in the noonday light...
As the sunlight touches the chalice, it appears fill with light and the emarald crystal turns bright ruby red before your uplifted eyes. The crowd stands in awed silence.
****** ****** ****** ****** ******
...across town, Rundin guides Navear, Halaan and Haruna to Geolain's tower. Rumour runs ahead of you in the streets:
"the Cup of Peace has been returned!"
"they came off the same ship as the Cup!"
"is it true? has the Cup been found?"
As strangers to this city, you can only marvel at how fast the rumour has traveled and the excitement that the return of a simple piece of crockery has created in young and old alike, even here in the Dregs. But for them, its not just a cup, its a symbol of a happier, more prosperous times when the Zoan navy ruled the Bay and kept peace amongst its neighbours. As you approach the silver gates of Geolain's Tower a boy in sailor's garb catches you up. He is breathless from running. You recognize him from among the crew of Hyperion.
"Ralaan! what is it?" asks Rundin.
Ralaan pauses, gasping for breath "Sir, its the Baron sir, he's gone!"
"Gone?" this from Navear.
"Disappeared! Escaped!"
Rundin meets the worried gaze of Navear. "We have to get back to the ship!"
****** ****** ****** ****** ******
On the steps of the Assembly church, Sir Dealaan and Neroon are receiving the same news. Dealaan is furious. "Faluvar Dilegel gave me his word! Let's get back to the ship."
Not noticing Sir Dealaan's anger, Neroon is looking across the bay. "look, that ship coming into harbour... seems familiar..." he grabs Dealann's arm. "It's that slaver we took! Finn and Captain Wien have made it home and only a few hours behind us!"
Sir Dealaan and Neroon hurriedly push the crowds towards the warf.
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