Avrion glanced Red's way as she argued with herself. He wasn't very surprised by her behavior. There was a very good reason she was here even if no one else realized it yet. Ray had told her she was one of the most creative fighters around even if she was a sprite of a person and so very young. Came with the curse. Having multiple personalities gave her an advantage over someone who was expecting certain behaviors. She was unpredictable and often genius.

The professor turned to address Phoenix. "I'll answer your second question first. No. I have not even told the Inquisition of our venture to the depths. It would be best if their bias toward a group like this were aimed elsewhere." Lifting a hand to his chin, a thinking gesture, he replies to the first. "There is certainly a payment." He starts to grin, knowing this part would catch the attention of some of them. "First is a monetary sum. I am not a noble but I am neither without some wealth. That aside I think the gleanings to be had in our adventure will be more than satisfactory. I for one look forward to learning the secrets Sutton has thoroughly buried."

Leaving that subject aside he continued to main topic. "Doctor, those are very good questions." He muses for a moment. "I cannot answer either of them at this time. The only idea I have is that this person is incredibly dangerous and clever. Even kings cannot unite a kingdom without their servants. For them it takes support of subjects and power. Extension of responsibilities and so on. He's either very influential and brilliant. Less likely is that he is awfully powerful, enough so to intimidate the rest of the depths. Time is going to tell us."

Avrion pulls a time piece out of a vest pocket and continues. "Though I would love to continue guesswork and discussion, time is ticking and I have a schedule set." Avrion backs to the corner of his room where a shoulder pack waits for him. "Come. While day shines. We go to the Lightless District."

Ray Conover follows closely behind him, repeater crossbow still in hand. Even in a public library he didn't see the need to stow it.


Two Hours Later:

There is little else as alien as the Lightless District in broad daylight. Gone are the chronic night owls who prowl the streets. Most commonly are street urchins who run amok no doubt in search of their next big score. Ray in particular seems to be keeping his eye on one group of dirty children in an alley to his right as the group walks by.

"Don't stare." Avrion cautioned. "You'll give them more of a reason to frisk your pockets."

"I don't have anything in my pockets." Ray pouted.

The professor pointed his thumb at Ray's chest and hushed his voice. "You have a bandoleer of custom bolts. It's not always about your pockets." Avrion rolled his eyes.

Avrion slowed his pace and gestured to a large brown and rundown looking house. In its prime it would have been a magnificent mansion. It must have been one of the oldest buildings in the city. Now it looked like it would collapse if you gave it a hard enough push. "We're almost there. Watch the holes. And the ceiling."