Oriphant paid Sezga no further attention. Like a light shadow, he slipped around the pillars and silently approached Ye Wei'an.
When he came within three feet of Ye Wei'an, a faint chill suddenly crept up his spine and to the back of his head.
Oriphant instinctively stopped.
"Since you've already come this close, why stop now, Mr. Oriphant?"
Ye Wei'an suddenly opened his eyes and spoke.
Oriphant's heart jolted. The frustration of being exposed in an instant made him raise his opinion of Ye Wei'an even higher.
As a Lv.4 Rogue, Oriphant prided himself on being a capable sneak. Casters of a lower level couldn't detect him at all.
What he didn't know was that, on the little map in Ye Wei'an's mind, his yellow dot stood out like a torch in the dark.
Oriphant took a deep breath and emerged from the shadows, spreading his hands to show he meant no harm.
"By Sharess, your senses are astonishingly keen, Mr. Ye Wei'an." He gave him a friendly smile. "I only wanted to get to know the Summerstar Family's new caster during this long night watch."
When Ye Wei'an didn't refuse, he stepped closer. "I'm sorry. After spending so long in the wilderness, I've grown more accustomed to making friends through actions than through calling cards."
"If by 'interesting' you mean sitting here on night watch, I'm afraid I'll disappoint you."
"No. My intuition tells me you're an interesting person."
After exchanging a few pleasantries, Oriphant struck up a conversation with him.
Ye Wei'an had been bored on his own and was also interested in getting to know this intriguing noble.
Their conversation ranged from the monsters found in Hurek Forest to Cormyr's ancient history.
Oriphant was an adventurous explorer and an expert on the subject. Ye Wei'an, meanwhile, had learned about Faerûn's world in his previous life and could often reveal secrets this "local" knew nothing about.
"...I never imagined the legendary civilization of the serpent folk really existed."
The more they talked, the more Oriphant felt they were kindred spirits. He decided to extend an invitation. "Honestly, Ye Wei'an, it's a shame to waste your abilities and knowledge in Firefall Valley. You're a bastard, so you're not bound by all those tedious formalities. Why not come adventuring with me? I happen to be short a caster companion."
Ye Wei'an shook his head. "Thanks for the offer, but I have to decline."
"Can I ask why?" Oriphant looked a little surprised. "In Cormyr, few people can turn down an invitation from the Silverhunt Family."
"I have my own goals," Ye Wei'an replied calmly. "In fact, I've already submitted an application to the College of Heraldry. I'm preparing to head to the western wastelands and become a Pioneer Lord."
"A Pioneer Lord..."
Oriphant first froze, then looked enlightened. "No wonder! No wonder the Baron left you a full twenty thousand gold in his will. That wasn't just an inheritance. It was seed money to buy out your claim to the inheritance, and the late Baron's way of choosing either your grave or your chance at survival."
There was a note of admiration in his voice. "Sorry. I overstepped."
"I'm afraid I've wasted your time," Ye Wei'an replied politely.
"No, this makes it even more interesting." Oriphant smiled warmly and held out his hand. "Maybe one day the ruins in eastern Cormyr won't be enough to hold my interest, and I'll come adventuring on your land. I hope you won't treat me as a trespasser when that day comes."
"I'll have the finest wine ready to welcome you." Ye Wei'an shook his hand.
Just then, the heavy thud of boots broke the easy mood between them.
Earl Wafred's towering figure appeared from behind a pillar. He gave Oriphant a cold glance, then fixed his eyes on Ye Wei'an and spoke in a stiff voice.
"I'll handle the Exploration Charter entirely on your behalf, in my capacity as Warden of the East. The College of Heraldry will also verify your noble status and the relevant legal documents as soon as possible." Wafred's voice carried unconcealed hostility and distaste. "Once you've received what you're entitled to, leave at once. Ye Wei'an, remember who you are. Now that you've chosen this path, never again entertain any unrealistic notions about anything in Firefall Territory."
Ye Wei'an looked at the furious Earl and sneered inwardly.
From Wafred's haughty, "victimized" attitude, he quickly drew a conclusion:
Selina really was a clever woman. She hadn't told Wafred that she had evidence of the Amarisk Family's smuggling.
"Of course, my lord." Ye Wei'an bowed politely. "I, Ye Wei'an, always keep my word. Once I get what I want, I'll leave. I won't cause Firefall Territory any trouble."
"You'd better remember what you said. I'll be keeping an eye on you."
Wafred pointed to his own eyes, then at Ye Wei'an, before turning and walking away.
Watching Wafred's retreating back, Oriphant shrugged and offered a lighthearted consolation. "Don't mind the old man. He's just upset about losing so many gold coins to you, but there's nothing he can do about it. By Sharess, some people treat their lands as if they're everything, without realizing the wind on the wastelands is the freest of all. Good luck, future lord."
The rest of the night passed pleasantly as the two continued talking.
Ye Wei'an had no interest in the etiquette of noble society, while Oriphant was simply a "wild child" with his heart set on adventure.
In some ways, they were kindred spirits.
As time passed, the darkness gradually receded, and dawn finally arrived.
When the first rays of sunlight pierced the morning mist, Bishop Orion stepped forward. Though he looked somewhat haggard after staying up all night, the morning light lent him a solemn air. He raised both arms and proclaimed to the brightening sky:
"The night has passed, and dawn is reborn! Baron Harandir Xiaxing has joined the Morninglord in eternity. May his soul shine like the rising sun, and may Lathander's light forever remain in Firefall Valley!"
With the bishop's blessing, the long night watch came to an end.
The two knights, Morse and Hilt, led several silent attendants carrying shovels to the grave.
With dull thuds, shovelful after shovelful of damp earth filled the grave, finally covering the coffin.
Next, Saville of the College of Heraldry stepped onto the platform.
He unfolded the document and read in a flat voice:
"Witnessed by the College of Heraldry and the Warden of the East, it is hereby confirmed that Lucas Xiaxing, son of Baron Harandir Xiaxing, has officially inherited the lands of Firefall Valley and the title of Baron. May he remain loyal to the Dragon Throne, defend the realm, and protect its people."
Lady Selina breathed a sigh of relief. Supporting the dazed Lucas, she paid her respects to the Herald, then led him to accept the heraldic ring symbolizing his authority.
The nobles who had come to witness the ceremony offered a scattered round of congratulations before gradually taking their leave.
Sezga Huntercrown was the first to leap into his carriage. He didn't even bother looking back, only urging his servants to hurry up and clear the road. He couldn't wait to escape this boring rural region.
"Off you go, future Pioneer Lord." Oriphant winked at Ye Wei'an and mounted his horse. "If you find any ruins on your land, remember to call me!"
Before long, only the sparse sound of carriages remained in front of the temple, once so lively.
Most of the nobles chose to return home, and even Earl Wafred left after giving a few instructions.
Only a handful of minor lords with distant marriage ties to the Xiaxing Family stayed behind, preparing to attend the private luncheon that followed.
Ye Wei'an was getting ready to leave as well.
When he reached his carriage, two figures blocked his way.
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