The collective beating of Cyric finally ended with the Dark Sun Prince losing a combat avatar. The dazzling variety of spells and divine manifestations gave the tens of thousands of spectators at Waukeen's Promenade a feast for the eyes.
Almost all the fruit, snacks, cigarettes, and beer at Waukeen's Promenade sold out that day.
Lady Orem, the Saint Coin, who had slipped over to watch the ceremony, spoke to the six Highgold Ladies with both envy and regret. "If only our lady were here. She loves a lively scene."
"So, should we proceed with the siege and the vote according to Salian's proposal?" The six Highgold Ladies had finally finished laughing, each clutching her stomach. Only Helena still looked somewhat dissatisfied afterward. "I mean besieging Halken and having the Council declare worship of the Dark Sun illegal."
The Saint Coin glanced at Helena. She knew Helena resented it. The mighty Church of Waukeen had dozens of legendary powerhouses supporting it, over a thousand merchant associations large and small, and reserves from which it could easily mobilize several million gold coins. Yet it had to follow Aaron's instructions from start to finish.
What kind of arrangement was that?
"Follow his plan," the Saint Coin said calmly. "Helena, if I asked you to contact the legendary figures of the Realms, how many could you bring?"
"At least fifty. Seventy, if you gave me enough time!"
"And how many of them would willingly make a trip to the Abyss?" the Saint Coin demanded sharply. "How many could you guarantee would truly keep our lady's imprisonment in the Abyss a secret?"
"Uh..." Helena opened her mouth, eager to offer a number. But under the Saint Coin's chastening gaze, she finally lowered her head. "I understand."
The Church of Waukeen was wealthy and influential. Hiring