[Daniel Telcontar]

Khalad felt a flash of anger towards Vlad, when he spoke of Khalad's sword, the heirloom that his father had given him on the night of his escape.

His voice was cold when he spoke: "I will be the judge of when my sword shall be put to use, Vlad." his eyes burned with anger, and Vlad was a bit surprised at the nerve Khalad had to use such a tone. He decided not to pursue the matter anymore, though he made a mental note about it, if he ever wished to irritate Khalad.

The latter caressed the swordhilt with his left hand. It was one of the few things he had from his home, and though it hurt him to think of his home, he was glad to have at least some happy memories, amidst the evil ones. "Pain lets us know we are still alive," he said softly to himself, reciting the words of his grandfather who had been wounded in hundreds of battles.

Suddenly he became aware of the present, when Jaheira approached. He knew that she harboured only ill feelings towards him, and he had to be on his guard whenever she was around; it was doubtless she tried to poison Vlad against Melost and himself.

When he heard Snyd's question he replied, knowing he was the one with most knowledge on this subject: "I do not know." Jaheira sent him another loathsome look, and it was clear she did not believe him. To make sure that his words were seemed more plausible he quickly added: "I do not think Melost does either."

When he looked at Jaheira her face revealed nothing, but it was doubtless that even the fact that Khalad used the elf's name made her resent him even more. He had to be constant vigilant now; it was a dangerous game, and Vlad's favour was the key to winning.