Leagues away from Midhome the rain continued to fall at a steady pace, filling the gutters in the city of Stonekeep to overflow. Huddled near the doorway to the Minitaur Inn a lone figure marveled at the spectacle nature had created. At first glance one might wonder why this person hadn't gone inside to leave the harsh weather for the comfort of the hearth, but it quickly became apparent the downpour was causing her little discomfort. "I love the rain" she thought. "At least they still have rain here... wherever here is." Back in her world she was born in the spring one rainy day and it had always held some fascination for her since she was a child. The first signs of raindrops would inevitably draw her outside and the puddles that formed would become giant oceans, trecherous waters that were home to all manner of sea monsters. It was by far her favorite type of weather and she was at her best in it. The woman stood roughly five and a half feet tall, dressed in the forest colors of olive green and chestnut brown. A beautiful bow made of yew was held fast at her side with a quiver full of finely crafted arrows strapped over her hooded tunic. Slender of build and somewhat animated she stared out into the street transfixed by the ever increasing downpour. "Time to go for a walk" she thought. "Of course it's time... it's raining isn't it?"

Back inside the Minotaur Inn the atmosphere wasn't quite so cheerful. Soft candlelight danced across gloomy faces as the Inn's patrons continued to guzzle all manner of spirits, allowing them to momentarily forget about the foul weather happening outside. A huge stone fireplace set in the center of the room blazed away, casting it's own glow and easily heating the tavern to a comfortable temperature. The less fortunate travelers would huddle near the fire for warmth, steam rising from their rain soaked clothes, causing the atmosphere inside to become heavy and damp. An old man sat in a corner of the room facing the door, warily watching all who entered and exited the place as he nervously sipped his ale. He was an accomplished wizard and he knew something was amiss. He could sense it. The warrior sitting beside him laughed at his friend's uneasy mood and tried his best to cheer him up. "Another round over here" he shouted above the noise, apparently unconcerned about drawing attention to their table. "My companions will meet us here over the next few days my friend. Once we are together we can take care of your little... problem." Without a word, the wizard looked over at the smiling man and let out a deep sigh, finally giving in to his cheerful mood. "One more round ranger," he said in a serious tone, "then we head back to the safety of our rooms." Nodding at his friend the two raised their mugs in agreement. It only took a second for the wizard to miss the dark cloaked figure that had entered the tavern, and by the time his eyes were back on the doorway, the stranger was somewhere inside.