But Ryld, with this strange infatuation with her soon-to-be-former mistress, would be a tougher nut to crack.

What good was playing sava, she thought, if you don't control all of the game pieces?

Valas strode into the ruins, followed by Pharaun and Quenthel, and, a moment later, by the loping Jeggred. The false smile Halisstra gave Quenthel and the way Ryld deliberately met Pharaun's eyes, confirmed Danifae's suspicions. Halisstra was preparing to betray her fellow priestess and Ryld his former friend.

Danifae smiled. She didn't know what they were up to?yet?but whatever it was, she was certain it could be turned to her advantage. She walked out into the clearing, joining them.

With a quick snap of her whip, Quenthel motioned for the others to gather around her.

"Valas has found an entrance to the Underdark," she announced. "Once we're safely below, Pharaun will cast a spell. We're going back to the Demonweb Pits. But not all of us. One of you will carry a message back to Menzoberranzan, to the matron mother."

As Quenthel's eyes ranged over the group, Danifae noted the indecision they held. Quenthel was obviously uncertain whom she could spare?or trust. Seizing her chance, Danifae prostrated herself before the high priestess.

"Let me do your bidding, Mistress," she said. "I will serve you as faithfully as I have served Lolth."

As she spoke, she cast a baleful eye on Halisstra, hoping Quenthel would take her point. Halisstra had acted blasphemously during their recent journey to the Demonweb Pits and was not to be trusted.