Author's note: Hehe I was thinking of skipping some of the districts anyway (Beggar's Nest and probably the Docks). I had a feeling I was writing too much into what happened so definitely going to skip a good portion of that stuff in this chapter.
Caldor leaned back heavily against the closed gate of the Beggar's Nest. His eyes were closed and he traced his finger along the golden symbol of Helm on his breastplate while praying silently. Sharwyn was leaning on the wall next to him, staring up at the sky. She looked over at Caldor and watched him for a moment before reaching out and pushing back few stray strands of hair.
He opened his eyes and looked at her with a smile. Standing upright, he stretched and pulled out the small bag containing the Yuan Ti's heart.
"Man I hate the undead." He grumbled before stepping forward in the direction of the Hall of Justice.
"Well at least we weren't in there long. I have to admit, the fight with the Yuan Ti was quite funny." Sharwyn said as she caught up to him.
Caldor smirked a little, "I guess but at least she didn't get too far when she tried to bolt."
"With those fast reflexes and iron grip of yours, she'd have to be extremely lucky if she had made it to the door."
"Hm, well I'd had enough and there was going to be no time for foolishness." Caldor replied calmly as he opened the door of the Hall.
The Hall seemed darker than usual and a lot more of the sick had made their way to the nurses. The freshly dead littered the cots set up around the main room and the smell was far from pleasant.
Sharwyn sighed and shook her head, "I hope we can find those last two ingredients quickly."
"So do I." Caldor said quietly. He turned his attention away from the bodies and instead searched the room for Aribeth. He spotted her on the other side of the room covering up one of the deceased. She stood up and looked back at them.
"You have returned! Do you have another of the ingredients?" Aribeth asked.
"Yes we do m'lady. Found in the Beggar's Nest which was swarming with the undead. They have now gone back to their graves with the Yuan Ti dead." He handed the pouch over to her.
"Well done! Here is 500 gold." She handed him a small pouch of gold.
"Also, m'lady, we found this note on a group of assassins." Sharwyn handed the slightly bloodied parchment to the paladin and she scanned it quickly.
"I see, take this to Fenthick. He will want to see this."
Sharwyn took the note back and followed Caldor to the Sanctuary.
Inside Fenthick and Desther stood together in the middle of the room conversing in low tones. Upon Caldor and Sharwyn's entrance the pair turned toward the door. Desther's face fell as the paladin walked up to them.
Caldor regarded him coldly and watched him silently as Sharwyn handed the note to Fenthick.
"We found this note on a member of a small group of assassins that attacked us in the Beggar's Nest."
Fenthick quickly read the note and stared at it in surprise, "So our suspicions were true. Thank you for bringing this to me, here is some gold for your trouble. Sir Erion?"
Caldor looked at him, "Yes?"
"I wish you luck on your search for the remaining ingredients." Fenthick said with a bow.
Caldor nodded and glanced back at Desther. The human was staring at Sharwyn who was searching for her journal in her pack. His covetous gaze enraged Caldor and he pushed the cleric back none to gently.
"Keep your filthy eyes in your skull worm!" He roared at Desther.
Sharwyn and Fenthick looked at Caldor in shock. Desther stepped back further from the paladin. The nurses around the room stared at the group in the middle and Aribeth peered into the room from the doorway.
Caldor quickly turned away from the cleric and placed a hand on Sharwyn's shoulder.
"Let's get going." The bard glanced at him then turned and walked toward the door. Caldor looked back at Desther one final time before disappearing back into the Hall of Justice.
Aribeth gave Desther a reproachful glare and he merely sneered.
Outside of the Hall, Sharwyn turned and stopped Caldor in his tracks.
"What was that all about?"
Caldor blinked then looked down at the ground, "I didn't like the way he was staring at you." He answered honestly.
"Oh." The thought of the man's eyes on her made her shudder. "Well you didn't have to do that."
"I... I know. I just reacted before thinking."
Sharwyn smiled and hugged his arm, "It's okay, I'm just glad you didn't gouge his eyes out instead."
Caldor smirked at that thought.
"Come on, we have to find the next ingredient. Where to?"
"We should head over to the Docks district next but let's stop and get something to eat first." Caldor replied.
"Food huh? Well we could go to the Moonstone Mask. That's the only other place open that won't be packed from wall to wall." Sharwyn said.
"Err, why do I get the feeling that this is the last place that I would want to be in?" Caldor asked Sharwyn as he followed her down the ramp and towards the building.
"Well it is a brothel and with your good looks you should be swarmed as soon as we walk in." Sharwyn told him with a smirk. She heard a small groan and laughed.
"Don't worry paladin, I'll protect you."
"I should say the same about you." Caldor mumbled as he followed her into the Moonstone Mask.
As soon as they walked in, they were greeted by the Matron of the brothel. "Greetings and welcome to the Moonstone Mask. How may we be of service to you?"
"Just a meal and some drinks." Sharwyn answered.
The Matron looked over at Caldor who was silently surveying the room. "Will there be any other of the Mask's offerings that you or your handsome companion would like to make use of?"
"No that will be all." Sharwyn said as she grabbed Caldor by the arm.
"Alright, just go over to one of the booths over there and a waitress will be there soon."
The bard dragged Caldor toward the booth and sat down in the seat opposite his. Caldor sat down and stared at the table, studying the lines of the wood grain. Sharwyn watched him curiously. His eyes closed for a brief moment then he looked up at her with half lidded eyes.
"What's the matter?"
"Nothing..." he trailed off and looked around the commons of the brothel, "I'm just a little tired. Plus these places make me uncomfortable."
"Because you're a paladin."
"Not that it's just... never mind."
Sharwyn watched him for a moment then looked around the room.
Soon a barmaid came to their table and smiled at them. "What can I get you two today?"
Caldor glanced at her quickly then looked down at the table. The girl was wearing a low cut top with a blue short skirt. "Bring a whole bottle of Elven Wine. What's on the menu?"
The girl looked up at the ceiling thoughtfully and started listing the entrees for him. He stopped her and ordered the pot roast meal.
"And what will you have m'lady?" she asked as she turned to Sharwyn.
"Same."
"Alright then, I'll be right back with your drinks." The girl quickly scurried off to the bar and soon came back with a couple wine glasses and a fresh bottle of Elven wine.
Caldor poured himself a full glass and downed it quickly before refilling his glass again.
"What in the hells are you doing?" Sharwyn asked as he gulped down his third glass of wine.
"What? This is my favorite." He said as he started to pour another glassful. Sharwyn grabbed the bottle and moved it out of his reach.
"Honestly! What is the matter with you?" Caldor avoided her eyes and tapped the table top. "Dealing with the undead drives me to drink." He lied as he glanced around the room, and then looked up at the ceiling.
'He's definitely anxious about something.' She thought. Sharwyn reached out and put a hand over his. He looked down at her hand than up at her eyes.
"What's the matter?"
"I...It's nothing. I just..." He stopped talking and looked down at her hands. How he wished.
"You seriously need to get laid." Caldor jerked up and looked at her in shock.
"What?!"
Sharwyn merely smirked, "I have a good feeling about what's bothering you. Of course it's understandable considering where we are." She smiled at him.
Caldor's brow furrowed and he moved his hand from under hers and folded his arms across his chest.
"I noticed how quickly you looked away from that barmaid." Sharwyn said with a chuckle, "Getting warm down below?"
Caldor's face turned cherry red but he shook his head, saying nothing.
"Hm...oh." Sharwyn tapped her chin thoughtfully and finally shook her head.
For the first time in his life he wished that he had never become a paladin. He would've jumped over the table by now. Caldor took in deep breath and tried to calm himself. He tapped the side of his wine glass and looked up at the bard pleadingly.
"No. Alcohol will just worsen the situation." Sharwyn said flatly as she sipped at her wine slowly.
Caldor cursed under his breath and stared at his hands. 'Gods I hate these places...it smells odd in here." He sniffed at the air and looked towards the torch brackets. There was something odd burning in them. Perhaps some strange herbs were burning in them. That would explain a lot.
Sharwyn watched him for a moment. 'I wonder...maybe we should...no that wouldn't be proper at all. We're just friends...just friends.' Now she was feeling a little of that anxiety. Damn it all!
The barmaid seemed to appear out of nowhere happily balancing two plates of food on one arm. "Here you go!" she said as she placed the food down on the table. Caldor looked at her and she winked at him.
Sharwyn almost laughed out loud at the look on his face. "Eat up Caldor." She said while trying not to laugh. "We need to get you out of here."
The pair ate in silence, Sharwyn finally giving him a little wine to drink with his meal. The barmaid came back to take their empty plates and Caldor paid for their meals, making sure not to look at the girl. They drank the remaining Elven Wine quietly.
"Something odd is burning in the wall sconces." Caldor mentioned.
"Hm?"
"Some kind of herb that, I think, heightens the senses or something."
"Well that would explain why I'm... I mean why you're acting so oddly." Sharwyn said quickly.
Caldor watched her drink the remaining bit of her wine then stood up. He stretched his arms and looked around the room. Sharwyn looked up and watched him as he turned and walked around the table to sit next to her. 'Uh oh.' He wrapped an arm around her waist and laid his head on her shoulder. The bard ran her fingers through his hair a bit and he sighed.
"Ugh, I'm so tired. I'll be glad when this is all over with."
"You and me both." Sharwyn replied quietly.
Caldor paused in thought for a moment then tilted his head up and gently kissed her neck. Sharwyn instantly froze. He didn't notice and continued planting small kisses on her neck and shoulders.
'Oh no! I should definitely tell him to stop...yet... it feels so nice.' It had been a while and hell... Caldor was definitely a prime choice. Though, as much as she wanted it to continue, she had to stop it, "Caldor."
The paladin quickly stopped and slowly leaned away from her, looking very ashamed. "I... I'm very sorry m'lady. Err."
'Ah, what the hell it won't hurt anyone.' She thought to herself.
Caldor was staring at the table, silently berating himself, when Sharwyn tilted his head up to look at her. "Why'd you stop?"
He looked at her in total shock and was about to say something when her lips pressed against his. Caldor stiffened but soon relaxed and he pulled her closer. Everything seemed to disappear as he held her in arms. It felt like he had died and gone to the heavenly planes. His mouth moved away from hers and down to her neck again.
Sharwyn smiled and began nibbling on his ear. He laughed and looked up at her, kissing her cheek and grinning broadly.
"Feeling better?" she whispered to him.
"A little." He whispered back. Caldor reached up and caressed her cheek and was about to kiss her again when he felt a gentle tapping on his shoulder.
He turned slowly and looked up at the Matron who smiled down at them mischievously.
"My my. I never thought I'd live to see the day when a paladin would act in such a manner. You know...we do rent out rooms too if you two would like."
"Ah, no thank you m'lady. It was just a little too much wine. Um, we should, uh, get going." He let go of Sharwyn and quickly stood up, his face bright red. Sharwyn scooted out of the booth and quickly walked towards the door glaring at the Matron mother as she went. Caldor was close behind.
"Ahem, I'm sorry about that Sharwyn. I should have better control over myself." Caldor apologized once they were outside.
The bard shook her head and smiled, "It's alright Cal. We should just head back to my mother's house and try to get some sleep."
While walking towards Marise's house the pair noticed Aribeth and Fenthick heading in their direction. They were talking to each other quietly and were startled when they saw Sharwyn and Caldor.
"Oh, hello there you two." Fenthick said cheerily.
"Hello Fenthick, Lady Aribeth." Caldor said with a smile.
Aribeth stared at him for a moment then grinned. "Um Caldor." She pointed to her mouth and Caldor stared at her for a moment then quickly wiped his mouth. A faint blush rose on his cheeks.
Aribeth giggled, "What were you two doing?" Fenthick snickered as he looked at Caldor's face.
"Ah, just a little too much wine you know." Sharwyn replied with a nervous laugh.
Fenthick winked at Caldor who grinned broadly.
"You two out for a stroll alone I see. I would've half expected Desther to be hanging off Fenthick's arm right now."
Aribeth frowned a little and shook her head. "No, I made it quite clear to him that I wanted to be alone with Fenthick tonight."
Caldor smiled and nodded, "Good. Well since you two are out and about how about we go find a tavern and get to know each other better." Sharwyn stared daggers at him and he cringed a bit, "Of course I'll be skipping the alcohol."
Aribeth and Fenthick broke into a fit of giggles and Caldor shrugged at Sharwyn who tried desperately to keep a straight face.
"Sounds like a plan to me. There is a nice little tavern over by the gates to the peninsula district called Joker's Junction. Hopefully it won't be too full." Fenthick offered.
Everyone nodded and followed him to the tavern. Upon entering, the group quickly made their way through the crowds and found a booth near the back to sit. A barmaid came by, took their orders then disappeared into the crowd.
"So...tell us what happened to you guys." Fenthick smirked as Caldor and Sharwyn's faces fell.
"I refuse!" Caldor crossed his arms over his chest, glaring at the pair.
Sharwyn shook her head at them, "No...it was just an alcohol induced accident. Nothing more."
Caldor gave her a sideways glance but said nothing.
"Oh come on, it won't hurt to tell. It's not like we're going to judge you or anything." Aribeth said with a smile.
Sharwyn sighed then shrugged, "Well I guess...see it started when we went to the Moonstone Mask to get something to eat..."
Caldor swung the bag with the Cockatrice feathers cheerily as he whistled a tune. Sharwyn rummaged around in her bag until she found her journal.
"Let's stop for a moment Cal. I want to write something down real fast."
Caldor nodded and leaned against a nearby wall. The bard sat down on a crate next to him and began taking down notes.
"What are you going to do when this is all over with Sharwyn?" Caldor asked as he took out a feather and inspected it.
"Actually I have something that I need to look into...but it can wait." Sharwyn answered.
"Oh? What is it?"
"None of your business." Sharwyn answered quickly.
Caldor stared her curiously then shrugged. "Fair enough." He put the feather back into the pouch and put it back into his bag.
Sharwyn stood up and put her journal back in her bag, "Okay let's go."
Aribeth was happy to see them when they presented the feathers to her and she hugged them both tightly. "We're well on our way now thanks to you two. Here is your gold."
Caldor took out another crumpled letter and waved it front of her before walking to the sanitarium where Fenthick was. Sharwyn moved to follow him but Aribeth grabbed her by the arm.
"Hm?"
"I was just wondering. Has Caldor said anything about Desther?" Aribeth asked.
"Well he keeps telling me that Desther and his Helmites are all fakes and he doesn't trust the lot of 'em. Why?"
"Well as you know, I have no love for the man and I really don't like how much he is always around Fenthick. Always talking to him and telling him how he thinks I'm not doing my duty and such."
"You're not alone my friend. What does Fenthick think of him?" Sharwyn asked.
"Well he still thinks that he is a good man but he's really starting to doubt him now with all the accusations he's spouting about me, you and Caldor."
Sharwyn shook her head, "Hopefully when this is over Desther will finally leave and..."
"WHAT DID YOU SAY YOU LITTLE BASTARD?" Caldor roared.
Sharwyn and Aribeth quickly ran into the room and caught sight of Caldor lifting Desther in the air by his neck and his other hand pulled back and clenched into a tight fist. Fenthick grabbed his arm and tried to pull him back. "Let him go Caldor!"
"Let my arm go Fenthick! He needs to be taught a lesson by a true Helmite." Caldor growled as he tried to wrest his arm out of Fenthick's grasp.
Sharwyn ran up to him and gently put a hand on his shoulder. "Put him down Cal, he's not worth it."
Caldor ignored her protest and lifted his arm, trying to shake Fenthick loose. The elven cleric was now hanging a few centimeters from the ground but he was determined to stop the paladin.
"In Tyr's name that man is strong!" Aribeth said to Sharwyn who merely raised an eyebrow at her. "Only when he gets very angry."
"Come on my friend. You don't want to hit him." Fenthick told Caldor.
"Oh yes I do. Just let go for a second so I can cave his face in!"
"Put him down Caldor. A paladin should show more restraint over his emotions." Aribeth lectured. As much she would like to see the man beaten into submission she couldn't allow it to happen in Tyr's Hall.
Caldor looked at her, then Fenthick and finally Sharwyn. With his jaw set in anger, he looked up at Desther who was turning blue in the face. Finally his grip loosened and he dropped the man on the ground.
Desther coughed and crawled away from the room quickly. Caldor lowered his arm and set Fenthick back onto the ground. He looked away and clenched his jaw. Sharwyn patted him on the back and wrapped an arm around him, "Calm down now. Take deep breaths now. Good."
Aribeth walked over to Fenthick and whispered into his ear, "What was it like being suspended in the air like that."
The cleric looked at her curiously, "One word: frightening."
Aribeth held back a laugh and hugged him, "You're lucky that you two are friends."
Fenthick nodded and looked at the door that Desther had disappeared into. "I should go check on him." He moved towards it but Aribeth held him back. "He'll live, it will teach him not to mouth off like that in front of Caldor."
"How can you say that?" Fenthick asked her in surprise.
"It's true and you know it." Aribeth told him. Fenthick looked at her thoughtfully then shrugged.
Sharwyn shook her head and grabbed Caldor's chin, "What did I tell you about trying to destroy Desther?"
Caldor frowned and rolled his eyes, "That it would look bad to the public if the Helmites were trying to kill each other. Sharwyn he's not a Helmite! I told you that already."
"You don't have any proof Caldor." Sharwyn reminded him.
"I'm a Helmite paladin! I would know the people of my own faith."
"Oh Caldor, stop being so ridiculous." Sharwyn rolled her eyes and turned away from him.
The paladin's fists clenched and unclenched in anger, 'How can she doubt my word on this?'
"The man's personality alone proves that he is not what he claims to be! He's an utter ass to everyone for no reason! Falsely accusing those of us dedicated in our faiths, calling people unjust names, and more!" He lowered his voice and leaned down next her ear, "He called you a dirty whore. Not only was that over the line and disrespectful to you, it was an insult to me as well." Sharwyn turned and looked up at him in shock.
Caldor shook his head and rubbed his temple. "You should've let me beat some respect into him." He sighed and leaned back against a support column.
Sharwyn turned to Fenthick curiously, "Did he really call me that?"
Fenthick looked down at the ground and nodded.
Aribeth's face twisted up in anger. "If I had known that I would have let your break his skull Caldor." She said through clenched teeth.
"No, its better that you did, I might have regretted it later...maybe."
He watched Sharwyn who stared back at him. Her hands on her hips, she looked away from him shaking her head. He stood and walked towards the bard, putting a hand on her shoulder.
"Let's...just get out of here. We need to get to the Blacklake district." Sharwyn told him. Caldor nodded and turned to Aribeth and Fenthick.
"We'll see you two later."
"Good luck my friends." Fenthick said with a slight bow. Aribeth nodded towards them and smiled.
It had begun to rain while they were in the Hall, so Caldor gave Sharwyn his cloak to wear.
They moved through the City Core quickly and were soon at the Blacklake gates. The guard recognized the two and bowed before opening the gate.
One thing that Caldor noticed quickly was that it seemed to be darker than usual in this area. Fires raged everywhere and pained screams could be heard in the distance.
"This is where the servants lived." Sharwyn told Caldor as they picked their way through.
They managed to reach the center of the area without much incident when they heard the shouting of men a short distance away.
Caldor unsheathed his sword and ran towards the commotion. It was a group of crazed disease carriers banging on the door of a home. The paladin could hear the cries of children inside the building and immediately jumped into the middle of the group.
Sharwyn cast Sound burst at the men and killed a few of them. The rest were finished off by Caldor.
He straightened up then knocked on the door of the home. "Hello, its safe now. Please open the door so I can check on you."
A window in the door opened quickly and a young girl's face appeared. "D...did you get rid of them?" She asked timidly.
"Yes child, please open the door so we can see how you are all doing." Sharwyn said as she walked up.
The door of the little window closed and the door soon opened to reveal a dirty looking girl of about 14. Caldor motioned for Sharwyn to go in, quickly looking around the area to make sure no more of the diseased lunatics were around before quickly entering the building.
The main room was dark save for a single candle glowing weakly in the center. Half a dozen small children sat around staring at Sharwyn and Caldor curiously.
Caldor turned to the eldest girl and asked, "Where are your parents' lass?"
She looked down at the floor and kicked at some fallen debris, "They were killed by all the diseased men. All of the other children here are from different families that had lost their parents. I've been trying my best to take care of all of them, but we are running out of food and water."
Sharwyn walked around the children, checking for injuries. One of the younger children ran up to her and tugged her pants leg. She knelt down and picked up the child then walked over to Caldor.
"What should we do with them Caldor? We can't leave them here."
Caldor pursed his lips and stared at the children, "Let's take them with us to Blacklake. Get them something to eat. We'll figure something out from there."
"There are surely more of those lunatics running around out there. It'd be too dangerous to move them." Sharwyn told him.
"Well we can't leave them here to starve to death. I'll go ahead and clear out any of the bastards that may be lurking around. You and the girl follow with the children." He unsheathed his sword and walked out the door swiftly.
Sharwyn stared after him then turned to the eldest. "Gather them up, we're moving out."
The girl nodded and called all the children to her.
The bard peeked out the door then motioned for the girl to follow her. All of the children were moved into a tight group and moved quickly through the area. Sharwyn could hear sounds of battle in the distance and she knew it was Caldor.
He had done a good job of clearing out the area. Not one of the crazed men had been seen, not even their corpses.
'We might just get through here unscathed.' She thought.
From out of nowhere a single man ran out from between the buildings, screaming bloody murder. All of the children began to wail in fear as the man came closer. He leapt into the air, daggers drawn, and was about to slash at one of the children when Caldor flew out from behind the group and grabbed the man by the face. Once his feet hit the ground he swung the man into the window of a nearby building.
"Come on! Keep moving." Caldor told them as he ran ahead.
Sharwyn urged the children into a run and they followed Caldor quickly. Soon the gate came into sight and Sharwyn sighed in relief.
Caldor stopped and looked around before turning and smiling. He knelt down to rest for a moment when a group of four assassins rushed out of the shadows and jumped onto him.
Sharwyn grabbed the children to stop them from crashing into the pile up. As she pulled them back to her side, she watched as one of the men pulled out a dagger and brought it down fast into Caldor's thigh.
"Caldor!"
The paladin roared in pain and he kicked out at man. The assassin flew back a few feet then jumped at Caldor again. As the man approached, Caldor sent his foot up between the man's legs. The assassin fell over and curled up into a ball, howling in pain.
Caldor shook the other assassins off and stood up away from them. One of the men jumped at him and Caldor swung the back of his fist into the man's face and slammed his elbow into the middle of the man's back as he fell. Another man jumped over the fallen body of his comrade swinging at Caldor with his katana.
Caldor dodge each of the man's swings and punched him hard in the stomach. The assassin fell forward clutching his stomach and the paladin took the opportunity to kick the man in the head, snapping his neck. The last member swung out at him expertly with her dual kukris. Caldor dodged her swift attack as fast as he could but the woman kept slashing his sides and arms. He dodged one of her slashes and grabbed his sword off the ground to try and block her attacks. The female assassin had managed to back Caldor into a corner and was about to finish him off when she suddenly stopped and slumped over on top of him, an arrow sticking out of the middle of her back.
Caldor looked up at Sharwyn who let the bow fall to the ground as she ran up to him. He slid down to a sitting position and looked at the stab wound in his side. It was turning a greenish-red color.
"Took you long enough." Caldor gasped as Sharwyn knelt down next to him and moved the woman's corpse. She moved his hand from over the wound and inspected it, "That blade must have been poisoned."
Caldor tried to look down at the gash again but his head jerked back as a searing pain began to run through his body. He cried out as the pain intensified.
"Caldor! Caldor what is it? What's wrong?"
"The...poison." He told her through gritted teeth. Sharwyn placed a hand on his forehead as she fished around in her bag for a Neutralize Poison.
"Oh gods you're burning up! Where is that damn scroll?" She began tossing things out of her pack as she searched for it.
Caldor began to cough violently and blood dribbled out of the side of his mouth, "Sharwyn...you have to...get the children out of here. More of those... bastards are coming."
Distant yells of the disease carriers could be heard and they were drawing closer.
"I'm not going to leave you here Caldor."
"Yes you...will. Get them out of here...dammit."
"No! I'm not going to lose you."
"Stop being so damn stubborn woman. Get them outta...here..." Caldor slumped over into unconsciousness.
Sharwyn looked at him then back where the sounds of the men were growing louder. She quickly scooped her belongings back into her bag and slung it over her shoulder. She bent down again to put Caldor's great sword in its sheath and tighten the belt around his waist.
"Take the children and run to the gate." She told the eldest girl, who nodded and herded the children to the gate.
Sharwyn grabbed one of Caldor's arms and swung it over her shoulder. She steadied herself against the wall and hefted him up. He was quite heavy and she almost fell down but managed to keep upright. After making sure that he was still breathing, she slowly made her way to the gate.
She heard the lunatics getting closer and forced herself to move faster. Sharwyn could feel Caldor's heart beat slowing down and she began to panic.
"Don't you die on me you bastard!" She looked back and saw 20 or so of the crazed men running after her.
Thankfully the gates were in sight and the guards standing watch started shooting arrows at the group of lunatics.
"Hurry, get inside!" One of guards told her as she rushed past him. Once she was past the gate, Sharwyn stumbled and fell forward onto the hard cobblestone. She sat up and put a hand over her nose as it began to bleed.
"Here Sharwyn." The girl handed her a kerchief to stop the bleeding.
The bard looked over at Caldor who was sprawled out next to her. She put a hand over his chest and prayed for a heartbeat. There was one though it was faint.
She dumped the contents of her bag out again and hurriedly shifted through the pile. Finally she found the scroll and started to recite the spell. Dancing lights appeared over Caldor as the spell pulled the poison out of his bloodstream.
He suddenly took in a sharp breath as his heartbeat quickened. Sitting up he looked around the area, "How did I get here?"
Sharwyn smiled and threw her arms around him. "You big idiot!" she cried as she nuzzled his neck.
Caldor stared at her and sighed, "I'm sorry Sharwyn."
The children crowded around the pair and hugged the bard, "Don't cry missus Sharwyn."
She smiled at the children and hugged them back.
Caldor dug a healing potion out of his bag and drank it. "Well we're here now. Let's go find somewhere to rest." He stumbled to his feet then helped Sharwyn up and picked up one of the smaller children, "Follow me."
The various nobles wandering around the district stared at the group curiously as they made their way to the Board Laid Bare Tavern and Inn.
Inside, the tavern was bustling with noblemen chatting loudly. As he walked through the crowd, Caldor kept hearing something about a gauntlet and the prize being the tavern.
The paladin led all the children to the back of the room and sat them down. A barmaid came by and nodded at Sharwyn. "What'll you have?"
The bard nudged Caldor and he turned to the barmaid, "Chicken soup please. A lot of soup."
The girl nodded and ran back to the kitchen.
The paladin sat down in the booth and one of the children crawled into his lap, "We gonna eat soup mista Caldor?" He nodded at him and looked over at Sharwyn. Two kids were fighting over which one would get to sit in her lap. One of the other little girls crawled into Sharwyn's lap and started playing with her hair. The other two were not happy about that.
Caldor smiled and shook his head. He turned to the 14 year old who was tending to two of the children, "What's your name lass?"
"My name is Lise." She told him.
"Well, we're going to find somewhere for you to stay so you don't have to worry anymore."
The girl smiled and thanked him.
"Where are we going to keep them Cal?" Sharwyn asked.
"We'll find someplace." He answered.
He listened to the nobles' conversation and watched as a few of them disappeared into a door nearby. Caldor moved the child off his lap and walked over to the barkeep.
"What's this about a fighting arena I keep hearing?" He asked as he leaned on the bar.
The barkeep leaned forward, "The proprietor of this place holds fights downstairs. The winner gets the Board Laid Bare. Of course the Boss has never lost."
Caldor nodded and looked back at the children. "I want to get into that arena."
"50 gold." The barkeep held out his hand. Caldor gave the man the gold and the barkeep gave him a key.
"Good luck lad."
Caldor walked back over to the table and dropped his sword and bag by the seat.
"What are you doing Caldor?" Sharwyn asked.
"I'll be back soon. Stay here with the kids please." He waved goodbye to the children and walked down the stairs leading to the arena.
'What are you up to?'
The arena was vast and well lit with a large cage in the center. Dried blood stains were everywhere on the ground inside and on a large torch in the center with a rusted lever sitting next to it. 30 people sat around the walls of the cage chatting loudly about their favorite fighter.
Caldor walked to a lone woman leaning calmly against the wall. "You here to fight?"
"Yes, when is the next match being held and what are the rules?"
"The next match will be in a few minutes. The rules are: No weapons, magic or pets. All enhancement spells will be removed before each match. The winner is the person still standing and who pulls the lever in the center. No one ever dies in the arena so you don't have to worry about that."
Caldor nodded and removed his chain vest and breastplate. He stretched his arms and looked around for those who would be his opponents. In a corner he noticed a dwarven fighter, a Halfling monk and a half-orc barbarian, all battle ready. Standing next to the gate into the arena was a large human. He grinned at Caldor and walked towards him.
"Hail fresh meat! I'm Claudus, the owner of this inn. After each round you'll get a medal if you win. If you don't know already, if you manage to get to me and win you get the inn but don't count on that happening."
The man stepped away from him and leaned back against the wall.
"The first match will be beginning soon." The woman boomed. The spectators instantly became excited and crowded around the cage.
She turned to Caldor and thumbed to the dwarf. "You're going up against Hrusk."
Caldor nodded and walked into the cage. The dwarf followed behind him and walked to the other side of the arena.
"Ready! FIGHT!"
The dwarf rushed towards Caldor and grabbed him around the legs, lifting him up and slamming him back against the wall. The air was knocked out of him but he quickly recovered and slammed his fists into Hrusk's back. The dwarf let go of Caldor who slid to the side. The dwarf swung his fist at Caldor but he dodged and slammed the side of his hand into the back of Hrusk's neck. The dwarf teetered over then turned around and ran towards Caldor, sending his forearm into the paladin's stomach.
Caldor moved away from the blow and wrapped his arm around Hrusk's waist. With a mighty heave, he lifted the dwarf up then slammed him down onto the hard stone. The air went out of Hrusk in a single gust and he was soon unconscious. Caldor straightened up and pulled the lever.
"The winner is the newcomer!"
The crowd around the cage yelled loudly as the woman opened the cage gate to allow Caldor to exit.
"Nice job lad but Hrusk was nothing. Let's see how you fair against your next opponent. Kellisai tell him who he's up against." Claudus said as he handed Caldor the medal.
"You'll be fighting the Halfling monk Fashi. What's your name anyway newcomer?"
"My name is Caldor."
"Your fight with Fashi will begin in a few minutes so get ready." Kellisai told him.
Caldor nodded and stretched. Fighting a monk in hand-to-hand combat definitely wasn't going to be easy.
He sat down on the ground and leaned back against the wall. 'Come on Caldor. We can win this no problem. Have to do this for the children.'
"The next fight will be starting soon! Fighters into the arena!" Kellisai yelled over the excited shouts of the audience.
Fashi bounced into the arena and went into a low fighting stance. Caldor followed him and eyed the monk wearily as he circled around him.
"Ready! FIGHT!"
The monk spun into the air and hit Caldor square in the nose. The paladin fell back and shook his head, glaring at the Halfling.
Fashi flew at him again in a flurry of kicks and punches. Caldor dodged and ducked as many of his attacks as possible but the monk landed a few in his stomach and his arms.
Caldor turned away from Fashi and tried to punch him in the side but his attack was easily blocked. The Halfling turned and hit Caldor in the neck then kicked his legs out from under him.
'Well this isn't going to work.' Caldor thought as he stared up at the ceiling.
Fashi circled around him then proceeded to stomp the paladin's face. Caldor caught the monk's foot and swung him over onto the ground. Both men jumped to their feet quickly and Caldor charged the Halfling, slamming him into the wall.
Fashi jumped back onto his feet, kicking Caldor in the process. He staggered back then kicked out at the monk, who quickly sidestepped and slammed his elbow into the paladin's side.
Caldor jumped away from him, holding his side. Fashi grinned devilishly then ran towards him. The monk jumped into the air, preparing to kick him in the head when Caldor grabbed him. Fashi stared at him in surprise as Caldor flung him into the air behind him.
The monk hit the wall hard and slid down quickly to the floor headfirst. He hit the ground hard and he slumped to the ground unconscious. Caldor stared at the Halfling for a moment then pulled the lever.
"Caldor is the winner once again ladies and gentlemen!"
The crowd cheered enthusiastically as Caldor staggered out of the ring and slumped against the wall.
"Nice going kid, but you are not getting past Agar." Claudus threw the medal onto Caldor's lap and walked away.
"Good job newcomer." Kellisai smiled at him then cast a healing spell on him.
The paladin stood up and bowed to her. "Thank you m'lady."
"You're quite lucky; usually anyone that gets to Fashi is finished in a heartbeat." Kellisai told him.
"Yea, he does seem to be quite the lucky one...when I'm looking after him that is." Caldor groaned and turned around slowly.
"Oh...hey Sharwyn."
The bard glared at him and tapped her foot.
Claudus turned from the men he was talking to and grinned. "Oh ho! Lookee here boys. The pretty boy newcomer's woman is here."
Sharwyn ignored him and waited patiently for Caldor to explain.
"Look...Sharwyn. The prize is the inn and I was just trying to find someplace to keep the children until this plague is cured."
"We could have just as easily used the Recall stone to take the kids back to the City Core Caldor or did you forget about that."
"No I didn't. Where in the City Core would they keep them? I didn't see any orphanages there. Plus the Hall of Justice is full enough as it is. There is no place with free space in the Core."
Sharwyn looked away from him for a moment then looked back up at him. "Okay then fine. Just try not to get yourself seriously wounded."
"No worries. No one dies in these fights; this cleric here makes sure of that." Kellisai spoke up.
"Hehe, the only thing that will be injured here in the Gauntlet will be your boyfriend's ego." Claudus laughed.
"He's not my boyfriend. Besides he shouldn't have any trouble with the lot of you. He's taken down worse." Sharwyn winked at Caldor and he smiled.
Claudus frowned, "Haw, so you say girlie but if your boy here manages to get to me he's toast." The man slammed his fist into the palm of his other hand and grinned at Caldor.
The paladin simply raised an eyebrow and leaned back against the wall. "Well we'll just see about that, now won't we?"
Claudus scowled and turned away from him.
"Where are the children?"
"Lise is watching them upstairs. They're all eating."
Caldor nodded then turned to the arena. "Why don't you go on back upstairs? I'll finish up here and be up soon."
"I think not, I'm going to stay down here and watch. It's no fun taking care of the children without you around."
Caldor looked at her and smiled, "Alright fine."
"The third match will begin in a few minutes. Fighters into the ring." Kellisai announced.
Caldor walked into the ring and stood opposite of the large half-orc. Agar cracked his knuckles and growled at the paladin. "You're going down pretty boy."
"Ready! FIGHT!"
Caldor charged at the larger man. Agar watched him with a grin. Once Caldor was in arms length, the half-orc grabbed him around the waist and flipped him upside down.
Caldor stared at him in disbelief as he was suspended in air.
Agar smiled cruelly and slammed him into the ground. Cracks formed on the ground around where Caldor had landed.
The air had been knocked out of him completely.
"Ha ha, you are no match for Agar!"
The half-orc placed his boot on Caldor's neck and started pressing down on his windpipe.
The paladin struggled under his boot, trying desperately to push the man's foot off.
"Get up Caldor! Don't let him beat you so easily!" Sharwyn yelled at him.
Caldor glared at her as he grabbed Agar's foot and twisted it sharply.
The half-orc howled in pain as he stumbled away from Caldor.
Standing up, Caldor massaged his neck trying to regulate his breathing.
Agar looked at his now twisted ankle. With a grimace he grabbed the limb and twisted it back into place, growling at the paladin.
"You'll pay for that."
Agar ran towards him and swinging his fist high into the air.
Caldor backed away and looked around him. Agar was now nearly upon him and was preparing to send his fist into Caldor's face. The paladin jumped back into the air and seemed to attach to the arena bars.
Sharwyn stared at him in surprise as he climbed up higher in the cage.
"Hey! Come back down here and fight likes a man!" Agar roared at him.
'Hm...now how shall I finish this large fellow?' Caldor thought as he clung to the wall safely out of reach.
Agar jumped into the air and tried to grab the paladin but to no avail. The half-orc stared at the man angrily.
With a smirk Caldor jumped off the wall and over the Agar's head. As he fell, he gracefully turned in midair and kicked Agar in the middle of his back with both feet.
The man was taken completely by surprise and slammed against the cage walls.
Caldor rolled back to his feet and flew at Agar, punching him in the back and sides. Agar turned around and blocked some of his attacks. As he tried to swing at Caldor, the paladin jumped back. He moved to the side and slammed his forearm into Agar's side then kicked him again in the back, finishing with a spinning back kick to the half-orc's head.
Agar staggered forward, massaging the back of his head. His vision was blurred and he could barely see Caldor as he ran up to him again and jumped into the air, landing another kick in the side of his face.
The half-orc spun in the air and hit the ground hard. He picked himself up and stared at Caldor. "You's a pretty good fighter." Agar massaged the back of his head as he stood upright in front of the paladin.
Caldor stepped back from him quickly but not quickly enough. Agar lifted him up into the air and began punching him repeatedly in the stomach.
"Caldor! Break loose!" Sharwyn shrieked.
The paladin tried to pries Agar's hands loose but he was getting weak quickly with Agar now choking him.
Having had enough, Agar threw him into the opposite wall. Caldor slid down to the ground, not moving.
Agar roared in triumph and walked over to the lever. "No one can beat the mighty Agar!" He yelled to the cheering crowd.
"That's what you think." Agar swerved around and stared at Caldor in shock. The crowd stopped cheering and watched in disbelief. Sharwyn merely smiled.
Pulling his arm back quickly, he slammed his fist into Agar's neck. As the half-orc reeled back, Caldor kicked him hard in the stomach and grinned as Agar flew backward into the cage walls shaking a good amount of dust from the tops. The half-orc looked up at him in disbelief. "Y...you beat..." He slumped over.
Caldor pulled the lever and stumbled towards the gate amid the roar of the crowd. People patted him heartily on the back as he exited the cage and walked over to Sharwyn. She smiled, "Nice fight paladin."
He smiled at her and leaned against the wall as a good portion of the crowd congratulated him. Kellisai pushed her way through the crowd followed by Claudus.
"Congratulations." Kellisai smiled and cast a healing spell on him.
Claudus grimaced and handed Caldor another medal. "Yea, so you beat Agar. You're just lucky. You ain't gettin' my inn though so you'd be better off taking the medals you have and heading back upstairs." Claudus told him.
Caldor noticed the tiny hint of fear in the man's voice and smirked. "What? Are you afraid that you are no match for me big man? If so, you can save yourself the trouble and hand the inn over to me right now."
Claudus's face turned bright red with anger. "Why you little! Fine, we'll fight this out and you'll be sorry you stepped into the ring with me." He turned on his heel and stomped through the crowd, roughly pushing anyone in his way.
Caldor sat down cross-legged on the ground and handed the three medals to Sharwyn. "Could you watch these for me?"
She nodded and put the medals around her neck and kneeled down behind him. She placed her hands on his shoulder and began massaging his neck muscles, "You'll have to watch out for that one. He doesn't look to be a fair fighter."
Caldor smiled, "I was thinking that. He still shouldn't be too hard."
"Don't get cocky paladin, you don't know what kind of enchantments he has cast on him before his matches."
Caldor looked over to where Claudus was yelling at Kellisai. She didn't look too impressed and rolled her eyes at him. "I think if we persuade Miss Kellisai a bit the fight will be evened up."
Sharwyn nodded, "Exactly what I was thinking."
"The final fight between the reigning champion Claudus and our rising star Caldor will begin shortly! Fighters report to the ring!" Kellisai announced.
Caldor stood up and stretched his legs.
"I'll persuade Kellisai to even up the match; you just worry about beating Claudus." Sharwyn smiled at him before disappearing into the crowd.
Caldor turned to the arena where Claudus had already entered. He had worked the crowd into a frenzy and was now staring daggers at the paladin.
Caldor smirked and walked towards the arena.
"Hey Kellisai." The cleric turned and nodded at Sharwyn.
"I know that Claudus has enchantments on and I was wondering if you could...even the fight a little by removing them." Sharwyn said sweetly.
Kellisai pursed her lip, "If I do that he'll fire me."
"Not if Caldor wins, who will have a better chance of doing that with the spells removed."
Kellisai thought for a moment then smiled, "I never liked that jerk anyway."
Sharwyn smiled back and watched as Kellisai began casting the Dispel Magic spell.
In the cage, Claudus circled around Caldor, grinning arrogantly. "Prepare to lose boy, I've been champion for months."
"Well it seems that I will be taking the title of champion today."
"Ha, boy you don't have a clue who...you..." The color drained from Claudus's face as he felt his strength dissipate. He turned to Kellisai who waved at him with a devilish grin.
"Traitor!"
"Oh it looks like all your enchantments are gone. Looks like your chances to win have dropped pal." The smile faded from Caldor's face and he cracked his knuckles in a business like manner.
"Oh hell." Claudus groaned.
"Ready! FIGHT!"
Caldor jumped towards Claudus and kicked him in the arm, knocking him backward. Claudus held his hands up in defense and jabbed the air in front of Caldor. "Let's go boy."
Caldor bounced on both feet and swung at Claudus. He dodged and tried to jab Caldor in the chest but the attack was easily blocked.
The paladin circled around him calmly. Claudus tried to punch Caldor in the stomach this time but Caldor blocked it and hit his opponent once on the nose and a second time on the chin.
"Caldor quite fooling around and kick his ass!" Sharwyn shouted.
"Yes ma'am." He stomped on one of Claudus's feet and swung his other leg to kick him in the side.
Claudus managed to keep upright and pushed Caldor away. He charged him and slammed his shoulder into Caldor's stomach, knocking him back a few paces. Caldor flew at him and slammed his fist into Claudus's face.
Claudus grabbed Caldor's arm and swung him around throwing him away from him.
The paladin caught himself and ran towards Claudus again.
The man threw his arms up to defend himself and Caldor simply jumped over him. Claudus turned around and went face first into a fist. He backed away and covered his bleeding nose. Caldor walked up to his opponent and hit him in the throat and again in the side.
Claudus tried to grab Caldor who sidestepped him and hit him hard in the back of the neck. Claudus fell forward onto his hands and knees. Caldor kicked him in the stomach and the man fell to the ground, coughing up blood.
Caldor didn't wait to see if he was unconscious, he just pulled the lever and walked out of the cage.
"I present to you the new champion and owner of the Board Laid Bare, Caldor Erion!"
Sharwyn jumped onto Caldor and gave him a big hug. "Congratulations Caldor, you have your own inn now."
Caldor smiled and put her back down on the ground.
Claudus stumbled out of the arena and spat on the ground in front of the paladin. "Fine, ya won fair and square. The inn is yours. My friends are going with me though. You get the inn but not the gauntlet. Let's go boys." He threw a final medal at him and walked up the stairs followed by Agar, Fashi and Hrusk.
"Good. Though the inn won't make as much money now that they are gone, it's good to finally be rid of 'em." Kellisai turned to Caldor and smiled, "I'm glad to be working under you now Boss."
Caldor smiled at her and nodded. He picked up his gear and walked up the stairs. "Glad that's finally over with. Now let's see how the children are doing."
Sharwyn followed him up the stairs quickly. The pair was greeted by an applauding crowd. "Congratulations Master Erion!"
Caldor thanked them and walked to the table where the children were. They were all singing happily and some were dancing.
"Well aren't you a happy bunch."
The children stopped and looked up at him, "Hi Unca Caldor!"
"Uncle Caldor? Now whose idea was that?" He turned to Sharwyn who smiled at him.
The bartender walked toward the group and bowed before Caldor, "Congratulations Boss. Anything I can help ya with?"
"Yea, is there somewhere we could keep all these children?"
"Well there is large room down in the cellar's that was used as Claudus's game room. The place can be emptied out and beds can be put in. "
Caldor nodded and turned to Kellisai, "Here take this gold and go buy some beds and blankets."
Kellisai nodded and ran out the door.
"C'mon children, let's head downstairs and straighten up your new home. Lead the way barkeep."
The barkeep nodded and led the way to the cellars. As Caldor followed him, he was stopped by a short man dressed in the finery of nobility.
"You must be Caldor Erion, are you not?"
"Yes?" Caldor raised an eyebrow at the man.
"Ah you are! Kind sir, I would like to invite you to a ball I am holding tonight at my estate. I would be honored if you would attend as my guest."
Caldor frowned a little and shook his head, "I'm sorry sir but I have pressing matters to attend to and..."
"Of course he'll come." Sharwyn interrupted as she nudged Caldor's arm.
"Sharwyn! We don't have time for foolishness; we have to find the dryad." He whispered to her.
"If we go to this ball we can gather information. Nobles love to gossip and surely one of them has come across the dryad."
The paladin rolled his eyes, "Oh alright, we'll come to the ball."
"Excellent! Please come to my estate at 7 o'clock. Here is my address. See you then!" The man turned away from them and quickly exited the building.
Caldor closed his eyes and ground his teeth, "We had better find out something tonight or you're in some serious trouble m'lady."
Sharwyn laughed and patted him on the shoulder. "Don't worry my friend, we'll find that Dryad in no time."
The barkeep cleared his throat and watched them patiently. Caldor nodded and followed him down the staircase, the children bouncing around them happily.
The paladin was not at all happy. The idea of going to a party with a bunch of rich folk was definitely not his idea of fun. Of course Sharwyn seemed to be quite excited. She jabbered away at length about matching outfits or some such nonsense as she dragged him across the district.
They stopped at the door of a high end tailor's named Frank's Designs.
"Eh." Caldor mumbled.
"C'mon now." Sharwyn told him as she dragged him inside.
The shop was quite colorful, and rows of manikins with colorful dress wear lined the walls. A cheery looking young man trotted over to them and bowed.
"Welcome welcome! How may I be of service?"
"We're going to a ball tonight and need something to wear." Sharwyn told the man with a smile.
The man nodded and circled around the pair. "Ah. Yes. You two are an attractive couple; I think I have just the outfits for you."
The man quickly took their measurements then left the room through a door in the back.
Caldor rolled his eyes and looked up at the ceiling.
Sharwyn smiled and elbowed him in the side. "Stop your belly-aching."
"I don't like social events, especially those involving the insanely rich." He told her.
"And how many have you been too exactly?" Sharwyn turned to him and smirked.
"None, but that doesn't mean anything. I'm still not going to enjoy being there."
The shopkeeper reappeared carrying two piles of clothing. He picked up a dark blue dress from the pile and let it fall free. Sharwyn stared at the dress in awe.
"It's beautiful." She took the dress from the man and looked it up and down. The sleeveless dress was a dark blue color with embroidered white leaves all along the sides of the gown. The top was covered with more of the leaves with tiny chains of flowers woven in between. Soft ruffles lined the neckline of the gown.
Caldor watched her silently and blinked. "Try it on then."
Sharwyn turned to look at him. He cocked his head to the side and smiled. "Go on."
The bard squealed happily and dashed behind an ornate screen. The shopkeeper turned to him and smirked. "Your wife?"
Caldor shook his head, "No, just a friend."
"Ah." The man winked and picked up the second pile of clothes and handed them to the paladin.
He raised an eyebrow at the clothes then sat down on a nearby bench. He picked up the coat and stared at it curiously. Caldor traced his fingers over the silver buttons and rubbed the fabric between his fingers.
"This is silk?"
"Yes sir! The finest silk imported from the eastern lands."
Caldor pursed his lips and nodded in approval, "This is very nice."
The pants were made of the same black material. The vest was also silk with silver buttons and had elaborate designs embroidered onto it. A single white piece of silk rested on top of the boots.
Caldor inspected and decided that it must be on of those collar things that he frequently sees around the necks of noblemen. The boots were made with supple black leather and a brightly polished buckle rested on the sides holding them together.
Hearing footsteps and the scraping of wood against the floor, Caldor looked up at the screen and his jaw dropped.
Sharwyn twirled around in front of him and smiled. A slight blush appeared on her cheeks.
"What do you think?"
When Caldor didn't answer, the shopkeeper smirked and nudged him gently, "Sir, you might want to pick your jaw up off the floor and answer the lady."
The paladin shook his head and stood up. "You look absolutely stunning m'lady! I didn't think it was even possible for you to look any more beautiful."
Sharwyn looked away from him to hide the deep crimson on her cheeks. "Thank you Caldor."
He smiled and looked her over again. The gown accented her curves very well and fit especially well along the bust. His eye twitched a little and he looked back up to her face.
She was watching him and grinned as he looked up at her again suddenly.
"All right your turn paladin."
He nodded and picked his clothes up and disappeared behind the screen.
"That gown was practically made for you m'lady." The shopkeeper said as he nodded in approval.
"Thank you; it is a very well made gown. I presume you made it yourself?" Sharwyn asked.
"Indeed." The shopkeeper said proudly.
"I thought you had the look of a master tailor about you."
"Thank you m'lady." The shopkeeper bowed before her and smiled.
The bard turned toward the screen and smiled as she watched Caldor step out from behind it. He adjusted the coat and looked at her with a smile.
"How do I look?"
Sharwyn could barely contain her excitement and quickly walked toward him. She grabbed his jacket and buttoned it up. "You look very handsome my friend. Heh, I knew you cleaned up nicely."
He grinned, "This outfit is actually pretty comfortable."
Sharwyn tucked the silk collar underneath the vest and brushed off his shoulders before standing back. She gave him a quick look over then stepped up to him again and took the leather band out of his hair.
"There, now you look like a true noble gentle."
Caldor rolled his eyes and smirked. "Okay we got our costumes are you happy now?"
Sharwyn laughed and nodded. The paladin turned to the shopkeeper, "Okay, how much?" He held his breath in anticipation for whatever outrageous sum he was going to ask for.
"That'll be 2000 gold pieces."
"Oh wow, that's a pretty good deal." Caldor took the gold out of his purse and handed it to the man.
"Glad to do business with ye." The man said happily.
They quickly changed out of the clothes and had them wrapped up before heading out the door of the shop.
"Phew, glad that's over with." Caldor sighed in relief.
Sharwyn grabbed his arm and pulled him back almost making him drop the packages with their clothes.
"Not so fast we're not done yet." She pointed to an accessory and jewelry shop next to the tailor's.
"Aw! Son of a b-" Sharwyn yanked him towards the shop preventing him from finishing his sentence.
They came out as soon as they entered with a bag containing a necklace, earrings, some perfume and a string of pearls.
Caldor stared up at the sky despairingly, "Ugh, women and their shopping." He fumed.
Sharwyn smiled at him innocently.
"Humph, I'll be glad when this is over with. We're getting nothing accomplished." Caldor told her.
"Oh Caldor hush, I told you we'll be able to do some investigating at the ball tonight."
They soon reached the inn and headed to the barkeep. "Can I get a key to one of the rooms please?"
The barkeep nodded and handed him a key, "Thought ya might ask. Here is the key to one of the suites Boss."
"Thanks!" Sharwyn grabbed the key and shot up the stairs.
Caldor looked at the ground and shook his head before following her up the stairs.
"What's gotten into Ms. Sharwyn?" Kellisai asked as she leaned against the bar.
"Eh, must have something to do with that ball that they're going to. That Caldor is a lucky fellow."
Kellisai smiled. "That he is."