In the week following Gaedren's death, Falenas had very little time to settle for a break. The assignments with the Korvosan Guard were time-consuming, and even when he had a chance to take a break from patrols, he was needed to tend to Griffin's filth fever. Even if the city wasn't falling apart, it wasn't like the elf could rest. There was still the matter of being homeless and without work outside of aiding the Korvosan Guard that needed to be addressed.
Even though opinion over the new queen was divided, several taverns opened their doors for the night to celebrate the occasion. After he finished a patrol on behalf of the Korvosan Guard with his companions, Falenas decided to join in on the celebrations. Takota tagged along without complaint while Alexander and Viera had to leave to assist Griffin and Tiran as their guards. The alchemist was fine missing out on the ball, not really caring much for dances anyways.
Falenas had insisted on visiting his favorite tavern in Old Korvosa called the Sticky Mermaid. The tavern, located by the Old Docks, wasn't for the faint of heart. The alchemist recalls having to tend to others after bar fights and there have been times he wasn't able to save someone too injured. Still, there was no other place in Korvosa to get fishjack, a potent spirit garnished with fermented salmon eggs from the Jeggare River.
Takota, having heard of the tavern's reputation, crossed his arms when the two arrived at its doors, already hearing the rowdy noises from within.
"There are other taverns in the city," Takota suggested.
"And as I said, none of them have fishjack," Falenas shook his head. "What's the matter?"
"There's going to be a fight," Takota said more as a fact than a suggestion.
Falenas nodded. "I sure hope so."
"I wouldn't think this would be your kind of place."
"You may be right," Falenas said with a shrug. "However, I would like to drink my troubles away and I could think of no better place than here."
"Are you sure that's a good idea?" Takota asked, showing a hint of concern.
"It isn't but what else can I do?" Falenas waved his hand dismissively. "I'm not making enough money with the Korvosan Guard to return to my true calling, and even if I were to pursue a business in alchemy again, I wouldn't have the supplies I need to stay open for more than a few days."
"I see," Takota said with a quiet nod.
"And despite your doubts, you're coming with me," Falenas said and lifted one of his arms. "Look at me. I have no muscles. If a fight breaks out, what do you think I'll do with these scrawny arms?"
"So you want me to protect you?" Takota asked.
"Not just that," Falenas held up two fingers. "We deserve a chance to unwind, my friend. So, I propose that we drink until we forget about all of the political turmoil and death in Korvosa."
Takota crossed his arms and sighed. A few moments passed by before the Shoanti nodded in agreement with the plan. Falenas grinned, glad to have his closest friend join him for the night. The elf clapped the archer on the back before the two pushed open the door into the tavern and stepped inside.
After their patrol, Alexander and Viera headed to the Vossler estate, where Griffin and Tiran were finishing up preparations for the ball. Alexander took the time he had to see his daughter. Silana was glad to see her father, and after they hugged, he told her about some of the adventures he had been up to with the Korvosan Guard (while leaving out details that wouldn't be friendly to a child). The warrior was happy to have some family time although he didn't look forward to staying most of the night at the ball. At the very least, Silana was looking forward to hearing back about how the ball was.
The Vossler brothers emerged from their rooms, garbed in some of their finest clothes. While Tiran primarily wore red, Griffin was adorned in a blue suit and leaned on his cane. It was a bold move for the younger brother who still had to keep his identity as Indigo a secret. Tiran led his brother to the foyer, where Alexander and Viera were waiting for their charges while still in the armor.
"You both look great," Viera complimented with a smile.
"Thank you," Griffin chuckled and glanced away. "You're too kind, Viera."
"Is there a chariot or wagon we're supposed to use?" Alexander asked Tiran.
"The Carowyns live on the South End and aren't too far away," Tiran shook his head as he explained. "It's a nice evening for a walk. I'll show everyone the way there."
With the guards walking at the nobles' sides, the group left the manor and took to the streets. The setting sun still provided some light for the streets as the early stars twinkled to light in the sky. Alexander wasn't sure if he was needed as a guard for the Vossler brothers but was going to do his job. He kept an eye out for threats, and while some of the citizens of the city were still out, none were out to harm anyone.
Much like the Vosslers, the Carowyns lived in a two-story manor building with a hedge wall separating the yard from the building. Alexander could hear a chorus of lutes and drums coming out from the open front door which was manned by a trio of guards. Tiran handed an invitation to the lead guard, who took a quick glance before stepping aside. The group entered the main hall of the estate, where several nobles were mingling with many accompanied by a single guard. Numerous paintings and statues lined the wall and Alexander couldn't help but shake the feeling that the Carowyns were more wealthy than the Vosslers.
"There's more to the gala than this," Tiran explained, noticing the way both Alexander and Viera looked around. "I imagine that there's conversation to be had at the den to our left, and a feast to be had at the dining hall to the right. If you keep going forward, you'll find dancing and music, and if you need a breath of fresh air, there's a back door to the yard. There's a small pond and it's quite lovely, romantic even."
"The Carowyn's manor isn't what I expected," Viera commented.
"That's because it's likely the only manor that you've been to is my home," Tiran said with a chuckle. "Lord and Lady Carowyn have never been afraid to flaunt their wealth."
"At least they serve as excellent patrons to the arts," Griffin added.
"There is that," Tiran admitted and took two drinks from a server with a tray of glasses. "As the eldest son, it is my duty to tell our hosts that the party is wonderful. Griffin, would you like to mingle."
Griffn shook his head and didn't take the offered glass. "I doubt I would have much luck with that."
"At least give it a try," Tiran suggested, then offered the spare glass to Alexander. "Viera, please make sure no harm comes upon my brother. Alexander, you're with me."
"Should we not stay together?" Alexander asked. "What if there's any problems?"
"I doubt that there will be any," Tiran shrugged and still held out the glass. "The bodyguards are mainly for appearances and the fact that there have been numerous riots in Korvosa over the past several days. Yet, it's been a quiet day so I don't think there will be any problems."
Alexander and Viera looked at each other, and after a moment of silence, nodded to each other. The warrior took the drink from Tiran and downed the sweet liquid within it. The elder noble grinned and clapped Alexander on the back before taking a sip from his own glass. Griffin took a step back, and with Viera accompanying him, walked off to find another noble to talk to, leaving Tiran and Alexander alone.
Slowly, Tiran navigated his way toward the den with Alexander following behind him. There was a small gathering of nobles with some seated by a fireplace while others gathered in groups by the bookshelves. Tiran led his way to a trio of well-dressed nobles who stood by the windows. One was a shorter man with dark hair and a trimmed beard. The other two nobles, a man with blond hair and a woman with short black hair, were clearly together based on how they stood close to each other. Alexander kept to Tiran's back and listened in on the conversation.
"Lord Carowyn," Tiran greeted, addressing the shorter noble. "I have to say this is a wonderful gala you're hosting."
"Young Tiran," Lord Carowyn said with a smile. "I wasn't expecting you. I take it that your parents are busy."
"They're out on business, I'm afraid," Tiran informed Lord Carowyn. "They've asked me to pass along their regards to you and your wife. Speaking of, where is Olauren?"
"Right now, I imagine she is overseeing the musicians," Lord Carowyn answered then turned to the two nobles he previously talked with. "Tiran, have you ever met Nelsin and Gatlynn Caid?"
"I've heard of them before," Tiran said and bowed toward the two. "It's a pleasure to formally meet you both."
"It's good to meet you as well," the female noble, Gatlynn, smiled.
The blond man, Nelsin, was more focused on Alexander. "Say, Tiran, have I met your guard before?"
Alexander held back a gasp of surprise of being asked about, and when Tiran beckoned for him to answer, spoke up. "Perhaps in passing. I've been working for the Korvosan Guard recently."
"That's where," Nelsin grinned. "I'm a knight and have been working at Citadel Volshyenek. We've been busy keeping the peace."
"That we have," Alexander nodded in agreement.
"And now that Queen Ileosa's reign is official, you should be spending less time at work," Gatlynn said, smirking toward her husband.
"Perhaps, although I imagine that there may be more riots if people don't see her as a good leader," Nelsin said, stroking his chin in speculation.
Gatlynn slowly frowned. "I don't see why they would. Ileosa will make for a strong and capable leader."
"As if," Nelsin said with a laugh. "She's inexperienced and only cares for herself. She'll demand of Korvosa and eventually the city will reach its breaking point."
"I think you underestimate the queen's best interests," Gatlynn said through gritted teeth.
"Please, now isn't the time for political debates," Lord Carowyn intervened. "This is a special occasion meant to mark a new change in Korvosa. Might I suggest you work your frustration out on the dance floor?"
Nelsin and Gatlynn looked at each other, unable to hide their glares. Slowly, the knight offered his arm, and his wife took it. Together, the two strolled out of the den, following the music. Alexander could only look in confusion as the two left the room while Tiran and Lord Carowyn chuckled.
"They're not going to stop dancing until one of them passes out on the floor," Tiran noted. "They're both so competitive."
"At least it won't be my problem," Lord Carown said with a shrug. "At the very least, there's no denying that they're perfect for each other."
"Indeed," Tiran nodded in agreement.
Lord Carowyn broke away politely to greet new arrivals. Tiran handed his empty glass to a nearby servant that was collecting them with Alexander following along. Afterwards, the young noble looked out of the window, which overlooked the streets of Korvosa. There was a small frown on his face that only Alexander could see with the other nobles not paying attention.
"Is there something on your mind?" Alexander asked politely.
"They didn't always hate each other," Tiran said with a sigh. "Nelsin and Gatlynn, that is. I've heard rumors that their competitive nature made them a good couple, but now, something has changed."
"I see," Alexander nodded, unsure of what to say to reassure Tiran.
Tiran glanced at Alexander. "Your marriage was a good one, yes?"
"Huh?" Alexander blinked in surprise at the sudden question. "Uh, yes, it was. We never argued or fought. We were happy together. It was a good life that I had with Myla."
"That is good to hear at least," Tiran said with a faint smile. "My father has been pushing for me to get married. I imagine that he wants to keep the Vossler line going strong."
"Is there any reason you don't want to get married?" Alexander questioned.
"Fear, mostly," Tiran admitted. "I'm worried about ending up in a loveless commitment. My father didn't end up with the right partner the first time around. What if the same happens to me too?"
"There's someone out there that will love you as much as you would love them," Alexander told Tiran. "You're looking at relationships that aren't strong when you should be looking at one where each partner is committed."
"Perhaps you're right," Tiran sighed and looked back out the window. "And what of you?"
"What of me?"
"Is there any reason you haven't married again?" Tiran clarified. "You're younger than I am and have many virtues that would make you a good husband even though you are a widower. Or do you still hold onto the old feelings you had for Myla?"
Alexander thought about the question for a moment before answering. "There's part of me that loves Myla still but that isn't what's holding me back. I've just always been busy. It's not easy being a single father."
"Perhaps one day we shall both find someone," Tiran said with a chuckle. "At this rate, I imagine it will be my brother that ends up married before you and I find someone."
Alexander laughed alongside Tiran. "Do you know something that I don't know about Griffin?"
"Many things," Tiran admitted. "Although I'll admit, even his love life is speculation on my part, but at least I've done my part to help him tonight…"
Griffin followed his brother's suggestion to the best of his ability, but even then, what happened was what he expected. Each time he would walk up to a noble to talk, they would quickly find someone else to talk to or an excuse to leave. There were even a few whose glance showed they didn't know why he was bothering to try to talk, and it was from these nobles that Griffin backed away from. Although he was as charismatic as his brother, Tiran was born into nobility without too much drama while he had his family background that held him back.
Even Viera was able to hold a conversation as a few of the younger nobles approached her. However, she was quick to turn any offers of a dance or a drink away, taking her duty as a bodyguard seriously. At the very least, Griffin was thankful to have one of his companions close by as his efforts to have fun at the gala only frustrated him endlessly.
Eventually, Griffin decided that he needed a breath of fresh air, and emerged out of the manor and in the backyard. The night sky was dark with the stars and moon out in full with only a few nobles gathered outside in quiet conversation. They turned away from Griffin, who looked around at his surroundings. There was a small shed in the back and a gazebo where one couple retreated for a romantic moment. The young noble stepped forward toward the small pond in the center of the yard and looked down at the water, catching a glimpse of his reflection even in the darkness.
Viera's reflection stood next to his and Griffin turned to look at the aasimar directly, taking note of her frown.
"It isn't fair how the others treat you," Viera said. "You're a noble just like them."
"I believe I've explained how I'm not like them," Griffin pointed out. "How nobles treat other nobles is different from how commoners do. Many of us have standards."
"You don't," Viera argued back quietly. "The only noble I've seen you look down on is yourself, even though from what I see, you've shown more nobility through your actions than anyone here."
"Viera, answer this question honestly for me," Griffin asked. "If you hadn't met me posing as some crime fighter, would you still think that?"
"I would," Viera answered without hesitation. "You didn't hide behind a mask at Eel's End when meeting with a crime lord."
"More nobles than people would expect visit Eel's End, although I suppose I may be the only one who visited for the good of Korvosa," Griffin admitted with a sigh. "What can I do about it now though?"
"Tell people," Viera suggested. "Keep trying to fit in if you really want to. Maybe you can join in on the dancing."
With a smirk, Griffin held up his cane. "It would make for a scandal unlike any I've heard before if I were to start dancing like I had no problems walking. Don't let me stop you from having fun. Whoever asks you to dance next, say yes. Have fun."
"I'm here with you," Viera reminded him.
"As my guard," Griffin turned back to the pond and pressed his cane back to the grass ground.
"Not as your guard," Viera said and gripped his arm in her hand. "Someone has to keep you company when no one else will."
Griffin turned his head to look at Viera again and found himself gazing into her graceful green eyes. She didn't turn away from his gaze and he forced himself to keep looking at her despite his mind's objections. Although the noble wanted to maintain a professional relationship with those he worked with, he couldn't deny that he felt an attraction towards Viera. The duel and conversation he had with Vencarlo yesterday certainly helped push him toward recognizing that.
Perhaps it wouldn't be too terrible of an idea to follow up on the way he felt.
Before he could speak, Griffin took notice of the other nobles outside pointing up to the sky. He and Viera both looked up, and after a moment, saw what the others were now talking about.
"Smoke," Griffin breathed out. "This isn't good."
"What do we do?" Viera asked cautiously.
A servant emerged from the house and shouted out. "It has been confirmed that King Eodred was murdered! If anyone knows where Trinia Sabor is, they are to inform the proper authorities."
"Trinia?" Viera blinked as she didn't recognize the name. "Who's that?"
"I don't know," Griffin answered and pulled his arm out of Viera's hand. "We need to leave now."
Viera gasped but was unable to ask why as Griffin was already three steps ahead. She followed after the young noble inside, where the servants continued the work and the partygoers continued to talk after a short break. Tiran and Alexander stepped out from the den with the former waving after his brother. There was a look of urgency on Tiran's face as Alexander was confused just like Viera was.
"We need to leave, brother," Tiran announced when the two pairs converged.
"I know," Griffin said, walking towards the door.
"Is there something wrong?" Alexander asked. "Is this about Trinia?"
"Do you know her?" Viera asked Tiran.
"The name's familiar but I can't say I have met her," Tiran admitted. "That's part of the reason we're leaving."
"I can only assume that Queen Ileosa is announcing her husband's killer to the entire city," Griffin explained. "Eodred II had his following even after his death, and now that people know not only his killer but that she is likely in the city, there is only one course of action I can see them taking."
The four step outside in time to see a mob form, torches in hand. Some of the enraged citizens were throwing stones and breaking into buildings, searching for Trinia. Alexander raised his shield to block one stone that nearly hit Tiran as the Carowyn's guards stepped forward to disperse the mob.
"More riots?" Alexander gasped. "Seriously?"
"They're searching for the killer," Viera realized. "And this time, they're not going to stop until they find her."
"And that's why we need to leave," Griffin said. "Let's go!"
Alexander took the lead with Viera following behind the two nobles. Both the warrior and the priestess had their weapons out and Griffin clutched his cane. He had questions, but for now, he knew that he was going to have to wait. As far as he knew, the only way to stop the city from falling apart was to find Trinia Sabor.
When word of the king's assassin reached the Slippery Mermaid, the rowdy patrons thought best to search for Trinia. However, when one burly man bumped into another, he was pushed into a table. Any thoughts of pursuing justice dispelled as a fight broke out with mugs slamming across faces and fists battering against bruised skin.
Takota grunted in pain when a fist struck him across the chest but used his right arm to push his attacker away. His left arm held onto Falenas, who the Shoanti had to throw over his shoulder given how drunk he was. The alchemist wasn't out cold and taunted his attackers in a slur of Common and Elvish insults that did Takota little favors in trying to escape from the situation. The archer was able to avoid a glass thrown at him then charged toward the door.
Now on the night street, Takota continued to run, heading towards Citadel Volshyenek. Around him, he heard people emerge from their homes, ready to find Trinia. Although Takota thought about joining the hunt, his priority was making sure Falenas was safe. They would only start tracking Trinia when they meet with the others tomorrow.
A/N: A bit of a longer chapter for this update, but again, mainly meant to transition from one point to another while providing a chance for characters to interact with each other.
It's funny, but while it was never my intention, I realize that Valentine's Day is coming up. This will probably be the last chapter I post before then as I am going to take a brief look at some other projects, so it might as well be my Valentine's Day writing, even if any romance was brief.
Until next time.