Chapter 16: Everlasting Loyalty

Edwin's brows furrowed, his gaze locked onto Charmane with a mix of suspicion and intrigue. "A bold statement. But if you think I'll reveal my innermost secrets to you for a mere trinket, you're gravely mistaken."

Charmane's eyes sparkled with amusement as she leaned back, feigning an air of nonchalance. "Ah, Edwin, always so guarded and secretive. But let's entertain the notion, shall we? Humour me with a titbit from that enigmatic mind of yours. Something intriguing, perhaps? A glimpse into the labyrinth of your thoughts."

Edwin's lips curled into a smug smile as he leaned back in his chair, contemplating Charmane's request. "Ah so it is a juicy morsel you desire. Well, if you insist, I shall delve into the realm of discerning tastes. I must admit that I find myself inexplicably drawn to perfect beauties who are unmarred by any trace of intelligence. "

Charmane's eyes widened with a mix of surprise and disbelief, her playful demeanour momentarily faltering. "You jest, Edwin," she uttered, her voice laced with a tinge of uncertainty.

Edwin's grin widened, relishing the effect of his words. "Oh, my dear, do I seem like the kind of man who would settle for anything less? Of course, she should be, at least, bright enough to see that being overly communicative spoils her charm – after all, a marble statue might be beautiful to behold, but one wouldn't really expect it to speak wise words."

Charmane furrowed her brows, "What was I expecting... "

A flicker of irritation flashed across Edwin's features, his eyes narrowing slightly. "How disappointing, Charmane, that you would believe me to be so shallow man. I am not a man solely driven by physical appearances. Even ladies who are less endowed by nature can catch my eye and benefit from my unparalleled talents, provided they challenge my intellect, rather than cause the blood to rush away from my head at first glance.

Charmane leaned forward, her voice laced with sarcasm. "Oh, Edwin, how magnanimous of you to extend your 'unparalleled talents' to those who are not blessed with outward beauty. I am sure they are grateful for your immense generosity."

Edwin's smug expression wavered for a moment, but he quickly regained his composure, "Charmane, my dear, it seems your grasp of sarcasm rivals even your proficiency with a blade. But let us not dwell on the trivialities of my tastes. After all, how could a barbarian understand the intricacies of refined preferences?"

Charmane's eyes narrowed, "You underestimate me yet again. Perhaps my understanding surpasses your assumptions. Or maybe you fear that a woman of both beauty and intelligence would pose too great a challenge for your fragile ego."

A hint of annoyance flashed across Edwin's face, but he swiftly masked it with a mocking smile. "Challenge? Charmane, I assure you, I am quite capable of handling any challenge thrown my way. It is not a matter of fragility, but rather a matter of discernment. Beauty may be captivating, but it is the sharpness of wit that truly stimulates the mind."

Charmane repeated herself, her voice edged with a mix of defiance and curiosity. "And what of a woman who possesses both beauty and intellect? Would she be too daunting for even your unparalleled talents?"

Edwin's eyes narrowed, "Ah, Charmane, your imagination seems to be running wild. A woman who combines such rare qualities would indeed be a sight to behold. However, in my experience, such individuals are as elusive as a fleeting dream. I have yet to encounter one who can truly match my intellect."

Charmane's lips curled into a knowing smile, "Oh, Edwin, your modesty never ceases to amaze me. But perhaps the real challenge lies in your reluctance to let someone close enough to truly test your intellectual prowess."

Edwin rolled his eyes, "I assure you, the intellect of a mere women could hardly rival mine. It is not even worth considering."

Charmane couldn't help but smirk at Edwin's defensive response. "It seems the mighty mage is afraid to let his guard down even for a moment. How unfortunate it must be to live in a fortress of arrogant, self-imposed isolation."

Edwin's jaw tightened, "Isolation is a choice I make willingly, Charmane. I find solace in my own company, free from the distractions and trivialities that seem to entangle others."

Charmane's teasing smile grew wider as she slid the ring forward, closer to Edwin. "Well, Edwin, I must admit that you have entertained me enough. As promised, here's the Ring of Wizardry you desired. May it bring you closer to the depths of knowledge you so ardently pursue. But remember Edwin, knowledge is not always found in dusty old tomes and magical artefacts." her voice dropped to a sultry whisper, "Sometimes, true wisdom comes from... experience."

Edwin's eye narrowed as he caught onto Charmane's insinuation, "Charmane," he began, "you seem to revel in your playful provocations. But do not mistake my interest in the pursuit of knowledge for a lack of er… awareness."

Charmane's laughter filled in the air as she leaned back, her eyes dancing with amusement. "Oh, Edwin, you always have a way of taking things so seriously. Can't you appreciate the subtle art of a jest? It's all in good fun, my dear mage."

She waved her hand dismissively, as if brushing off Edwin's reaction. "But fear not, I won't pry too much into your guarded secrets. After all, it's more entertaining to watch you squirm than to unravel the enigma that is Edwin the mage."

Edwin's irritation deepened. "Your attempts to unnerve me are in vain. I am a master of self-control, unyielding in the face of such trivial distractions."

Charmane smiled. "Edwin, you take yourself far too seriously. But I must admit, your self-control is quite impressive. Perhaps you should loosen up a bit and let life surprise you once in a while."

"Why do I even persist with this inane banter?" Edwin muttered, his pride stung by Charmane's teasing. "Enough," he said. "Let's shift our attention to a more pressing matter. It's time we address the issue of Xan."

Charmane's mirth faded as she recognised the seriousness in Edwin's tone. She nodded. "I have noticed Xan's struggles as well. While his enchantments are formidable, his physical limitations have been… unexpectedly taxing."

Edwin responded, his voice condescending and filled with superiority. "As I aptly pointed out from the get go, the elf does not possess the fortitude nor the capabilities required for our arduous journey. With or without this ring, I shall rain endless barrages of magical missiles upon our foes and weave enchantments that will surpass any need you might have. You have no need for another mage."

Charmane nodded, acknowledging Edwin's point. "You're right, Edwin. Xan's limitations have become evident, and your magical abilities have been a valuable asset to our party. It may be time to consider a different approach, perhaps seeking a healer or a paladin to aid us in our cause would be more appropriate."

Edwin's eyes narrowed, his disdain evident in his voice. "A paladin? Absolutely not. I have no tolerance for those self-righteous fanatics. You have witnessed it first-hand! Their adherence to dogma and their holier-than-thou attitudes are insufferable. I'd rather face a horde of demons than be burdened with a paladin's presence."

Charmane arched an eyebrow. "So, let me get this straight, Edwin. Are you suggesting that if I were to recruit a paladin, you would abandon our party?"

Edwin's face twisted in frustration. "I will leave whenever I please," he replied, then muttered darkly to himself, "The fool does not realise the privilege of my company. She should count herself fortunate that I grace her with my presence at all."

Charmane couldn't resist the opportunity. "Oh, Edwin, dear Edwin," she said with a smirk. "Where else in this vast realm would you stumble upon the golden goose, that you so aptly like to call me? It seems my uncanny talent have become quite the asset to your noble cause. How fortunate you are to have me gracing you with my presence."

Edwin's frustration grew as Charmane's sarcasm continued to play with his patience. He gritted his teeth, determined not to let her words get to him. "You do have a way with words, don't you, my dear? But do not get carried away. Your talents, while occasionally useful, are not irreplaceable."

Charmane's smirk widened as she absorbed Edwin's response. She leaned closer, her voice dripping with playful mockery. "Ah, Edwin, always reminding me of my impermanence in your extraordinary presence. How could I ever forget that I am but a mere monkey compared to your boundless brilliance?"

Edwin's lips curled into a condescending smile. "Indeed, Charmane. It would serve you well to remember your place in this alliance. I tolerate your company for now, but do not mistake it for everlasting loyalty."

Charmane tilted her head, her gaze sharpening with a mix of amusement and challenge. "So, Edwin, what actually would happen if I were to bring a paladin into our midst? Would you vanish into the shadows, leaving me to fend for myself?"

Edwin's expression shifted, his voice evasive as he replied, "Such hypothetical scenarios need not concern us at this moment. Let us focus on the task at hand and refrain from indulging in idle musings."

Charmane's expression softened into a knowing grin as she recognised Edwin's evasion. She decided not to press the matter further, understanding that Edwin's pride wouldn't allow him to admit the true extent of their partnership. "Very well, Edwin. Let us proceed with our mission," she replied, her voice tinged with a hint of satisfaction. "We'll play it by the ear and see where it gets us."

Charmane thought it apt to break the news to Xan once he was fully recovered. Upon hearing her decision, Xan looked resigned but not surprised. Charmane felt a pang of guilt at abandoning the charmingly morose elf. She had somewhat enjoyed his company.

"While my stay with you was admittedly fruitless, it has, at least, been fun. I might even enjoy sharing another ill-fated adventure with you." Xan replied, looking somewhat disappointed. "Should you require the use of my considerable talents, I shall remain at this Inn for a time and do my best to not try at all in your absence. We're all doomed, you know."

There was a genuine touch of warmth in her voice as Charmane replied, "Perhaps, in the future, our paths shall intertwine once again, and I shall have the pleasure of lending my aid to your noble quests. Until that day arrives, I bid you farewell and wish you the utmost fortune on your endeavours. Take care, Xan,"

The party arrived in Beregost later that day. Charmane had previously explored the whole town and picked it clean on her way to Nashkel. Now it was a simple matter of finding this Tranzig, whose name kept popping up in every bounty letter and communications from her would be assassins.

The sun had begun its descent beyond the horizon as Charmane stepped into Feldepost's Inn, a relatively extravagant establishment nestled in the heart of Beregost. The scent of hearth-baked bread and spiced ale wafted through the air, mingling with the lively chatter of patrons. With a keen eye, she surveyed the room, noting the flickering candlelight casting dancing shadows upon the well decorated tables and the well-dressed crowd.

Choosing a vacant stool at the bar, Charmane leaned forward, catching the bartender's attention. She ordered a drink, feigning casualness as she inquired about suspicious individuals. The bartender, a portly man with a grizzled beard, leaned in, his voice hushed.

"Well, there's one fella who's been stirring up some talk," he whispered, his eyes darting around to ensure no one else overheard. "Goes by the name of Tranzig. He's been a guest here for a while now, but lately, folks have noticed his midnight escapades outside of town."

Charmane's curiosity piqued, she leaned closer, her voice barely above a whisper. "Midnight trips, you say? What's he up to?"

The bartender glanced around once more, his voice laden with a mix of intrigue and caution. "No one's sure, but he's been sneaking out of Beregost after dark and returning at dawn. Thinks he's being clever, but word spreads, you know? It's a dangerous time to be traveling alone these days, what with bandit attacks and all."

Deciding to seize the opportunity, Charmane finished her drink and approached the bartender once more. "I appreciate your help. Is there anything else you can tell me about this Tranzig? Maybe where he's staying?"

The bartender hesitated for a moment, weighing his response. "Well, I'm not one to talk about our guests, no siree," he began, as Charmane discreetly slipped a few gold coins across the counter, "But he's upstairs the first room to the right. Can't miss it, really. But I warn you, lass, be careful. He's one o' them mage, ya see. Not one t'be trifled with."

Charmane nodded, "I'll keep that in mind. Thank you for your assistance."

"Are you Tranzig?" Charmane asked boldly as she and her companions walked unceremoniously into a luxurious room upstairs, the door swinging open with a resolute creak.

"Why do ya bother me? Can't ya see that I'm in a hurry to get outta this damn town?" the squirrely man in grey robes snapped irritably, his eyes darting around the room.

"Perhaps you could enlighten us as to why you are in such a hurry," Charmane inquired, her voice laced with a hint of challenge.

"I'm not gonna tell youse guys anything. Git outta my face," Tranzig retorted defiantly, his body tense with nervous energy.

"You won't be rid of us that easily. We are well aware that you're up to no good. Now, I suggest you tell us everything you know," Charmane demanded firmly, taking a step forward.

"Ya think ya know what I'm up to, eh? Well, maybe there's somethin' ya don't know about—my formidable magic skills," Tranzig sneered, attempting to appear intimidating. "Ya might not believe me, but if you ain't outta my face in the next five seconds, I'll blast ya to kingdom come!"

Charmane took a calculated step to the side, revealing Edwin standing behind her, his piercing gaze fixed upon Tranzig. The man's eyes widened as they fell upon Edwin's distinctive red-gold mage robes, and his bravado faltered momentarily. "A-a Red Wizard," he stammered, a hint of fear creeping into his voice. Quickly regaining his composure, he scoffed, "I ain't scared of no Red Wizard! I warned ya! Now you pay the price!"

Charmane was marvelling at how the man had stumbled into the vocation of a mage with such limited intelligence, when a barrage of magic missile flew straight at her. However, the rogue quickly grabbed her necklace and the orbs fizzled into nothingness against an invisible shield. Before she could even step forward, however, the enemy mage doubled over in agonizing pain, struck by Edwin's magic missiles.

"I give up! Please let me live. I'll tell ya anything ya wanna know." the man cried out in fear and desperation.

Charmane sighed in exasperation. "Honestly, if you were this pathetic, you should have surrendered in the first place. Fine, spill your guts." she said, menacingly. "Maybe I'll let you live."

"Okay, okay, I'll talk," the man hastily responded. "I'm a messenger fer a man named Tazok. I just ferry messages between him and a fat priest named Mulahey. I meet with Tazok at either Peldvale or Larswood, east of the Friendly Arm Inn. Tazok pays me good, so I keep my yap shut. Can I go now?"

Charmane's gaze hardened as she pressed for more information. "Where can we find this Tazok?"

"Tazok? You can find him in the Wood of Sharp Teeth. He's the captain of two groups of bandits. Their camp's always movin', so I don't know how much luck you'll have in findin' them. Can I get outta here now?" the man pleaded, a glimmer of hope in his eyes.

Charmane's voice turned cold as she posed a pointed question. "Did you show such mercy to the innocents you robbed?" The mage trembled, realizing the gravity of the situation. "I thought not."

"I'm not gonna go down without a fight!" Tranzig screamed in a desperate attempt to regain control of the situation.

As the lifeless body of the mage lay at their feet, Charmane couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. As she searched the corpse, Edwin spoke up.

"My dear, it is truly remarkable that you're starting to grasp the significance of employing my fearsome person for intimidation." Edwin began, his tone a mixture of approval and smugness, "However, do bear in mind that if we continue to extend our assistance to every dim-witted farmer, and insignificant peasant, my illustrious reputation will be shamefully tarnished, rendering this tactic utterly useless."

Charmane deftly stripped the possessions from the lifeless mage, her fingers lingering on a wizard scroll. She turned to face Edwin, a playful glint in her eyes as she spoke. "Come now, Edwin. A Red Wizard's reputation is forged in the flames of fear, and it matters not how many old ladies he assists in crossing the road. Prejudice is a formidable force, my dear mage, and once instilled, it lingers like a shadow, whispering tales of dread and power."

Edwin persisted, "Be that as it may, engaging in such trivial acts of goodwill will eventually ruin my reputation. People will start viewing me as nothing more than a charitable wizard, incapable of commanding the respect and awe that I truly deserve."

Imoen could not help interject, "Oh, just imagine it, Edwin! Yer a kindly old wizard, helpin' the little ones with their numbers and readin'. 'One fireball plus one fireball equals a mighty big boom!' Ain't that a sight to behold?"

Edwin's face contorted in a mix of annoyance and disbelief. "You insufferable child! My reputation is not meant to be associated with arithmetic lessons for the feeble-minded. I demand the respect and awe befitting an Odesseiron!"

Charmane chuckled, "Fear not, Edwin, our exploits will be of a different nature, ones that will garner us wealth, power, and the admiration of those who truly understand the depths of our abilities. Rest assured, your fearsome reputation shall remain intact."

Imoen winked at Edwin and added, "We'll make sure yer name's feared far and wide, even if ye do help a few folks along the way. A touch of kindness never hurt nobody, right?"

Edwin huffed, "Bah! Let it be known that any act of kindness shall be purely incidental and solely for the purpose of maintaining our advantage. We shall forge our legends with fire and lightning, not with benevolence."