CH 1
The sun was bleached out by the early morning mists. The trees lining the street hadn't quite realized winter was coming yet, but it wouldn't be long before they colored and dropped their leaves. May was keenly aware of the dropping nightly temperatures. Above, noisy geese Flew to their wintering grounds. Soon the court would be following them for the social season. She would not have as glamorous a winter but she looked forward to staying warm at least. A few weeks ago she wasn't sure, but she wouldn't dwell on that. She was enjoying a quiet walk to her new well paid no questions asked job.
"What do you think of my new work?" she asked. The bird chirped from her pocket. She giggled, "He may not be trustworthy, but anything is better than the laundry house."
She refused to acknowledge another option. The bird wiggled out of her pocket and fluttered down the alley.
"Wait," she whispered, giving chase. She scurried down the narrow alley watching every corner and rooftop waiting for someone to leap out. It was early in the morning. The streets lay empty and no one came. She caught up and as she scooped her companion up from a low scrub brush. She stopped catching the familiar scent. It was sorcha.
"I can't and you know why." She tucked the bird into her hood. "We are safe now and there are worse things than being a maid. Now no more funny business or we will be late."
She checked the road before resuming her commute. Her pace quickened but she was never late. She headed down out of the choked streets fenced by stained buildings into a more open quarter. A few more minutes of brisk walking and she turned into a carefully manicured garden and waited for the housekeeper to let her in.
The garden was the best place in the house, though it rarely got used. Two ancient willows filled each corner. Their blue gray boughs bent over in layers forming a curtain in front of the street. Though transitioning to its autumn state a few cornflowers continued to bloom and the little fountain hadn't been shut off yet. Of anywhere in the whole city, she liked it best here. The rest of the house she couldn't say as much.
The door stirred with the jingle of keys. She hopped up. The housekeeper opened the door to collect the milk for the day. She started a bit seeing May but relaxed into an expression of mild irritation. May tugged at her clothing in an attempt for it to lie smooth.
"Early again," she sighed, "Well I guess there is nothing wrong with a good work ethic."
May passed her sheepishly down the stairs into the house. Or more correctly the servants quarters. In a house this size it was not large. The main room held the kitchen; the fireplace burned always as it warmed most of the house. Shelves lined the walls full of all the tools that needed to be hidden from upstairs brooms, mops and the like. To the left was a large pantry with a cellar below, it had been expanded recently. It seemed much larger than was needed, though she didn't really know much about houses. She would have chosen different things to renovate first. The tile floor had seen better days, but was serviceable. It was nicer than where she stayed and if the master hadn't insisted on keeping live-in bodyguards she would get to sleep in one of the cubby sized bedrooms.
"It's probably best you're here now anyways," the housekeeper said in a more sympathetic tone, "guests are coming today."
On the main table which was used for everything, a full set of silver waited to be polished. She took the offered rag and started to rub. The silver barely had a speck of tarnish but the mindless work was not the worst way to begin the day. It let her mind wander without reproach of idleness. But when she looked up from a thought, the housekeeper was watching her.
"Who are the guests?" she asked not entirely feigning interest.
"No one important, some merchants from Richosia. You know the master is from there," she said with a hint of pride. Perhaps housekeeping for a foreigner gave her status above the average merchant's servant, but she was more interested in the other merchants coming to visit.
"Really, They must have traveled a long way. How far is it to Richosia?"
"How should I know? A long way I should think. "
"Do people travel there often?"
"I wouldn't think so. These are the first visitors the Master has had from there and if anyone was to entertain them it would be him. From what the Master has told me it is a dangerous trip few would undertake."
She wasn't inclined to believe her. She probably thought the trip from Oswald to Avon was dangerous. Still everyone she asked about traveling to the north said it wasn't worth her time. "Then why did they take the trip?"
"Why else but business." she paused as a bodyguard emerged from his room.
They watched him carefully as he helped himself to breakfast meant for the Master, but said nothing. He left soon enough to dismiss the night watch. She had learned the hard way to stay out of their way, but now they were familiar enough they left her alone. Once the room was empty again and the conversation resumed. She rarely spoke in the presence of the guards. Their surly presence tended to kill all conversation even for the housekeeper. "So, you said you were a lady's maid before this?"
"Yes, m'am"
"Good, then you will know how to conduct yourself properly. The master has expressed a wish for a certain level of decorum and I will need you to serve luncheon."
She didn't have much practice in decorum, but she wasn't about to expose that, "of course."
"Ideally you would have something better to wear. But let's just say our guests are of the more - rustic - in nature, so your current dress will do."
She looked down at her dress. It was nothing special, but she had spent nearly all of her savings to buy the dove gray fabric. She had spent hours squinting by a candle to complete the shape before she went for this job.
"Don't look so hurt. It is nothing against you or your outfit, But there are certain things done in a fine house. Maids have uniforms and the like. Surely you know that from your previous employers."
"Of course, but there were extenuating circumstances that made things more relaxed."
"Ah, a house falling from grace that explains some things."
If only she knew how far the house had fallen. She didn't have much time to ruminate on it. The housekeeper was bent on impressing these Richosian bumkins by the might of good housekeeping alone. She spent the better part of the morning running from room to room, dusting, beating rugs, dusting again. She washed the porcelain tea set too many times to count and practically had a meal taste testing the housekeeper's cooking. Everything was spotless, shiny and delicious.
She wasn't able to breathe again till the sun had burned off the fog but the chilled breeze remained. Frankly after all the activity the cold felt good on her cheeks and hands as she spread bedding out to air. Surrounded by white linen she took a moment to let her bird out and just look at the sky. It was cloudless like a blue dome above her. It had taken a while to reacclimate to the sun, but she no longer had to avert her eyes from the light. The muddy side yard now full of sheets amplified the light around her. Flapping fabric drowned out the noise in the house. All there was, was light and sky. She felt cocooned and released her guard enough to indulge in humming a tune. It was an old one she hadn't heard since childhood; a happy memory she didn't remember even having. She swayed gently to the rhythm dreaming of that idyllic time.
"Well of all the people to meet, I can't say I'm disappointed it's you."
May whipped around to see the man who had once been a dog amongst the linens, "You."
"Though I can't blame you for feeling different," He held up his hands and backed up a bit.
"You shouldn't be here. We are about to have guests. Leave before I call the guard."
He scratched the back of his head tilting his silly hat low. "The thing is I think we are the guests."
It had to be them. She turned away rubbing her face. They were the Richosians. Any plans she made were dashed, just like most of her plans of late. "This can't be happening," she exhaled.
"Look, I know we didn't make the best of starts, but let's say we start over. Anyway, I'll introduce myself. I'm Branigan William O'keen, but that's too long so just call me Bran."
He offered a hand to shake but she didn't take it. She looked up defiantly, "You left us for dead."
"It would have been worse if you came," he looked down.
"We had no food."
"We didn't take any food."
"You took our porridge pot, how else do you think we feed ourselves in a magically bound tower, Rats?"
"I didn't know," he looked distraught, "did my gift help at least?"
"You gift? Oh your worthless bronze that scared people so much I couldn't trade it for a loaf of bread." She had a moment of regret after all the medallion was still resting in her pocket all this time.
"It was not meant to trade. It is the mark of the Helvetti, mercenaries and warriors. It was meant to scare off any attackers."
That explained why so many refused, but she doubted any medallion would dissuade those that found her. "And so you're the helvetti?"
"No, no we are small change compared to the helvetti, anyways we left the bag of jewels. There was more than enough money to buy a house as grand as this.
It was her turn to be surprised. He seemed so honest. She could be fooled, but what was the point of getting back in her favor? Who knew what a con man's aim was.
"It was right in the exit, you couldn't miss it."
"I never saw it."
"Where is the other woman, the lady?"
"Not here if that matters to you."
Then she looked at his face, he was no con man. He could be read like a book. He thought Alestra had them. That she kept the jewels for herself. Not that it was stealing. They were hers to begin with. They were the thieves.
She sighed, "I won't tell anyone. The past is over." It would gain her nothing.
He cracked a smile "I wasn't worried about that."
Wasn't he? Their infamous behavior would be more than enough for any merchant to lose faith and no longer work with them, or did he presume she wouldn't say something already. Before she could decide he moved so quickly she didn't have time to maintain her distance. "I am grateful for what you did to help me, but whatever you do don't use magic here."
"You don't have to worry about that."
"I am serious," he touched her arm lightly, "If Gewain gets even a hint that you're magic he will try to kill you." They locked eyes and he was serious. His intensity could be read as nothing else. Having said his peace he paused a moment longer then left.
May looked to the bird perched on a clothesline and held out her hand. It landed on her finger and cocked its head. She stroked mottled feathers. "This is just my luck isn't it." she shook her head. She had been out too long already. Those ruffians wouldn't ruin any more of her day, but she forgot about lunch.
Serving them was the last thing she wanted to do. Knowing none of the protocols was incidental. She and Gewain's guests were far too busy not knowing each other and pretending they had not met under very different circumstances six months before. At least Bran's conversation meant they all expected to see each other. It still didn't make the time any more pleasant. She saw only three but she had no doubt the others were tucked away somewhere else. The sitting room wasn't large enough to accommodate all dozen. Besides Bran the leader and the older woman were present and she found out their names were Tam and Ruth respectively.
Every time she caught one of them looking at her, suddenly the blue and gold floral wall papers or the ochre rug became of great interest. She herself was finding the painting of some ancient warrior fascinating. At least Gewain was oblivious of the maid in the corner. He was quite pleased with the whole event.
Gratefully, service ended. She did not want any more guilty looks. Their actions were entirely their choice and they had no idea the pain they had caused. Now they acted like it was all some big mistake. Gewain decided to take them on the town for dinner, whatever that meant. For as long she had been in Oswald she had seen very little of it. In her mind the less she saw the better. As little interest as she had in the city it still meant they would be gone and she wouldn't have to see them again. They wouldn't tour where she stayed.
"Of course you must stay tonight," said the housekeeper, "what if our guests need something."
"I'm sure that's not necessary."
"It absolutely is. A housekeeper never answers calls."
"They won't need my help."
"If you truly want to be a maid, you must learn to accept things you don't like. Honestly, what did they ever do to you."
She could press her no more, "Yes, mam."
"Perfect, I will make up a bed for you where you can hear the bells."
She didn't get much rest on her little cot in the kitchen. All she could do was lay eyes closed trying to sleep. In the rafters she set the bird on watch but it only saw her toss and turn. How much her mood had changed. In the morning she was content or at least could see herself staying where she was and let herself do more than survive. But now these people had brought it all crashing back, she couldn't even sleep now. She wanted to be mad at them. Who were they to have so much power in her life? She had brooded over it so long she couldn't be angry much longer. More than anything she was curious. What brought a foreign force here, and where was the rest of the group even after they returned that night she saw only three. They seemed fine with her but what was their relationship with Gewain? He claimed to be a merchant, but she had never found out what he traded. She probably never would. He was happy to see them but the other way around she wasn't sure. Bran thought him ruthless. She had yet to decide if his judgment was trustworthy.
It concerned her that he had gained the hex he did. Most wizards and other casters had a code. A moral line that leaving a human in another form passed. Either Bran had done something so reprehensible a caster saw the hex as a fit punishment or a caster had little respect for the power they wielded. The latter concerned her more. The hex, though simple was placed with great power to not fade. She had felt that power as she burned the hex away. A callous wizard could bring far more ill than a bad man and she didn't think Bran was bad. She didn't think any of them were. They were selfish and indifferent to others. Maybe they were bad. At least they did bad things but they knew when they had done wrong. Maybe they had no choice, but that was silly when they had an ally as rich as Gewain.
A thud and a curse broke the silence. She lurched upright but refrained from yelling. The darkness still hid her. Sliding out of the bed she took care not to disturb the creaking frame. She crouched and retrieved her satchel hiding her books and prepared to bolt for the door. Then a lamp lit up and delineated three familiar outlines. She let out a frustrated grone. Before she could stifle it, they turned back to see her.
"What are you doing here, you need to get out now," said Tam.
Her eyes were beginning to adjust to the change in light. Not that they looked amazing before but they were especially haggard. Something darkened patches of clothing or maybe it was the light.
"Do you know where our weapons are dear?" asked Ruth.
She edged away towards the guard's room.
"Please, he is after us," said Bran.
She had an inkling of where the weapons might be, but should she help. They recoiled at the sound of many guards above.
"We need to go," said Tam
She knew from Previous late nights at least four guards stood watch outside, tonight more were likely.
"No, follow me. The doors are watched."
She ran to the pantry not waiting to see if they followed and threw open the cellar hatch. The bird dove landing on her shoulder then into her pocket as she ran. They were down the opening before she turned around fully. She jumped in behind them and Tam slammed the door closed. Inside were the many crates dropped off earlier today. Most hid under tarps in the center of the room. They dug through finding their respective items. In the lamplight the polished metal bounced shards of light across the low room.
"I see he took no time unloading the cart," Ruth tuted.
May rapidly regretted her decision to help. Even if they escaped, her job was lost.
"Is there another way out?" Tam asked as he finished Barring the hatch with barrel planks. He turned into the room and took his ax and shield from Bran.
"Yes," She pointed to the opposite side and a set of steps barely illuminated, "It opens to the alley, but I am sure there are others waiting."
"That's not a problem now," said Ruth.
"There was a reason they waited to catch us sleeping," said Bran as he flipped a dagger with practiced ease.
A bang rattled at the pantry entrance. The flimsy barrel slat wouldn't hold on for long. Now she was going to be caught in a dogfight, why had she helped them.
"Ruth, grab the most important valuables and make sure no one gets past me. I will clear the exit. Bran, make sure no one can catch our tails."
They all went into action. Ruth lent Tam protection, getting out with her spear's long reach, then she turned to the pile of goods again. May helped, hoping to find the porridge pot. She spied Bran removing a bottle of brandy from the shelves. Alcohol, at a time like this? Ruth had a bulging sack in no time.
Moments later Tam poked his head down, "It's clear now. Let's go."
She thought of staying here and playing the victim, but the growing intensity of the rattling hatch changed her mind. She followed Ruth up and helped her with the load. As she reached the alley she heard splintering wood then the crash of glass. Bran caught up and closed the door with a heaving chest.
"We have a few minutes," he said
Tam nodded and led the group away from the main street. As they passed the garden, the next thing she knew they were Pinned to the low garden wall by six men. Ruth moved to attack but Tam stopped her. Gewain materialized not far behind the guards. He would look like a mild mannered guild man, slightly pudgy in fine clothes whose graying hair wouldn't lie flat, but his haughty pose exposed a jagged scar across his neck and his smile too calculating to be mild.
"I commend your efforts. It's a shame Geoffry sent you; he has so few men loyal to him above money. Though I suppose I have the same problem with my maid betraying me so easily."
"The witch was wasted on you anyway." said Ruth
She became hot and cold at once. Why had she said that? She avoided anyone knowing her abilities let alone people who killed magic users.
"Is this true? Did I allow a snake into my house." She flinched as Gewain's eyes narrowed on her. "It is. look at her squirm."
He pressed forward pulling a thin blade from his coat. Her chest tightened till she could only take shaky gulps of air. He shoved a guard aside belining for her. She pushed herself back till the wall dug into her. Not a stride past the protective line he stumbled and thrashed. When the struggle was resolved Gewain stood ridgid with Bran's dagger at his neck. Bran looked to Tam.
"I think it is best if your thugs put down their weapons," said Tam.
"Don't think you will bully me." He spat and Bran tightened his grip.
"We wouldn't dream of it, however I think they would be better used stopping your beautiful house from burning." Bran snorted and Tam waved to smoke now pouring out of the windows.
Gewain's face blanched, "Go, do as he says."
"Ah," Ruth said, waiting for them to drop their arms before following close behind the bewildered men "you two have a special job to do, I hope you are strong." She poked her chosen herding them to the cellar.
"This is all your fault nasty witch, you set my house on fire to spite me."
"That would be me actually," said Bran forcing him to the ground as he bound his wrists and feet, "you see fire, as amazing as it is, is not strictly" he yanked the rope tighter, "magical. In this case it was a well placed bottle of booze and a candle."
"You will pay for this."
"No," Tam said calmly, watching frantic men beat at rising flames. "I'm afraid you will. You see, we were your last chance. Geoffry knows you have been skimming more than your share of the funds."
"I would never, could it be someone on your side."
"Your precious house is confirmation of this, but he was willing to overlook your failure." Tam's face darkened as he leaned over Gewain who writhed in the dirt. Her eyes widened. Tam was going to kill him. "But killing others in the storm and going against Geoffry's express orders. How long do you think you can keep your house without shipments? Just hope we are the last people your brother sends to visit."
He stalked away, taking Bran with him. May released her breath and left the pathetic scene of Gewain hogtied and rolling the opposite way of Tam and Bran to the garden. The fire was now mostly extinguished. The poor housekeeper emerged from a smoke filled doorway. The woman's pristine house was lost. She wrung her hands on the verge of tears as she looked at the smoke stained facade. May stood beside her.
"Oh, May," She hugged her and started crying, "What are we going to do? My house is in ruins. It will be months before the Master will need servants again."
May hugged her back. It was a shame she wouldn't work in this house again, at least not for Gewain.
The woman pulled back, wiping her ashstained cheeks. "Society season is coming. My niece works at the palace; she might be able to get us work."
She hadn't worked here three weeks and now she felt ashamed of making fun of the housekeeper's propriety. Her heart was in the right place. She pulled out her kerchief and wiped the woman's crusty face. "The palace sounds like a beautiful place to work."
Her crow's feet wrinkled into a smile, "I'm glad you got out." She straightened herself back into perfect posture, "Well at least we now have an exciting story to tell. Not many can say they escaped a house fire."
She just grinned and nodded and before she could say anything else a cart pulled up. Ruth called out "Get in Girl," she saw May's hesitance, "You can't stay here. Gewain won't be taking a dirt bath forever."
She knew this was true no matter how much she wished to leave them she needed their protection at least till she could get lost in the crowd. Now that she was outed she could never return to the area. She shuffled to the cart.
"May, why are you leaving with these people, what happened to the Master." asked the housekeeper.
"I'm sorry," was all she could manage as she scrambled up the over laden cart.
It was packed with more than its original crates including most of the contents of the cellar not so successfully hidden under tarps. She sat on the now crowded bench next to Ruth and watched the smoke tainted house and weeping willows fall from view. She would never see that house or garden again.
The cart ambled through numerous parts of town to ensure they weren't being followed. Moving inward they left the fine houses of the outer limits and skirting the edges of the squalor district where she rented her tiny room, but there was nothing left there. Too many neighbors had been robbed for her to risk anything, and all her possessions fit in a small bag she always had with her. They passed numerous places she had never seen. Old stone buildings of slate with drooping thatch supported each other. More typical wooden shops had bright figurative signs hanging festively above every door. They rode on close enough to see the bannered peaks of the palace and even the temple spires beyond.
For the most part, the streets were empty and dark. This changed as they finally stopped in an open square just beyond the guild halls. Here the shops still glowed open and people milled in the streets. They pulled off to hitch the cart in a back alley and the smell explained all the late night activity, A beer house, one of the few places open so far past sunset.
Everyone had remained silent on the trip here, too busy watching for Gewain's men. Now confident their trail was lost, she planned to slip away and find a hiding spot away from these chaos bringers. But before she could slink into darkness, Ruth linked arms with her.
"I'm sorry I let that slip, it wasn't my intention to set Gewain off on you," she said, leading her into the tavern with the others.
"It's done now," She tried to pull away.
"Let us make it up to you, we can get you a second dinner if you like."
"It is fine, I should be going."
"We insist, right?" She looked at the others.
"Stay at least till we are sure Gewain's men can't find us." said Tam
"There isn't much else to do right now anyways," Bran smiled.
"Fine," she relented.
Inside glowed in the yellow cast of firelight; it was too humble an establishment to have witchlights. A large number of people filled the open room though most of the customers were far into their cups. It could be trusted that any conversation would be private enough. They chose a circular table in a far corner away from the entrance. A mug from the last occupant sat half full on the sticky table. She scanned the room reflexively before taking a seat. She was not at ease in such a public space and could not rest on more than a few inches of her chair. She hadn't even noticed the silent vigilance of everyone else.
"Well this is a lively group," Bran said.
"I suppose I thank you is in order," said Ruth
"You have helped us once again," said Tam
May flashed, "And you have ruined me again."
"That is not entirely true, you can hardly say the situations we found you in were ideal." said Ruth.
"Whether or not it was ideal, twice you have deprived me of a home and livelihood. Not to mention the danger you have left me in."
"We can find a way to make it up to you," said Bran.
"How?" She asked and his face fell.
"There isn't much we can offer you to wipe out our debt to you." Tam said, "All I can offer is coin and the knowledge we are leaving Sudeland and we will not meet a third time."
At this point knowing they would be gone was enough for her.
"How about this, an eye for an eye. A new job, a new home better than either you had before," said Ruth.
"What," said Tam.
"Excuse us for a moment," said Ruth and they crossed to the opposite corner.
She watched them and saw a few too many taking interest in their group, but for once she didn't think it was her even so she smoothed the braids over her ears and the scarf was still tied in place. The Richosians stuck out as foreigners. More than their clothing it was their weapons that gave them away. They carried them everywhere. Walking around with more than a visible dagger was considered a sign of trouble. People didn't know how to react to these armored and armed strangers. Comparatively she was invisible, but not to everyone. She turned back to Bran watching her.
"If you hate us so much, why did you help us tonight?"
"I don't know, I didn't think you would burn the house down."
"Hey, that was a great plan."
"Really now the whole household lost their jobs, not just me."
"They would have lost them anyway, and now they will never know they worked for a crime boss."
He had a point but that did not mean she agreed with the fire. She pointed to the others, "What do you think of all this?"
"I think you have even worse luck than me, but it has to turn around some time. Maybe coming with us could be the change, and I wouldn't object to having a witch around. It would be cool having someone who can call lighting and shoot fire."
She laughed. He would not be so enthused if he knew the real limits of her powers or what she thought her limits were. She looked for people within ear shot, "I'm not much of a witch actually."
"And what is that?"
"Witches only make potions, wizards cast spells, I was just lucky and got taught both but unluckily am not the most skilled at either. Technically you would call me a mage, but I am not good enough to even call myself that."
"So I was lucky to find you to lift my curse?"
"Any magic user of mild strength could lift it."
"Tam went to many witches who wouldn't, you were the one who did."
Why wouldn't they break the spell then again she only had for fear of her life. She was glad she did though if not she might be dead tonight. She may have shown the way but Bran had stopped Gewain.
"What do you think about all this? I'm not blind to the bad impression we made. Do you even want to come?"
"Honestly I don't have many other options." Working at the palace was out of the question if the housekeeper would even help her now and she wouldn't go back to the laundry. It had taken her months to find someone who would hire a nameless referenceless maid.
"There are always more options than you think. Tonight you saved our lives without a question. Like Tam said, there is money, not a lot, but enough for something. Surely there is something you can do with magics."
"Perhaps," she said. She knew she would have to make a decision soon but it was overwhelming. She just needed a moment off those thoughts. "I'm curious. How did you become a dog? A hex like that is not done lightly."
He brightened at the suggestion and launched into the story. Vague at times and contradictory on others, the story sounded completely made up. He was hiding something, but the dazed look he fought didn't make sense. He was excited to tell the story and every time he restarted it seemed like he knew where he was going. It never reached there. Ruth and Tam returned and knew exactly what was going on and convinced him to give up.
He finished weakly with "All I know was the wizard had green robes and was an ass."
"Bran why do you bother, you always start talking gibberish," said Ruth.
"Maybe one time I won't."
"And it may rot your brain before it does," said Tam.
"I doubt that," said May. She hadn't seen any other spells pulled to the surface but she wasn't the most adept at spotting spells. "If it's a magical effect and it hasn't grown yet it won't change now."
"You think it was magic," said Bran
"You had one hex placed on you, why not another?"
"Could you remove this one?" asked Tam.
"Maybe, but probably not. The only memory altering spell I have heard of completely wipes out the time. You wouldn't even know you had been hexed and certainly not the green robes."
"You don't know."
"No, I lived in a tower in an obscure corner of Sudeland not the Alfast library."
"So, let's stop beating around the bush. Are you coming with us?" asked Ruth
She didn't know what going with them really meant. She wasn't opposed to getting out of Sudeland but what would she be going to. Here at least she knew her options and the journey north would not be without risk. The advantages of Richosia were yet to be seen.
"You said you would find me work, of what nature would be." She was not a warrior like them.
"I have connections you could be a maid again if you wish and for a far better house than Gewain," said Ruth.
"Or you could do magic; people pay a pretty penny for witchlights," said Bran.
"Richosia is a large city. There would be many places for you, but now I think we should let you think for yourself," said Tam as he stood and set a small purse on the table, "This is yours no matter what."
Waiting till they were settled at the bar and back in conversation, she opened the bag. The amount of money was generous. She estimated it to be a year's wages for her. This was less of a deterrent and more of an encouragement to go. To her this was a large sum of gold but Bran had inferred the money wouldn't be much. If they made enough to spare this, maybe they could get her a better job. But if she didn't go, the money gave her plenty of time to find a new position. That is if Gewain doesn't ruin her name before his own is slandered. There was enough money even to move to a new city in Sudeland, but that wouldn't fix her larger problem. Going to Richosia might. The new land could bring its own problems.
She would be going so far away she might never come back. She wouldn't know anyone there, but she didn't really know anyone here. Vague plans of going to Richosia or even farther had tempted her for a long time. That idea remained out of possibility; now confronted with actually taking the journey she didn't know.
Then there were her potential traveling companions. People who plundered towers and targeted by murder plots could hardly be trusted as altruistic. They didn't want to kill her. There had been far too many opportunities for that. Honestly for all her waryness she liked them. It was nice not having to hide one secret or was it craving the familiarity the three shared. If there was anything they wanted her for it was her magic, that was nothing new. They could do nothing but ask.
The night dragged on as she pondered everything. The bulk of the crowds left as she sat. She eyed the room and the only one in her corner was snoring. Cautiously, with her back to everyone she helped the bird out into her cupped hands. Despite her reservations she was going to take up her offer. At least for the journey she would have semi trustworthy people to help her and she could be free of the cloud that followed her hopefully forever. The fey bird nodded its agreement. She tucked it away and returned to the others. Ruth rose almost immediately after suggesting that she had been watching all along. All eyes were on her as they met.
"Well?" asked Bran.
"I guess sign me up."
"I knew you would make the right decision, girl. We should celebrate," said Ruth.
"Really?" said Bran and Tam looked just as surprised.
"Why not we can't leave till the morning anyway."
"You're right. This whole trip has been far too serious."said Tam
"Alright let's go." Said Bran
"Where are we going?"
"It's a surprise obviously." he said
They flowed out of the bar and through the streets. Tam stopped and paid a street urchin to watch their cart. Then made sure they wouldn't take anything by showing off his axes. Bran seemed to know the drill and intimidated the poor waif too. Such a display of force was excessive to her and she hoped the rest of the night wouldn't change her decision. She handed the frightened child all the small coins she had and rubbed his head. It was very generous but she doubted if anything but the gold and silver would be good in another kingdom. From what she understood they had a different currency.
Even late at night there were lots of people out in this sector. The glow from the windows illuminated the street. The group weaved through the streets. Bran with a now expected upbeat attitude, and Tam and Ruth matched it. May thought it was the relief of surviving the night they'd just come through.
She felt like they were running aimlessly about the city. They turned on small streets to large back to small. But she didn't mind, the city was beautiful and shining far from the Oswald she knew. Going around each corner brought new wonders. The smells of outdoor food vendors and their loud hawking calls drew her. Elegant buildings sported multi story carvings and window boxes with exotic flowers and spicy herbs. There also were just so many people everywhere even so late.
She stopped in front of a beautiful store. It was an average make but had multicolored flowers painting its walls and the door frame was heavily carved with more floral motifs, But the sign said it was a candy shop. She hadn't been to one in so long. Bran saw her curiosity and went inside. Entering the room glowed. Glass shelves and crystal bowls held all kinds of goodies. Hard candies, jellies, pastries, tarts, glazed fruits, candied flowers sat in artful arrangements. She couldn't help but smile despite the scowling clerk. They were not usual the clientele of this place.
"What do you want?" asked Bran
"Anything."
They left the candy shop with a pound of candy, a sampling of virtually every type that could fit in the bag. The sweets passed around as they walked around to the next few destinations. She made sure to offer a wobbly jelly to her pocket despite knowing it wouldn't be eaten by the bird. Even with the years that passed old habits die hard. The tour of the town was an odd mix of sites; apparently Tam had been here before several times, the others she was not sure. They saw more conventional sites and some less so. She was shown a pretty garden full of fountains and roses, an unassuming building that held the city's treasury, the King's palace, and the hanging post. He told obscure facts that May wasn't sure how he knew like the merchant guild head always traveled with three sapphires for luck or the guards never patrol the tanner's district. Suddenly she had wished she had come to the city proper before now, but she was too afraid to. Even surrounded by three fighters she looked over her shoulder.
She did relax some as they finished off the candy. Her favorites were the fruit flavors. The bag was empty by the time they stopped at a popular bar, and she had eaten most of them. It was full of laughter and the music of harps and lutes carried over the noise. It was a much larger room than the previous one they had hidden in. It more than rivaled the great hall in Alestra's castle for size, but was less decorative with lower ceilings. Thick post divided the room. It had very little open space; every nook was packed with tables. In the back, a stage rose from the floor. Along with the harp and lute there were dancers. There was a large crowd watching while others were more preoccupied with drink and games. May was transfixed. The performers displayed feats of strength and agility she had never seen before. Backflips and launching each other up to the rafters was done with effortless grace. Like well oiled gears the dance moved like a mock fight. Hands and feet passed inches from the other's face. She could have watched for hours.
"Not that this isn't fun, but we will be leaving the city soon."
"What do you want to do?" said Tam warily.
"Nothing serious, just a little fight Maybe."
"Alright, but as soon as trouble comes around we are bailing."
"What are you planning?" she asked
"Oh, it's a lot of fun, sometimes we even make money. Trust me its great"
"So what's going on?"
"Hmm," he looked Ruth
"No you don't. I am not going to be pulled in one of your schemes again. In fact, I have some things to do before tomorrow. I'm sure May will play along." Ruth left before anyone could object.
Bran looked at May "how is your acting?"
"Acting? Not good at all."
"You'll be fine Tam and I are going to make a scene start fighting, you will collect bets."
"What? Why would you fight?"
"That's where the acting comes in, if it looks like we are actually fighting everyone will bet on Tam, but I'll 'win'." he smiled.
Tam cleared his throat and looked towards a man that had drifted quite close to our party. "Oh, don't mind me. But I couldn't help hearing your plans," Tam put a hand on an ax "no need for that, it's just you'll need more of a story then two drunk men fighting to get your desired outcome."
"Meaning?"
"Meaning this isn't a country inn, brawls happen all the time you need a story to catch their attention."
"So you want a cut?" asked Bran
"Naturally, I think I can hype the crowd better than your timid friend, besides she can play a more important role."
"Why should we play along with you?" she asked
"Because you are out to have a good time, I can promise that."
"How," said Bran
"My mates," he nodded over to a table full of men dressed like him as mason workers, "have been betting already if you two have the talent to match your fighting exterior."
"You would swindle your friends?" said Tam
"Best people to; won't stab you in the back after. I'm Pwyll by the way."
The three of them looked at each other and May was the only one not on board. "What is your master plan?"
"Well everyone likes a good story you need more than size on your side, you" he pointed at May "will be his" he looked at Tam " sister and he will be defending your honor from you."
"but I don't look anything like Tam."
"It's close enough; anyways everyone will root for you but our villain will win and I will split the winnings with you. Sounds good?"
"Why do I have to be a bad guy?" asked Bran.
"So none of my mates bet on the underdog. Give it a few minutes and then we'll start." and Pwyll returned to his unknowing friends.
"So we're robbing him?" asked Bran.
"Of course," said Tam.
"Wait why."
"He is not going to give us a cut."
"He'll use us just like he is using them, might as well make him think twice next time."
"What do you want me to do?" This fun was becoming more and more questionable.
"Just watch him and go along," said Bran.
"But don't go after him on your own," said Tam.
She shook her head. She wasn't going to confront a criminal. She then remembered Bran and Tam were also criminals, but she pushed that out of her mind.
"Are you ready runt?" Tam said standing.
"You know it old man."
"Not my sister you whelp." he shoved Bran rather rougher than she expected
"You think you can stop me" he shouted and she stood genuinely stricken.
Half the Tavern turned to the outburst. Why had she let this happen? There were too many eyes, but it was too late to stop. They growled sizing each other up though they knew exactly what the other was capable of. They shove each other a bit more.
"Eh," yelled the bar keep, "take it outside."
They walked out of the Bar followed by a crowd. May remembered to look out for Pwyll. He was swamped by people as he pointed at her and waved his purse. Then Tam and Bran launched into a fake fight. It was convincing. Pwyll weaved through the crowd making more bets. She saw now why he found the dancers so boring. He and Tam threw perfectly timed hits in sync with the others' perfectly timed flinch. It was a dangerous dance. Tam landed a little too real of a punch. Bran spat blood from a split lip. She backed up. The crowd cheered. They picked up speed throwing random insults at each other. Tam picked up a piece of wood He swung it with complete confidence Bran would doge it. He did, but May gasped as the plank grazed hair breadths from him. The crowd cheered and jostled her forward, tasting the end of the fight. Tam swung a massive blow that unbalanced him. Bran rolled at his feet, tossing him to the ground. He ripped the wood from his hand and bashed over his head, but really it hit the ground just behind his ear. Tam went limp and the 'fight' was over. The crowd fell silent and above the mummers Pwyll called "out alright pay up" She didn't know what to do and just stood there as the group dispersed.
Bran skipped over wiping off some blood and smiling. But it faded when he saw May "you didn't like it?"
"I don't know."
"It's just like the performers on the stage and you liked them."
"Not completely" she watched the blood continue to flow.
"Normally that doesn't happen." he wiped it off with his sleeve "what else is it?"
"I don't like … like being in that many people's attention."
"Oh."
"You are good at fake punches though."
"Aren't we?"
An old woman came up and slapped Bran "you should be ashamed of yourself," she turned to May "and you, have you no care for your brother?" she looked around but Tam was nowhere in sight. She used her cane to beat Bran "how dare you try such things on an innocent girl."
May caught the cane as he braced for the next strike."Please stop"
He hung his head shaking "what did that idiot Pwyll say?"
"How can you defend this man this"
"It's probably not what you think"
"Not what I think, uh, what the world is coming to." she poked May in the chest with each word "I'm no idiot get out while you can."
She thought about taking her advice. They were so different from her, but even if she didn't want to admit it the fight had been exhilarating. She wouldn't even have minded if she didn't need to be anonymous.
Bran caught the cane and took it from her "look, I don't know what you heard but how often are rumors true."
"Then why did her brother object so strongly?"
At this point Tam returned and pitched a purse to Bran. he caught it and handed the woman back her cane. Her face said she understood but wasn't any happier. May smiled apologetically and followed Bran.
Continuing on in the night more questionable activities continued. Bran and Tam decided to have a competition on who could collect the most purses. Bran went first and disappeared in the streets. Waiting for his turn, Tam taught her the basics. He had her pull out her dagger. A gift from her father. It was small under four inches and the blade and handle were one continuous piece of metal. An amethyst was embedded into the crossguard, the most valuable thing she owned. Even the hungriest nights could not convince her to part with it. He taught May how to hide it in her palm without cutting herself.
"I've wondered where you got such a nice piece like that, if you don't mind?"
"It's my inheritance, the nicest thing my family owns. It's enchanted to always be sharp."
"That's handy. Now the best way to get a purse and get away with it is misdirection, look"
Across the street Bran was talking to another man about his age. Shockingly he handed the other man his sword. Then she saw why. Bran began correcting posture and moved his arm away from his side. Now with an opening and an excuse to be close he reacted. In between blinks the unwitting man's purse was gone. Tam explained the finer points of the technique. The streets were too empty to bump and run, so you needed an excuse to touch them. Being late at night the ideal target was someone who was sloshed. She didn't like the idea of it but the practical side of her knew the skill would have helped her in previous months. If she ever fell into a similar state it could save her.
Tam picked the person. A balding man in a maroon and navy tunic. A well off Merchant. He was tottering out of a tavern. The purse wasn't too heavy and its silk strings made it easy to cut. May had reservations about robbing an innocent person, but she figured it would be a useful skill for the lean times to come. Pickpocketing could fill the gap, and Tam told her no one carried more than they plan to spend on a night drinking. She wasn't sure if she believed him, but with Tam backing her she moved forward to her first crime. Tam initiated first.
"Excuse me sir," he turned to us bleary eyed. "We are looking for the Brownies' palace. Could you point us in the right direction?"
"Hump that way, maybe two blocks."
"Thanks," he elbowed me
"Oh thank you we have been walking for hours." She hugged him slipping the knife from her sleeve palming it she pulled away a bit so she could see her target. "I don't know what we would have done." she smiled a big but tight smile and cut the purse. She couldn't quite catch it, but the man was too drunk to notice and continued on his merry way. She snatched it up once he turned the corner.
She held it up to Tam "I got it."
Tam clapped quietly. She felt guilty for her pride, but she was proud nonetheless.
"Well done," she turned to see Bran return.
"My turn?" asked Tam.
"Yep, and you've got some beating to do."
"We'll see," and he went off on his own hunt
"So congratulations, you're now officially a thief."
"Maybe, but how much damage did you do when I got one?"
He opened up his cloak and some ten fifteen bags hung off his belt. "Don't feel bad, I'm sure you would have done the same if you didn't have the giant holding you back."
"Sure." Tam chuckled as he moved off
"Lets see what you got." They walked into the tavern the bald man had left, the Rooks keep. They took a seat at an empty table pushed into a corner and peeked into the bag. A small amount of coins, only one silver the rest copper. a bundle of herbs to calm a stomach, a nub of wax and some papers mixed in the bottom of the purse.
"Aren't you lucky" he pulled something out of the purse "that's valuable and you even have a sample writing for forgeries."
Looking closer she saw it was an official seal. "What should we do with it?"
"Sell it, these two combined would fetch a fair price."
"Who would want them?"
"Well it looks like a merchant guild mark so smugglers, it would be enough for food for a few months."
"Was it a big loss to the guy?"
"What no, he probably will miss the herbs more than that seal. It's a general mark he probably has twenty in his desk."
"If it's so common, who buys them?"
"I would buy it, or you can wait to sell it to Geoffrey yourself. He was looking to expand his reach in Sudeland. That was why Gewain was here."
"You can just have it." she couldn't bring herself to profit off others belongings though she felt the hypocrisy that she had already stolen it.
"That's fine."
"Not really right now I have more money than ever."
"Honestly but shouldn't a witch like you be swimming in funds?"
"Surely you can see why it is difficult to practice magic," It wasn't normal, but it was for her.
"There is more than one way to make money, just think what you could do with those illusions. Think how easy what you just did would be and you have your bird as the perfect lookout."
His keen eyes finding her bird did not surprise her. "It is not fair to use magic that way."
"How many things really are fair, but I'm kinda glad you said that."
She smiled realizing he might have been afraid of her. The thought seemed comical. She was always the one always afraid, but he had been hurt by magic. "I am not like the green wizard. There are codes that should never be broken. It is the first thing taught when you learn magic."
She remembered when her parents together had her swear an oath and she called her magic for the first time. She had yet to learn a spell or potion so it raged in her veins with nowhere to escape. Unused to its searing heat she was frightened. It was like a fire in her. She waited for it to burn her to consume her from the inside out. The magic wouldn't hurt her but her mother told her to remember. Not that she should fear magic, she knew that fear would fade quickly, but to remember what that magic would feel like to others. A hex was not dark magic; there were times when people would willingly transform or submit to tracking. But with the strength needed to make Bran's hex last he knew something of the power of magic.
Tam entered and joined the table. He pulled out his own catch and they started comparing. She looked around the shop as they counted coins. It was a musty place. The walls were coated in ash though only a few lamps barely lit the place. The half-sleeping proprietor scratched a stubbly chin. Most of the customers were solitary. Not a place she would normally be. As she scanned the room one loner made eye contact with her. He grinned, showing a midnight blue sash as he stood. She went ridgid preparing to sprint for the door, but Tam and Bran flanked her deep in an argument. Should she tell them, they might not take her with them anymore. She hadn't looked away from the man and he had crossed half the room. Then he stopped and looked at the sword on Bran's hip and then the ax resting beside Tam. He glared at May and returned to his seat. She released her grip on the table edge.
"I clearly won."
"Just because you have more purses"
"And more money."
"But my targets were harder."
Bran turned to her, "to be honest May won. She got a seal from a merchants guild, out classed us both on the first try."
"I guess I did," she murmured, returning to the conversation, "where is Ruth?" she still watched the man. He hadn't moved and stared her down like a dog watching a squirrel in a tree.
"Your guess is as good as anyone's, she'll show up at the cart by morning." said Tam
"Ok," she said, wanting to be gone.
"She disappears all the time," said Bran.
"We should get some sleep if we are leaving tomorrow," said Tam.
She leapt up as soon as Tam suggested it, throwing back her chair in her haste. They both looked at her. She was too focused on the man.
"Let's go," said Tam but he waited for the others to leave first.
Out on the street she exhaled and the cool air washed away the stress. She still watched the door as they walked away. She didn't see him leave but that didn't mean he wasn't following.
"See an old friend?" Bran asked
"Not exactly."