Lake Merrin

by Samuel Colbran

  I grumble over their laughter, “Is that right? Well, I helped to stop the grain bins from being poisoned last night so—”

  Bertude stops laughing abruptly and exclaims, “You what?” Great, I was supposed to keep a lid on the whole thing. Damn it, I am an idiot! “How much grain was poisoned? I ate bread for breakfast this morning!”

  I can see Pela trembling, but before I can say anything a large hand grips my shoulder. “Do not panic, ladies. The Rejects caught the culprits and stopped them from carrying out their plan! Sorry for scaring you.”

  Now I'm in trouble with Stillwater too. She lets go, gives me a warning look, and I watch her walk back to the table. Pela still looks scared. Bertude hugs her waist and pulls her in. “Don't worry, lovely. Stillwater is one of the best. If she said she took care of it, then there is nothing to worry about. So, Solo, you were with them when it happened?”

  I glance over at the group. Death stare from Gunnar and Stillwater is ignoring me. “Yes, I was. It was a bit dicey, but we all pulled through and saved the grain mills. Been up all night, doing reports and other stuff. Now I am going to be in the Adventuring group with the Rejects. Did not realise that Joan had so much of a reputation.”

  “Yes, she does ... I think you need to head back over. She is motioning to you.”

  I look over and there she is, about to yell out to me. Great, I hope I am not going to get in too much trouble for that slip of the tongue.

  As I approach the table, Stillwater says, “I can't believe you, Solo. Ten seconds and you go blurt out what happened. We need to keep this to ourselves until we can talk to Count Darel. This is not just a story to help you chat up some young wisp of a thing!”

  Gunnar grunts in agreement. WayWocket might be drinking the ink.

  “It is not like that at all! One, she is my roommate. I am staying at her place until I am back on my feet, and leaving the Watch means it is going to be a little longer before I can help her out with rent. Two, it slipped out! They were giving me grief, and it just happened. Bertude and Pela are good people, they will not say anything, and the bar is empty right now. It is all good.”

  “Always stepping in it, hey, Halfy?” Yay, a new nickname from Gunnar. Halfy is a little better than white-bred. “I keep telling you that sometimes you need to keep your fat mouth shut!”

  That is it, I am going to give him what for! As I take a huge breath, Stillwater steps in. “I know what you are thinking, Solo, but Gunnar is right. If rumours find their way into the wrong ears then all of this will sum up to naught. Here, fill this in, then sign and I will explain to those two why we need to keep it quiet.”

  Dumb, dumb! Why can I not keep my trap shut? Well, it is what I do well: I talk my way out of everything. Damn it.

  Okay, let us have a look at this paperwork. So, fill in register number; have that. Name, hmm, I should leave it as Lone Solo. Last thing I want is them thinking that I am telling more lies. Well, I am now, but that is what they know me as. Round and round I go. Oh well, nothing I can do now.

  So what is this mission statement? The Charter, blah, blah, innocents. Good, yep, more stuff. Well, it is pretty much just what we discussed at the barracks. At least it does not say we are going to do everything for free.

  “Looks good. What do you think of it, Gunnar? WayWocket?”

  Leaving it hanging, need to mend some of those bridges with Gunnar. He speaks up, “Yeah, it’s like how we try to hold ourselves up in the Watch. Not too charitable for you, Halfy?” I shake my head. Not going to give you anything! “Good then. Being a Charter will mean we are a bit more out in the open. Not a fan, but what are you going to do?”

  “Yes, this is a great beginning. Only needs a little sunlight to secure it into everything,” WayWocket mumbles.

  Stillwater seems to have finished speaking to Bertude and Pela. She comes back and sits down. “So, has everyone signed?” Nodding, like everyone else. “Good, once we do this we are not part of the Watch anymore. We are Adventurers and have to look for work. There will be some adjustment needed, but as long as we stick together, we can be great!”

  Yeah, I am picture perfect for this team. Stillwater gives me a look. “That means you too, Lone!”

  Looking at each one of the members of my new Charter, I wonder if this is the path I should take. We have a madman, a racist, an optimist, and then there is me. What a great bunch of idiots we are! WayWocket's and Stillwater's eyes are lit up like the gaslights outside, and there is Gunnar, just grumbling along.

  “Joan, one question.” She stops her conversation with WayWocket. “Never mind, sorry, lost track of what I wanted to say.”

  Stillwater smiles. “It's okay, Lone, it's going to take some time to be a true team. This will help our last commitment to the Watch—exposing Zlata. We just need to get this report and the evidence into the hands of someone who will listen.”

  “Great plan, boss, except we’re relying on Halfy here to get us into the inner circle!” Gunnar complains.

  Even if he is a dick, he is right. “I agree. Zlata set up this whole 'hero' thing. She created it so she can take it away again. We might have to think of a backup plan to deliver this report.”

  It is pretty apparent that Stillwater did not think of this. “What do you suggest, Lone?”

  “Really, Joan, I have no idea.”

  Gunnar scoffs, “Of course he doesn't!”

  “If you have a good idea, Gunnar, why not tell all of us? Trust me, I am dying to know.” Gunnar looks over at Stillwater, hoping she might have something to add. “Of course,” I continue, “you do not.”

  “I know where this is heading. Quit it, both of you!” Going to rip Gunnar a new one, but Mama Stillwater has to protect him. That prick just smiles at me. “I hear your concerns, but in the end, we have one real option, and that is Solo's award of bravery. Zlata might have used it to tweak my nose, but, by Abyssus, I'll use it!”

  It is excellent to hear Stillwater swear, it is a beautiful thing. “Just have to wait till I hear from the Count. Might go for another ale. Does anyone else want one?”

  Stillwater smiles. “Thanks, Lone. Sounds great.” Gunnar just gives me a quick nod. WayWocket pulls a flask out of his pocket, has a swig, then looks off with dream-like eyes. I guess that is a no from him.

  I walk over to the bar. “Bertude, may I have a jug of your finest ale and three cups please.”

  “That will be a silver slip.” Checking my pockets, I have four silver slips and one hundred and fifty copper bits left. Damn it! I was counting on this Watch job to see me through. Oh well. Hand over two fifty-copper coins, wondering if I could ask for ale money from those two. “So, where are you four headed next?”

  Pour me a cup, taking a sip. “Well, hand in our Charter paperwork then wait for a message from the Count about the ball tonight.” Downing the drink, I stack the cup and pick up the jug. “I cannot believe that they are giving me an award for saving a child.”

  Polishing the bar, Bertude smiles at me and says, “I hear they just hand them out to anyone these days.” I can see the mirth lines around her large round eyes. Damn that Dwarven dry humour! “Just joking! Congratulations on your award. Most would run the other way from a burning building.”

  “Yeah, that is what I should have done, but I acted before I thought. Stupid training, hear the whistle blow, and you go a-running.” I thank her for the ale and move away from the bar.

  While walking back over to the group, I contemplate what I just said. I did just act; there was no forethought. Anyone with my training would have done the same thing! I am nothing special, so how do I get out of this situation? Stillwater is the one who should be getting an award presented by the Count.

  Stillwater taps her finger on the table. “Solo, are you going to pour? You’ve been standing there for the last few minutes. What’s up?”

  Before I reply, I had better pour the drinks. “I have been thinking—” Gunnar nearly breathes in the ale he is drinking so quickly. He coughs
. “—I do not deserve this award. Someone like you should have this thing, Joan. All I did was something anyone with training would have done.”

  “Let me stop you there. I watched you run full-sprint into that burning building yesterday. I didn't even hear that small girl in trouble while I was backing up the crowd. You did a brave thing. Don't belittle it because you think anyone would have done the same thing if the roles were reversed. I can tell you I would have, but only you acted without any thought for your own safety.”

  “Yeah, that's our Halfy, not thinking, like always,” Gunnar chuckles at me.

  “Do not worry. All will be revealed soon. Only the dawn will show us the way. Accompany always. Only death and destruction are the way of the shadows. Yes, that needs a little more blue, not so much red.”

  Now he is talking about yellow. Lean back in my chair and take a little mouthful of my ale. Maybe they are right; well, Stillwater is. Just mellow out, nothing you can do but roll with the punches. You have cold ale, a new Charter who is competent, and your soon-to-be woman Pela.

  Maybe this award will have sort of monetary reward with it too. I could use the slips. This big plan to bring down Zlata, I am not sure if it will work.

  This ale is good. This might be the best ale I have had in weeks. It is so warm, and I am so comfortable. I might just close my eyes for a couple of seconds.

  Chapter Twenty-Six

  Journal Entry Two continued …

  Looking back at that ale, I do think that jug was the best I ever had! It was just bitter enough, but not too much. I remember going back to the Hall over the years and never having such a great pitcher of ale again ...

  Dancing topless women serving me pitchers of ale. Each one steps up and pours the beer into my mouth, drop by drop. There is Pela, just beautiful, gesturing with one finger for me to follow her to a bed. I know what I want to—

  “Solo!”

  Is my world a-rocking?

  “Lone, wake up! The messenger from the Count has arrived.”

  “What? What? I am up.” Looking around the table, there are empty platters of food, and a few jugs as well. Looking over at the wall clock, damn, I have been asleep for nearly three hours. “Why did you let me sleep for so long?”

  “Aww, cause you’re so cute!” Gunnar exclaims sarcastically. “Considering the wounds that you have, I can't believe you were able to stay up for so long. My magic uses the person's own reserves to heal them.” Pushes a plate towards me. “You can eat this after you talk to pretty boy over there.”

  Seeing the plate of food, my stomach sounds like fifty cats in a sack. But there is still a primped-up man to deal with first. Wander over with the plate in my hands. I look him straight in the eye—noble types do not like us peasants doing that. “Yes, you have a message for me?”

  Leaving enough space for him to introduce himself, he looks like he is winding up for a huge speech. I should just shove this food down my throat as soon as I can.

  “I, Esquire Ludwig Killjoy of Briartown, am here to present a message from His Excellency Count Darel Isenhart, Fifteenth Count of Lake Merrin, Lord-Captain of the Duke's Shield, third cousin of Duke Trahern Isenhart III, Guardian of the West, Ferrumborn—”

  Is he going to go into the whole history of Favinonia? Just zone out and eat.

  He is still going. Damn, will he ever shut up?

  “Ahem, Lone Solo.”

  Stillwater elbows me in the ribs and whispers, “Lone!”

  “Ah, yes, sorry. I am hungry. Go on.” He does not look pleased. This lowly squire is giving me the stink eye!

  “Your attendance is requested tonight at the Grand Ball. You will be receiving the honour of being presented the—” I think that is a sneer! “—Iron Medal of Heroism.”

  Good, now we can use this whole medal and party plan. “Is my Charter invited as well?”

  He looks down at the paperwork. “According to this, you are a solo Adventurer; no Charter registered.”

  “Well, you are incorrect. This is my Charter here. Is it not customary for said Iron Medal winner’s party to be in attendance?” I can hear snickering in the background. Assuming it is either Pela or Gunnar.

  “I will need to confirm your Charter’s registration paperwork.”

  As he wanders over to Royce, I turn to my gang, grinning. “I love doing that to the priggish upper crust. What do we do if he says no?”

  Shrugs from WayWocket and Gunnar. “Well, you will have to talk to the Count alone. No other option, but judging by his expression right now, I think we are all good.”

  He looks a little steamed under the collar as he walks back over. “After reviewing the paperwork, I wish to extend an additional invitation to you three gentlemen—” A growl comes from Stillwater’s lips. “—to the Grand Ball.”

  He turns back to me and hands over three pages of documents. “The Count, in all his kindness, would like to supply you with garments and any other necessities you require for the upcoming ball. On the first sheet is your invitation. Make sure you are there by four o'clock; the second is a letter of credit to a fantastic tailor, and third is for a most reputable bathhouse.”

  I skimmed the letters of credit. It only accounts for myself, not the others. “Excuse me, esquire, this credit seems quite small for the four of us.”

  He looks at me and gives a tight smile. “Well, His Excellency was not properly informed about your party situation, so, unfortunately, you will need to make do with the monetary credit amount as it stands. Good day, gentlemen.”

  As he walks off, could I throw my cup at the back of his head? No, the ale is too good to waste.

  “We have one thousand slips. I was hoping to get more out of him. I cannot believe that this was only going to be for me.” Looking at the clock. “We have eight hours before we have to be there. Does anyone know where this overpriced tailor is?”

  “Let me have a look. Hmm, just off Coin Street ... I know him, helped him regarding a robbery.” Stillwater continues, “His name is Javier. He runs the shop with his seamstress wife Lien. Gunnar, you will need to be on your best behaviour, as they are of Elven blood.”

  “Yes, boss.”

  If I really cared, I would ask Gunnar exactly why he hates those of Elven descent. “Are we heading down there now, then off to the bathhouse?”

  Wonder what a rich man's bathhouse is like. I doubt that either Stillwater or the Count will allow me to indulge.

  “Hopefully I can get a discount with Javier.”

  I hope so too, Stillwater, but what would I have worn with all those slips to spend? I could buy nearly ten outfits with that sort of cash, or some new weapons and armour. Damn it, I could pay off Pela with that money.

  “It’s just a few streets over so shouldn't take that long to walk there.” Stillwater motions at us. “Everyone will need to be on their best behaviour.”

  Walking down the road, I muse, “I wonder if the cloth is softer than commoner clothes. I have heard some are made from Havanti silk or delicate wool from the highlands of the Northern Electorate. You would not believe what I wore at the orphanage. It was a little better than a sack, but it kept you warm, and we did have pants and warm shoes too. It was not all bad.”

  “Will you shut up, Halfy! Your prattle is grating my ears. Havanti silk, ha! You might be given a suit made of common cotton, and you should be happy with that. In the Trinity's name, who cares?”

  Thank you so much, Gunnar. I can dream. Better to be the bigger man—not hard considering he is a Dwarf. I chuckle aloud at that. “You are right, Gunnar. Just nervous. Joan, have you been to one of these dos before?”

  As we turn up Coin Street, I am so tired I really do not even care what the name of the streets are! “No, never been invited. Not my thing anyway. Have you?”

  Gunnar cuts me off before I can answer. “Yeah, in my youth. My father used to hold several a year to keep up appearances. Not a fan, but us going at four means that we will be the first in there.”

  Gun
nar has gone to noble parties? Who is this guy? “What do you mean by 'we will be the first in'?”

  “We’re not rich or noble or anything of note. We are just there because of you getting that medal,” Gunnar says, exasperated.

  So here is his tailor shop, Cuffed Shirt—interesting. Stillwater chimes in, “Will the Count be there, greeting the guests?”

  “Yeah, but he won't have time for us when there are more important people behind us. The Herald will announce us, and then we’ll move in. Might get a nod from the Count, until the Duke enters. He wouldn't even rise from his seat.”

  Wow, never knew, or cared, that Gunnar had knowledge of this sort of thing. Maybe I should listen to him until tomorrow. I feel unclean just walking into this place. Ooo, lovely seamstresses. At least I have something to look at. Damn, is that the price? Twenty-five hundred slips? That one is even more! Might not find something here for the four of us.

  “Ahem. Can I … help you?” I'm guessing that this is Javier.

  See, Saul, this is how you work a moustache! Grand and styled perfectly to suit his handsome face. Pity that stuck up Gnome is not here.

  “Javier, hello! Joan Stillwater, remember?”

  “Ah, my lady Joan.” Say what? Some crazy something. She giggles, great! “Ah, I see you have the same dubious group around you! What can we do for you today?”

  “You are so sweet, Javier. Careful, your wife might take your precious stones if you are not too careful.”

  A woman approaches. I am guessing she is Javier’s wife. Wow, I thought those young lasses were nice, but they have got nothing over this woman.

  “I know my Javier. He is such a sweet talker, but if he ever does anything—!”

  “You wound me, my beloved! I only have eyes for you.” The two women laugh knowingly together while Javier wears a melodramatic, pained expression that makes his moustache droop. This must be an inside joke.

  “We have a bit of a problem we were hoping you could help us with, Javier. Lone here is being awarded the Iron Medal of Heroism tonight and has been directed to your shop by Count Darel.” Javier’s eyes widen, and he looks at me. Why do I think he is too surprised at that? “But as he is now in our newly-formed Charter, we three are also going. But unfortunately, we have nothing appropriate to wear! Would you be able to help us out?”