No Place Like Amestraton

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No Place Like Amestraton

A Ballad of the Northlands

Chris Mitchell

Copyright 2011 Chris Mitchell

Cover Art by Chris Mitchell

Smashwords Edition

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In the highly unlikely case that the source from which you obtained this e-book did not inform you, this e-book is a work of fiction. All characters, places, and events within are entirely fictitious, and any similarities to real places, events, or persons (living or dead) are purely coincidental.

Smashwords Edition License Notes:

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Table of Contents:

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

* * * * *

Chapter 1

* * * * *

Walking into the tavern, Mary was grateful for the luxury of being able to get away tonight. Her father, while never getting angry, would be irritated if he knew she had gone out. Of course, she’d practically have to shout it into his face in order for him to notice that she was gone, so she wasn’t worried. For tonight, at least, Mary had the evening to do what she wanted.

She took a seat at a table, grunting as she did so. She still had a minor cramp in her back from cleaning the floors today. Mary still disliked the sensation, no matter how many times she had felt it. Fortunately, she could count the months until she no longer had to do that sort of work. It mainly depended on Henry, but she knew he was reliable.

At least, she thought he was, even though he was slightly late tonight. Mary shook her head, slightly annoyed. He ought to know better than anyone that she didn’t get the opportunity to see him very often, so Henry should have been here by now. But he hadn’t been at his house, and he showed no sign of appearing here. Still, she could wait on him...if nothing else, being a maid had taught her the value of patience.

Waiting on Henry? said a familiar voice. Mary looked up to see the bartender had come over to her table.

Of course, Mary told Thomas. She knew he considered it good business practice to converse with his customers. Whether or not that was true, Mary couldn’t say for certain. She’d only been to a few taverns other than the Three Brothers, and she didn’t really remember all that much about them.

Let me guess, you’d rather not be gabbing with me, Thomas chuckled, and Mary gave him a annoyed look, even though she was inwardly amused as well. So then, can I get you your usual drink?

Yes, thank you, Mary replied, and Thomas hurried off. Sighing, she settled in to wait. With luck, Henry would be here soon.

* * * * *

Henry slid into the chair smoothly, noticing Mary was paying him no attention. It was typical for her to be lost in thought, so he wasn’t too surprised. Briefly, he considered attempting to startle her, but such jokes really weren’t to his liking.

Hello, he said. Mary looked over suddenly, clearly startled anyway.

What...how long have you been sitting there? she blurted out, face flushed.

Henry shook his head, amused that Mary never changed. Just got here, he explained, leaning back and studying her. He noted she had tied her hair back into a horsetail again. While she normally wore it that way, she had taken out the ribbons when the last time she snuck out to meet him.

So where were you? Mary asked, visibly relaxing.

Trying to find a job, Henry sighed, not exactly happy with the way things were going, I haven’t found one.

None at all? Mary sounded confused, Not since we last met? Henry just shook his head, not really able to answer for his seeming inability over the past four days. If it was his fault, he’d have known it, but the incoming winter, as usual, meant mercenaries had problems finding work. Even for someone of his abilities, opportunities were scarce, which annoyed him.

You know, you could take the guard job I told you about, Mary frowned, I think he raised the pay, due to not finding anyone.

I told you, I don’t like taking jobs from the councilmen, Henry grumbled. Admittedly, he was starting to run out of possible work options, and he needed the worthings. Still, he knew from firsthand experience that the councilmen were known for cheating mercenaries. After that one time playing escort to Leroikin’s son, Henry was wary about any jobs any of the councilmen offered.

You won’t be cheated, you know, Mary spoke up, guessing his thoughts perfectly, Ro...Williamkin’s not the type to do that.

Henry raised an eyebrow at her referring to Williamkin formally. While he was her master, she had almost always talked about him in a more informal manner. Briefly, he wondered why Mary was doing that now of all times. Ultimately, it was probably best that he didn’t bring the issue into the conversation. Henry had more immediate concerns to deal with than Mary‘s manners.

Can you guarantee that? he asked calmly.

Of course, she replied instantly.

Henry sighed, not liking his options here. But he knew he couldn’t afford to be choosy, not when the goal he and Mary had been looking forward to was drawing closer. If he refused, it could set the plan back by as much as a month. Henry doubted he could afford that, and Mary would likely object too.

I’ll consider it, he told her. Mary nodded, looking slightly smug. Henry didn’t begrudge her that. After all, he corrected her often enough that he’d be surprised to find that she didn’t enjoy proving him wrong now and then.

* * * * *

Mary had to admit she didn’t particularly want Henry to take this job. Not being able to see him, even for a few more days than normal, would be hard enough. It was no consolation that she likely would have trouble finding opportunities to meet him herself, given what else was going on.

Mary? Henry spoke up loudly.

What? Mary looked up, and saw Thomas standing next to Henry, both giving her odd looks. She shook her head, realizing she’d become so lost in though she hadn’t paid attention. Sorry, she said quietly, What is it?

You weren’t listening to me? Bad business, that, Thomas sighed, So, what would you like to eat? Mary couldn’t blame the older man for hating to repeat himself. It was entirely her fault for not listening.

Roast mutton, Mary told him.

I’ll have chicken, Henry said. Mary glanced at him irritably, annoyed that he had waited until she made her decision before telling Thomas what dish he wanted.

Alright, they’ll be ready soon, Thomas nodded, and headed back towards the kitchen.

You know, you could have told him about your food first, Mary grumbled.

True, Henry replied, smiling slightly, But I like the chicken, and wanted to see if you were going to try it this time.

Liar, Mary teased, You just don’t want to be caught eating the same thing as me.

Not really, Henry shook his head.

Fine then, Mary crossed her arms, Let’s make a wager.

A wager? Henry looked back at her, slightly surprised.

If you ever order the same thing I do, Mary explained, You’ll owe me...five worthings.

Henry paused, obviously considering this. Alright, he said, I’ll take that bet.

You’ll regret it, Mary chuckled. She definitely would enjoy winning the bet, although she doubted it would be that simple. Henry was clever enough not to be deceived by most forms of trickery, and they both knew it.

* * * * *

Henry swallowed a bite of the chicken, enjoying the flavor, and then took a drink. Definitely better than the dried meat and fruit he had to eat at home. He wasn’t about to complain about it. It was one of the reasons he had ended up meeting Mary to begin with.

While it was nice to reminisce, there were more important things to deal with. So, what’s been happening at Williamkin’s house? Henry asked, setting his mug down.

Mary sighed and looked down. Henry got the impression that something had occurred that Mary didn’t want to discuss. While he wished there were some other way to get this information without bothering Mary, he unfortunately had no choice.

Nothing new, really, Mary finally said, Sarah’s fallen ill, and the doctor will come by in a few days, but other than that...nothing.

The illness is serious? Henry frowned, considering the thought. Mary wasn’t about to lie to him about this, and she clearly had to be worried about something, so this probably was the issue.

She spends a lot of time in bed, Mary explained, Also, she coughs a lot.

Henry shrugged. He wasn’t the greatest expert in diseases, although he knew more than most about keeping healthy. The doctor would probably figure out the truth and give her medicine, and it would work out. It probably wouldn’t make Mary feel any better about it. Henry wished he could comfort her, but this was not the place for that.

I’m worrying too much, aren’t I? Mary’s smile was obviously forced.

Perhaps, Henry looked her in the eye, "But whatever happens, will happen...right?

Mary chuckled roughly at her own words turned back on her. At least she was feeling better, Henry noted. He’d never been particularly good at humor, but then again, most people weren’t.

* * * * *

Leaving the tavern, Mary felt a chill from the wind. She really ought to have worn a coat over her faded dress, but she had been in a hurry to get out of Williamkin’s house. It wasn’t so cold yet that she couldn’t handle the chill, but with winter soon approaching, she needed to not make that mistake again. Shivering, Mary quickened her pace.

Henry matched her pace, staying beside her. Despite his slightly shorter stature, he showed no signs of being fatigued in the least. Knowing that he kept himself in fairly good physical condition, Mary had to admit, even now, Henry still impressed her. It made it more likely he’d get the job with the traders’ guild.

Again, she noted she would miss being able to get out and talk to Henry, even if this was only for a few days. Mary could live with that; she’d handled it most of her life. As long as she knew that it brought the day closer when she wouldn’t have to deal with being a maid, it was acceptable.

Looking up at the darkening sky, Mary hoped nothing would go wrong. She and Henry had put far too much effort into this for it to fail now. One way or the other, when this was settled, Mary intended be able to live her life the way she wanted. As blasphemous as it might sound, she swore to herself, not even the Three Saints would be able to stop them.

Where are you going? Mary heard Henry asking. Turning, she realized she’d taken a wrong turn and started heading down the wrong street. Mentally cursing herself for being so absent-minded, she turned and ran back to Henry.

* * * * *

Arriving at his house, Henry marveled that it held an attraction to Mary. Given the conditions she lived and worked in, it was still a surprise that she said she enjoyed the place. Of course, it probably had more to do with the fact that he was there, while Councilman Williamkin and her father were not.

Alright then, Mary said, looking reluctantly at Henry, Good luck with the job. I’ll see you in a few days.

Henry looked up and down the deserted street, confirming that no one was out. It figured that most people couldn’t be bothered to tough out the cold and be out and about. Still, that offered an opportunity to Henry, one he intended to put to good use.

Moving over, he embraced Mary tightly. She tensed up, startled, before relaxing and returning the gesture. It wasn’t often that she felt comfortable enough to do this, so Henry knew he had to take advantage of it when he could get away with it. Which, unfortunately, wasn’t very often.

Keep safe, Mary sighed, letting go.

I will, Henry nodded. She headed off, walking along briskly down the cold road. Henry wasn’t worried about Mary getting home safely. She knew the route home, and she knew to avoid stirring up trouble. It was more than most people understood, but of course, most people were not nearly as intelligent compared to Henry or Mary.

He headed inside, deciding to take a look through his accounts. After all, he’d been the one to pay for the food, so he had to make a note of that. Once that was done, Henry could just get some sleep. He’d probably need it for tomorrow.

* * * * *

Mary crept back into the kitchen through the side door, not making a sound. It was slightly possible her father had already fallen asleep. He occasionally tended to do so earlier on some days. Perhaps he was feeling his age, a sobering thought that bothered Mary slightly. However, it also made her more determined. It just meant that the sooner Henry got the worthings for the plan, the better off they would be.

Heading out of the kitchen, Mary noticed how silent the house was. Most likely Robert and Michael had not returned from going out to some tavern. Mary didn't remember exactly what the name of the tavern was, except that it was most certainly not the Three Brothers. She’d have recognized them if they’d been there.

Since Sarah was probably still sleeping, that left only her father. To be honest, Mary doubted he’d be asleep this early, not when Robert could return. He was determined, almost stubbornly so, to be as reliable a butler as possible. He would be there; Mary was certain of it.

Her certainty waned as she entered the front hall, to find no sign of him. Could he, Mary asked herself, really have gone to sleep? It would be a little disturbing, but for now, she couldn’t do anything about it. She might as well wait in the front hall, in case she had to handle their return. It wasn’t as if she hadn’t done it before, but the last time she had, her father had been ill himself. Mary hoped that wasn’t the case again.

* * * * *

Henry opened his eyes, irritated that he couldn’t bring himself to fall asleep again. Normally he had no problems with that, but recently he had found himself more restless. It was probably the lack of work, resulting in him having more energy than normal. If that was the case, perhaps he ought to consider doing some stretches in order to exercise out the excess stamina.

Of course, Henry knew that could also work him up more, making it less likely he would fall asleep. He sighed and shifted on the bed, admitting defeat. He’d just have wait for sleep to come, and hope it didn’t take too long. If he was too exhausted tomorrow, there was a chance, however slight, that he would not get the job.

If that happened, he wasn’t certain what he would tell Mary. She had been particularly insistent that he get this job for some reason, even though there was clearly a risk that their relationship might be found out. Personally, Henry was ambivalent about such an occurrence, but he knew that Mary dreaded that possibility.

Which brought him back to the need to get some sleep. Henry sighed and closed his eyes again, trying to will himself to slumber, despite his body disagreeing. He would have bet good worthings that this was going to be a long night.

* * * * *

Stifling a yawn, Mary looked up as Robert opened the doorway. He and Michael walked in, and began taking off their thick coats. Briefly wondering why they were so late to return, she moved forward to help them, feeling the chill air that had come in with them.

Where’s Patrick? Robert asked, looking around the front hall.

I think he went to bed, Master Williamkin, Mary explained, taking the coats and hanging them on a nearby rack. She still didn’t know if that was really the truth, but it was the most likely possibility, given the circumstances.

Robert scowled, but said nothing. Mary knew he was less than happy than being treated so formally, but she wasn‘t going to stop. She had settled on ensuring her father was kept satisfied, at least for now. Mary was determined that, should her father ask about it, he would not be upset with her. Until Henry had enough money, that would keep him happy.

Robert headed up the stairs, leaving Michael standing there. Mary was startled to see a decidedly unhappy expression on his face as he looked up at his departing father. After a moment, he too went upstairs.

Clearly there was something bad going on, but it wasn’t likely to affect her. It was probably just yet another argument between Robert and Michael anyway. Their interests were different, despite the two being equally stubborn, at least in her view.

For now though, Mary decided, it was time for her to go get some sleep herself. It beat standing around in the slightly chilly front hall, and there wasn’t much anything she could do tonight. Tomorrow, she reminded herself, she ought to check those coats and see if they needed to be washed. Mary shook her head, and left the front hall, heading for her own little room.

* * * * *

Henry walked out of his house, chewing on a piece of dried meat. His main priority, at the moment, was to go to the traders’ guild and inquire about the job. The caravan was leaving in the next few days, from what he understood, so he couldn’t waste any time.

He started out when he heard a sound behind him. Henry turned to see a young boy wearing ragged clothing standing there.

Excuse me, the boy said.

What is it? Henry asked, not entirely happy about the interruption.

Charlen sent me to tell you that he knows of a possible job, the boy spoke hurriedly, He wants you to talk to him in the next few days if you’re interested.

Henry sighed, knowing that Charlen would likely be unhappy if he declined. On the other hand, most of the previous jobs he’d gotten word of from the shopkeep tended to be low paying affairs. Compared to the two hundred or more worthings he stood to get from the job Mary had suggested, he doubted this one, would work out.

Tell him I’m pursuing another opportunity right now, Henry told the boy, If this doesn’t work, I will speak to him.

The boy nodded and hurried off. Henry had to admit he ought to be grateful that Charlen was going so far to hire a messenger boy to tell him of this, but the delay was an irritation. Not that he was so tactless that he would bring the matter up the next time they spoke. Besides, Charlen was no fool. The shopkeep figure out what likely had occurred anyway.

For now, Henry needed to get to the traders’ guild. He could worry about other problems when this was settled.

* * * * *

Mary brought the tea and freshly-cooked flatcakes into the dining hall, still slightly tired despite sleeping quite soundly. Her father had apparently woken up before her, and she hadn’t been able to get a straight answer from him about where he had been. It wasn’t important right now, Mary told herself. She’d probably figure it out eventually.

Robert, Sarah, and Michael all sat at their usual places around the long table, waiting. Although she looked pale, it was good to see Sarah awake. Hopefully this meant her illness was on the mend. Mary didn’t want to think about what might happen if that wasn’t the case. She didn’t want a repeat of past events to happen again.

Serving each of them in turn, Mary quickly moved around the table. She’d had more than enough practice at this to be able to do it smoothly and efficiently. While it was hardly the most practical skill, Mary knew it was critical to who she was.

Thank you, Mary, Sarah said as Mary as stepped around her chair. She simply nodded at the older woman, enjoying the acknowledgement. It was one of the few things that provided satisfaction to Mary, and she took it whenever she could get it.

With a nod, Mary took the empty trays and exited the room, going to go eat herself. Her father was probably waiting for her in the kitchen, assuming he hadn’t already helped himself to the remaining flatcakes. He was prone to do that, Mary thought as she chuckled to herself, walking down the hall.

* * * * *

Henry hadn’t been in the traders’ guild in several years, but it hadn’t really changed that much from what he remembered. The only difference seemed to be more guards standing around the columned entry hall, vigilant. He guessed the increased protection was due to that gang of thieves from roughly six months ago, but he couldn’t be certain.

Either way, he didn’t particularly like the idea of so many guards. Two or three was sufficient for a building of the guild‘s size. Any more just told anyone with common sense that they were paranoid about safety. It also didn’t match up with what he had learned about Councilman Williamkin from Mary. It seemed that Williamkin was more of a fool than he had supposed.

Hearing a commotion, Henry looked over at the desk of the guild clerk. In front of it was a man well dressed in green finery, arguing with, of all things, a dwarf. Dwarves being a very rare sight in Amestraton, Henry was a little surprised to see one here. Although he knew from Mary some of them traded with the city, he had been under the impression they almost never left their homes in the mountain valleys to the north.

It didn’t matter, as his business wasn’t with the dwarves anyway. He just had to get this job, which was accompanying a caravan to some place called Pordrin. Considering Henry had never really heard of it before, it couldn’t be much more than a village at largest. Otherwise, he’d have known about Pordrin before Mary had brought the job to his attention.

Moving closer, Henry heard what the two were saying. Considering that they were between him and the clerk, he might as well listen in. Perhaps he could learn something about the dwarves by doing so.

I told you, lad, the winter weather is due soon,, the dwarf glared at the man, I’m not going to take any chances with it.

Do I need to repeat myself? the man sighed, shaking his head, You ought to know Williamkin well enough to understand his insistence on this matter.

Bah, you’re just scared if you think it’s such a big problem that we need to wait on one more, the dwarf grumbled, You know I’m helping to keep things running.

I know, the man said, However, this isn’t going to make him change his mind. I’m not putting my job on the line, even if it was safe.

Bah, the dwarf repeated, tugging on his brown beard, I’ll be talking to Robert about this. The dwarf walked past Henry towards the guild doors, a scowl still on his face. The man sighed, and turned to head up the stairs.

While most people might have been offended by being ignored like Henry had been, he didn’t mind. Being a mercenary of his background, there were quite a few people who were willing to dismiss him. Foolishness, of course, but then again some people just couldn’t prevent themselves from acting in such a manner.

He stepped forward to see the clerk, who looked quite irritated. I’m here regarding the job of escorting the caravan to Pordrin, Henry wasn’t about to waste time getting to the point.

I’ll go talk to the caravan leader, the clerk said, relaxing visibly, For now, could you please wait here?

Henry nodded, and the clerk rose and went up the stairs. It was looking like this might work out, which left him quite pleased. He was quite confident he’d get the job, given his skills. After all, Henry thought, why would they hesitate to hire one of the finest mercenaries in Amestraton?

* * * * *

Glancing over at the timepiece, Mary concluded that she was bored. Standing in the parlor watching Robert sit and instruct Michael on various affairs of the guild was not exactly enjoyable, although she supposed it was better than cleaning. While she didn’t mind standing idly, Robert was hardly the best at teaching. He had an unfortunate tendency to talk in a very distant manner.

Now remember, everyone is willing to do or buy anything...for the right price, Robert spoke steadily, As merchants, our job is calculate and understand what that price is, and determine if it is worth it to pursue it.

Despite the fact that he was gazing directly at Michael, Mary could tell Robert wasn’t actually paying attention to his son’s behavior. Michael’s boredom was obvious, from the way he periodically shifted around in his padded chair. Mary knew he what he would prefer to be doing, but it wasn’t like she could help Michael.

Excuse me, Master Williamkin, her father spoke from the doorway, Yamras is here to see you.

Robert sighed, looking unhappy, Show him in. Mary’s father nodded, and departed the room. Mary had to wonder why Yamras had come here today. She had figured the dwarf would have been preparing for his own caravan to depart.

Less than a minute later, her father led Yamras into the room. The dwarf, dressed in his usual thick cotton clothes with a leather vest over them, looked definitely upset. While he was the type to complain, from what Mary had seen of Yamras before, she somehow felt this might be a more serious affair.

We need to talk, Yamras grumbled, You know, about the caravan.

Right then, Robert said politely, Let’s discuss this matter in my study, then. You come too, Michael. He stood up, and without even waiting for the dwarf’s response, walked swiftly out of the room. Yamras followed, stomping heavily on the wooden floor.

Mary exchanged glances with Michael, who looked just as confused as she felt as he left the room too. She suspected Michael’s presence in the study wasn’t needed, but Robert wanted to make some sort of point to him anyway.

You could be cleaning, you know, her father pointed out from the doorway. Mary was mildly startled, having forgotten about him.

Alright, she said reluctantly. Her father nodded, then turned and left the parlor. Slowly, Mary walked over to the open door. She’d probably want to go look at those coats first, as laundry was fairly easy work.

* * * * *

Henry was a bit irritated about being made to wait so long in the empty room. Sitting at the long table, it was clear that the traders’ guild considered him of lesser importance than other issues. It was a minor error on their part, and Henry had seen people make far worse mistakes in dealing with him. Still, he would have preferred to have this business done with as soon as possible.

Finally, a man entered the room and took a seat across the table from him. Henry was admittedly astonished to see it had been the same man who had been arguing with the dwarf before. That likely meant...that Pordrin was a dwarven settlement. This job was starting to look bad, given that there seemed to be some sort of disagreement over the affair.

For a second he considered reprimanding Mary for not telling him this, but Henry knew better. She had most likely assumed he would know such a thing, and rightly so. Any errors here were, for once, entirely his fault. He’d have to keep that in mind for any future dealings.

My apologies, the man began, I’m Christopher, and I’m in charge of the caravan to Pordrin Valley. You were looking for the guard job?

Correct, Henry said, I’m Henry Tylaris. Mentally, he noted the addition of the word valley, as that implied it was among the mountains to the north. Unless it lay particularly close within the foothills of the Greyspan, this would be a longer trip than he had originally anticipated.

While normally I’d want to question you further, the man explained, I am in a hurry. So let me just ask you this. Have you ever fought orcs before?

Yes, Henry answered. He didn’t expect to see the grey-skinned brutes, so he had to wonder why this question came up.

Alright then, the man said, Now, could you come with me so we can fill out the papers?

Of course, Henry nodded as he rose from one of the chairs. This was turning out to be even easier then he had anticipated.

* * * * *

Mary inspected the fur coat, satisfied it didn’t need to be cleaned. Anything that lessened the work she had to do was a good thing by her views. It wasn’t as if she had expected to find any actual stains anyway. Neither Robert nor Michael were the clumsy sort. In fact, if anyone in this house was likely to make such a mess, it was probably Mary herself.

Well, that task was done, so she ought to find something else to do. It was tempting to go just relax for part of the afternoon before she had to go start preparing dinner. Mary looked around the front hall, noting her father, oddly enough, was not here. That meant it actually might be possible, she thought, to actually have some time for herself.

Quietly, she walked to her room. For once, Mary was grateful that she had been made to clean and oil the wooden floor so thoroughly...it didn’t make the slightest noise as she headed for her room. Not that she could admit her gratitude to her father, for obvious reasons.

She started to turn to head off, when a knock came at the door. Mary looked around again for her father, and sighed when she realized she would have to handle this. Still shaking her head, she walked over and opened them.

A messenger, a child really, stood there. Mary knew of the fact that poor children frequently had to earn money this way, but it still bothered her every time she saw one. Thankfully, that wasn’t often, as her father usually handled them.

Message for Yamras, the child, a boy, said.

He’s inside, Mary answered, Come in.

The boy entered, staring around the room. Mary supposed he wasn’t used to seeing the elaborate décor that Robert favored. She’d never really been impressed by it either, and she didn’t really pay it much attention these days. She thought the boy would be much less impressed if he saw rooms like the kitchen or her room, but didn’t bring that matter up.

This way, Mary said, leading the boy to the study. He followed, still gazing around at the potted plants and various portraits hung on the walls.

* * * * *

Henry walked out of the guild, feeling very satisfied with how things were going. He had been very pleasantly surprised to find out the job paid six hundred worthings. It looked like he’d end up much closer to his goal than he had thought. Mary probably had known this, hence her persistence in him taking the job.

Less pleasant was the fact that the caravan was planned to be leaving today. Mary’s information wasn’t perfect, but then again he hadn’t counted on it being absolutely correct. It was a minor issue anyway, as Henry had made certain that any travel preparations were mostly made in advance. It would take him under an hour, once he reached his house, to make ready to leave Amestraton.

Having never been to Pordrin, or any other place where dwarves dwelled, Henry wondered what he could expect. He didn’t know, which probably left him the odd one out among any other mercenaries hired to guard the caravan. In fact, given that they seemingly didn’t know of his reputation, Henry concluded that they were desperate to hire someone.

Perhaps the argument with the dwarf was part of that, he pondered as he walked. They had mentioned something about safety, and not bringing a couple of guards was asking for trouble. He noted he ought to be careful. The last thing that Henry wanted was to get too deeply involved in guild business, or by extension, city council business.

For now, though, he needed to focus on the immediate task at hand. Arriving at his house, Henry stretched for a second, pausing to look it over. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary, and he relaxed. He moved forward to open the door and head on in.

* * * * *

So we can leave today, Yamras said, triumphantly looking at Robert. Don’t know why you were worried.

I had to plan for the contingency, Robert shook his head.

Mary was very careful to hide her emotions. Inside, she felt elated to find out about the final guard; it had to be Henry. It was gratifying to know he’d taken her advice. If there had been a way to celebrate it, she would be attempting it right now.

Excuse me, Robert spoke, interrupting Mary’s thoughts, Can you see Yamras and the messenger out?

Mary nodded, sighing inwardly. For now, she had to be the dutiful maid, and do what Robert wanted. Leading the two out of the room, she wondered if it would be possible to sneak out to the Three Brothers again tonight. It was probably best that she didn’t, at least not tonight. Being regularly absent from the house was just too great of a risk for Mary to be willing to take.

Walking into the front hall, Mary nodded at Yamras and the child. Tip? the child asked hesitantly. Mary wanted to hit herself. She’d forgotten the customary habit of paying messengers yet again.

‘I’ll take care of it when we get to the guild, lass," Yamras told the child, shrugging on his fur coat.

Mary started to smile, then paused as she caught what the dwarf had said. Lass?

Bah, you couldn’t tell this was a girl? Yamras snorted, You sure you don’t need eyeglasses?

No," Mary shook her head. She could see just fine, it was just...she hadn’t expected a girl, she supposed. Obviously, her father didn’t have the worthings, and even if he did, he was of such a stingy nature that she couldn’t see it happening. And Robert wouldn’t go that far out of his way to purchase such a thing for her.

Whatever grows your beard, Yamras shrugged, I’m off, then. Come on, lass. He opened the door himself, and he headed out, followed closely by the girl. Mary sighed, still not entirely convinced she’d been wrong.

It was a minor issue anyway, she told herself. Perhaps now she could go see about relaxing and reading the latest book Michael had lent her. Again, she started for her room, only to hear an all-too familiar voice.

Going to cook dinner? her father asked, I believe Lady Ellenkin has requested her favorite pork dish.

Yes, Mary sighed, conceding defeat in this matter. She headed down the hall towards the kitchen. She’d have to try and relax some other time, when her father was more occupied. As this day had been relatively light in terms of work, she probably didn’t need the time anyway.

* * * * *

The one downside of making such a trip, Henry thought as he finished filling his bag, was the necessity of trail rations. While he didn’t mind dried meat, he wasn’t fond of having to eat it twice a day for consecutive days. But the job demanded it, and he wasn’t the sort to complain about such things. No good mercenary would, and Henry was one of the best.

Setting his bag down, he closed them and took the time to inspect his sword. The blade was still fairly sharp, with no obvious dulled points and a clean shine. While Henry would have preferred to take it to a smith for further sharpening - whetstones could only do so much - it would suffice for the job.

Re-sheathing it, he mentally reviewed the preparations he had made. The bag now contained some of Henry’s spare clothing, rations, a pair of whetstones just in case, flint, a knife, and even a handful of worthings, just in case he needed to buy something from the dwarves. Unless there were to be major surprises in wait, that would be sufficient.

Of course, Henry had to be ready for major surprises. After all, that was basically the whole point of his job. Even though he expected no problems, becoming too complacent would not end well. The world was a dangerous place, even to someone as well prepared as he was. Henry wasn’t about to let himself relax, or at least not until he was ready for Mary to move in.

For now, he’d better get back to the guild and inform them that he was ready. The caravan had better be ready to leave today, Henry decided as he grabbed his bag. At the least, he didn’t want to have run the risk that he had offended Charlen for no gain. And with the effort he’d put in to getting ready on such short notice...they had better be out of Amestraton well before night started to fall.

Henry put on his coat as he headed out the door. Looking up at the sky, he noted the weather seemed clear and bright, although it was a little cool. Overall, he’d say those conditions were good, so that was one less thing to worry about. Henry strode off, his steps ringing loudly on the cobblestones.

* * * * *

Mary shook her head at the sight of the still-cooking pork, not exactly happy about having to eat it. She could live with it now and then, and since Sarah was ill, it was fair enough to request it for her sake. Besides, variety wasn’t a bad thing when it came to food. At least, that’s what Henry said, and Mary admitted he had a point.

For now, all she could do was wait on the cooking to finish. It was easily the most boring part of the cooking process for Mary. Admittedly, that didn’t amount to very much, given how she liked cooking. Mary shook her head, knowing now was not the time for indulging in her own pleasure. Even if she could do nothing else right now, she had to pay attention. She wasn’t about to let the food burn.

Cooking? Michael asked quietly from the door.

Yes, Mary said as she turned, a little surprised that he was here. Michael normally didn’t bother coming into the kitchen. She didn’t exactly know why this was, but it wasn’t worth speculating over anyway.

You cooking pork? Michael gazed at her steadily.

Yes, Mary repeated, feeling slight exasperated at the questioning. She wished she knew the whole point of this conversation.

Good, Michael lowered his voice, Just don’t mention that I’m the one who suggested it to your father.

Alright, Mary chuckled, catching on, I won’t say anything.

Michael nodded, and left as quietly as he came. Shaking her head with amusement, Mary turned around to check on the beans. One thing about it bothered her though. She hadn’t thought her father would take suggestions from Michael. Then again, his strange behavior lately could mean anything, so once again it