Sellsword 91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgLbQwokNkt
She ran through the dark forest. The deadly hush that be around was cut-off only by her own breathing and the sound of hooves hitting the forest path. Still, she knew she wasn't alone. She knew that there were three more soldiers in the forest who would do anything to keep her from running away. The road was too calm and quiet but it did not put her guard down. 91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1mb8oQtjxS
She unexpectedly left the route leading to the bridge. She slightly turned her head to see how the man waiting on the bridge swears violently and mounts his horse to try to catch up with her. However, the girl knows that he will not succeed. She also knows perfectly well that this is not the end of surprise for her. 91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6MxJwd8e6n
"There are two more," she said under her breath, and spurred her horse along the river. She waited for the right moment to cross the shallow water. The animal was not afraid of water, so it easily covered the next meters. Until a rushing arrow pierced in front of the horse's hooves. The animal stood up in fear, but the girl managed to calm it down. She took out her crossbow and looked ahead. She knew this forest so she immediately guessed where the archer was. She loaded the powder bomb bolt and fired.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpMm9cZyyk9
She knew that she had no chance in a duel with arrows, after the shot technique she knew that she was dealing with a damn experienced archer. She quickly decided that instead of wasting time and strength, it was better to blind the man and move on. 91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4jTuP9jVfy
When the sound of a smoke bomb exploded in the forest, she rushed the animal and after a while she was already across the river91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCO0D599Frn
Only kilometers separated her from her goal, but she knew that another trap was waiting for her. With each passing meter, she felt even more tense. She knew that she was approaching her goal quickly, but she had to focus on the possible attack. Her tension reached its zenith when she managed to see a clearing behind the forest - her goal. It took three jumps of her horse to be in place. However, before She could believe it, a wall of plants grew in front of her. The girl immediately stopped the frightened animal.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2re89fLrzP
There was no point in turning back or fighting now, she just needed to be faster than the expanding wall. She immediately spurred her horse on the reins and ran along the obstacle. The wall was growing and catching up with her step by step, but the girl knew what to do. All she had to do was keep the moving obstacle at bay.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBniFInRXhg
Fifteen meters in front of her rose a small hill - her chance. An involuntary smile appeared on her face, she knew she had won. She spurred her horse up the hill and the green fence slid down the small gorge. When out of the corner of her eye she noticed that the wall was lowering, she spurred the horse and it jumped over the gorge avoiding the obstacle. She made it, she was already in the clearing. She dismounted from her horse and began to stroke the tired animal.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpxST1KqQ0b
"Good girl, I knew you could do it!" - She stroked the horse's dark mane, unable to get enough of the mare's achievement. She was glad that her trip out of town had gone almost flawlessly. She managed to arrange all the necessities and only three guards stood in her way. It was a very successful day for her. She knew that the mare was tired, but she had to run to a safe place to be sure.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi8wQtArFGD
She passed the surrounding meadows, fields and farms. She didn't stop even for a moment. She had to cross the area behind the wall and he had to get to Kamino, so she quickly headed north towards the city91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJrxzClsLr1
After driving through the gate, the mare successfully passed crowded passers-by, narrow streets or small huts without any problems. After ten o'clock the girl reached the stable where she put the horse down in a hurry. Without a word of greeting, she tossed a few coins to the stable boy, had no time for chatter or pleasantries, so she waved goodbye to him. She had to run a few streets so she chose the quicker way through the rooftops. She moved quickly and agile so that the guards patrolling the city from above were not able to see her.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ79f7SMZy4t
When she was at the designated building, she went down to one of the narrow streets, made sure that no one was following her, and knocked three times on the door. After a while, they opened slightly, and after making sure that the girl was alone, they opened wide.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnYbzKm3Dvu
"Come in quickly" - ordered the man behind the door and the girl in a hurry entered and slammed the door behind her. Without unnecessary formalities, the man got down to business. " Do you have what I asked for?” - he asked with hope in his eyes. The girl knew that he doubted her, so she proudly put the bag on the table from which she took out the ordered plant. The man delightedly caught the weed in his hands and watched it in fascination
"As you ordered, one swamp hemlock with roots. As always delivered in perfect condition and on time. And now it's time to pay Aaron" - the girl would love to talk more, but she had other things on her mind. The man put the plant on the table and went to another room91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX7ISwdvJp7
"As we agreed, ten rubies and a small bonus for fast delivery" - he threw a small pouch towards her, which she quickly caught and started tossing in her hands91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd7WUUSOW0a
"The weight is correct. Thanks for the order Aaron. Let me know if you need anything else." - She waved goodbye to him and headed for the exit91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡheCcWUaDvt
"Ivy!" - Aaron shouted her name which caught her attention. She stopped and turned to the man, waiting for his words of explanation. "Apparently, Ben is looking for sellswords , he is now sitting in the Basement. If you have time, check it out" - he said with a slight smile. Ivy thanked him with a nod and left the building.
She was supposed to go to the wall in search of orders, but since she got a tip, she was going to use it. She pulled her hood tighter over her head and walked out into the main street.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUbIRRbKoml
She walked more briskly north towards the trading estate, still dormant at this hour, but at night this place turned into a real paradise for criminals, innkeepers and traders. 91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT2DupjObFZ
She turned into one of the streets and went down the stairs into the earth. She kicked the door open and entered the tavern.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9yUBDkL88U
It was extremely empty. At this time, there were only a few people who had not been able to get back on their feet by alcohol so far. She went to the bar to ask about possible jobs. From the moment she crossed the threshold, she attracted the bartender's attention, so as soon as she appeared under the counter, he immediately approached her.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFs6TaXAMm0
A broad-shouldered man with fair long hair and a thick beard stared at her with obvious boredom in his pale eyes. He put his hands on the counter and bent down slightly to her level91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBtjcDY48PJ
"What are you doing here so early?" he groaned sleepily at her. Ivy knew the man hated his job, especially in the mornings. He had to be behind the bar and the turnover was poor. However, she pretended not to hear the grudge in the man's voice and spoke as if nothing had happened91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡletvVhrQZR
"Nice to see you too, Bono. I'm here because I'm looking for a job. Got something interesting for me?" - She asked hopefully, although she was sure that the man had no proposal for her. And of course she knew he was right when he just sighed and shook his head resignedly91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAQZWNxtlmI
" I don't have anything for you and I don't even want to look. If you care, go to the boss and bother him" - he turned away from her and started polishing glasses behind the bar91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdthuU7dByd
"That's what I'm going to do, I just asked out of politeness," she said dispassionately and got up from the bar. She headed to the back of the place. She entered the back room and stood in front of the last door on the left side of the throne.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT5GRJ9mqS1
She didn't even knock on the door. She just opened it with her shoe and quickly hid behind the wall. If she had been a few seconds late, the knife that had just decorated the wall opposite the door would have pierced the center of her chest. She took a deep breath and cautiously entered the room.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6ZVyLvvtIO
It was usually an office. A large oak desk, several chairs, bookshelves and a chest of drawers, a comfortable sofa and a stone fireplace. There were animal decorations on the walls and a bear fur rug in the middle. 91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyQ1UTkY8FF
A man was sitting at the desk. His back was turned, but the show from a moment ago showed that he is alert and aware that he has a visitor. Ivy went inside and closed the door behind her. She sat down in the chair by the desk and started a conversation91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTtzZsPYXec
"You're terribly in a bad mood today. Something happened?" she asked, more out of politeness than curiosity. She didn't want to be rude and demand a job from the man right away. 91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCo8zwEafx1
He slowly turned around and began scanning her with his eyes.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡprNgm3fRn5
He was dressed as always in a leather jacket trimmed with white fox fur. His short, slicked-back dark hair and thick, closely trimmed beard masked the deep scars on his cheeks. He seemed to have an indifferent expression on his face, but Ivy could see the anger in his dark eyes. She could see that he didn't feel like explaining herself to the girl either. He was more dry than usual91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2riADN4Fmx
"You better say what you want and be gone, I'm extremely busy today." - Ivy held up her hands in defense. She just wanted to talk, but if the man tells her to get to the point, it's even better for her.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCN541M6rqq
" I'm looking for orders. I got a tip you're looking for sellswords for some job. I know you can give me something interesting" - she fired with hope, but looking at the man's humor, she doubted that he would want to talk to her at all. She didn't know what made him so angry, but she was angry that she had come at the wrong time.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS0KSSPTPKi
The man stared at her for a while, then slumped lazily into a chair and folded his arms across his chest91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEgDG8Qai3O
"And what exactly are you interested in? Are you bored of running around the forest and running away from guards and officials?" His biting remarks only confirmed Ivy's belief that something must have happened that simply pissed the man off and now he was taking it out on her. However, she knew that she would not leave here without a new assignment. She rolled her eyes and continued on91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY6h0om3gVm
"You know I need money. You also know that I am not afraid of any job. I see that I am coming at the wrong time, but I am asking you for an interesting assignment." She said with resignation but hope in her eyes. She wanted to get a task, complete it, and get a reward. The man, however, ignored her attitude and snorted in amusement91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq83aROvTYG
" What made you think I could use someone like you?” I need a mercenary, not a girl for company" – he laughed throatily, but the girl didn’t move. She folded her arms over her chest and continued with her usual stony expression and emotionless voice91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡItX7hR94Ni
"This girl is doing jobs for you that your best boys have failed to do. Just a reminder in case you forgot how many times I saved their ass" – she threw dispassionately and the man immediately became serious. He hesitated for a moment, then smiled slightly91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwVokESZR7O
"Actually, why not? If you care so much, I have something to sell. Pretty simple task for tonight. If you do well, you’ll be paid tomorrow morning. The job consists in stealing a certain document of ownership. You go into the clerk’s house, grab the paper and come back. The most important thing is that no one notices you" – he said in an encouraging tone and looked at her waiting for the girl’s answer. Ivy did not want to wait, she knew from the beginning that she would win any task91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY4syKXUpDK
"Tell me more details. Who should I hack into, what specific document should I steal and what can await me?" She asked as always without emotion, but Ben moved in his chair satisfied91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZMccjmG2oP
"In the evening you will sneak into the house of one of the city officials. To the apartment of a certain Magnus, anyway, it doesn’t matter. He lives in the Avenue of Fame and his apartment is located in the attic of a tenement house in the Aras estate, look for a balcony decorated with blue ivy. When you get there, you quietly enter the office and steal the ownership deed of the old greenhouse. You grab the document, make sure no one has seen you, and come back to me. You should be fine, but if you’re cracking, I’ll understand.” He looked at her with pity and Ivy said that he must have forgotten that he was talking to the most desperate person in all of Viridisos.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpbMiFMqhSp
"What does this document look like? There are probably hundreds of them in the office and I care about time" – she asked as always matter-of-factly, trying to get as much information as possible and save myself wasting time looking for91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5rVkSEtx5I
"The content is not important. All you have to do is pick up a document with such a stamp" – they will take a piece of paper from under the desk and point to the red stamp with the coat of arms and signature. Ivy remembered it exactly and decided that this much data was enough for her91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMbzKywyfhk
"And why should I sneak in tonight?” she asked indifferently, but the man stuttered and looked at her like an idiot91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5Dn2xLCDD2
" Like why? You can’t sneak in broad daylight. The servants will notice you right away" – he threw hard but the girl was not convinced. She got up from her seat and was about to leave91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsRb9qLOsBi
"But in the evening the guards will notice me right away. Service is not an obstacle for me. Plus, the element of surprise is the best. No one expects a theft in broad daylight.” She shrugged and Ben watched her with disbelief and pity.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhrgQrQn4zm
" You’ve already gone mad. Impossible for you to succeed" – he threatened her with a finger and Ivy just sighed91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnLH4iM089y
"Can we up the ante? You’ll have your act by tonight. I’ll get a bonus and the ability to pick up assignments on my own. If it’s impossible, what’s the harm in betting on it?" She asked encouragingly and the man thought for a moment91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWKT86x60q2
"If you lose, at least you’ll stop bothering me. It’s a deal.” He stood up to seal the bet with a handshake.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVWfFe2vZDj
" Prepare the payment, I’ll come for it in the afternoon,” she said with a slight smile and left the premises.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzEzWqcWQ7M
She was standing in one of the narrow streets. She needed to check her armament and she could act. She was so prudent that she always carried a considerable arsenal with her. She made sure she had two daggers by her thighs, belts with throwing knives on her belly, back, and calves, two knives in her boots, and efficient hidden blades on her forearms. She pulled her old cloak tighter and made sure her hair and face were well hidden under the hood.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2NylIfTZev
She walked slowly, so as not to arouse suspicion, to one of the richer districts of the third ring. The Avenue of Fame was a residential estate for the rich from the third ring, mainly officials, investors and nobles, but also prestigious thieves, murderers and swindlers.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpvVqx9Kcqz
She hid behind buildings in the shadows and when she found a suitable balcony she lurked and carefully scanned the area for potential threats.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ94a5rvBrde
Prince91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj3k9hK9vSs
The boy was lying on the bed and boredly leafing through another book91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbYOePvyf3i
"What a boredom!" he blurted out annoyed and threw the book somewhere in the corner of the chamber. He got up lazily and walked slowly to the balcony to lean against the railing. 91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcnkEoBUitB
The view stretched out over the picturesque garden and the city shrouded in the warm rays of the spring sun. It was still before noon and the boy hid in his room hoping that he would somehow escape from his duties. If it wasn't for the fact that the balcony is many meters above the ground and there are guards at the exits, he probably would have gone to the city a long time ago.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡga8pJm1ZIZ
He looked at the sun-drenched rooftops for a while, but he was interrupted by a rumbling in his stomach. The young man put his hand on the place where the stomach is, but that didn't stop the unfavorable noises. He had eaten his last meal last night and was too busy hiding to go to breakfast today. Besides, he had avoided eating in company for a long time.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1g0Br5kHmG
He walked lazily towards the exit. He knew he might be find by a teacher, but somehow he didn't care. He had priorities, after all, and meals are extremely important. He left the room and walked loosely through the castle corridors. On the way, the passing servants and guard greeted him with a slight bow, but he ignored the passers-by and kept walking. Only to the young servants did he send a slight smile and a wink. He felt great satisfaction when he heard the girls squealing softly with delight, but he tried not to spend much time with them.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMojr2HvmRG
It took him a while to get to the kitchen, but he didn't encounter any obstacles along the way. He had no desire to sneak into the royal kitchen and deal with the annoying chef. He chose staff kitchens where he was always welcome and staff were discreet. He entered the main room, which had been cleaned up after breakfast and was getting ready for lunchtime. Before he could look around, the chef spotted him.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1wkMPTOqmz
"Prince Caspian!" she said flustered under her breath. She quit her current job and immediately found herself in front of the prince with whom she politely greeted with a slight bow - "Your Majesty, it is an honor that the prince has graced us with his presence." - the woman and the rest of those present in the kitchen gave him a slight bow, to which Caspian quietly but discreetly sighed with resignation. 91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFdORLEtOOa
He hoped to quietly grab a plate of food and return upstairs. However, since he was already here and the servants welcomed him so kindly, he would benefit from it anyway. He nodded to let the staff go back to work, then shoved his hands into his pockets and spoke to boss
"I was passing by and thought I'd stop by to see what smelled so good. Can the boss give me some, preferably a larger portion?" He looked at the old woman who jumped up in surprise. She seemed surprised by his behavior91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡukcSBRQcCC
"It's an honor for me to hear such flattery. However, is this the right place for a prince? This isn't first time when the prince sneaks out from eating dinners from the royal kitchen" - he can see that the woman tried to dissuade him from eating in the staff kitchen. It's normal that she thought she might get in trouble if she found out she was feeding the prince crude food. However, Caspian didn't feel like translating and he was so hungry that he wanted to eat something quickly. He had to convince the boss quickly to start making the meal91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOmCO0yANbq
"I know what the boss thinks, but I really insist. I promises no one will find out. I just want to eat something quick. Will my boss do it for me?" he asked that with his dazzling smile he won the hearts and minds of everyone he looked at. The cook just nodded and agreed to his suggestion91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1K5zBJ37e8
" Let me lose, everything for the prince. I will prepare something delicious in a moment! - and immediately she ran for the products91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeRtPBjfAvX
The prince, pleased, went with a triumphant smile to the canteen. He sat down at one of the tables at the end so no one could see him. He finally had a moment to himself. He stretched and put his hands behind his head. It wasn't even noon yet and he had to figure out what he was going to do for the rest of the day. He had in mind that it had become his routine to be shunned by the guards, officials, his siblings and parents. For a long time, some gloomy thoughts did not give him peace, but he decided that knocking what would keep them to himself.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDlizSKmhLC
Due to the fact that his dinner became a priority order, he didn't have to wait long for it. The chef personally brought him a plate of boiled vegetables in a dark sauce, baked potatoes, and a medium-rare steak. The prince thanked her with one of his pearly smiles at the sight of which everyone catches the heart and took to the meal.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoZwLesgx1a
He had something warm in his mouth for a long time, and since the canteen was almost empty, he spared himself the princely etiquette and greedily devoured portions of food.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5mwV4oOZIA
He thought that he would enjoy his meal in silence and imperceptibly return to himself, but his peace was interrupted by a voice coming from behind him91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ58zEnmnyoz
"This is where the prince has been hiding since the morning?" The boy jumped, surprised by the presence of someone behind him. He turned around uncertainly, but when he recognized the face, he grimaced in irritation and went back to his meal. He could only manage a few words between bites91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrxu2zTyRur
" Don’t you have anything more interesting to do than spy on me?” – he threw into the ether, however, he did not have to wait long for the uninvited guest to sit in front of him a bit. Caspian pretended to be interested in his plate and hoped that the intruder would let him finish his meal in peace. However, the guard was impatient and annoyed. He folded his arms across his chest and leaned back slightly91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDEyDBbKgae
"Your teacher has been running around the castle all morning looking for you. In addition, you did not appear at breakfast. Furthermore, you avoiding eating meals with your family for a long time and running away from classes. The King and Queen will be greatly disturbed if I inform them of my observations." – The man was very serious and sharp, but it didn’t move him. Caspian knew that he was trying to arouse remorse in him, but the prince was a trained ignorant and conspirator. He only smiled and spoke firmly to his companion91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkV7hpbOEqB
" Then, just don’t tell them about your exaggerated fears!” He growled with a clearly visible fake smile and got up from the table. He grabbed the now empty plate and, without waiting for his companion’s reactions, went to the kitchen. Without further ado, he placed his plate on the nearest counter and headed for the exit into the corridor91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1dAGbG4KNj
Unfortunately, his unwanted companion was already waiting there. The prince just sighed and went on with a malicious smile91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAmfiJXNTew
"You do like to complicate things, don’t you, Edward? I’m bored with my classes and I want to eat a meal alone from time to time. And you’re just nit-picking! The worst part is you’re going to tell my parents anyway." – he threw reproachfully and continued his journey. He knew, however, that his companion was a tough guy and would not allow himself to show a shadow of emotion. He stopped only when the man spoke unexpectedly91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy2sDJM6ymJ
"Know that I’m doing this because it’s part of my duties but also because I’m worried about the prince myself." – he said seriously, but Caspian only snorted under his breath and threw amused91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3n4FG6rzpv
"When you’re going to report on me just say hello to my parents and tell them that I’m getting bored in the castle." - He didn’t wait for the security guard’s reaction, he just disappeared around the corner. He hoped that no one would disturb his peace for the rest of the day. With that in mind, he headed for his room.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6hmomO2pHO
Since he managed to disappear after the meal, he hoped to be holed up in his room again. However, under the door leading to his chamber appeared a wreath of wreckers wanting to spoil his plans. So it got to the point that he was wandering around the palace gardens, hoping that he wouldn’t run into anyone and maybe he would find something to do. 91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRDkZvfeUSe
He was deep in thought as he lay on the fountain and watched the clouds in the sky. But his senses told him he wasn’t alone. He wasn’t wrong. He got up and waited for a well-known figure to emerge from around the corner of the maze of bushes.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ3Z60ScQRl
It was none other than Queen Viridisos herself, a sorceress from the Kingdom of Drydalis, Caspian’s mother, Nesta. The queen was hiding from the sun in the shade of the bushes and her son was watching her carefully. She hasn’t changed a bit since he can remember, after all, longevity was one of the advantages of elves. 91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJw1UDDF9ce
Her slender figure has always been a perfect match for red dresses. Despite her height, she always wore high heels on her feet. Her jet black hair was perfectly straight and fell freely down to her waist. Her creamy, slightly tanned complexion, pronounced cheekbones and large mouth gave her a haughty character. And her dark eyes radiated power. As always, she walked proudly and was accompanied by an aura of magic that she radiated all over91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvj3duA6Y0c
Caspian put on an indispensable smile and then came to greet his mother. He stood in front of the woman and gave her a slight bow91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6RU3uAW1iu
"Mother" – As befits a gentleman, he took her hand and kissed it. He then nodded to the queen’s accompanying attendants, who covered their flushed faces with fans as the prince gave them one of her lecherous glances. - "Forgive me to interrupt your walk. I wanted to say hello to my beloved mother." – maybe he did not specialize in magic, but he could charm anyone with his appearance and word. The queen only nodded slightly towards her son
"Since we’ve met each other, maybe you’d like to go for a walk with your beloved mother?" The queen went on, slightly lifting the corner of her mouth. Caspian already knew that he was getting ready for a longer conversation. Despite this, the prince was extremely calm, he knew that when it came to conversation, it was impossible to surpass him. He was ready for any question his mother asked. He gave the women a pearly smile and bowed91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJsST90bQtP
"I’d be honored to accompany you, Your Majesty.” He gave the ladies-in-waiting an obscene look one last time, then grabbed his mother’s arm.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡccEEOWzpzl
They walked over the stone bridges in the water gardens. Caspian liked this place, it seemed to emanate magic, but for his mother, an elf from the magical land of Drydalis, no place in the kingdom made an impression.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvHvpmrO85G
They stopped at one of the gazebos so the queen could sit and enjoy the sun. The prince sat down by the shore and watched the water carefully91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8ZZeaYCAPq
"You’ve been really hard to catch for the last few days. Without a word of explanation, you don’t attend family meals. You are hiding in your chamber. Something had to happen, but what?" The queen spoke the questions without emotion, but Caspian knew that the mother was extremely curious about her son’s explanations. However, he knew how to conduct the conversation to please himself and her. He sighed slightly and stood upright91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdSsAqGqJrq
" Edward, I see, is not idle. I told him not to bother you with his conspiracy theories." He lazily walked over and took a seat across from his mother. - "Did he say anything else, like how good am I looking today?”- he asked with satisfaction and showed his handsome face. The queen only sighed but her lips took the shape of a slight smile91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyhjzUWYvvz
" Edward is the best guard in the castle. He does his job diligently and conscientiously, and most importantly, he is faithful to the crown. He didn’t come to me today to spite you. He did it because that’s what any desirable soldier and good friend should do. He’s just worried about you, and so am I. "- She was calm and composed. Now all she had to do was wait for the prince’s answer. 91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxblemB19JC
He knew he couldn’t lie, but he didn’t want to reveal his fears to anyone. Fortunately, he was a master at choosing words to suit his needs. He started acting like the best actor, and the role he played was the perfect prince and son. He got up heavily from his seat and stood with his arms folded, surveying the gardens91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFAKRNfHRX5
"I am grateful for the concern, but it is unnecessary, even exaggerated" – he turned to his mother and stated seriously. The queen looked at him questioningly, waiting for the rest of the explanation, but he liked to build tension. He started walking and gesticulating with his hand - "You know, if Edward had informed you about our whole conversation, I probably wouldn’t have to dispel your unnecessary worries right now.” He stood by her and started on his favorite topic – his topic.
" As everyone knows, I’m young, handsome and intelligent. I have grace, talent and charisma. I have everything others could want. However, even a perfect being like me has to develop. I gained the necessary knowledge, read every book in our library, surpassed every one of my teachers. I know this castle like the back of my hand. All I want right now is some fun. So that I can uninhibitedly go crazy. I can’t function when my brain is bored with all my surroundings. I was hiding in my room because I couldn’t let my relatives and servants see me like this. Forgive Mother that you had to worry about me where my condition was caused by such a trifle."- He finished his speech by kneeling on his knee and taking his mother’s hand in his. He was telling the truth, someone like him was bored quickly and needed new distractions. Every servant in the palace knew it perfectly well, especially Caspian’s family, and the fact that it was not the main and only reason for his unusual behavior no one had to know it. His mother, however, knew perfectly well what her son was now heading for. She crossed her legs and crossed her arms over her chest91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6yg5LLvUjO
"We both know you’re trying nicely hide your dirty thought. Know that you’re a hundred years too young to try to disappoint me. Get up" - the queen commanded firmly, and Caspian stood erect in front of his mother. She looked him over carefully from head to toe and sighed - "Can’t you just say that you want to go out and have fun?" - The prince just gave his mother a quick smile. The queen got up from her seat and walked to the shore - “Your father and I are keeping you close because we want your safety. We know very well that your trips to the city do not end in an interesting way" – she glared at him, but Caspian pretended to act stupid - "However, if you care so much about integrating with all these people, I will not condemn you. Nor will I put a guard around you if it bothers you so much. But there is one condition" – the prince immediately straightened up and listened to his mother carefully - "Let Edward accompany you. He alone is able to replace ten royal bodyguards. You can do whatever you want as long as you get home safely. If your trip goes smoothly, we’ll talk about the prize" – she hid her satisfied face behind the fans and, without waiting for her son’s reaction, went in the direction from which she came.
Caspian stood for a while in the same place, but when his mother disappeared from his sight, he crouched on the ground and grabbed his head. He managed to trick his mother, the biggest obstacle standing in his way of hiding the truth. He didn’t want to explain his fears to her because he didn’t want to appear paranoid. Fortunately, he got a chance to be alone with his thoughts. Until he has such an opportunity, he should go somewhere outside the castle. He even had a perfect plan where. 91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkCgTZRxG3R
Edward91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5LBA00oWtS
He was heading for the council chamber when the queen stood in his way for the second time on the same day. As a devoted servant, he immediately stopped and bowed to his mistress. He thought he could continue his journey as soon as the queen passed him, but she stopped right in front of him91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw6a0wOZEYQ
"I’m so glad to meet you, Edward. I thought I’d have to look for you all over the castle.”- She dismissed the accompanying ladies-in-waiting and lifted his chin with a fan. He tried to pretend to be calm, but he already knew that some trouble was coming91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmWzplUbdEv
"Then, I am at your service, Your Majesty.” - As always, he assumed an indifferent expression on his face, but he was already making plans in his head about what could happen in the castle and about what he would have to fix. The queen just looked gently from side to side and spoke softly enough that only he could hear her
"I just had a conversation with Caspian. He’s starting to get annoyed with his isolation. I don’t want him to suspect anything, especially since there’s no other evidence or leads. That’s why I relented to him and let him go out" – she explained without a trace of emotion, which clearly bricked him91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡartIQU8rUo
"Your Majesty, I don’t want to judge but is this the right decision? What if something happened? We’re not sure if these are silly jokes or if the prince is really in danger" – he tried to sound natural so that the queen wouldn’t feel offended, but he thought the idea was extremely stupid91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5b9mkBEWj6
"That’s why I agreed, on the condition that you stay with him all evening. You will watch over him and in case of any danger I am sure you will protect him. I hope you’ll manage. And remember that the prince is not to find out anything and make sure he doesn’t suspect anything. ”- she ordered firmly, and Edward knew that this was an order he could not disobey and that their conversation was over.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC60aGhbpRG
"As always, I will do my job. Your highness may be calm, the prince will come back safe and sound" – he bowed slightly towards the queen and she went further down the corridor without unnecessary waiting. As soon as he sensed that he was alone in the corridor, Edward lifted his head and sighed.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO55UVQkW6X
He didn’t want to lie to Caspian, but he didn’t want to scare him unnecessarily either. And now he had to carry out his next order and he had to let Caspian run wild and stay vigilant to protect the prince. He hated having to put on a good face for a bad game, but he had no choice. So he headed towards his room to prepare himself for tonight and any possible opportunity.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfOJu4kt7qb
Job91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgsgpIjeIWc
She quickly figured out the rhythm of the guards on the rooftops. She climbed the drainpipe onto the adjacent balcony and listened to the surroundings. When she made sure that there was no one on the ivy-covered balcony, she quickly jumped on it. She landed neatly and quietly.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCNxcTYE9Z8
She immediately went to the door and opened it slightly. There was complete silence in the corridor, but nevertheless she was extremely vigilant. She peeked through keyholes in search of a suitable room. Unfortunately for her, none of the rooms on this floor were Magnus’ office. She had to go lower, but from below she heard the sounds of bustle.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg7aIsma1FU
She leaned slightly over the railing of the stairs and looked into the hall. Two corridors led out of it, from one of them you could hear two servants talking, so she decided it would be safer to look in the other direction. She quietly climbed down the stairs and when she made sure that the servants did not suspect the presence of strangers, she quickly found herself in an empty corridor.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdft829fQL7
Just like upstairs, she looked into each of the rooms. To her delight, the last room turned out to be an office. Now she could start working. She pulled a lockpick from her pocket and began to work the lock on the door. She kept looking around to make sure no one was approaching. After about a minute or so, the lock gave way and she quickly found herself in the office.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡONq9jTMwwW
There were many bookcases, shelves and a chest of drawers in the room. She knew that such an important act was not something someone would keep between books. Her eyes immediately fell on the massive desk. She scanned the papers on the table carefully, but to no avail. She knew the file had to be hidden somewhere. There was no sign of him in the drawers, but she didn’t let go. She groped the underside of the tabletop until she found a small hole91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbnnKH28Zyi
"And here I have you.” Satisfied, she laid down under the table. Hidden key drawer. She lay on her back and used the lockpick to unlock another lock. After a while, the lock released and she was able to pull out the entire drawer. She didn’t even want to know what documents were hidden in the glove box. She focused only on the one with the right seal on it. She wrapped it in some other document so it wouldn’t wear out and put it in her backpack. She put the drawer back in its place and locked it with a lockpick. Now she needed to know how to get back.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLoRPxo4aVd
She could have left as she came back, but she didn’t know where the servants might be now. She decided it was best to use a window. She drew back the curtains and stood on the windowsill. The view of the main street stretched out before her. It was risky, but she knew that she would manage to jump onto the neighboring balcony. She opened the window and stood on the sill from the outside. She made sure the guards on the rooftops didn’t see her and the people on the street didn’t pay much attention to her. She took a small run-up and jumped to the next balcony at the last moment.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhmSy3gwjVa
A little more delay and the maid who had just entered the study would have noticed her. She probably thought a draft had opened the window, so the maid closed it and drew the curtains, not suspecting a break-in. Ivy waited a moment and breathed a sigh of relief. She slowly got up and started walking down the wall. She had the file, now all she had to do was hand it to Ben.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9IGSMZCZyG
She walked slowly to the ‘Ripper’s Cellar’, where a well-deserved payment and a bonus were waiting for her. She was glad that the task was so childishly simple. She had already made a plan in her head on how to spend the money she earned. She knew that tonight she would be able to fill her stomach.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbR2cEESHHa
The walk took her a moment, before the very evening she was standing in front of the inn. She came in as before and didn’t even stop at the bar. She immediately headed for the back room to Ben. She opened the door and when the knife stuck in the wall, she leaned around the corner and slowly entered the office. Without unnecessary politeness, she issued a document which Ben accepted with slight disbelief. He looked at the document and the girl’s stony face and did not hide his satisfaction91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUfOoUgrYSr
"Good job, and so damn fast. You were indeed telling the truth. I don’t give a shit if you got lucky, a deal is a deal.”- He pulled a pouch of money from under the table which Ivy immediately took and started checking the amount91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwf4JMZ5Q6H
" You skipped my bonus" – she huffed resentfully and Ben just laughed91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdtx6GBkqfk
"If you choose a new assignment, you will get it back. If you want, you can choose something even now and if not, you know where to find me" – he sent her away with a hand gesture and Ivy just sighed and went to the exit91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDqAhaS3Wqi
"Has business gone well?" – Bono shouted, which summoned her to him under the bar91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcQaEGYoYQu
- Even very ... – she was about to dispose of him, but she came up with a brilliant idea how to get back a small bonus –"You just reminded me that the boss promised me a reward. Do you have something to eat?" - She said dispassionately, but inside she was twisted with stress. She hoped that the bartender would get fooled and give her something to eat for free. They were silent for a while, but Bono finally laughed91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb1MFw1dBDf
" Grab it. Just don’t eat it all at once"– he threw her a small bundle with...91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9nbMcqSQEi
"Bread crusts! Nice! Thanks Bono" – she said goodbye to the man and left the inn eating stale bread. She hadn’t eaten anything today and such a snack was perfect. She got paid so she’ll go to replenish the first aid kit and weapons and then go back to the garbage. Satisfied, she walked slowly through the districts of Kamino. 91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQsywy0OCdT
Night escapade91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYOMP9n6znO
He changed into his outgoing clothes. He chose comfortable navy blue pants and a vest in the same color. Plus a white shirt and black leather mid-calf boots. He looked at himself in the mirror one last time, gently combed his hair back and, satisfied, went to the stable. Unfortunately, his companion was already waiting there. The best soldier in private palace security – Edward Hosen.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOkZJyOeENq
He had known him since he was a child, but their relationship had never been a master-servant relationship. Caspian always treated Edward as an older friend and a good teacher and even like a brother. Edward aroused universal admiration and respect, and thanks to his attitude, he became a role model. He took a high position in the court of King Desmond, but also held high military positions in Drydalis.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF64YzYFfIo
He had a fair complexion that was slightly tanned from the fact that he often exercised outside. His characteristic feature was beautiful dark gray eyes that could analyze every smallest fragment of the environment. His pointy ears always peeked out slightly from his overly long brown hair, which he always combed back. He had extremely masculine features and a perfectly sharp jaw adorned with close-cropped stubble. He was tall, as befits for an elf race, and athletic, but that didn’t reflect even half of his potential. He was incredibly fast, agile and strong. Elves have heightened senses, but he seemed to take this skill to an even higher level. In addition, many years of experience and knowledge. He was handsome, talented, smart and well-born. "Almost as perfect as me, but still missing a bit,” Caspian mentally summed it up with his classic smirk91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzB1PSiTMFp
Without a word, he exchanged Edward and mounted the horse prepared for him. They set off on their journey in silence, and when they found themselves behind the palace gate, Caspian broke the silence between them91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRCYi9RHNRo
"I know you’re following orders, but you don’t have to watch over me. I can take care of myself."
"Since you know that I following orders, do not start the topic" – Edward said without emotion, who was dry and cold as always. Caspian just sighed with resignation because he guessed that his companion still resented him for their earlier conversation91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9Ryz8qTMqg
"I know how much you don’t like people and I just want to respect that and spare you worries" – he drove closer to the elf and tried to convince him with his smile and innocent eyes. Edward, however, was unfazed, only raising an eyebrow slightly91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaWzy4pVSKp
"And where are you going to go anyway, if I may ask?” – Caspian just smiled ominously waiting for this question91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu7erlNZSYh
" You’ll see for yourself,” and he hurried his horse. Edward, although he did not show emotions, probably knew that trouble was coming and he would have to clean it up. He sighed softly with resignation and hurried his mount to catch up with the prince, but to his satisfaction he didn’t say a word.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh9aduf8v36
Jasmine and Shea 91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ42kfBozvQD
She carried the liquor to the bedside and hurried to the bar for another drink. She was too focused on smiling at customers and being careful not to break the glass that she almost didn’t notice that Madame herself was standing in front of her. The girl stopped in front of the woman and looked at her questioningly. Madame kept her eyes wandering around the room and her mouth was covered with a fan91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDeVGpsTKeZ
"Shea was ordered for tonight by a very wealthy client. Go quickly, help her get ready. When you’re done, bring her to me. Come on, hurry up Jasmine!" Madame rushed her and immediately left to look after the business. Jasmine put the alcohol trays on the counter and quickly went to the back room.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSnZRLWXH4Y
She wandered the rooms and corridors until she found the girl as she was making sleeping mattresses for the girls91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡugPEIUpKev
"Shea, here you are! Some high-profile client came and bought you out for the night. Madame told me to take care of you quickly!" She exhaled as fast as she could. Shea abandoned her task and, grabbing Jasmine's hand, they ran to the dressing room.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzfpcZjdQAf
Both girls were skilled in getting ready for customers, so without a word, each of them knew what to do. Shea took off her work clothes and began to moisturize her skin with fragrance oil. It improved the appearance of the skin and stimulated the senses, an old courtesan trick. At that time, Jasmine prepared a blue airy dress and a few gold decorations. She helped to dress the prepared creations which were decorated with a wide golden belt and then they took care of the girl’s hair and make-up. Shea sat on a chair and drew her eyes and Jasmine started to weave golden butterflies into her hair. After finishing work quickly, the girl stood in front of the mirror and Jasmine couldn’t get enough of her view91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHNDGCNLjrP
Shea was one of the most wanted girls in Fantabera. For her virginity, Madame Eloise earned what the entire brothel earns in two months. She was not surprised by this huge sum. The girl was exceptionally beautiful. Her pretty face with slightly pink cheeks, beautiful big lips and sparkling coffee-colored eyes aroused admiration of many patrons of the premises. Plus her long wavy brown hair and flawless dark skin. She dazzled everyone around her with her brilliance.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMPnHUNsntJ
The girl also had a character adequate to her beautiful appearance. She had an exceptionally good disposition and even years of work in such an infamous place as a brothel could not corrupt her pure heart. She always cared for the younger girls and comforted the older ones. Sometimes she was even pushy, but she did it with good intentions.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2n5XrZmI77
Shea looked at herself in the mirror for the last time and when she said she looked perfect, she grabbed Jasmine by the arm and headed to the main hall to look for Madame. The brothelmother quickly grabbed the dark-haired girl and led her and the client to one of the best rooms. When the girl disappeared behind the door, Madame dismissed Jasmine with a wave of her hand. Jasmine returned to the pater to clean the tables and smile broadly at the drunken customers91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO5jyCGU8rp
Fantabera 91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtnycEsYByM
"I should have expected it. Though deep down I was hoping you'd choose a different place." - Edward nodded resignedly looking at the prince's amused face91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ09anNMrDki
"And where would I go, to the store, to the pub? Of course anyone would choose a brothel! Besides, I've been in the city for a long time and the longing girls need to be reminded" - he said with a smile that did not leave his face and went to the premises decorated with ethereal red material and red lanterns. Edward reluctantly but followed the prince who was already standing at the door of the belongings called 'Fantabera'. Security let them in without any problems. Once inside, they were immediately greeted by the owner of the place, Madame Eloise. The woman bowed to the prince and his companion91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWcub2pTacT
"It is an honor for me to host his princely majesty in my humble home" - Caspian just dismissed her with a wave of his hand. Instead of focusing on the formalities, he carefully scanned the premises for the best entertainment. Without looking at the woman, he gave the command91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIEhtChaHIU
"Take us to some quiet and secluded box and send us some of the best girls, preferably the younger ones."- The woman straightened up and led the men towards one of the boxes along the walls91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK0DmDZcj1M
They were semi-circular, had a lot of comfortable space and were separated from the room by a thick layer of dark fabrics. Caspian and Edward sat on a comfortable sofa decorated with fur and lots of pillows91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ94fZFRmswM
"Please help yourself to our best spirits. I'll send our girls in a moment."- She bowed and disappeared behind the curtain. Without waiting, Caspian poured himself a glass of wine from the round table. He took a sip of the semi-sweet liquor and sighed contentedly. He made himself comfortable on the sofa and put his hands behind his head.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQnmpAnhlwt
"Just what I needed," - he admitted dreamily. However, Edward did not share his enthusiasm. He was sitting with his arms folded and his legs crossed91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5zUdvMfBt4
"If you wanted to drink wine, you could send a servant and not get on a horse and go to Kamino to the brothel" - the man scolded him with visible irritation, to which Caspian just sighed. He knew that this would be the end of the trip with Edward, so he wanted to spend this evening alone with a group of girls91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQVetFOuHE5
"That's why I insisted on going alone. If you don't like it, you can come back, more wine for me!" - he admitted amused and poured himself another glass and drank at once -" Anyway, since when do you avoid fun? I thought you thought people were just there to be used. So that's what we're about! In a place where human women do what they were made to do and you don't enjoy it!" - he admitted reproachfully, playing amusement. He knew Edward well and knew how to turn his twisted logic to his advantage. The elf just sighed and looked away so as not to look at his cheerful face91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2i2du7RDmP
" You're right, that's what I think about poor people you are very attracted to. However, today I don't feel like being distracted by women I wouldn't touch with a broomstick." - He growled annoyed at him and immediately looked away. Caspian, however, regarded him carefully with a twinkle in his eye. He already knew what was on the man's mind91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUZfi76cpVC
"Somebody pinch me. Our Edward got up with his left foot today! That would explain your behavior in the cafeteria today and why you don't enjoy visiting this wonderful place! What happened, my father yelled at you? The captain of the guard assigned you to guard the stables?"- Caspian taunted the already pissed-off Edward. He knew that the elf would not be offended because he knew the prince well. Everyone saw that Caspian loved to annoy everyone around him, especially when he was in a good mood. Edward, however, frowned and began to speak quite seriously91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRGGsusrTUH
"I'm not in the mood because I'm worried about you!" - Caspian froze in place seeing such a serious man. The elf rolled his eyes seeing his reaction but continued - "You've been avoiding everyone and everything for a long time. You tell us you're doing this because you're bored, but I know something's wrong. There's something you're not telling me and it's irritating me. I am a dedicated soldier and you know I have more experience than you. You could turn to someone for help and yet you don't, and you decide to hol yourself up in a brothel and pretend that everything will work out somehow."- He finished his speech and grabbed a glass of wine, which he drank in one go. He was just waiting for the prince's reaction.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg1Ub6HDodr
Caspian knew he couldn't fool everyone. He didn't really want anyone to believe his excuses. However, it touched him that Edward worried about him so much. He also knew that he would not tell anyone that he knew the truth. Now all he had to do was calm Edward down. So he gave a pearly laugh and turned to him with a smile91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGtg4NPdbJx
"Do you really think that I could have some problem that I can't solve?" - he asked seriously, but at the end he burst out laughing. He knew he had distracted Edward.He calmed his breathing slightly, but the smile didn’t leave his face – "You really have a problem with making problems out of nothing. You really think I came here to vent? You’ve lived longer than me, so you know exactly why people come to places like this. Understand, I’m young, I want to have fun before the burden of responsibilities falls on me. That’s it! Now take it easy and don’t spoil my special evening!" – Without embarrassment, he reached for the wine bottle to fill the bodyguard’s glass.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwCWg1HFScW
Edward looked at him for a second, but after a moment he grabbed the glass and they both raised a toast. Caspian was damn glad that he managed to push the putty in as he always wanted. To his even greater delight, Madame Eloise entered the bed with a group of the best girls who couldn’t wait for the prince’s visit. They all stood in a row and greeted Caspian with a deep bow91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaVGs9OukxA
"It’s an honor to serve you my prince,” they said in one voice and looked up at the prince with amused eyes. This one just stood content between the girls91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR4ITJcULZm
" Nice to see you too, my dear. Me and my companion place ourself in your hands. "– The girls giggled and sat down on the sofa and two entered the platform and started dancing to the music. Caspian loved to watch people around him pamper him just to make him happy.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYhO2gMcVoi
Attempt91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiYaKHurVV2
They had already drunk quite a few bottles of wine, but Caspian tried not to get drunk. His head was spinning slightly, but he was still in touch with reality, at least in appearance. He focused only on the girls who entertained him with talk and dance. He himself did not spare them compliments just to watch with pride how they blush from his words. He was also calmer when Edward also began to enjoy the attractions of the premises. He even considered sending Edward to a room with some prostitute just to have some time to himself. However, the crowd and alcohol made him terribly hot so he wanted to get up and leave, but Edward stopped him91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDnZqdID2yv
"Where are you going?" - He immediately turned on defense mode and the whole pleasant atmosphere disappeared somewhere. Caspian just rolled his eyes and calmly explained to everyone gathered not to disturb anyone91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7ASZSXJBOn
"Keep calm. I’m gonna go outside to get some fresh air and sober up. There is security in the premises, so I’m not in danger. I promise I’ll be back soon. Of course, only if I’m not stopped by one of your beautiful friends along the way. Be right back." - He raised his hands in defense and tried his best to convince Edward to go alone. Fortunately, he was convincing and the girls did not want to let the elf follow the prince so easily. Edward reluctantly agreed, but there was a clear threat in his eyes91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd8p5PN05YY
"So be it. Just come back soon!" - Caspian put his hand on his chest and graced the company with a pearly smile.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLdXwGMF0Z0
He left the box and headed for the exit. At first he had trouble catching his balance, but he managed to stay on his feet. He went to the exit, but his senses began to react strangely. A shiver ran down his back and he felt a pleasant smell, like a flower, and after a while he felt someone’s touch on his chest. He turned and looked over his shoulder at the beautiful blonde who was undressing him with her eyes and gave him a wide smile. Caspian didn’t protest, it’s just that it would take him a little longer to get back to his box. The girl bit his earlobe gently and whispered extremely alluringly91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU78kNpXTn3
"Follow me darling.” - She took her hands from his shirt and started walking slowly towards the back room. Caspian knew that he did not give up such an opportunity and with a certain, if a little shaky step, he followed the stranger. He walked down the narrow corridor until the girl disappeared behind one of the doors. The prince quickened his pace and followed her. The door led outside to the back of the premises, but he couldn’t see the stranger anywhere. Until she grabbed his arm and pinned him against the wall and started kissing him hungrily.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuNuJWPlBbo
The prince slowly caught the stimuli from the environment, but he knew exactly what to do with the woman. He started kissing her back, his right hand moving up her thigh. He kissed her until his hand found the leather belt. He didn’t really know what he was touching until he felt the woman stiffen and pull away from his lips. He was numb by alcohol so he didn’t even try to react when the girl immediately stopped caressing, grabbed the blade attached to his thigh and put it to his throat. The prince realized at the last moment that he had fallen into a trap and that he was about to die91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKf9MbQy9ea
Meeting91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwyFYEucFFF
That night the place was under siege. Most of the girls were tired from dancing and sneaked out to the back room from time to time to rest. Jasmine then had a headache because the customers were drinking alcohol while waiting. She flew back and forth to the bar until her head was spinning. Her sprint between tables and customers had been going on for several hours, and to make matters worse, she was stopped by the bartender, Alfred91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt06EcfFQVo
"Jasmine! Please take these empty bottles to the back as we have no place to put more!" - he threw quickly and Jasmine sighed tiredly. She saw that she would not get out of physical work, so she put down the trays and started carrying the boxes. They were terribly heavy, but the girl managed. She moved seven of them. She breathed a sigh of relief when she put down the last one.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkaUiR6f7mQ
She didn't want to go back to the main hall right away, so she leaned against the wall of the corridor, finally deserved a moment of rest.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrsfgIFQ73R
"If I wait here for a while, the world will not collapse after all" - she sat down heavily on the box. She ran around the room all evening until she got hot. She fanned herself with her hand, but still breathed heavily. Her gaze involuntarily wandered to the door leading to the back of the premises. She looked around to make sure no one saw her and cautiously approached the door. She stepped outside and quickly and quietly closed the door behind her and leaned back against it. She could breathe a sigh of relief.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoYUG4gx8El
I mean, she could, but in front of her she saw a girl who is about to slit the throat of some unfortunate person. She didn't even say when she reacted. Her body was moving on its own. She quickly grabbed the girl by the hair and pulled her back. Without even giving her time to understand the situation, she slammed her head hard against the wall and let her limp body fall to the ground.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ6dmPusshK
She stared at the would-be murderer and suddenly froze. She was so scared of what she had done. She thought that now she had become the murderer and only breathed when she saw that the girl was still breathing. She looked at the body for a moment until her attention fell on the boy she had just saved. He breathed heavily, but when he saw that his tormentor was lying unconscious, he breathed a sigh of relief and a slight smile91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGeUsrNpieY
He was a young boy, about twenty years old. He was tall and smartly dressed. He had an extremely pale complexion and beautiful sapphire eyes. He was also extraordinarily handsome with his exceptionally pronounced cheekbones and jawline and his seductive gaze. His long raven-black, slightly curly hair was in disarray, which gave him a unique charm. But it was his pointed ears that caught her attention, the young man must have been an elf. The boy, even though he had almost died a moment ago, was smiling broadly. Not surprisingly, he miraculously survived.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1n0RPLvyg6
"Why did she try to kill you?" - she suddenly came to her senses and asked terrified. The boy calmed his breath and looked first at her and then at the lying limp body91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4HfAz4WP1Z
"I have no idea. I see her for the first time in my life. Anyway, you should tell me what went through your friend's head! Madame Eloise will know everything!" - he threatened her with his finger and was dripping with anger, but she looked again at the girl and then at the boy and answered him with full seriousness91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtWWm7ykaD4
" She's not my friend. You also don't have to bother Mom because she's not one of our girls."- The boy looked at her face full of seriousness. He put on such a stupid face that the girl spared him the embarrassment and started explaining. - "Look at her hand. There is no bracelet with the name and our logo on it. Besides, ask anyone you want and everyone will tell you that they have never seen her in Fantabera before" - she explained with a smile the most obvious thing in the world.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVyO7Zd4cLR
The boy involuntarily looked at the unconscious girl's hands and then at her's hands. It must have suddenly dawned on him that each of the prostitutes wore a little bracelet with a name on it to advertise their services and the brothel. Despite the explanation, the boy was still uneasy. All he did was walk nervous and analyze the situation and Jasmine just sighed.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbNE9U2hIfN
Now she regretted leaving the premises. She wasn't very good at thinking, and the current situation required that she be able to explain herself. Now she has to pretend she didn't see anything and go back to work as if she hadn't witnessed the would-be massacre91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCM0qCEcHo3
She was about to turn to the boy with a request to keep her stay here a secret, but she was interrupted by a rustle coming from the end of the alley in which they were. They both looked at each other at once. Jasmine didn't want to get into any trouble. She didn't know the boy and had no intention of helping him, no matter who he was. However, as the footsteps began to get louder, she looked at the black-haired man with horror.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5un1EzVPMb
She wasn't thinking about anything at the moment. She just hugged the boy and waited for the worst. She closed her eyes and waited for the death that heavy footsteps bring. She started screaming and sobbing. She even screamed for a spare life, but after about a minute her throat started to hurt. She had screamed so much and death hadn't come yet.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdGbcXxeAGo
She calmed down and opened her eyes hesitantly. The boy in her arms was unconscious. Terrified, she pushed him away from her and watched him fall limply to the ground. She involuntarily looked at her hands. She didn’t say she was so strong that she could kill by hugging. 91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSp3sHpXZNu
She looked around nervously and looked at the other two bodies lying there. Two men were unconscious and Jasmine was devastated91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzpYN1T6yGj
"I'm so sorry. I'm really, really sorry. I didn’t want to…” - She knelt on the ground and burst into tears91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjdbOLcyFwt
" Relax girl, they’ll wake up in a while. It’s just a tranquilizer dart"- a voice said dispassionately behind her. Jasmine immediately turned to look at the young girl sitting on the barrel and eating...91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqPGklaXX8F
"Bread crusts?" Jasmine asked confused. The girl, engrossed in eating, looked amused at the snack and then at her
"Yeah! I got as bonuses for the entrusted task. Do you want some?" She put the bundle in her direction but instead of considering the snack suggestions she wiped her tears and got up from the ground91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeRgMv0Ni5i
"No thanks, eat alone." – She brought herself in order combing her hair and the mysterious girl just shrugged her shoulders91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFTF74jj0cE
"More for me, if you prefer,” and returned to her meal, satisfied -" Who are these guests? Any dissatisfied customers?" – she asked indifferently looking at each of the lying bodies and Jasmine turned on again
" I have no idea! But I thought I killed them!" – she said with deadly seriousness, but the girl looked at her like she was crazy, and sighed91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRPAH00YJ2A
" Can you tell me what happened here?" – she patted the place next to her and Jasmine immediately began to explain91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn2MfroXfis
" Today the place is under siege. I didn’t even have time to sit on anyone’s lap because I flew from the box to the bar. I was already running around very tired and Alfred told me to get rid of the empty crates. I wore them to the back room until I was almost sweating. So when I finished, I thought it was normal that I needed to rest. I went outside to breathe and then I saw a girl trying to slit his throat "– she pointed at the unconscious black-haired boy –" and I didn’t have time to think how I grabbed her and pushed her away. I thought I killed her, but luckily she’s alive. And just when I thought everything was going to be okay, I heard footsteps and then these two appeared and I panicked and prepared myself for death" – she was very emotional about the incident and gesticulated strongly to convey the emotions that accompanied her91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQAEJgGrh1k
"And then I decided to come out of the shadows and take care of the rest. The exception was the black-haired one, he got hit because I thought he was choking you, my mistake. You’ll apologize to him when he wakes up. I’m just curious why you didn’t decide to run inside. You had the door right under your nose. That’s why I knocked down the guy, I thought he was holding you and preventing you from escaping" – the girl said seriously and Jasmine immediately became enlightened91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlgm19jKJir
"Actually, that would be a good idea. But I wasn’t thinking then. I was already ready to die and that requires more thinking than running away" – she commented with lightness and deadly seriousness and the girl accompanying her rolled her eyes. - "Just out of curiosity, what are you doing here Ivy?”- she dropped the subject of bodies and asked with sparkles in her eyes the girl she grabbed by the hand to listen to her story
" You know, what I always do. I got the task from the docker, I did it, and when I got paid, I thought I’d restock. I went to Fido’s for weapons and I went to Aaron’s for medicine and I accidentally ran into you.” - She said without emotion as always and shrugged her shoulders as she continued eating stale bread. Jasmine, however, had somewhere how she got here91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzQgXaKTlDP
"It’s good that we ran into each other. Now you can help me!" - She grabbed Ivy by the shoulders and looked at her confused face with sparkles in her eyes91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGtw9Ex1C6A
"What? Not only does it save your ass, TOTALLY FREE, is that not enough for you?" - Ivy broke free from the hug and spoke in slight disbelief. However, Jasmine decided that it was normal to help each other91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8lXysqCwNi
"I need to somehow explain why the client ended up unconscious in the back of the brothel. I might get in trouble for this. Please, Ivy, help me!" - She begged almost on her knees and knew Ivy would buy it because she was too beautiful for anyone to refuse her. She also knew that Ivy would take any job, even this one
" Okay, let me lose. I’ll try to deal with it somehow" – Jasmine immediately jumped with delight and there was no trace of her theatrical despair and Ivy just sighed a long time. - "Look, you take him inside and tell him he hit his head. It’s normal for someone drunk to fall over and break their head. I believe you can convince everyone. I’ll take care of the bodies in the meantime. Something’s wrong with these people, so you’d better get inside and I’ll try to clean things up in here, got it? Just go inside and forget it ever happened!" – she explained calmly and matter-of-factly and Jasmine listened to her attentively
" You don’t have to say anything else. You take care of these bodies and I’ll take him inside and pretend that nothing happened in the back room" – she sent her radiant smile and she knew that everything would be fine now91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwvNPfnOQ0O
"Great. It’s like what, remember that you haven’t seen me" – Ivy opened the door and helped her throw the black-haired body inside – "Good Luck" – she said quickly and slammed the door to the back.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnd40wmbmuz
Jasmine now looked at the boy’s body. She didn’t want to drag him down the hall. She’s just tired of running. She had to think hard now.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡczYOYJepGL
She waited a dozen or so minutes but soon got bored of watching over the unconscious body. She looked around the room until she came across bottles of wine. She unscrewed one and poured it firmly on the boy’s face. He immediately woke up and started choking on liquid. Jasmine stopped her activity and looked at the boy with attention. When he managed to cough and cool down, he started looking around the room. His questioning gaze fell on her immediately. Jasmine only treated him with a smile that said that nothing had happened and that everything was fine. The boy sat up and started to think hard91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHwMJW3F8H7
"Can you explain to me what I’m doing here?" - He asked firmly and got up from the ground. She didn’t like to lie, but now she had to somehow convince the boy that nothing had happened91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVwR1KdnnLi
"How’s what? You were unconscious, but now you’re up. And if so, it means that we can go back to the hall and continue the fun" – she said amused and grabbed the boy’s arm. She wanted to drag him to the room, but he stood like a pole91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9QnVdFGk2w
"Do I look like an idiot to you? I know what happened. Some girl tried to kill me and when two other people showed up in the alley..." – he grabbed his head and smacked his lips in annoyance – "I lost consciousness so I don’t know what happened next, but it doesn’t matter! Someone just tried to kill me and you saw it!" - He grabbed her hand and squeezed. She was scared of the boy’s reaction but she had to play as Ivy told her91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3YLXtrOXFY
"What made you think someone wanted to kill you? And even if so what. You saw how I neutralized that girl. It’s over, let’s go to the hall and have fun until dawn" – she was under the impression that her radiant smile and the glow of her eyes did not work on the boy because he was still standing immovable91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBceY9Ovx0g
"I’ve had enough! I’ve known for a long time that something is wrong! I’m not going to stand idly by when I can finally find out who it is" – he headed for the door and she ried to stop him at all costs91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ28xquipoHi
"There is nothing!" - She blocked his way and hoped she could convince him somehow. She wrestled with the boy for a while until some other man who suddenly appeared in the back room grabbed his arm and pushed him away from the door. Jasmine could breathe a sigh of relief for a moment. Now someone else was taking care of the black-haired man, not her91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJoHTuNg0QK
"Where have you been! You were supposed to go out for a while and you disappeared without a trace!" - The tall man held the black-haired man by the collar and was dripping with anger, even terrifying her. Jasmine learned from his ears that he was also an elf. However, the boy managed to pull himself free from the strong grip and glared at the man91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEqY1JhPHth
" Why are you suddenly so scared? Do you think something might have happened to me? You do not trust me?" – growled in his face and the tall tall elf instantly humbled himself91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZHwSoNrBRz
"I didn’t say anything like that. Just as your bodyguard, I wants to know if something is bothering you. Everything’s all right?" – he asked with a dose of uncertainty and the boy was very indignant91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSjUlzdo1bw
"At its best! See for yourself" - he threw a biting and moved the confused Jasmine and opened the door wide outside91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgZzAbkNlhr
"You see?!" – He went to the back room and followed before the elf. They watched the mess, but Jasmine breathed a sigh of relief. The bodies are gone. The boy looked around frantically, but couldn’t find anything91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtz5kpaWsgz
"Caspian, are you okay? You can see that something is bothering you" – Elf tried to calm the boy, but he did not want any explanation. He cut off the elf’s further argument with his hand and went inside resignedly91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡazvajlC7i2
"Give it to Madame and tell her that it’s from the prince along with thanks" – he threw her a sack of gold and ordered impassively and they will disappear somewhere in the corridor. She was so confused that she didn’t manage to catch up with him. She only saw him gallop down the main street on his horse and they would quickly disappear into the crowd.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7JMVy3MP4K
"How is it from the prince?!" - She looked at the pouch with valuables in disbelief, but she decided that she would do as the elf had instructed her. She immediately ran to Madame and delivered the message. She then hid in the crowd to avoid going back to work and quickly ran to the back room91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡujuIHw4Dft
"Ivy! Ivy!" - She started screaming desperately. She was about to go out into the street, but she heard rustling in the garbage. Ivy stepped out from under the pile of dirt and stood as if nothing had happened91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrf5r41bNvL
"So, will they swallow this story?" - She asked dispassionately and began to rummage through the garbage, ignoring her presence91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjXVFLMFLhT
"I’m not sure, but I don’t think so. Although when he went outside and the bodies were gone, he entered already resigned. Maybe when he sobers up, he’ll think it was just a drunken dream?" – Jasmine started to think but she wasn’t here for that. Better to do something else -" Where are the bodies?"- She asked with childish curiosity as she came over to see what Ivy was looking for
" One cut, one beaten and the third went back to his boss to say hello. I was lucky enough that they had some pretty cool items with them" – she said quite mysteriously and didn’t stop rummaging through the garbage even for a moment91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYRltskPK97
"They wanted to kill this boy in the back of the brothel, I wonder why?" - She said aloud, but she didn’t want to strain her brain for a stranger 91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRHntN3iR3R
"Not them, their boss told them to. And I have no idea. But you’d better not think about it. They were the intermediaries of a very dangerous guy, it’s better not to start this topic. Since they weren’t hunting you, you should be fine. So forget about them and the boy and get back to work.” - She put a few things in her pocket and got up from her knees
"Well, let me forget about it. But just to be sure, come tomorrow to make sure they don’t come back for revenge, huh? Will you do it for me?" - She tried to convince the girl with her innocent smile, but Ivy stood unmoved91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1twv3sJw6A
"It’s pointless. Fantabera has protection, all you have to do is scream and someone will come to your aid. You can also be sure that they won’t try to get you, after all, you weren’t their target. Now go back inside and live as if nothing happened!" - Ivy pointed to the door and she walked towards the end of the alley91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbm67JHRIen
" Then you’re not coming?" She shouted after her hopefully91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkEKf9sJoKB
" No, I already have plans! But if you have a job for me, let Aaron know!" She screamed as she left and disappeared around the corner91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI07b13BJQP
Jasmine looked at the place where Ivy had disappeared for a while and then went inside. If Ivy said there was nothing to worry about, it probably was. She didn’t need to be told to stop thinking about it. Now she focused on getting a few customers for drinks. With a beaming smile, she entered the hall with a dance step to entertain the company.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIfgcOKqNYK
True91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡraA64iCWdK
They arrived at the castle at an alarmingly fast pace. Caspian looked at nothing. Emotions bubbled up inside him that he couldn't control or hide, which was extremely rare. He dismounted and walked briskly towards the gardens to cool off. The mere fact that Edward was still out of step with him was both the reason for his aggression and the reason why he still held himself in check. What annoyed him the most was the fact that the elf behaved as if nothing had happened, as if nothing had happened. They were walking towards the orangery and when Caspian decided that they were extremely far away, he turned towards Edward who had already spread loosely on the bench.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMoFfkZ7K4K
"I can't believe you haven't told me anything in so long," - he said through his hands in which he hid his resigned face.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzdBXZtP0iS
"I have no idea what you're talking about," Edward sat impassive and pretended to be stupid which made him even more pissed off91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5SON0TVp9v
"Finish this drama and tell the truth! You think I don't know you're isolating me in the castle? You don't tell me anything and you avoid it like the plague because you're afraid that I'll find out the truth" - he growled towards him and Edward sighed resignedly. Caspian immediately lost his anger and was overcome by helplessness, so he fell heavily on the bench next to the elf91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡncRJjTmXId
"I wanted to tell you but your father forbade me. He said if he got more evidence he'd let you in on it, and until then we should keep quiet. I don't know why either, but he distanced me from the investigation. He only said to keep an eye on you secretly. I'm sorry that I was silent for so long" - he admitted in visible remorse and Caspian immediately cooled down. It was just what he needed, a little honesty to dispel his insecurities91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEoRLln7fPN
"And despite my suspicions, I was allowed to leave the castle?"- he asked with less reproach to delve into the details he had no opportunity to learn91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjWid76j8RN
"The condition was that I had to be with you. Now I spitting in my face for it. I'm too gentle with you. I let you walk away on your own. It's lucky that you're okay" - he blurted out with relief and Caspian was just waiting to spoil his mood91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoMOlmiSJHZ
"Yeah, luckily someone else took down the murderers" - he admitted with very little amusement only under his breath so that Edward could hardly hear but the elf still looked at him in disbelief and after a while he got up as if burned91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRSl4OvjZ8O
"What?! Someone tried to kill you?!" he shouted, grabbing him by the collar and Caspian immediately covered his mouth with his hand and began to silence him91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAWri32x2HB
"Be quiet or someone will hear you!" he commanded firmly and Edward reluctantly but calmed down and the prince was able to remove his hand91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlQp81qKeu8
"Tell me immediately what happened!" - he stated seriously and sat Caspian on the bench. Edward stood with his arms folded and prince felt like he was on some kind of interrogation, but he felt relieved that he could tell someone honestly91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf4hLCdukkI
"It was a strange situation. I followed a woman. We landed at the back of the premises and when it was about to get interesting, she put a knife to my throat. At the last moment, some girl from Fantaber grabbed her and dragged her away. Then two other men came but I lost consciousness and when I woke up I was already inside and there was no sign of the thugs outside" - he was making a plan of events in his head that even despite the alcohol consumed was quite simple
Edward looked calm on the surface, but the prince saw him assume his thinking pose. He began to move his leg slightly and put his hand to his face to hide how he mumbles under his breath. Caspian, seeing this pose, already knew that he was in trouble91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSb1Bg6q8KW
"You'll never go anywhere unattended again," - he said lightly and Caspian laughed. He knew the elf wasn't joking, but he also knew he would find a way around it and that Edward wouldn't be very strict with him. - "How did it happen?" - he said more to himself, wanting to analyze the situation thoroughly and again assumed the role of a military man of flesh and blood
"Does this surprise you? After all, someone has been threatening me for a long time, hasn't they?" - Caspian was very surprised at Edward's reaction. He was always calm and rational. Normally, he would probably have already picked up the trail and thought where the culprit is and now he was sitting and couldn't hide his surprise and the fact that something was bothering him91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXURFEUTT62
"That’s the problem, that’s surprising. Nobody told you about the assassination attempt because some people thought it was a joke. A few posters were found around the city with expressions of quite strong dislike for you, some gossip and a bunch of drunks wishing you ill, that’s it. They weren’t even terrible threats, but for your safety you were forbidden to leave the castle. And now? As if someone knew you were going to be in town and immediately took advantage of the moment not to scare, but to take your life right away. Something stinks here. Where were the investigators who were supposed to look into this case? How could they not notice that someone is trying to kill you?! Where was I when it happened? I failed you as a bodyguard and friend,”- Edward scolded aloud, his demeanor full of humility and sadness. Caspian saw that the case affected him more than he did, and he was clearly wrong about it. He wanted to comfort his companion a bit, so he put his hand on Edward's shoulder and tried to calm him down somehow91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzjxOdjJ9Vk
"Don’t blame yourself. It’s my fault. I knew something was wrong and yet I wanted to annoy the world and leave. I also forbade you to follow me despite the risk. You’ve always tried to protect me, so stop complaining about yourself. The most important thing is that I am safe and that only the two of us know about the case. Now we can start working ourselves!" – he stated with enthusiasm and after his despair there was no trace so Edward looked at him obviously confused91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr8RR7ahV0u
" What do you mean?"- Caspian looked into his eyes and smiled slyly91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXDGuzjPSXJ
" How’s what? We’ll investigate the assassination case ourselves! Since no one knows anything, we’ll find out for ourselves" – he stated with obviousness, which stunned Edward91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyX7F5NyuGN
"Caspian... You know you’ll always be like a brother to me, but I can’t help you. My hands are tied. Your father won’t let me get involved. Besides, it’s absurd! I will not put you in danger. You can’t go looking for your tormentor on your own, it’s suicide!"- Edward tried to dissuade him from his controversial idea but it was useless. The prince had already made his decision, so he stood up and straightened up proudly to extend his hand towards the elf91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzu713Z1yme
" I am aware of the risk, but I know that whoever does not risk, does not win. So now you can let me loose in the lion’s mouth or join me and brake if necessary." – he knew it was best to put Edward in front of a fait accompli to make him obey, and so he did. Edward obviously didn’t like it very much, but he had no other choice. After all, he had to protect the prince at all costs. Reluctantly, he took his hand and stood up91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhnprhHIQG4
"Don’t you dare run away or hide anything from me now.” You tell me all your suspicions, fears or thought! Are you understad? – Edward set the conditions hard, but Caspian, instead of taking over his request, was already plotting his next moves in his head91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIu3zRlt519
"It is obvious! After all, from now on, we work together, partner" – Caspian looked at the grumpy Edward with amusement and satisfaction. He knew their duo would be unstoppable and finding the bomber would be a matter of time. They waited for a while for their emotions to dissipate so that they could go to the castle in peace. - "How about we get drunk today and start implementing our plan tomorrow?" - Caspian suggested excitedly as they entered the main corridor
"Do you even know where to start?" - Edward looked at him with pity, although somewhere in his gray eyes you could see the need to drink tonight91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJB8PLN9J4Y
"Tomorrow morning we return to the brothel" – he will smile slyly and beat the elf to build a slight tension that he will explain only with a glass of wine.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ61AK6xUeGJ
Morgue91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIH9L5hVY1A
She scooped up pay, bread crusts, replenished the blades, plucked three suckers, and replenished the first-aid kit. It was a really good day for her, so she was happy to return through the dark streets of Kamino to the Mortuary.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2r2V85rJcp
The Mortuary is one of Magdorn’s districts, but taken out of context by the city. Actually, it’s just the western part behind the wall, which is just a dumping ground for the city and its inhabitants. Only people vegetate there, living on the garbage they have to call home. This is a place where the hand of power has no law and the eyes of the inhabitants simply do not reach here because nobody cares about the fate of these disadvantaged people.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqpxBzhJqVA
As soon as she passed the gate of the last ring, she found herself in the garbage, where she was greeted by the stench of the gutter, crying, screaming and whimpering. She was home. Proudly, she walked along the well-trodden paths between the crumbling huts. Along the way, she passed homeless friends, drug dealers, prostitutes and even a necrophiliac friend. Anyone in Magdorn would have been terrified by the sight, but not someone who lived in the Mortuary. For her it is normal and she managed to get used to the area and its charms a long time ago. She could also boast that she herself had a status in the slums. She aroused respect among the poor and other dubious guests. She could also walk quite calmly because rarely anyone was desperate enough to try to rob or kill her, so the walk would pass her really quickly.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2sPCHG5BM2
Just when she had finished eating bread, she came to her house. It was remote and in a relatively hidden place near the river, on the flood plains, so few people ventured here. They were little frequented by people due to possible sinkholes or quicksand, but in fact the land was relatively safe here and only during the rainy season it was less safe to move around. But she knew every nook and cranny, so even drunk or blind she would find her way to her house.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU9jabiSdBn
A path of stones led to it, which Ivy hid well so that no one undesirable could enter her apartment. It was an old fishing hut converted into an apartment. It was built on huge piles so that the structure reached many centimeters above the water level to protect it in case of flooding. It looked like an ordinary hovel, but to Ivy it was her favorite place in the world. The whole thing resembled a pyramid with a rectangular base with a slanted roof covered with rotting tiles, which additionally masked her apartment.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNBPOBGOlCo
She opened the door and took off her shoes in the recess chosen for it. She also grabbed a candle which she lit with a kerosene lighter to lighten the room. Her house was extremely small, but she had space for a kitchen, bathroom, bedrooms, and a weapons shed. It was a mess, even though everything was in its place. A mass of dried plants and flowers hung from the ceiling. On the walls were blades and strings for clothes and some kitchen utensils. She had a modest stone stove which she rarely used and which was the only source of heat in her house. In the right corner, next to the stove, she arranged a place for storing herbs and for creating potions, poisons or medicines. On the left, she had her bed made of a straw-stuffed mattress and piles of furs that kept her warm on cold nights and kept her comfortable. To the left of the entrance she had a bathroom which was a simple wooden vat in which she sometimes bathed and a few smaller bowls and a washboard for washing clothes, all covered with a curtain to give her some privacy. To the right of the door was her favorite place, which was a makeshift weapons shed and exercise area. She even made two mannequins on which she learned to fight in hand-to-hand and with weapons. Of course, she also had a lot of boxes and crates for weapons, clothes, medicines, herbs, money and other junk. In the middle, however, she had a small and old table that was low enough that she sat on a fur seat at it and at which she spent the most time when she was staying at home for a long time. She also had a small space under the roof where she kept some old accessories or spare equipment and equipment.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGT3zMy0Mxz
For her, this place was like paradise. It was relatively comfortable and met basic needs. And when she needed something, she went to the forest and hunted for it or created it herself from what nature gave or what she found herself. And today she had a nice booty. She scooped up poisoned weapons and some coins from the three pursuers. She was unlucky, so having the opportunity to assault and rob thugs was an exceptional achievement. She happily hid the blades in the box, the medicines in the first aid kit and the rest of the money in the hiding place under the floor. She knew that tomorrow evening she would go to Fantaber’s to look after Jasmine and before that she would replenish supplies. Satisfied, she lay down on the bed, grabbed the knife she had under the pillow just in case, and fell asleep.91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRxHhCQnfC5
91Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi9xljQwMgE
