LATEST UPDATES

Firebrand - Chapter 141

Published at 12th of April 2024 06:38:28 AM


Chapter 141: Copper and Cat

If audio player doesn't work, press Stop then Play button again








Chapter 141: Copper and Cat

Copper and Cat

Martel looked around. The prize fighters held their staves with grim expressions, and the guards likewise appeared prepared for trouble. His own emotions reflected how they looked, and for a moment, he imagined that Tibert had gathered all these men solely to take revenge on Stallion. Next to him, Maximilian emptied his flagon, letting him free one hand to pick up food from his plate.

"You're still hungry?" Martel asked incredulously.

"Always." The mageknight shrugged. "Besides, by the looks of it, I will need all my energy."

"You think he's here for me?" The novice whispered.

"No. We knew about this since the day before yesterday," Lothar explained, standing next to them.

"Kerra knew he would show up? And she still went ahead with all this?" Martel asked, not believing his own ears.

Their conversation was cut short by the arrival of the woman herself. Dressed as usual in trousers and shirt, with a leather jerkin in addition and a dagger by her side, Kerra strolled through the assembled men to stand in front.

Martel did not understand how she could seem so calm and confident; Tibert had at least twice the numbers, and his men seem like hardened thugs and well-armed. He knew that Lothar, Cornelius, and Butcher could fight; he hoped that the doormen were similarly experienced.L1tLagoon witnessed the first publication of this chapter on Ñøv€l--B1n.

People appeared from within the tavern, realising something was afoot. A few immediately made themselves scarce while some became spectators, watching with fascination; one even returned inside, only to reappear with others. Judging by the noise coming from within, the majority of patrons had yet to discover anything amiss.

Lothar gave Martel a staff, and he held it looking anxious. With a smirk, Maximilian emptied his plate, tossed it aside, and took the staff from Martel's hands. "He does not need a weapon," the mageknight explained. "Show them what a wizard can do. I will keep them back," he added towards Martel.

When a short stone's throw separated the two groups, Kerra spoke. "My apologies, Master Tibert, but you are not welcome here. I suggest you return to your own district."

"You ruined my business, you copper bitch. Now I return the favour." Despite his words, his expression remained blank; only his eyes showed their usual intensity, hinting at the anger underneath. "Leave the harlot alone, but destroy the rest!"

~

Kerra, who had fought with a pair of long daggers, walked over to kick the barrel. As it fell, disgorging water and Tibert, she placed one knife at his throat. "Remember this moment if you ever consider returning to the copper lanes. Be thankful that this copper bitch respects the Pact and lets you live."

She pulled her weapon and stood aside, letting him get on his feet. From all sides, he saw only hostile stares, except those who looked at him with amusement. Still dripping wet, Tibert pushed at the people nearest and followed in the direction of his men.

~

Relieved laughter spread among the defenders. More people had appeared from within the tavern, watching the fight, but judging from the noise still emanating through the front door, plenty still partook of the festivities.

Watching the fighters and doormen slap each other's backs, Martel did not feel as charitable. He looked around to spot Kerra. "You knew this would happen. That's why you invited us," he spoke in accusation.

She shrugged. "I could have hired some poor saps to defend my tavern, but that would only have led to more casualties. I figured a pair of wizards could handle this more elegantly."

Maximilian joined to stand next to Martel. "That does not excuse luring us here under false pretences. You are lucky my clothes were not ruined."

"Your services shall not go unrewarded. Naturally, all your drinks tonight are on the house." Kerra took the purse by her belt and tossed it to Martel. "You won twenty silvers at every fight in The Broken Crown, right? The Copper Drum is happy to pay the same."

Martel felt the coins through the fabric. It annoyed him that she had the exact amount prepared in her purse, anticipating this very conversation.

She looked at Maximilian. "I'll subtract the same from your debt."

Martel glanced at his friend. "You still owe her money?"

"I gambled a lot trying to win my ring back," he admitted. "I will confess, a little brawl was missing from this celebration! And the spoils match the victory. Come on! We have a tavern to leave dry before the night is over." The mageknight stepped towards the entrance before looking back at Martel.

The novice stood indecisively. Already, the staff fighters had returned inside, slapping shoulders and exchanging remarks. He still felt angry at being manipulated yet again by Kerra – but he could nurse his wounded pride, or he could go inside and drink free ale with his friends. "I'm coming."

"Good man!" Maximilian slapped him on the back, and they went inside the tavern.




Please report us if you find any errors so we can fix it asap!


COMMENTS