The Broken Blade (Dark Sun: Chronicles of Athas 3)

“Then I will look forward to the pleasure of your company. We shall be traveling together.”

“Now, Cricket, there is nothing to be served by making hasty decisions,” Turin said. “You’re upset now, and—”

“I had already booked passage before this happened,” Cricket interrupted him. “I am leaving, Turin, so don’t try to stop me. I am already packed.”

Turin’s jaw dropped. “Is this how you repay me, after all I’ve done for you?”

“After all you have done for me?” said Cricket angrily. “I have made you a great deal of money, Turin! I have earned every copper I have made in this place, and more, but at least I have done it without compromising my virtue!”

“Your virtue?” Turin said. “Oh, really! Isn’t it a bit ludicrous for you to put on the airs of an affronted virgin?”

“I am a virgin!” she shouted at him.

Everyone fell silent. Turin simply stared at her with shock.

“Damn you, Turin,” she said softly as tears flowed down her cheeks.

“May I escort you home, my lady?” Kieran asked, offering her his arm.

“I… I have to get my things,” she stammered.

“I will bring them to you,” an elven bard said, stepping up beside her. He patted her on the shoulder. “Go on, now,” he said, handing her his cloak. “It will be all right.” He smiled. “You’ve certainly given them something to remember you by.”

She smiled through her tears. “Thank you, Edric,” she said, kissing him on the cheek. “Please,” she said to Kieran, “I want to go home now.”

The crowd parted for them as they turned to leave.

Behind them, the big mercenary regained consciousness and sat up groggily. His gaze focused on Kieran, and he reached behind his neck, pulling a stiletto from a concealed sheath on his back, under his tunic. He drew his arm back…

“Kieran, look out!” Drom shouted.

Kieran spun around just in time to see a ceramic bottle come flying through the air and shatter against the big mercenary’s temple. The man grunted and collapsed, dropping the knife. Kieran looked quickly to see who had thrown it. His gaze fell on Sorak. Sorak simply nodded at him.

Kieran smiled. “That’s two I owe you, Sorak,” he said. “My thanks. I won’t forget.”

Edric turned to stare at Sorak intently.

“Well, I think I’ve had enough entertainment for one night,” Ryana said.

Sorak offered her his arm. “In that case, my lady, will you allow me to escort you home?”

She took his arm and snuggled up against him. “Would you like a private dance, as well?”

“I didn’t know you could dance,” said Sorak with surprise.

“I can’t,” she replied, batting her eyelashes.

“Tajik,” Sorak said, “we’re leaving now.”

“Well, I must say, it’s certainly been an interesting night,” said the ferry captain as he led them toward the door. Behind them, Edric continued to stare at Sorak. Then he turned to Turin. “I will return for Cricket’s things,” he said.

“Aah, do as you like, and good riddance to you both,” said Turin, sourly. But Edric was already heading for the door.

Chapter Five

“That girl was very beautiful, wasn’t she?” Ryana asked.

Sorak ran his fingers lightly down her bare thigh. “Yes, she was.”