Kaztos followed his new friend downstairs to her father’s workshop. He found it impressive that Zeltara possessed the skill to work in a workshop. The craft of a skilled tinker was often unappreciated but vital to the functioning of society. Workshops helped keep entire towns running because of the difficulty of replacing whatever was broken. Appliances and mediums held much higher demand than what the nation’s production could provide. Without workshops, who knew how much worse this would be?
Upon reaching the ground floor, Kaztos saw many projects in progress on tables and workbenches. He didn’t have the slightest clue what went into fixing such things. It made him appreciate that he had befriended someone with such skills. Kaztos had long thought that he would travel the path of life alone. He thanked the Amedori for leading him to meet Zeltara and Saiya. While most of his peers would dismiss them for their disadvantaged upbringings, a Molinar was above such arrogance.
Kaztos stood with Saiya as they waited for Zeltara to talk with her father. From what he heard, she was getting permission to leave again. Kaztos paid it little mind and turned his attention to Saiya. She looked distracted as she listened in on the conversation across the room. Kaztos thought about the excessive shyness the blond girl displayed. Despite his and Zeltara’s efforts, Saiya had hardly spoken so far. It would take a significant effort to get her to open up.
But if nothing else, Kaztos was determined. He will make that effort for her. Her small outburst before gave him a small window into the person hiding inside. That was someone he would like to get to know better. Saiya glanced back at him and flinched a little. Ah, he was staring at her while lost in thought. He gave a benign smile and was happy to see her settle again. A significant effort indeed.
“Are you two ready to go?” Zeltara asked. Kaztos and Saiya turned to see that she had finished her conversation and rejoined them. Her father was back working at a workbench. They gave Zeltara a quick affirmative. All three left The Workshop and walked down the street. The lunch rush had made the street crowded, but it was easy to stick together. Zeltara was half a step ahead as she led them to an unknown destination. She glanced back at them. “Do you have anywhere in mind to eat? I have somewhere, but I’m willing to hear any ideas you guys have.”
Kaztos thought for a second before he realized he didn’t have anywhere to go. He always ate at the manor whenever possible. “I can’t think of anywhere to eat. I’m not particularly welcome in most establishments because of my heritage.” At his side, Saiya nodded in agreement.
“I figured as much. From what I’ve gathered, it seems like we’re in similar situations. Luckily, I know a place where we’ll be accepted. I hope you like bread and sweets.” At that remark, Zeltara picked up the pace and led them through town. Kaztos was curious about where they were heading. Perhaps there was a tavern or restaurant that he hadn’t heard of. It surprised him when Zeltara led the group to a bakery. She turned to them and gave a sweeping gesture towards the building. “Welcome to the Bread Basket Bakery. They have tasty treats and are more welcoming than most in Urada.” With a flourish, Zeltara entered the bakery with Saiya and him following behind.
The interior was modest, with bountiful counter space dedicated to baked goods. To Kazto’s surprise, an elderly elf woman worked at the counter. Until now, he had rarely seen any elves, but he would meet his second one today. She seemed to be distracted by something behind the counter and didn’t see them enter. Zeltara walked up to get the elder elf’s attention.
“Hey Selossa, how’s it going? I was wondering if we could get some strawberry turnovers?” The elderly elf looked up and smiled as her eyes laid on the younger elf.
“Zeltara, it’s good to see you again.” Selossa’s joy turned to concern as she inspected Zeltara’s face. “Dearie, what happened to your face? You aren’t too hurt, are you?”
“I just got a little roughed up, is all. Got into a scrap that was tougher than I thought.” Zeltara then gestured to Kaztos and Saiya. “Luckily, I had some help in the end. I want to introduce you to my new friends Kaztos Molinar and Saiya.” Ah, Zeltara gave his entire name. Not that he usually minded, but he didn’t want to cause a scene with the elderly elf. Likewise, Saiya tensed up beside him. It could be from her shyness, but Kaztos suspected it was because of that whole omen business. He didn’t know who started that awful rumor, as Saiya was too nice to be an omen.
Much to his surprise, Selossa did not show any negative reaction towards him and Saiya. She gave a gentle smile and looked at them warmly. “It’s nice to meet you, Kaztos, Saiya. Thank you for helping this little rascal here. She likes to get into trouble when no one’s watching.” To Kazto’s amusement, Zeltara blushed at the comment and mumbled a denial. “Any friend of Zeltara is a friend of mine. Now you said something about getting a meal?”
Zeltara recomposed herself. “Yes, could we get six strawberry turnovers, please?” She looked back at him and Saiya. “Unless you guys want anything else?” Both shook their heads, so the younger elf turned back to the counter.
“Of course, that’ll be sixty bronze.” Zeltara handed over the money and received the pastries. She handed Saiya and Kaztos two each.
“Here, it isn’t much, but I find it to be an enjoyable treat.” Kaztos watched Saiya take a bite of the turnover and hum in satisfaction. Seeing her approval, he took a bite of his treat. The combination of the warm, flaky crust and fruity yet gooey interior made it a delicious experience. Zeltara noticed his reaction and gave a teasing smirk. “I hope that it’s to your liking, rich kid. I know it probably isn’t the refined dining you’re probably used to, but us commoners have to make do somehow.”
“Nonsense. I don’t eat as sophisticatedly as you might imagine. This meal is more than satisfying for my taste.” Saiya gave a nod in agreement. The three enjoyed their meal and finished it within a few minutes.
Selossa caught Zeltara’s attention once they finished. “So, did you enjoy watching the traveling minstrel? You were so excited yesterday I expected you to have talked my ear off by now.” Zeltara paused for a moment before the look of realization passed over her face.
“I completely forgot about that. It’s why I went out in the first place. We need to go now!” Zeltara motioned for him and Saiya to follow her as she hurried out of the bakery. Kaztos gave Selossa a swift goodbye before going after her. He and Saiya caught up with Zeltara, who was moving back towards town square.
Kaztos asked, “Why are we going back to the town square? Wouldn’t it be prudent to avoid the area after our earlier encounter?” Zeltara slowed to a walk and turned her attention to him.
She then answered with a dismissive wave. “There’s probably nothing to worry about anymore. It was just a minor scuffle. The guards have probably forgotten about it by now.”
“It was more than just a mere scuffle! We defeated the two scoundrels in combat to help Saiya. It was a fierce beginning to our friendship as we united to defeat a common foe!” To think of their first encounter in such simple terms. Perhaps she didn’t understand the importance of bonding through battle. All those stories of battles in the past emphasized it. Though she had a point that others may think differently. He then continued more calmly. “Though I suppose you’re correct. It is unlikely the guards will take notice of us.”
“They’ll take notice if you keep stupidly flailing around and shouting for everyone to hear,” Saiya said, deadpan. Kaztos turned to see her blank face staring back at him. He felt hurt that she would say that about him. He then heard Zeltara laugh and turned to her. Did she agree with Saiya? Zeltara then saw his hurt expression and promptly calmed down.
“She was only being sarcastic, Kaztos. She didn’t really mean it, right, Saiya?” The cloaked girl nodded in response and mumbled an apology under her breath. Feeling embarrassed by the misunderstanding, Kaztos hurried to apologize.
“My apologies, Saiya. I should have realized.” He chastised himself for the faux pas. It wouldn’t be like Saiya to make mean-spirited comments about his character. Though it was hard to know for sure, seeing as they had only met a few hours prior. Kaztos wasn’t used to friendships, but he supposed camaraderie took time. He would have to do better in the future.
Ignorant of his self-deprecation, Zeltara said, “Don’t worry about it. We’re still getting used to each other. Now how about we see the traveling minstrel before he finishes up for the day?” This reassured Kaztos. Yes, they had all the time in the world to get to know each other better. It wouldn’t be long before they were close friends. But for now, he turned his attention to the second part of her statement.
“Yes, just what is so special about the traveling minstrel? I suppose he was the reason the crowd had gathered in the town square. But what allows this fellow to draw so many people?” Zeltara gave a confused look at his words.
“You don’t know what a traveling minstrel is? I suppose it makes sense since you’re a noble. They’re popular with commoners like me and Saiya.” The cloaked girl nodded in agreement as Zeltara continued. “I’m sure for the upper class they get news in their own way, but for everyone else, it’s harder for information to travel around. This is especially so for villages and towns like Urada, which are rather isolated from the cities. I don’t even believe our Count’s tax collectors regularly come by anymore, from what my father has said. Anyway, a traveling minstrel is how these communities receive information. They make a circuit around The Dominion’s cities to gather major news before choosing a group of settlements to visit. They then relay the news to the people living there before moving on.”
“Although it appears beneficial, I fail to see how that would draw crowds. Only a few people need to attend, and they will spread the news to the rest of the town.” Perhaps it was the novelty of an outsider visiting that drew people. But wouldn’t that dissipate for most after a few visits?
“It’s more special than that. A traveling minstrel doesn’t just relay current events, but rather tells a story. They’ll often play instruments and wax lyrical. It gets people eager to listen because there’s not much excitement around town. Not only that, but they’ll often sell trinkets and artifacts from other parts of the world they’ve visited. You not only get to listen to entertaining stories about the world but also get a souvenir for attending. Also, they have a special ability that truly brings the experience together.”
“A special ability? What do you mean?” Something that could improve the storytelling? Kaztos got excited thinking about the possibilities.
Unfortunately, Zeltara noticed his eagerness and poked fun at him. “I think I’ll keep that a secret for now. Can’t wait to see your reaction though. This is going to be so much fun. I’ve waited forever for this.”
Zeltara was almost bursting with elation herself. It helped Kaztos get enthused about the traveling minstrel as well. Tales of valor and treasures from around the world? Along with some kind of mysterious enhancement of the experience? He was ready to go right then. “Sounds fantastic! Let’s go see him immediately.”
“It makes sense that you’d be interested in this. You had quite a number of historical texts and fairy tales in your room,” Saiya said. From the small smile on her face, it appeared Saiya was interested in going as well. Kaztos wondered if she had ever seen a traveling minstrel before.
Zeltara said, “Yeah, I’ve always been interested in stories from faraway places. There’s only so many history books in Urada to read, but the traveling minstrel always brings something new to learn about.” As she finished speaking, the three reached town square. They kept an eye out for any trouble from earlier, but their worries were unfounded. The crowd had grown around the carriage at the center, and the three could hear the traveling minstrel from there. They rushed over and stood together at the back of the crowd.
The traveling minstrel stood on the seat of his carriage. He dressed himself in a colorful tunic and pants. His shoes ended in points, and his cape was patched together in many colors. A large rimmed hat sat on his head that matched the rest of his outfit. Kaztos found the attire to be quite ridiculous, if eye-catching. In his hands was a lyre, which he strummed soft notes over the crowd.
Upon hearing the notes, something spectacular happened. Before Kazto’s eyes, an illusion appeared in front of the traveling minstrel. At first, it was only a mix of shapes and colors before coalescing into an image. He witnessed a scene of a swordsman fighting off a brown-haired troll in a village. Kaztos had seen nothing like this before. An illusion spell used to show the story the user was telling? This must have been what Zeltara was talking about.
The traveling minstrel played his lyre with fast and energetic notes as he said, “-and so the brave guard swung his sword down. A monstrous screech bellowed out, and the head of the troll fell to the ground. He lifted his sword in triumph as celebration ran through the air.” As he spoke, the illusory warrior struck down the troll, and villagers came out of their houses to crowd around the victorious man. “Thus, Rivan village was saved from destruction. The village had a festival in his honor, all thanks to one man’s willingness to help others.” As the lyre fell silent, the illusion evaporated like smoke. The minstrel gave a dramatic bow as applause came from the crowd. He then sat down on the carriage seat to collect himself.
Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.
“That was amazing! How did he create that illusion just now?” Kaztos asked as the crowd began to speak amongst themselves.
Zeltara, smiling at his excitement, said, “The lyre is enchanted. Every traveling minstrel worth their salt has an enchanted instrument. By channeling mana into the lyre while playing, he can create illusions for anyone who hears.” She then pointed to the minstrel, who was resting on the carriage. “Though it can be quite taxing when so many are listening at once.”
Looking at the tired minstrel, Kaztos said, “It seems like we’re late. He was already in the middle of his storytelling when we arrived. From his weariness, he is probably almost done.” Zeltara faced filled with disappointment.
“That sucks. I was looking forward to listening. Who knows how much we missed?” Zeltara lamented. She quickly perked up again. “No matter, the best stories are usually saved for last. I’ll be sure to record them.” Zeltara suddenly grabbed a small book and pencil from her satchel.
“You’re going to write down what he is saying?” He found himself curious about why she would do such a thing.
“I make a habit of jotting down anything exciting around me. It’s been a hobby of mine for a while now.” Kaztos wanted to inquire further, but the minstrel stood up again.
The traveling minstrel held his hand up for silence. The entire crowd stopped talking. He played his lyre again, notes somber this time. He looked out at the crowd. “Now, I must tell you a more sorrowful tale. I speak about his high majesty, Meladorn Althorgon.” The notes picked up beat and intensity. Another illusion appeared, showing a middle-aged man standing strong. He wore regal attire of purple and gold. His hair had turned grey, and age had wrinkled his stern face. “The Holy Emperor, ruler of our great Dominion. He took the throne during the sixth crisis and led armies against the barbaric Lilathos Molinar.”
The illusion changed to show the emperor leading armies into battle and defeating his foes. “By his command, he defeated the blasphemous armies, restored peace to the lands, and justly ruled the people in the newly christened seventh era for the last twenty-seven years.” The images showed the emperor standing before a prosperous land. The notes quieted down. A peaceful tune played. “He is even close friends with the hero himself, Gabriel Ashbrook.” An image appeared of the emperor and a silver-haired man in decorated silver armor conversing.
The notes once again turn to sorrow. “Perhaps the heavens felt his majesty was too good for this world. For a dreadful illness has befallen him. Bedridden, he grows weaker, and the life drains from him.” The illusion shows the once imposing figure of Althorgon, now frail in bed. “No cure has been found, and it is said that friends and family have said their goodbyes. Even our beloved hero gave his well wishes and goodbyes.” The minstrel fell silent.
Only the sound of his lyre filled the town square. But steadily, the notes change from despair to hopeful. “But there is no need for fear. For our great emperor shall soon pass on to the hands of the Amedori. His soul shall be eternally blessed in heaven, like all those who live faithfully. To be given audience to Lord Jindan, and the other Holy Lords above.” The image now shows the emperor ascending to heaven above, leaving two silhouettes behind. “And in his passing, Emperor Althorgon has left us with two brilliant heirs ready to ascend to the throne. Soon, The Council of Kings shall meet and elect one of them as the new emperor of our Dominion. They shall lead us into a continued era of peace!” The minstrel exclaimed. With a definitive strum of his lyre, the story ended. The crowd broke into soft applause that Kaztos enthusiastically joined. He then looked over at Zeltara.
“It is quite disheartening to know that his Imperial Majesty is so unwell. Though it’s strange how everyone is handling it so calmly.” He saw Zeltara had finished with her writing and turned towards him.
“When you think about it, why would they be sad about it? To the people in the capital, this is a personal and immediate event that directly affects them. But for us living on the edge of The Dominion, he isn’t exactly an important figure in our lives. This is probably the first news people have heard of The Emperor in years.” It made sense to Kaztos. While The Emperor was ruler of the lands, his influence could be minimal for places such as Urada. The only important political figures residents know are the town council members. That and death is only the beginning for someone as pious as the emperor. Kaztos knows the Amedori are waiting to embrace his majesty’s soul in their arms as they take him to heaven. Zeltara interrupted Kaztos’ musings. “Though I am curious about something. What do you think of Emperor Althorgon? After all, he is the one who punished your family after the death of your uncle.”
“I hold no ill feelings towards his Imperial Majesty. It was within his right to cast down my family after the crimes my uncle had done.” Following the proper procedure is essential, after all. The crimes his uncle had committed couldn’t go unpunished. Zeltara held his gaze for a few moments before nodding in response. Saiya only gave him a lingering sidelong glance. He wondered just what she thought about his answer. A clap brought their attention back to the traveling minstrel.
The traveling minstrel waited for the crowd to quiet. Once silence had filled the area, he said, “Thank you for your hospitality, people of Urada. I always appreciate your enthusiasm. Now, I have one more tale to regal you all. I believe it will be to the satisfaction of the audience, for I have saved the best for last.” Murmurs spread through the crowd. The anticipation heightened as the minstrel dragged the moment out. Kaztos imagined that the news would be major if it was considered more important than the malady of the emperor himself.
The minstrel waited for the tension to peak before continuing. With a strum of his lyre he announced, “It has come to pass that Gabriel Ashbrook, Hero of the sixth crisis, bestowed lord of the frontier, beatified by the holy Amedori above, and slayer of the blasphemous Lilathos Molinar, has taken up duty once more and has gone on a new quest! He is joined by Haniel the Mistwalker and Cassiellas the Seeker. His loyal companions, who were by his side during the sixth crisis.” A new illusion coalesced, showing the Ashbrook along with a white-haired hermit with a staff and a gray-haired woman with a bow. The crowd erupted into cheers with fervor. Zeltara jumped in place, cheering as well.
Kaztos joined in the excitement. It had been almost a decade since the hero Ashbrook had retired. From what he knew of the situation, it had caused quite a stir due to how relatively young Ashbrook was. Most heroes worked until their deaths or until they were too old to continue. The hero was only in his late forties when he put down the sword. Perhaps he got the urge to go out and keep peace in the realm once more.
A soft melody played. “The hero’s old friend, Duke Kalendar Joffist, lord of the Rolanda duchy, sent him a request. A man who had single-handedly felled dozens of men during the battle of the burning fields. His fiefdom, Rolanda, is a land bathed in the blessings of the heavens. The great Rolan Fields are so saturated in holy energy that the plants glow a beautiful blue. People from all around the dominion visit the land so that they too can receive a blessing.” The illusion shifted to show a grass field bathed in a teal light. To everyone’s amazement, the plants themselves glowed and gave off small spots of light.
The notes turned ominous. “Trouble stirred on these holy fields. As the glow of the fields dimmed, the wildlife started to die, and people began to go missing. The honorable Duke Joffist tried everything to find the cause, but failed to do so. Soon, he had no other option but to call upon the hero himself for help.” An image appeared of a shadowed man on his knees begging to the hero.
The notes of the lyre took a more inspirational tone. “Upon hearing the plea from his dear friend, it was said Ashbrook was filled with the divine guidance of the heavens. An occurrence not seen since shortly after the sixth crisis. Guidance from the Amedori spurred him to take up the sword once again and travel to Rolanda posthaste. The two friends shared a heartfelt reunion as an expedition was planned. The duke was too old to be of help, but his son Baladar would join the heroes to guide them. As I left, the expedition was supposed to start any day now.” The music from the lyre stopped. The last image shown was of the hero looking out onto Rolan Fields before it evaporated.
The minstrel let out a weary sigh. “Unfortunately, that was all that I had heard. The expedition hadn’t left by the time I travelled on. This story will have to be finished at another time. For now, I bid you a heartfelt thank you for listening. I shall be here until tomorrow morning selling wares from all over the Dominion.” With that, the traveling minstrel gave an exaggerated bow as the crowd cheered and clapped at his performance. As the minstrel entered his carriage, the crowd dispersed.
Kaztos turned to his two friends. “That was quite a fascinating experience. I can’t believe that I’ve never attended such an event before.”
Zeltara said, “It’s always a blast to come see the traveling minstrel. I try to come every time he shows up. Unfortunate that he only comes every few months. We are unlikely to hear news of the hero for some time.” At this, Zeltara shook with excitement. “To think that the hero is adventuring again. It’s so inspiring! I’ve studied a lot of the exploits and adventures the hero has gone through.”
“I wonder what sort of trouble is happening at Rolan Fields where the hero needs to get involved? Rolanda is only about one hundred miles northwest of us,” Kaztos said. “While I knew the lands had unique qualities, I hadn’t realized our heavenly lords blessed them to glow in such a way.”
Zeltara gave her thoughts on the matter. “While many believe that Rolan Fields glows blue because of the blessings of the Amedori, some research circles believe that the true reason is that the ecosystem is mysteriously filled with concentrated mana.”
“But everything is already filled with mana. From the people, to the plants and animals, to even the earth around us. What makes this different?” Zeltara brightened at the question.
“It’s true that almost everything has mana. The difference is that Rolan Fields is absolutely saturated with it. The glow the plants give off is due to excess mana leaking out. It’s also what causes the small orbs of light to float off the plants. Though what’s concerning is that the plants are losing their glow. Perhaps something is happening to the mana.” Kaztos found the notion to be quite disconcerting, but knew there was no need to worry.
“While the mystery sounds troubling, I wouldn’t be concerned about it. The hero Ashbrook is now involved. He will set things right.” It wasn’t possible for a hero to fail. They were given blessings from the Amedori themselves to exert their will. “That being said, I would love to go visit Rolan Fields in the future. From what the illusion showed, they must be an extraordinary sight.”
“You’ve got that right. I want to visit as well. Perhaps when we’re older, we can all go together.” Saiya nodded in agreement while Kaztos gave an enthusiastic affirmative. He was already looking forward to the trip. Just as he was about to share his excitement, a loud creak distracted them from the conversation. The window at the side of the carriage opened downward to create a counter as the traveling minstrel peeked out.
The minstrel called out. “I have oddities and wares from all over the Dominion! Buy now to have a souvenir to take home!” Kaztos saw that most of the crowd had dispersed while a few had gone up to the carriage. Zeltara glanced at the other two and walked forward.
“I’ve got to see what he has for sale. Last time, he brought something that helped my inventions. How about you two get something too?” Zeltara asked. Kaztos was eager to see what the minstrel had. Perhaps he could find a memento of this special day. Strangely, Saiya seemed rather unenthusiastic about the situation. Nonetheless, both of them followed Zeltara towards the carriage.
As they got close, Saiya stopped and said, “I’ll wait here.” This disheartened Kaztos, but he continued on with Zeltara. They didn’t have to wait long before the line cleared. They reached the counter and began to browse. The inside of the carriage fascinated Kaztos. Various items and oddities were haphazardly strewn about. There was everything from bottles of various substances to tomes and texts. There was even clothing hanging on the back wall. Almost a hundred items in total from what Kaztos could see. As they reached the window, the traveling minstrel spotted Zeltara, and a grin grew on his face.
“Ah, if it isn’t the curious elf. I was wondering when you would come. I have some new items that may interest you.” Zeltara smiled in response to the greeting.
“Good to see you again, sir. The chemicals and texts you had last time have helped me. What do you have this time?” The minstrel reached over and grabbed two bottles of white powder. He handed one to Zeltara, who examined it.
“I know you bought the black powder I had last time. This is a variant that has a rather unique property. Allow me to show you.” He opened the bottle and poured a few grains onto the counter. He then closed the bottle and grabbed a water flask. “Now, use only a little of this at a time. The results can be quite enlightening. Now you just add water.” The minstrel poured a few drops of water. Upon contact, the powder lit up with a bright white light. “And the powder produces a blinding light.” Kaztos and Zeltara had to close their eyes because of the intense illumination. After a few moments, the light went out. Looking back at the counter showed only a gray residue remained. Zeltara started hopping with excitement.
“That’s amazing! I can already see how I can use this. How much do you want for both bottles?” The minstrel chuckled at her enthusiasm. He placed the bottle on the table and pondered for a moment.
“Well, normally, I would sell these for four silver. However, since you're such a frequent customer, I could part with both for three silver total.” Zeltara opened her satchel and began counting what she had. She sighed in disappointment once she finished.
“I only have two silver and eighty bronze. Do you think we could make a deal?” The minstrel chuckled again, but thought about the offer. Kaztos wondered why his friend had so little. Three silver coins weren’t that much. Before he could offer to pay, the traveling minstrel decided.
“Well, I suppose you could take them for that much. Just be sure to remember this the next time you buy something from me,” the minstrel said in good humor.
“Thank you so much!” Zeltara handed over the coins and took both of the bottles. She placed them in her satchel and faced Kaztos. “I’m gonna talk Saiya into getting something. You go ahead and look for something yourself.” Zeltara turned and walked back to Saiya. The minstrel chuckled again to himself.
“That elf girl sure likes her explosives. I hope she doesn’t hurt herself with them. I’d be out of my greatest customer in this town,” the minstrel said. Kaztos turned back to the carriage and began browsing.
Try as he might, nothing could catch his interest. His eyes passed over various bottles, books, trinkets, and clothes, but nothing caught his eye. Behind him, he listened in on Zeltara talking to Saiya. He had half an eye on them as they had their conversation.
“So, why don’t you get something?” Zeltara asked. Saiya looked visibly annoyed at this point.
“Fine, I’ll just use all the money from my nonexistent orphan fund. Will that satisfy you?” Zeltara winced at the blunt response.
“That makes sense. Sorry for pushing Saiya.” Saiya turned away, finished with the conversation. Kaztos looked at the wares with renewed fervor. He now knew what he needed to do. In no time, he spotted a dark gray cloak folded in the corner. Kaztos knew it would be perfect and pointed to it.
“Excuse me sir, how much for that cloak over there?” The minstrel looked to where he pointed and gave a hearty chuckle.
“That cloak isn’t affordable for someone from around here. Why don’t you pick out something else instead?”
“Well, I happen to be quite affluent sir. Why don’t you show it to me and then we can decide?” The minstrel shrugged and grabbed the cloak. He brought it to the counter and unfurled it so Kaztos could see it. It appeared to be in good condition from what he could see. It seemed large, but it would suit its purpose.
“What we have here is no ordinary cloak. This has been enchanted, you see. When worn, it will be harder for the wearer to be noticed. Though the effect is minor, so don’t think it will make you invisible,” the minstrel said. Kaztos felt his eyes widen on hearing this. Enchanted clothing was rather rare. It took a lot of time and skill to make. He could see why it wasn’t out on display. “Now, I was expecting to have to sell this in a major city. However, if you want it, it’ll cost you ten gold. And don’t expect any kind of discount either.”
“It’s a deal!” To the minstrels’ shock, he opened his wallet and pulled out ten gold coins. Kaztos gave it to the minstrel and grabbed the cloak. As he turned to leave, he said, “Thank you, sir.”
“Of course,” the minstrel said numbly. He then pocketed the money before closing the carriage window. Happy with his purchase, Kaztos walked to Zeltara and Saiya, who were standing together uncomfortably. As both turned to face him, he held up the cloak to display.
“Saiya, I heard of your predicament and got you something. The fine minstrel was selling this cloak for a modest sum. I saw that your current cloak was rather run down, so I assumed a replacement was necessary.” Saiya looked surprised at the gesture, but took the cloak. She put it on after taking off her old one. Like Kaztos thought, it was rather large on her as the end reached her knees.
Saiya looked at Kaztos with a soft smile. “Thank you, Kaztos.” Zeltara examined the cloak and noticed something was wrong almost immediately.
“Looks like the clasp is broken. It’ll be hard to move around without it falling off.” Kaztos took a closer look and saw that the elf was right. The cloak threatened to slide off Saiya’s shoulders from just standing there. He chastised himself for not having seen it. Zeltara continued on. “You have to be careful when buying from a traveling minstrel, Kaztos. They sometimes like to get one over on you. I hope you didn’t pay too much for it.”
Kaztos said, “Fortunately, it wasn’t a significant amount of money. However, I’m sorry that I purchased such a poor gift, Saiya.”
“It’s okay, Kaztos,” Saiya said. This helped to raise Kaztos’ spirits, but it wasn’t enough. Perhaps he could find a tailor to help.
Zeltara said, “It’s not too bad. In fact, I’ll be able to fix it easily at my workbench. It’s still the middle of the afternoon, so why don’t we go back to the workshop and I’ll fix your gift?” Saiya took off the cloak and put her old one back on. She handed the new one over to Zeltara.
“So you’ll be able to fix it?” He was glad that his mistake wouldn’t ruin Saiya’s gift. Who knows if their friendship could survive such a travesty?
“It’s no problem. Besides, think of this as an apology for pressuring you earlier, Saiya. I could even add some accessories to it.” Saiya gave a smile at the apology and nodded. The three made their way back to the workshop. This proved to be a rather unexpected trip, but Kaztos was happy that the traveling minstrel lived up to his reputation.
