Chapter 9: TEVERIUS - Mardichi in the Driter's Den

Driter's Den, Gilwynn Village, Netherlands

TEVERIUS

“Wow.” Serdephe stared at the tavern in awe. “It’s so beautiful.”

The Alehouse was tucked into the back of the village. Slightly separate from the rest of Gilwynn, as the women weren’t particularly fond of their men visiting the wenches.

He sniffed. “I do not see it.”

The wood boards were slightly tilted as they’d slipped from the nails at the edges. The candles dripped cheap tallow in the mud. The sign hung by one lopsided chain.

But she looked at it as though she’d topped a hill and found a pile of riches.

It’s going to be a long night. He groaned. Shoulders slumping.

“It smells of man fluids.”

“It is okay to say sweat.” Serdephe shot him a look. “The word does not offend me.”

Not the fluid I meant…His lips turned white at trying not to elaborate.

When they entered the alehouse, Teverius’ eyes immediately flew around the main room. Taking in the threats there. There are many.

If we go straight to the back and try to be inconspicuous, I may not have to kill anyone tonight.

“Good evening everyone!” She proclaimed. Tossing her arms wide.

Tev died inside. It’s going to be a really, really, long night.

“This was a horrible idea.”

“Cease being so sour!” She ordered. “I intend to have a good time and if you won’t indulge me, I’ll find someone who will!”

He choked a little. “Please watch the words you use, Ser!”

Someone hearing you may think you ripe for the taking.

“I thought you said I didn’t have to be a lady here.”

No. Not a lady with me.

“I didn’t say that.”

“You said you didn’t mind that I’m not a lady.”

I don’t. But others may think you mean more than you do by such statements.

Several men were already leaned sideways in their chairs. Nearly toppling them in an effort to catch her every word.

“I could indulge you, Pretty Lady!” One man shouted as he leapt to his feet.

She glanced at him over her shoulder. “See, he says I’m a lady.”

Not what he means.

“I don’t think we’re talking about the same kind of lady.” Tev was certain he looked as ill as he felt.

A very long night…

Just beyond the door of the Driter’s Den, Teverius caught Driver’s low rumble. A growl these men can’t hear.

Tev glanced back up and glimpsed a swift movement in the corner.

Revealing someone else had heard the sound and suddenly looked to the door before meeting Tev’s long look.

Tev glimpsed the familiar red hair and flash of red eyes under the square hood. “Mardichi.”

“Who?” Serdephe blinked. Looking from Tev to Mardichi.

Better you don’t know.

“A barbarian.”

“Ooh, there’s a barbarian here? I’ve never met one!”

Lucky for you.

“You don’t want to meet this one.” He cautioned.

“Whyever not?”

There’s real sincerity on her face. He was baffled. Does she not fear anything?

“He’s dreadful.”

“I am not!” Barked the man from across the room. Causing all eyes to turn to him.

Serdephe’s gaze flew to Tev’s blue eyes. “He’s like you. He can hear from way over there!”

“He’s nothing like me.”

He’s virtually the opposite of me in almost every way.

“I am like ye!” Mardichi argued. Launching to his feet and tossing his hood fully from his head.

“RedBayne…” Someone murmured from near the serving counter.

“What are you shouting at?” A rotund man gobbling food across from Mardichi demanded.

Norris, I think is his name.

Mardichi muttered something under his breath, in response to him.

“Go away, Mardichi.” Tev whispered for the other knight’s ears, alone.

“I’ve missed you, Little Brother.” Mardichi tossed open his arms. Cooing lovingly.

“I haven’t missed you!”

“Everyone misses me!”

“It’s no surprise you’re in an alehouse!” Tev grumbled derisively. Exchanging lowered voices with the barbarian.

“One with fine wenches too.”

Tev caught the returning whisper as he led Serdephe to the bench in a far corner. Glancing over he gave Mardichi a warning glare.

“What does he mean?” She tossed Tev a look over her shoulder. Startling both men that she’d heard the nearly inaudible whispering.

“Nothing, Serdephe.”

“Serdephe. A pretty name.” Mardichi drawled as he gave them his back and took his seat again.

“Thank you.” She smiled, joining the whispering game. But a quick look across the alehouse showed the man had straightened to eye her across the room.

Tev knew his mind would be racing wondering what she was. I have no idea.

Taking their seats, Tev was relieved to find Mardichi staying on his side of the tavern. Backed by the warmth of an expansive fire.

Tev admitted to himself. It’s a relief to know I’ll have backup if one of these men makes a move on Ser.