The Witch Child's Amulet: #3

Chapter 3 - The Deal

By the time the sun was high in the sky, Suddlepuff was abuzz with news of Vano’s imminent departure. It didn’t surprise the adults, they just assumed he was going to his uncle's celebration, but the children could not conceive of any reason why their favorite puppeteer would want to leave them. What added more to their distress was the fact that he would be gone for a whole month!

Vano gently wiped tears from several cheeks and gave hugs where they were wanted, then offered to regale his young friends with one final puppet show to tide them over until his return. The offer was eagerly accepted, so with cute hand puppets and an uncanny ability to change his voice, Vano shared with the children and their parents everything he had learned about Bridgette—He made a few creative changes here and there in order to curb any preconceived prejudice, and preserve Bridgette’s privacy to some degree, but it worked remarkably well: The children were enamored by this brave and fiery young heroine, and the parents thought this was the most intriguing story their lord had ever come up with. Unfortunately, Vano had to end on a cliffhanger, but he told his audience that he was leaving Suddlepuff in order to find and bring back the ending of the story. This pacified the children and they bid him to please hurry. He promised he would.

Meanwhile Dolly took it upon herself to pack for him everything he would need on his journey. She also took the opportunity to make Bridgette get cleaned up. At first Bridgette was obstinate that taking a bath was neither necessary nor something she felt safe enough to do, but Dolly won out in the end by presenting a convincing argument: "Looking like a ragamuffin will blow your cover." She said, "Those who know Vano know he would never let a child in his company be so uncared for.”

So in the end Bridgette was clean. Though she continued to wear the same green dress and white leggings she’d shown up in, Dolly made sure those had been washed as well. The one addition to her wardrobe was a pair of long gloves, which would conceal her magic level and make the bulge of her wristband seem like a Magic Bind. That afternoon, Vano and Bridgette set off together on a pair of horses, with enough in their packs to see them to the next town. Bridgette kept her hood up as they passed by and no one in Suddlepuff, except Dolly, suspected a thing.

After an hour of traveling in silence, Bridgette spoke suddenly: “Alright. It’s your turn now.” Vano looked at her with a raised eyebrow, waiting for her to elaborate. “I told you about me, you need to tell me about you.” She explained.

Vano laughed. “What took you so long?”

“As an intruder in your home, I owed you an explanation. You didn’t owe me anything. Besides, I thought our acquaintance was fleeting, so it didn’t matter who you were. But now we’re travelling together, so I need to know more about you.” Bridgette replied. 

“Fair enough.” Vano replied, “Should I just talk or can I make this interesting?”

“It doesn’t matter.” Bridgette replied, not fully understanding what he meant. She was quickly enlightened when Vano produced from somewhere behind him a pair of hand-puppets, and these he used to tell his story:

Vano was the black sheep of his family; jovial and free against an army of solemn and dutiful individuals. He was taught combat and politics like every member of the royal family, but was compulsively drawn to the instruction of artisans in the city, many of whom were magicians. He would sneak out as often as he could in order to receive a more interesting education from them, which was how he learned the difference between magic and alchemical concoctions, and how to conceal his puppets from sight until they were needed. His parents, the high king’s sister Persephone, and Grand Duke Kolompar, were not very involved in his life; his care had been given to Dolly almost as soon as he could walk. Vano was 16 when the war with the magicians started, and both his parents sided fiercely with Haygen. They spent a year engaged in witch hunts and putting down rebellions in the name of their king, until their involvement cost them their lives: A vengeful magician servant destroyed the castle and everyone in it, including himself. Dolly was the only survivor, and had been terrified of the magicians ever since. Vano was staying with his cousins, as he did every summer, so he wasn’t there that fateful night.

It secretly horrified Bridgette to learn her travel companion was related to her enemy, but she politely allowed Vano to tell his tale without interruption. She felt her fear and mistrust renewed to some degree, but it did not wholly return since she could tell that, despite his loss, Vano was not hardened against magicians in any way. As his story drew to an end, Bridgette voiced an observation: “I didn’t see any other magicians in Suddlepuff.”

“Well, no. After I became owner of Suddlepuff rubble—I mean, Suddlepuff castle, I told the magicians in the city that they didn’t have to stay if they didn’t want to. And I don’t allow anyone in Ost Tera to keep magician slaves.” Vano said, lowering his puppets. His enthusiasm in their use seemed to fade.

“Isn’t that in direct conflict with your uncle’s law and the oath of the lesser kings?” Bridgette asked.

“Yes, but I don’t care. The misery of the magicians was palpable, and it ruined the feel of the land.” Vano replied defiantly. Bridgette kept her thoughts about that to herself, thus the two companions lapsed back into silence.

They camped by the road side several nights in a row, and by the dawning of the month of celebration, they arrived at Mithil Gan.

----

Mithil Gan was on the boarder of Ost Tera, but was not within Vano’s jurisdiction, and unlike Suddlepuff, it was heavily guarded. It was a large city located equal distance between the capital of Terraguard and the dreaded swamps of Niris Tul, making it an ideal stronghold for one side or the other. The lord of Mithil Gan was an important military leader, highly favored by Haygen. He ruled as a lesser king over the city, separate from the rest of Ost Tera, so he did not have to answer to Vano.

The might of Mithil Gan, as a most powerful martial stronghold, was obvious from a mile away. The number of armed soldiers that lined the battlements was intimidating, even to Vano, but he rode forward with confidence. Two guards, crowned with iron helmets and holding tall spears, stood watch by a barred gate. One hailed Vano pleasantly.

“What brings you this way, Lord Kolompar? Weren’t they expecting you at the capital a week ago?” He asked.

“This celebration will last a month. Plenty of time for me to take the scenic route.” Vano replied cheerfully.

The guard’s companion had a less pleasant demeanor. He offered no welcome, watching instead the hooded figure who rode alongside Vano. “And who is this in your company, sire?” He inquired, gesturing toward Bridgette with his spear arm.

“Bridgette. She’s a friend of mine.” Vano said, leaning over and tossing back Bridgette’s hood, much to her surprise. The guard didn’t look pleased to see a magician, and she glared back at him in turn.

“A friend?” The second guard asked dubiously.

“Yep.” Vano answered, “I make friends rather easily you know, especially with young people. Are you going to let us pass?”

“Of course! Enjoy the festivities, sire!” The first guard said politely, standing aside as the gate was raised. The second guard continued to watch Bridgette with unfriendly eyes. She pulled up her hood as they passed the men, but Vano was quick to pull it down again.

“Stop it!” She demanded.

“Stop hiding.” He replied just as strongly, “You’re less noticeable if you act like you belong.”

The moment Vano and Bridgette passed through the threshold of the city, they were met with music and color. Mithil Gan was very enthusiastic about Haygen’s achievements, and celebrated them loudly. A string of banners ran from roof to roof and confetti filled the air. Games and food stands lined the back streets, whilst a parade marched along the main road. Several individuals were singing and dancing along. Vano and Bridgette sat side by side upon their steeds, staring at the spectacle. Bridgette felt a rising wrath toward these humans that were celebrating the enslavement of her people, while Vano felt a pit in his stomach for the same reason.

“Disgusting.” Brigette muttered.

“More like uncouth.” Vano said, “But look! Caramel apples, let’s grab a couple!”

Bridgette looked at him incredulously as he dismounted his horse and began to advance down the road. Noticing she wasn’t following however, he turned to look at her. “You want me to eat caramel apples that only exist because Haygen the Conqueror has enslaved and murdered my people?” She asked.

Vano furrowed his brow. “Those apples would exist with or without Haygen.” He argued. “And they’re free, so we’re not financially supporting—"

“They’re free because my people are not.” Brigette interrupted pointedly. 

Vano bit his lower lip. Bridget pulled up her hood and spurred her horse to go passed him. “We’re not getting caramel apples; we’re just passing through. Now let’s go.” She growled. Vano did not remount his horse, but sulkily followed her.

The further they went, the more crowded the roads became, which slowed their trek considerably. Eventually, they were obliged to stable their horses and continue on foot, but this didn’t make things any easier. To make matters worse, the slower they went, the more things Vano found to be distracted by. For a while, he’d point out things he thought looked interesting or fun, but Bridgette denied him. Then he just stopped asking, and went by himself to the concession stands and games. Bridgette glared after him. ‘Why does it feel like I’m babysitting this guy?’ She thought bitterly. She considered just leaving him to his whimsy, but a sudden shove from a stranger sent her rolling on the ground and knocked her hood off. A couple of humans stopped and stared at her.

“Oy! What’re you doin’ here?” One jeered.

Bridgette quickly pulled her hood up once more and hurried to Vano’s side, hoping the jeering man would be satisfied that she was with a human of importance. Vano, who hadn’t noticed, suddenly looked down and offered her a leather ball. “Try to knock down one of those urns.” He urged, pointing to a stack of clay urns several feet beyond the stand.

Bridgette glared at him. “I told you; I’m not participating in this celebration!” She said, shoving the ball back into his hand.

Vano grinned smugly. “It’s part of our cover, Bridgette. Besides, who’s to say which celebration you’re participating in? The children are celebrating no lessons, the beggars are celebrating free food, I’m celebrating meeting you. You can celebrate breaking stuff--” He handed the ball to her once again and lowered his head, whispering in her ear: “--Especially if you imagine that stuff as Haygen’s face.”

Those last words caused a strange emotion to swell within Bridgette: There was a rush of excitement in her chest and her ears went hot. Without another word, she threw the ball.

CRACK!

The pot shattered. The stand owner cheered. “Well done! Here you go.” She said, offering the young girl a small, grass doll. Bridgette simply turned her back to it and walked away. Vano grabbed the toy with a fleeting smile at the woman and followed the retreating magician.

“What’s wrong?” He asked.

“I don’t want to do that again.” She muttered.

“Do what? Break Haygen’s face?” Vano asked.

Bridgette was silent for a long time, then finally made an answer: “Yes.”

Vano was surprised, but also pleased. If imagining revenge against the man she thought she hated brought her no pleasure, she could be steered away from attempting revenge for real. He opened his mouth to say something, but Bridgette cut him off by turning and looking at him with fire in her eyes. “Stop getting distracted! You may be in your element, but I’m not comfortable being here. I want to leave as soon as possible.” She then turned and stormed off. Vano followed.

For a while, Vano was content to let Bridgette lead the way, as she either knew where she was going or was a really good guesser. But after an hour or two, her moments of indecision got longer, and she began to backtrack and look lost more frequently. “Have you been here before, Bridgette?” Vano asked.

“I came here once with Mama, but it was night, and we were going in the opposite direction… And I was only four.” Bridgette admitted.

“Oh. Well, I’m impressed. You’ve done really well so far on just that.” Vano said, shifting his weight to one foot and folding his arms.

“Have you been here before?” Bridgette asked.

“Oh yeah! Lots of times.” Vano confessed nonchalantly.

“Great. When are you going to start being helpful?” Bridgette demanded.

Vano smiled and winked. “When it suits me. This way, small person.”

Their progress was much quicker once Vano took the lead, despite the crowded streets. Even so, he systematically paused every once in a while, to sample a pastry or coax Bridgette into playing another game. At first, she was adamant that she didn’t want to, and was becoming increasingly furious at him for his senseless distractibility. Then she began to notice something: He only ‘got distracted’ when there was a soldier or two in the crowd, watching for trouble. She realized this because she would often consider leaving Vano, but then would have to retreat to his side after seeing the soldiers. So, she started paying closer attention to when Vano’s distraction coincided with the appearances of the soldiers, and soon it was beyond doubt.

Once more, Vano gave his attention to a pastry wagon. This time, Bridgette followed him, and accepted the food that he offered her. “You’re play acting. You’re only pretending to be interested in the celebration in order to maintain our cover.” She whispered hoarsely.

“Yup.” Vano said with a smug, self-satisfied grin. Bridgette almost wanted to doubt him. She wanted to believe he was just saving face, but she couldn’t argue with her own Narvian ability: He was being genuinely honest once again.

“Was that the case from the very beginning when you suggested those caramel apples?” She asked.

“Well, I did really want one of those apples, but yes. Even then.” Vano said, taking a bite from his own pastry.

Bridgette’s anger didn’t subside, but rather changed. “Why didn’t you tell me you were doing it on purpose?”

Vano only shrugged. “Why didn’t you trust me?”

“I hardly know you.” Bridgette growled. As they spoke, they turned a corner and began to walk down a much quieter street. The sun was lowering, but it was like sunset amid the tall buildings of Mithil Gan. Every street that did not follow the path of the sun was overshadowed. Even so, it was still afternoon in the middle of a celebration, which explains why Vano wasn’t more careful about turning corners until they came upon one wherein there were only three brutish looking men.

“Oy. This way is closed to party goers. Turn around.” One said.

“Oops. Our apologies.” Vano said quickly, turning to head back. Bridgette did not. She recognized the man’s voice as the one who had jeered at her earlier. What’s more, she noticed what the three men were gathered around.

“You three are stealing from people!” She shouted, pointing an accusing finger. The men turned toward her.

Vano came back swiftly from behind her. “Don’t be ridiculous, my dear. There are no thieves in Mithil Gan, the soldiers are too vigilant.”

“Yeah, vigilant. So don’t go ‘round making accusations.” One of the men said with a wry smile.

Vano grabbed Bridgette’s arm, but she pulled it free. “I’m not making accusations. You three stole those things!”

“Bridgette, that’s enough. There are plenty of games around here to win things from, they wouldn’t have to steal from people. Now leave them be and let’s get back to the celebration.” Vano said seriously.

“Ye heard yer pa. We didn’t steal ‘em. We won ‘em. Now go away.” The third man jeered.

“You’re lying! I can tell because he’s not my pa, I’m Narvian!” Bridgette shouted, throwing back her hood. “Now return those items to their rightful owners, or you’re going to have me to deal with!”

The three men didn’t hesitate further. They drew daggers and charged the two. Vano didn’t hesitate either, he grabbed Bridgette around the waist and shot off like a rabbit. He did not head back the way they came, but instead dived for the most populated street he could spy in an instant. The thugs plowed after them, carelessly knocking people over in their pursuit. Bridgette struggled to free herself from Vano’s grasp, but he would not let her go. Her only chance to get a shot at the thugs was to throw a marble, and she threw a white one: It missed the pursuing thug, but hit the ground below him. A second later the pavement was covered in a thin layer of ice. The thug and several other people toppled over, attracting the attention of nearby soldiers.

“Rogue magician! Rogue magician!” One of the thugs called, pointing after Vano and Bridgette. Though this was obviously a ploy to distract the soldiers from himself and his comrades, it worked. The soldiers swerved and immediately took up the pursuit. Bridgette reached for another marble, but Vano suddenly grabbed her wrist.

“Stop doing that.” He demanded.

Once more, he refused to let her struggle free. He dodged into a backroad and again into a crowd of people. Then turned a corner and vanished from sight. The soldiers rushed heedlessly by, missing their quarry which stood with backs against an alley wall. Neither Vano nor Bridgette dared to move for several minutes lest the thugs follow suit of the soldiers, but they did not. They clearly had gone back to their plunder. Soon the soldiers themselves were out of sight and Vano heaved a sigh of relief—Which relief quickly gave way to more negative emotions. He closed his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose, searching his mind for a way to convey his irritation to Bridgette without yelling. Bridgette moved away from the wall and began to walk away, but Vano caught her by the back of her cloak with his other hand and slowly dragged her back.

“What were you thinking?” He asked, tossing one hand off the side of his head to indicate a thought while putting the other hand on his hip. “That didn’t have to become a fight, you know. Why didn’t you just listen to me?”

“I don’t have to listen to you.” Bridgette said defiantly, folding her arms.

“Yes, you do.” Vano retorted.

“Why?” Bridgette demanded.

“Because I’m an adult.” Vano said flatly, as though his reasoning was obvious.

"If my mama thought I needed an adult to tell me what to do, she would've come with me that night!" Bridgette argued.

"If she didn't, she wouldn't have sent you away at all." Vano replied. “You didn’t have to call them out on thieving. We could have turned around and tipped off the soldiers instead. Why can’t you just trust me?”

“Why can’t you just trust me?” Bridgette retorted, “I don’t need human soldiers to deal with problems for me. I don’t need you to deal with problems for me either. None of those thugs would have stood a chance against my tricks!”

“You don’t know what they would’ve stood a chance against! I’m not sure if you noticed but I’m a really fast and agile person, and those bulky thugs were able to keep pace with me just fine.” Vano argued. “I know what I’m doing, Bridgette.”

“So do I. Look; I've been on my own, making my own choices and taking care of myself for years. You only just came into my life. You might be an adult, but that doesn't mean you automatically know what I need." Bridgette said, checking her rising tone and addressing the man before her as respectfully as she could.

Vano stared at her in irritated silence for a moment, then suddenly dropped to his knee to be eye level with her. "I know when a situation is dangerous.” He said, “But I respect what you’ve been through, so I'll make you a deal: If I tell you to run, you go somewhere else-- It doesn't have to be somewhere far, but it has to be somewhere safe, then you can do what you need to from there. Deal?"

Bridgette eyed him in dubious silence for a minute. "What do you mean by safe?" She asked.

"I don’t know, just somewhere nobody can reach you, okay? Deal?" He held up a pinky.

She thought a pinky-promise was a ridiculously childish thing of him to seal this deal by, but knew by now that he wasn’t meeting her level of maturity, he was asking her to meet his. This man was honest and well-meaning, but foolish.

“Deal." She said, wrapping her pinky around his.

 After a moment of holding the promise firmly, Vano tried to withdraw, but Bridgette didn’t let him. She kept eye contact with him until he stopped struggling, then she spoke. “Now I’ll make you a deal: Stop keeping secrets from me. When you have a plan, or start play acting, or notice something that I don’t, you tell me.” She said seriously. Letting go of his pinky, she offered her hand. “Deal?”

Vano blinked, then smiled in a way that denoted he was both impressed and amused. “Deal.” He said, shaking her hand. As he stood up, his mood was considerably lighter. They had come to their first understanding. “Why’d you make such a fuss over their thievery anyway? You’ve stolen before. You already admitted that.”

“I also admitted that I had to. You said yourself that there are plenty of games to win things from and the food is free, so clearly those thugs didn’t have to.” Bridgette responded. Her mood was also lighter given their recent breakthrough, but she wasn’t going to resort to frivolity over it. “Besides, they weren’t stealing from just anybody. Those things belonged to magicians.” 

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