"Would you care to help an old man out?"

The raspy voice matched the man's appearance perfectly. Unkempt beard, scraggly hair, withered skin, Eiron was slightly shocked. Even the Elder from the village looked healthy in his old age. Compared to this man, downright vibrant. Sure, there had been other people along these dusty roads who had looked ragged, but not enough to specifically draw his attention.

As he drew closer, Eiron also noticed the twisted leg. He couldn't avert his eyes. It was visibly darker than the other and misshapen. Next to it was a piece of wood with cloth wrapped around the top.

"Are you injured? Do you need help?"

"Ah, this old thing was injured long ago. I hate to be a bother, but there is something you could help me with."

"Sure, I'd be glad to!"

"I knew you was the right sort. Well you see, I had just bought a bracelet to give my granddaughter when a man rushing by knocked me down. Can't say if it were on purpose or not, but fall I did. As you can see..." He patted the crippled leg. "...I'm not as spry as I once was. It was quite difficult to regain my feet and I hurried out of the way."

He paused in the story and turned away, coughing dryly. Was that the end? Eiron took a half step backward, but the man recovered and continued as if nothing had happened.

"So you see, that's how I ended up over here. Had to walk all the way across the market just to find a place where I wouldn't be trampled. People these days, always so inconsiderate. Anyhow, in all the commotion, I completely forgot to pick up my gift! I'd go get it myself, 'sept my leg is still acting up from the fall. My granddaughter will be so disappointed."

How unfortunate! Was everyone in the city like this? Just going about their day without regard for the wellbeing of those around them?

"I'm very sorry that happened!"

"I appreciate that, I really do. Well...I was wondering if...but no, I couldn't ask."

"Is there something I can do?"

"If you're offering...I just wish I had the strength to do it myself. This lame leg of mine ruins everything. Seeing as how you're so kind and have two strong legs, would you run over and grab the bracelet for me? I fear if I'm knocked down again, I might break the other."

"Of course! I'll return it to you here as quick as I can!"

"Mighty kind of you. It's over at that stall there, across the road. The one with the blue and yellow top."

Eiron scanned the row of bright colors for one that fit the description. There it was! Just a short ways off, wedged between a stack of crates and a larger stall. The man behind the table was showcasing a variety of shiny objects to a young couple.

"I see the one. What does the bracelet look like?"

'Silly me, I nearly forgot to mention! It was one with a flower pattern, Dari loves flowers, sitting nearest to the edge of the table. You can't miss it."

Eiron nodded and turned to go.

"Oh and don't bother the merchant. I'd hate to inconvenience more than I already have. It's all paid for anyways."

"Okay."

This was all the man needed? Not help walking to his house or aid in his work? Picking up an item he already purchased was so easy! Standing on the edge of the street, Eiron waited for an opening in the flow of traffic. So many people were walking by that it was difficult to tell where one group ended and another began. By the time a wagon rolled past, leaving a wide opening, Eiron was prepared.

Dashing around a group of three, he slipped behind the wagon. It was just like an eddy in the river back home! Matching its speed, he followed along as it meandered down the street. Nearing the correct stall, he slipped back into the flow of people. A couple of light bumps and he was through.

Now to find the bracelet. The table beneath the blue and yellow fabric was arrayed with a wide range of jewelry in all sizes and styles. Eiron had never seen anything like it. Rings, necklaces, earrings, and yes, bracelets, were all glimmering in the sunlight. The seller of these small pieces of art was a jolly man dressed in clothing that matched his awning. With practiced movements, he was showcasing a set of rings to a young man and woman who were watching with rapt attention.

"These here are crafted from the finest metals this side of the ocean. The gems are even finer, originating all the way in Meloth. See the craftsmanship that went into the settings? Lesser work would soon fall to ruin but these will last a lifetime!"

They did look quite nice. The couple seemed to agree as they leaned over and looked closer. Shaking off the distraction, Eiron searched for the forgotten bracelet. They all were set out in rows on the opposite side to the rings. There was only one problem. Almost all of them boasted a floral design of some type. One however, nearest the corner, seemed the most likely match. It was smaller than the others and a bit simpler in design. At the center of each etched flower sat tiny gemstones, deep blue in color.

That had to be the one! If not, he could always come back and exchange it for the correct piece. The man had been right, the merchant was very busy. It looked to have paid off as well, the young man was handing over more coins than Eiron had ever seen. Distracted again! Eiron reached out and picked up the bracelet.

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It was lighter than he expected, almost fragile. Cupping it in both hands, he turned and looked across the street. Where had the man- oh, there he was! It was difficult to see into the deep shadows. Maybe they built all the buildings this tall to help give shade during the hot days.

Stepping over to the street, there was no wagon to use a shield this time. Twice in but a few seconds, Eiron had to abort his crossing. There were so many people! Finally seeing an opening, he dashed through. The constant noise had faded into the background but a loud shout broke through to his awareness.

"Thief! Stop him! Thief!"

Eiron couldn't look around to find the scoundrel without risking crashing into half a dozen people. Still, he chanced a quick glance to either side. Everyone looked normal enough. A quick pause, another short sprint, and he was through. Hopefully the man wouldn't have to travel far. It was hard enough to avoid collisions without an impairment.

A hand locked onto his arm like a vice.

"Did you really think I wouldn't notice?"

Eiron couldn't move. The iron grip was practically holding him off the ground. Craning his neck, a city guard with a frightful visage had accosted him. But why?

"Sir? Didn't someone just call out that there was a thief?"

"Wow, a comedian too. I can see what's in your hand kid. No use drawing this out."

"This? It belongs to that old man over there."

"Gotta say, I didn't really expect that to work. Let's go."

This didn't make any sense unless...they thought he was the thief?!

"No, I didn't take it from him. I said it belongs to the old man. He bought it and asked me to grab it for him because of his injured leg."

The guard frowned and if anything, his grip tightened.

"What old man?"

"The one right over ther-"

Those shadows were deeper. No wait...he was gone? Why would he leave just after asking for the bracelet? That didn't make any sense.

"He was there just a second ago. I don't know where he could have gone."

"Almost kid...almost."

With a shake of his head, the guard dragged him back across the street. Everyone gave them a wide berth making the crossing much easier this time. Churning his feet to avoid falling, Eiron carefully maintained his hold on the bracelet. A few long steps, and for him, several short ones, and they were back in front of the merchant.

"I thought something was off about that one. Just as I was closing a sale he grabbed that bracelet there and bolted. Didn't even go for a valuable one but what can you expect from such delinquents."

"But the man said-"

"Shut up. Return the bracelet."

Glancing between the guard and the merchant, Eiron's face fell.

"Oh."

Ever so gently he placed the bracelet back in its resting place and then bowed his head. How had he not realized sooner? Was the man even crippled?

Now that the merchandise had been returned, the guard forced him back a step. The merchant snatched up the bracelet, inspecting it closely. Eiron couldn't bring himself to look at him. He felt horrible. Now that the excitement was over, exhaustion was returning. That much was bearable. The guilt and shame, less so.

"Is it damaged?"

"Well, there is a scratch on one..." The merchant looked at the guard, a gleam in his eye. The guard didn't blink. Instantly changing his tone, the merchant set the bracelet down."...how lucky, it's in perfect condition! Thank you for your service, sir. Keep up the good work!"

Even Eiron could detect the insincerity. The guard didn't bother responding, instead choosing to pull Eiron along, away from the market. Silence remained for a while as they continued on. Back around the edge of the market, down a few side roads, some of the buildings were looking familiar.

"I promise I didn't mean to steal anything at all. That man said he had already paid for it."

"Save it, kid. We're far past that now."

Rounding a corner, they stopped in front of a small guardhouse. Standing outside was an equally familiar face.

"Developing a cheese addiction are we?"

The grip finally relented and a hand shoved him forward. Eiron staggered for a couple of steps before catching his balance. He stared at the ground, scuffing it with his foot.

"Jewelry more like. Caught him swiping a bracelet in the market."

"Leave him to me."

The joking tone in his voice was gone. Eiron could hear the guard behind him thump his armor and march off without another word. How had everything gone so wrong? Was fate so cruel?

"Well, if you're to be returning here so often then you'll need to know my name. I'm Functionary Kelno. You never did tell me yours."

"Eiron…and I'm really sorry."

"Hmm...first I rescue you from Fylin, feed you from my own lunch, then you go and commit crimes mere hours later? Some repayment that is."

Though he didn't think it was possible, Eiron felt his heart sink even further.

"When I said to find work I did not mean this. You know that, right?"

Eiron nodded.

"Alright then, what to do with you? Clearly you can't be on your own...but you also don't seem the type to steal for pleasure or gain...though I have been wrong before..." Eiron stared at Kelno's tapping shoe. "Look at me, Eiron."

Sorrowfully, Eiron complied.

"Maybe the smiths? No, still too young. Ah!"

Kelno stepped closer and squatted down until they were at an equal eye level. Eiron tried to pull back but Kelno extended a hand. The grip was firm but nothing like the one before.

"I want you to understand, what you did was wrong and technically punishable by a hefty fine and time in prison. Do you know what that is?"

Eiron nodded again. He had no idea, but it sounded bad.

"You will still need to pay the fine, but we can work something out. I know you don't even have food. Here's what we will do. There’s a place where you can earn a bit of coin but more importantly, have a place to eat and sleep. It will be hard, but I believe you are capable. You must take this seriously though. The next mistake will see you begging for scraps along the streets, or worse."

This was all wrong, but it was his fault. Eiron stood tall.

With a clap on Eiron's shoulder, Kelno stood as well.

"Let's get moving then. Night's falling soon."