Before Milo headed out to do some shopping, I told him to spread the word that there would be a free meal at The Shadow's Respite today to celebrate the capture of Thalindra.

Milo said he'd tell everyone he saw. One thing I knew was that the marketplace vendors were big gossips. As soon as a few of them got word, it would spread like wildfire.

Setting up for a big outdoor cook required a table. Caden had helped me repair one well enough for use. All we had to do was drag the heavy table outside, which reminded me of a crucial item I had forgotten in the day's excitement. Morthisal's staff was still in the pile of busted wood.

While Milo was out, I moved wood around until I found the staff. Picking it up, my eyes studied the device. It still felt smooth and warm. The head was missing most of the screaming faces, heads, and some of the grasping hands. Frankly, the cursed staff looked better without the top.

"Oh, darling. You look so regal," Ophelia said.

With an eye roll, I went up the stairs, headed for my room, and closed the door. Some of its power might have been released after the staff was damaged. I sat down, put the staff across my knees, and pushed both ends. I pushed harder, pressed, strained, leaned forward, and finally gave up when it barely bent more than an inch on either side.

My hand drifted to the amulet under my shirt. I ran my fingers over the red stone. It was warm, and the staff warmed to my touch as I touched it.

"Maybe," I whispered.

I took the amulet off and placed it on the bed beside my leg. The change occurred in a blink, and I looked at ashen and sallow skin. I touched my face and found it completely unfamiliar. My ears were longer, and the tips were sharp.

Voices. Dread. Cold.

Standing up, I put the staff's end on the floor and clutched the wood tightly.

Whispers. Confusion. Anger!

I closed my eyes and listened to the voices. There were so many of them. They begged and pleaded. Call us. Release us!

I could quickly end the baron. Just a call to those laid to rest. They would return to do my bidding. It still had all of its power, meaning I had power. It coursed through my body stronger than ever before.

"No!" I threw the staff across the room and quickly put the amulet back around my neck. When would I ever learn?

Shaking my head in an attempt to clear the echoes of the dead from my mind, I picked up the staff and hid it under the bed again for now. This stupid thing needed to be buried a hundred feet deep and forgotten about for all time.

Right now, I had other issues. Mainly teaching a very rude baron a lesson.

I asked Lady Churl to help me move the table out the door next to the cauldron. Together, we maneuvered the heavy piece of furniture, grunting and cursing as we navigated through the doorway and into the open area. She might be small, but she was wiry and much stronger than she looked.

Once we had the table in place, I asked Lady Churl to chop up the meat into large chunks. "Make them about this big," I said, demonstrating a size of roughly one and a half inches with my hands.

"On it, boss. I likes me some knife work."

"I know you do." I nodded at her enthusiasm. I followed her inside, asking, "How are we set for mushrooms?" Glancing around the kitchen. "And peppers?"

Lady Churl chuckled. "Been doing some late-night foraging." She reached under the counter and pulled out a large wooden box that was practically a crate. Inside was a veritable treasure trove of edible mushrooms. I closed my eyes and inhaled the earthy scent. She also produced a bag filled with various red and green peppers. I was familiar with most of them and their heat level. I'd have to set aside a large batch of stew just for the orcs and add extra hot peppers.

Satisfied with our ingredients, I stepped outside to check on the cauldron. The metal was hot to the touch, and when I sprinkled a bit of water inside, it sizzled and danced on the bottom. Perfect. I kicked a few of the wood chunks aside to control the heat, adjusting the fire to my liking.

Milo returned, struggling under the weight of a massive bag of potatoes slung over his back. Another bag dangled from his hand, and a cask sloshed under his arm.

"Hey, Mr. V. The rolls will be ready in an hour. When I told her about the celebration, she said she would drop them off herself."

"Perfect, Milo. Thanks for running errands," I called out. "Take those potatoes to Lady Churl. She'll show you how to clean and chop them into bite-sized chunks."

As Milo hurried off to help in the kitchen, Lady Churl hustled out with a large platter piled high with chunks of meat. I nodded approvingly and focused on organizing the spices I'd brought out. I placed a bag of salt and another of ground pepper front and center, ready for quick access.

With everything falling into place, I added a generous amount of oil to the cauldron. It shimmered on the bottom while it heated. I sprinkled a generous amount of salt and pepper over the meat while tossing it around by hand.

The meat went into the big pot and immediately started to brown. I added more until most of the bottom of the cauldron was covered. Soon, it was piled high, and I had to use the huge metal spatula to toss it around and get all sides browned.

Milo brought out a platter piled high with chopped onions and celery while Lady Churl carried the carrots.

After the meat had browned on all sides, I continued to build the stew, adding the mirepoix to the cauldron. The onions, celery, and carrots hissed as they hit the hot oil. I tossed in handfuls of garlic that I had chopped into large pieces, along with the mushrooms Lady Churl had foraged. A huge pile of fresh butter from the marketplace followed, melting and coating everything in a rich, golden sheen.

Once the mass had cooked for a few more minutes, I poured a generous amount of red wine to deglaze the pan. The liquid hissed and steamed as it hit the hot metal, releasing all the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. I added about six or seven cups of flour, stirring vigorously until it was hard to see the white powder among all the ingredients.

"Milo," I called out, "bring out the rest of the beef stock from the fridge and cooler, would you?"

Lady Churl and I worked together to pump water into buckets, adding it to the cauldron to thin out the mixture. I then dumped in a lot of spices, including paprika and oregano, lots of pepper, and some sage, which grew wild around Everspring. The cooking food filled the air with their pungent aromas. At least a dozen large tomatoes, all chopped up, went in next, adding a bright acidity to the rich stew.

Lastly, I added the potato chunks Milo and Lady Churl had prepared earlier. To bring the stew to a boil quickly, I spread out the wood beneath the cauldron to create a larger heating area. The fire roared to life, licking at the sides of the pot as the contents began to bubble and simmer. I shoved more wood on top and leaned over to blow oxygen all over the flames.

Once it came to a boil, I tasted it, knowing the stew was nowhere near ready. However, it helped me gauge how much salt and pepper were needed, so I seasoned accordingly.

Milo helped me maneuver the large lid on top, but I left a large crack to allow steam to escape as it came to a boil, and also to fill the area with the smell of the stew.

Soon, this place would be filled with hungry humans, orcs, and goblins.

Part one of my plan was well underway.

Passersby greeted me, asked what was for lunch, and were thrilled to learn that, thanks to Thalindra's capture, there would be a free celebratory meal.

Lady Churl wandered out of the tavern, found a seat on the table, and hopped up there. She glanced my way, pulled her knife, put it to a flat stone, and sharpened the edge.

"What's on your mind?" I asked her

"Eh. Just keeping me blade ready. I reckon you gots a plan. I reckon I also gotta get ready to leave. I likes it here, but not enough to get you in trouble. I'll go if I has ta."

As I stirred the stew, the smell of spices, meat, vegetables, and red wine created a glorious mix.

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"Like I said before. You're family. You and Milo," I said, lowered my voice, and looked around to ensure no one was within earshot. "You were there the first day I got here. You know me. The real me. I won't let anything bad happen to you."

Lady Churl scooted closer. "I knows you ain't 'im. What's it like where you's from?"

I glanced around, taking in the quaint village of Everspring. The sun shone brightly in a sky dotted with fluffy clouds, casting a warm glow over the village. The air was filled with the chatter of people going about their daily lives. A blacksmith's hammer rang out. Three children raced past, two chasing the other, screaming with glee as they ran.

"It's not like this at all where I'm from." I kept my voice low. "Everything is too loud and too fast there. And too big."

My mind drifted to the vast lands I had left behind, the bustling cities with skyscrapers, and the constant hum of cars, trucks, and buses clogging the streets. I thought about how everyone seemed to be glued to some device, barely making time to talk to each other.

"People are always in a rush, always connected," I continued, shaking my head. "They're so focused on their own lives that they often forget to appreciate the simple things, like a beautiful day or a friendly conversation. I was the same way. I've changed, and it's for the best."

Lady Churl listened, her head tilted slightly to the side as she tried to imagine the world I described.

"But here," I said, gesturing to the village around us, "it's different. People take the time to talk to each other and enjoy the little moments. They appreciate the beauty of nature and the importance of community. This is where I was meant to be, and I love it here."

Lady Churl shrugged nonchalantly, but a slight smile played across her lips. "Well, boss, I'm glad you found your place."

I returned her smile.

The simmering stew's aroma grew stronger, and people started to gather around the cauldron. I inhaled the rich, savory scent of the meat, vegetables, and spices that had merged over the past few hours. The stew had thickened and would stick to ribs, as my mom used to say.

A couple of passing people approached. "Is it time to eat yet, Varix?" one of them asked.

"It's just about ready. Would you like to stay while we wait for the rolls to show up?"

They nodded and went to speak with others. Quite a few people had already assembled.

As I stirred the simmering stew, heavy footsteps and guttural voices caught my attention. Urzan and his band of orcs approached, accompanied by a few goblins. I smiled as I waved them over, genuinely pleased to see my green skinned pals.

"Welcome, my friends!" I called out and gestured for them to join the growing crowd. "You're just in time for a celebratory meal. "Do you know why we're having this feast?"

"No! If Varix throw party, Urzan and orc come!"

"Thanks, Urzan. We're celebrating the fact that Thalindra, second in command to the dark lord Morthisal, was captured right here, in this village, in this very tavern, and I want to throw a party to celebrate."

"Urzan and orc are here for it! As Varix like to say!"

The orcs and goblins looked around, their expressions a mix of curiosity and apprehension. I could sense their unease at being surrounded by so many humans, but Urzan stood tall. I'm sure his presence reassured his companions that it was okay to be here.

More people began to arrive, filling the space with laughter and chatter. A few minutes later, the baker arrived. She carried a large wooden platter laden with freshly baked buns. The aroma of bread mingled with the savory stew, making my mouth water.

"Ah, perfect timing!" I exclaimed, greeting the baker warmly. "Please, set the bowls down over there. Milo and Lady Churl will take care of the rest."

Milo and Lady Churl began to hollow out the buns, creating bread bowls for the stew.

Just as I was about to start serving the stew, a figure caught my eye. A man dressed in a long cloak with a hood that shadowed his face approached, flanked by two larger men who oozed an air of danger. I studied them, but didn't say anything. Where was Zyn when I needed him? If he hadn't sacrificed himself, he might have been able to ascertain the men’s intentions.

Surely the baron wouldn't hire muscle to take me out. Not with this crowd.

Pushing my concerns aside, I focused on ladling generous portions of the stew into the bread bowls and adding extra hot peppers to the orc's meals.

I was really getting into the swing of the community event, talking, jesting, and laughing along with my neighbors. Caden, Doan, and Ragna had appeared. They stood near the orcs, something that would have looked outlandish a few months ago when the races had been enemies. We waved and grinned at each other. I'd ask them to stop by later to share some ale with me.

Urzan told a story that I couldn't hear. Whatever it was, it set Doan off. He laughed uproariously and slapped his leg. I wished Mira were here to see the impromptu festival.

It didn't take much longer for the sound I'd been waiting for to arrive. The baron must have gotten word of the festivities.

A couple of dozen marching soldiers arrived with Alic at the head, and he didn't look happy. He took in the crowd, looked at me, and his face fell. He lowered his head and shook it slightly.

"Welcome, Baron Swiftwood!" I yelled out in greeting.

Baron Bertram Swiftwood rode between the ranks of his men. His face was contorted with anger, and I knew he was not pleased with what he saw.

As the soldiers drew closer, I glanced around at the diverse crowd gathered in the courtyard. Humans, orcs, goblins—all here for the simple pleasure of sharing a meal. I knew that this was what The Shadow's Respite was all about, bringing people together regardless of their differences.

I squared my shoulders and met the baron's gaze.

"You were warned!" He waved his hand in the direction of the orcs. "You were all warned!"

"Warned, Baron? Warned of what, exactly? I'm throwing a party for my friends. You see, without them, I could not have captured Thalindra. In fact," I pointed at Lady Churl, "she was instrumental in subduing the sorceress." I swept my hand toward the orcs. "As you well know, they chased away the bandits. Now look at this gathering. Look at it long and hard. Orcs, goblins, and humans, all sharing space, eating, and enjoying the beautiful day."

Out of the corner of my eye I caught sight of Roland Hightown rushing toward the tavern. His eyes looked between me and the baron.

"Enough! I told you it was over! You have defied my order, and…"

"Ah, yes. Baron! Baron Swiftwood!" Roland shouted as he arrived.

The baron turned to take in the steward. "What is it?"

Roland rushed past the guards, past Alic, and arrived, then put his hands on his knees, leaned over, and took a few deep breaths. He held up his hand, with one finger outstretched. "One moment."

"Are you okay, Roland?" I asked and approached him.

"Fine. Fine. I need a moment to catch my breath."

"Enough. Captain Alic. Please arrest this man!" Baron Swiftwood bellowed and pointed at me.

"Wait!" Roland yelled. "I have something to share. Something quite important."

Behind the soldiers, Seraphina strode toward us, her head held high, and her staff in one hand. She was dressed in a deep green dress with sleeves worked through with gold, red, and orange runes and patterns. She looked absolutely regal.

"You may share later, Roland. Now is not the time!" the baron yelled. He swung off his leg over the saddle and lowered himself to the ground. He wore a flashy red and gold outfit with embroidery on his clothes that shimmered in the sunlight. He wore matching pants, shiny boots, and a fur-lined cloak over his shoulders.

Alic's face was tight. He looked like he'd been sucking on a lemon wedge.

Roland stood and proclaimed. "There is quite a large reward for capturing the dark sorceress!"

"Nonsense. Arrest him!" The baron pointed at me again.

"Really, Alic?" I asked Alic.

He shook his head and lowered his gaze. "I'm so sorry. I don't want to do this, but I have no choice."

"I'd like to hear more about the reward!" the strange man in the hooded cloak yelled.

"Me too," someone in the crowd added.

"Give him his reward!" another yelled.

"Leave off, and stop being a bully, Baron," a feisty lady yelled. I looked over and discovered it was Henna, the confused woman who used to be married to The Shadow's Respites' previous owner.

"Reward! Reward! Reward!" the people chanted.

"Yes!" Roland shouted over the crowd. "The reward. For the capture of one of the most dangerous individuals in the kingdom, there is a reward of one hundred platinum sovereigns. This is to be awarded to two individuals. Varix Vel'Naris, and the goblin known as Lady Churl."

Lady Churl's hand was on her dagger's hilt, but she chuckled when Roland called her name

"Money ain't no use if he ain't here to spend it," Lady Churl muttered.

Despite the fact that I was apparently about to be arrested, I had just been rewarded a windfall. I could finish the tavern!

"Baron, please. Listen to reason. We should honor our friends. The orcs who helped us chase off the bandits." I gestured with an open hand toward Lady Chulr. "My friend Lady Churl who assisted in capturing Thalindra. Listen, I'm but a humble tavern owner in this lovely village. I'm no threat to anyone, nor are the orcs a threat. I implore you to honor our friends. Are you saying that you would rather let prejudice and jealousy of my tavern govern your hand?" I looked around and found eyes on me. "Is this how citizens in Everspring are treated?"

Voices rose in protest.

"Enough!" the baron yelled.

Alic kicked his boot against the ground as he stood a few feet away from me.

"Captain Ashfall. You know what you have to do," Baron Swiftwood's smug voice called.

Seraphina's voice rose over the din. "Baron Swiftwood! Please listen. You have been a just and…"

The baron swiped his hand at Seraphina and hissed at her to be silent.

I clenched my jaw in frustration.

The man in the hooded cape strode toward the baron. His two companions snapped into motion and followed. "Wait," he called. "I'd like to hear more about why this man is being arrested."

"I suggest you mind your own business. This is no concern of the common people."

The man stopped a dozen feet from the baron and stood between his soldiers. The two companions who had followed him moved to his side. They put their hands under their cloaks, and took on a fighting stance with legs spread, and shoulders tensed forward.

"Baron," the cloaked man said. "This is my business. All of this is my business."

He lowered his hood and lifted his head to stare at Baron Swiftwood. The man was tall, had sandy blonde hair, and fair skin that was quite pale…

"Your majesty," Seraphina exclaimed, dropped to one knee, and lowered her head.

"It's King Alister!" several voices yelled.

"That's not the…" The baron trailed off and blinked several times.

"Be very careful what you say next, Baron Swiftwood," the king warned, "because I have heard quite enough of your buffoonery for one day!"