A Fool's Blade

Chapter 18 - Silence and Sweetrolls

        "By Sithis, this ends now! Release her, fool! Whatever you've been planning is over!" Astrid flew through the door, followed by Veezara.

        Veezara growled, "Back away from Jay. Now." Both had weapons drawn, ready to kill.

        "Why of course! Anything for the mistress of this Sanctuary." He lowered his blade and stepped back.

        Jade took a deep breathe and stumbled forward, Veezara caught her, making sure she was alright. Astrid immediately questioned her about the traitor.

        Cicero chimed into the conversation, seemingly unaware of the position he was in, "Me? A traitor? Poor Cicero did nothing of the sort. Cicero spoke only to the Night Mother, but she didn't speak to me...she didn't speak to sweet Cicero..."

        "So you weren't speaking to anyone else. Just...the Night Mother's body?"

        "Yes, oh yes! Cicero would never betray the Brotherhood!"

        "I will settle matters with you later. Veezara I want you to come with me."

        The Argonian glared at the jester. "I'm not leaving her here with that madman."

        "I'll be fine Veezara, go with Astrid."

        "But-"

        "Go." She watched as Veezara and Astrid disappeared from the room, and turned back to see a blade pointed at her, she sighed. "I really thought we were past this Cicero."

        "Cicero's question was never answered and I do not take kindly to those who disrespect-."

        "Darkness rises when silence dies."

      He stood there, stunned, " Then...it is true! She's back! Our Lady is back! She has chosen a Listener! She has chosen you!" He giggled gleefully, "All hail the Listener! Ha ha ha!" He's cheery disposition quickly became solemn. "Oh...oh no! Cicero almost killed the Listener! I'm sorry sweet Night Mother! To the Listener, too!" Cicero sobbed.

        "Wait! Don't cry. It's okay. Just calm...down...um..." Jade awkwardly patted then strange little man's head, who was now clinging to her leg, bawling.

        "Cicero is so sorry! Forgive me Listener!"

        Jade dug into her satchel and pulled out some of her left over food. "Look, Cicero, it's a sweetroll! You like sweetrolls, right?" 

        "Yes...yes...Cicero...Cicero likes sweetrolls...and carrots." He said between sniffles.

        He accepted the sweetroll, releasing her leg. Jade sat next to him as he ate it. "I forgive you Cicero. I understand, you were just trying to protect our mother. You were just fulfilling your role as Keeper." 

        "Cicero was just doing his job..."

        "Yes, and you're good at what you do. No one in all of Tamriel can replace you." She gave him a reassuring shoulder hug and stood up, "I need to speak with Astrid now, and I know it's been a long day, so you can go to your chambers and get some rest, okay?"

        "Okay, Listener..."

        "You know you can still call me by my name Cicero."

        "Does the Listener wish to be called by her name?"

        "It's up to you I suppose."

        "The Cicero shall call you by your name. Goodnight, Jay."

        "Actually, only my-" It was to late, Cicero had already left the chamber. "-family calls me that..." She sighed. I'll let it slide...it is the only name he's heard me called.