A Fool's Blade

Chapter - 36 Lost Witness

"Yes, yes, for the hundredth time, I am a Breton. I was born in High Rock, and then I came here. I am not a Reachman!"

Jade put her hand on her hip, twirling her braid with the other. It was late at night after a long day, and all she wanted was to do was rest at the inn. "I know who you are, Anton, and where you're from."

His voice became tense, alert, "Who are you? What do you want?"

"The Gourmet. Who is he? Where is he?"

"The...the Gourmet? Never! I don't know what led you here, but nothing will betray my trust. I'll take the secret of the Gourmet's identity to my grave!" Anton shouted defensively.

She dropped her voice barely above a whisper, sharping her words like knives, "For the Dark Brotherhood, that can be easily arranged."

"The Dark Brotherhood?" Anton's eyes grew wide and he began to noticeably quake with fear, his voice following suit, "Now...now wait a minute. Let's not get hasty. I mean, surely my friend wouldn't want me to endanger my own life. Right?" Beads of sweat were gathering visibly on his brow. "Look, his name is Balagog gro-Nolob. He's an Orc! The Gourmet's an Orc! He's staying at the Nightgate Inn. That's all I know! Now...now you'll let me go. Right?" His eyes were pleading.

Jade smiled sweetly, "Of course Anton. Thank you."

"Okay. All right. Wonderful. You're welcome! I'll just be on my way, then..." He chuckled nervously turning his attention back to his pot.

She stepped into the shadows, disappearing into the gloom, feeling Nocturnal's power at her back. She watched him prepare his meal, and as he turned he back she slipped poison into his food, leaving Markarth undetected by all, except Anton. The one lost witness.