Shadun

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Chapter Three

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Two Wolan women came out of the mansion's back door carrying baskets full of laundry as Relda and Vicki approached the building. The women stopped for a moment to give Vicki shallow courtesies then hurried on to their businesses. Inside the mansion was a big empty hall with the vaulted ceiling supported by columns. The black marble floor was covered by a thin sheet of dust, dotted randomly by footprints.

Madam Vicki led Relda to the side, away from the occasional passersby going up or down the winded stairs. "Now," the madam said. "What amount are we talking about here?"

"Two Wolan gold marks, ma'am," Relda replied.

Vicki sighed. "Ah, you scared me there for a moment girl. So two gold marks is it? And who's this six limbed demon that you owe?"

"I can't tell you."

"Why?"

"It's not right." Relda sighed. "See I just need the money, I can work for it.... It can't be too hard washing cloths right?"

"I guess it can't," Madam Vicki smiled. "Well then, off you go. If you won't tell me it, is fine. But out now, I have things to tend to," Relda glared at the fat woman then turned and started towards the door. "Ara, wait girl." The madam called quickly. Relda wheeled and glared in askance. "You won't really tell?"

"Haven't I already made that clear?"

"Good. You'll do."

"Wai.... What?"

"You know my reputation right?" Madam Vicki asked. "Well," she went on seriously. "There was this cute little girl, Sara. Came to me bawling, asking for help. So I did. But told her to tell no one where the money came from, she could give someone else the credit if she wanted. Now story short, she told. And it took me a good few years being harassed by factory folks looking for help."

"And madam Vicki helps no one." Relda muttered.

Vicki winked at her and reached into her purse. "Here girl," she said tossing some coins. Relda caught them easily and opened her palm to see two Aven gold marks. Aven currency is one of the most valuable mark in the world. With this she could pay her debt and walk away with change. She looked up, her eyes wide with disbelieve. "How can......," She paused, her voiced cracked. "When should I repay?"

"No need girl," madam Vicki smiled sadly. "Pay your debt, and be mindful of these things in the future."

Relda opened her mouth to insist she pays. Nothing ever comes free after all, but she found herself recalling Sluven's words. 'Sometimes girl, you just have to accept help___ the other option was to insult the person offering it.' So instead she said. "Thank you madam Vicki." She clenched the coins under her fist then looked at the oversized woman earnestly. "If you need any help just call."

"Well," madam Vicki said. "This is not a swordsman's oath but I'll keep that in mind."

"I'm being serious,"

"I know."

Relda dropped the coins into her pouch, struggling considerably not to frown at the woman's flippant response to her promise. True it couldn't be helped since she has nothing to offer. But I always keep my promise pig woman, she thought, always. When she came outside to the noise, the colors, the smell of soap, and the beautiful pandemonium____ she set out to find Amy.

The red haired girl was at one of the stone basins among the circle of women, scrubbing a red trouser with that careful intent she does everything. Relda hovered for a little while then waved when Amy looked at her direction. The redhead frowned, exchanged words with Arinea then walked over.