“I figured I could get some coins out of the ordeal. Like I said, I’m a musician. Money is not something I see a lot of,” the man says, “Hope you aren’t too angry about my deceit.”

“Not at all! That is something a bandit would do!” Braizen approves. “You ever steal anything of greater value?”

The male chuckles, glances in either direction, then narrows his eyes. “You see this lute?” He nudges his head towards the instrument hanging down his back. “Worth over five hundred… Silver.”

“Impressive!” Braizen cheers. “Once my friend Lin stole a pan flute that he thought was the same price. It turns out it wasn’t worth the rope that held it together. He still tried to master it, though. That was a bad week for all of us.”

His face drops, and a twinge of pain creeps through my chest. I wonder if Lin survived the dire wolf. If Torrent got Lorna out of the crushed carriage.

“The name is Ranstig,” My attention returns to the idiots on the cot, who are shaking their bound hands. “Ranstig Belton. Though most call me Stig. Stig the Euphonious.”

“Oh, I like that name. Stig. Yes, I enjoy it quite a lot, actually. A quality name for a quality man!!” Braizen says with a wide, easy smile.

“I think I preferred it when you hated each other,” I groan.

Braizen gives me a pointed look before turning back to his new friend. “Do you think you could play it if I got it off your back?”

Stig contemplates the question, then shakes his head in defeat. “Unfortunately, my playing will be useless without freedom of the limbs. A shame, really. I’m actually quite good. Though, I’ve always wanted to be a bandit. The missions, the high stakes, it all sounds riveting.”

“I believe that you’re good,” Braizen assures him. “And you were right about me earlier. I can’t sing a note to save my life. However, I could teach you my ways if you teach me yours.”

Their excited voices flood the room. I squeeze my eyes shut and try to block their chatter as they prattle on about their respective passions, but to no avail. I managed to survive the Florian Wood, but their insufferable conversation may be what takes me out.

“By the way, miss.” I open my eyes, and Stig jerks his chin towards me. “I didn’t mean what I said earlier. You know, about other payments. I was bluffing. I’ve heard bigger, more disgusting men say things like that to get their way. I figured I’d give it a shot.”

Braizen grunts. “Next time, leave the disgusting remarks for the disgusting men.”