Unholier Than Thou (Epics and Elsewhere Book 2) by David Partelow

Author:David Partelow [Partelow, David]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2023-07-13T23:00:00+00:00

-9-

The Duke of Ouch

There was a distinct lull within the walls of the infamous tavern of Elsewhere. Most of the patrons sat listlessly at stools or tables, nursing their latest tankards or mugs. But it was not sadness that had befallen the gathered patrons. No, it was rather a prolonged exposure to excess that gripped them. Between the garnered exhaustion from a long day of drunken debauchery and the desire to avoid the inevitable hangover, many drank on, hoping for the best and expecting the worst.

It was a vain, silly hope, but keep in mind these were mostly a slew of barflies, drunkards, and party enthusiasts. Their lives rode heavily upon hopes and spirits.

Lounging lazily in the corner, Percival Pratchet strummed a soft tune upon his mandolin as he fought to stay awake. The bard had engaged in an amazing battle against the forces of sobriety to emerge gloriously victorious. Every sixth strum or so was off key as he shook his head awake once more. Next to him, his friend Fenn sat peacefully, hood drawn, and arms crossed.

“This was a day to not soon forget, though I fear we will wake with no recollection regardless,” said Percival dreamily.

“A fair observation,” said Fenn, sighing.

“That is an amount of drinking I’ve not witnessed in an entire lifetime,” said the bard.

“Far from true. I’ve seen you drink the equivalent before and hold the same observation,” countered the elf rogue.

“No, Fenn, I was referring to you,” said Percival.

“Oh. Then your words in fact do ring true,” said the elf.

With a listless head, Percival cast his gaze toward Fenn, almost falling from his chair in the endeavor. “So do tell, what is the occasion?”

Fenn shrugged absently. “It is not often that Greyfard holds a day that allows no fighting whatsoever. When that occurs, it is a day I do not have to worry about some duel for honor and often to the death. It means a day I am not forced to keep my wits about me for the entire duration. I tend to savor such days, even to a fault.”

“That seems valid and fair to me,” said Percival, almost falling from his chair. “Why are there so many people wanting you dead?”

Fenn offered a slow grin from under his hood and cloak. “I am very good at what I do.”

“Which is?”

“Everything I do.”

Percival hiccupped as he shook his head. “Oh fine, hold to your secrets then. I have stated before you need no mystery with me. Save such things for the maidens.”

“Force of habit,” said Fenn with a shrug. “The less that is known the better for everyone involved.”

“Well, I will take what I can get, and today I learned you can drink quite a lot,” stated Percival.

“I do indeed have my moments,” replied Fenn. “Plus, it is a boon to feel completely free of restrictions, even if it is for a day.”

“I know precisely how you feel,” said Percival darkly.

“However do you mean?” asked Fenn curiously.

“It is all about luck of the draw, I suppose,” said Percival before pointing to the barbarian watching him in the corner.

Download

Copyright Disclaimer:
This site does not store any files on its server. We only index and link to content provided by other sites. Please contact the content providers to delete copyright contents if any and email us, we'll remove relevant links or contents immediately.