Snippet #1587363

Mart had heard of the prophecy. Then, who hadn't? Things like these spread when the time drew near. The logical part of him wanted to doubt it, evil like the Queen simply couldn't be eradicated. Not by 8 people who were pretty much old children. Some part of him believed, which was why he was here. Scouting out cities that were easily defended when war came. Find a good defensive location and a well trained force can hold out for a long time. He sighed, it would be hard, his first actual war. He tried to shove it out of his mind and think about other things. I could use a better set of armor, and a good shield, maybe a heater. . .But I don't think I have the gold. Still, this town has fallen in economic power, prices might be lower.

A band of wagons, a small crowd and some shops drew his attention. The gypsies were in town. He stuffed his hands in his pockets. He had heard two versions of how the gypsies were either scum, or just ordinary people trying to make a living. He didn't know which theory was right, and which was wrong. His mentor liked to say "let your experiences guide you. Do not blindly trust others." But other people had experiences too, right? It was confusing. Strains of music reached his ears, coming from a small gypsy woman playing a guitar.

His stomach rumbled, and he looked up at the sky. It was nearing noon, and he could really use something to eat. Still, how often did he get a chance to relax and enjoy something? He joined the small group around the gypsy, and he could see that she was actually quite young. The music continued, and Mart's worries were slowly easing away. Then the song ended. A couple people mumbled something and left, and one or two tossed a coin. He looked at the two groups, and hesitated, unsure of what was acceptable and what wasn't. Pay, or leave? Sod what other people think, I enjoyed it, no? He fished two coins out of his pocket and tossed them to the girl. "Uh, well done miss. Good song, I enjoyed it."

His stomach growled again.