The trembling did not cease when Edward saw Ealdwine collapse to the floor. It didn’t stop when Ealdwine threw his sword to him.

“I once taught you- now teach me! Many of your forebears were storied warriors. You studied fencing as well as music, did you not? Show me how a Hart-Ellington faces death!”

A well of annoyance grew in place of dread.

“I hope it does not involve crying on a filthy tavern floor.”

[color=6ecff6][i]Oh you dirty pompous old--[/i][/color]

Instantly, Edward sprang up, and grabbed Ealdwine’s rapier from the dwarf. His eyes were still puffy and his nose was red, but he turned towards the carnage. The shaking had stopped. His sense of smell returned, and he covered his face at the stench that flooded his nostrils. He looked to Pallas, who had been pierced in the abdomen, but rescued by the bandaged woman. This was his chance to redeem himself. 

He turned to the dwarf with resolve, ready to help him take Pallas away. 

[@karamonnom] [@Tricheus]