I woke up this morning, far earlier than usual. Charles' wife was still there with the children, she normally is long gone when I wake up. Funny coincidence you could say. As always, or well, my new always these past days, I slept in Charles' study room. The one where he keeps all this different books, that are filled with more knowledge than anyone would ever need.
But being up so early has it's merits. I decided to go to the kitchen, to see the Lord of the House himself making breakfast. We talk for a bit, then he prepares a plate for me. And he tells me today will be a day full of appraising, so nothing actually to do for me. A free day I suppose. While I am eating, his wife and the kids leave the house. And there I hear a familiar voice from outside, right before the door closes. Who is it if not dear Lady Trudgeon! One of the few that always saw my potential, if I dare say so myself. It appears she is looking for me, what a welcome surprise this is.
I quickly fix my clothes, I mean they're never really dirty, but I refuse to be seen anything else but pristine. She sits down and thanks us for welcoming her. Well of course milady, it is our pleasure. She has a favour to ask of me and I am more than happy to oblige. She needs a dress, something magical, as she put it, because her usual tailor is out of town. She needs something that is absolutely perfect for the yearly fundraiser regarding the orphanage. I sometimes forget what glowing person she is, just in general. Oh, and I can get something similar for me as well. Matching outfits so to speak. What a magnificent idea! And she is willing to pay for it all. Normally I would never have her pay for something like that, but unfortunately this time I have to rely on her for that. I hastily agree, with absolute pleasure. Writing it down right now I am pretty sure the pleasure comes from helping her, not just the prospect of getting new fine clothes, but I digress.
After she left, I had to think carefully from who I would best find something like this. Most of my former contacts and shops I would contact for a task like this won't even talk to me let alone sell me something. But as always, the best appraiser in town knows just the right people. To The Bells I go! If I need something magical, the best course of action is to go to the mages, obviously! Making my way to strange building, I see Masons stall, still empty, for he is gone for a few months now. But still, respected as he always has been, none other takes his place. Still being friendly to my fellow merchants, to hold up appearance and stay on top, I quickly find myself inside the academy.
After a nice short chat with Valis and telling him about the favour I have to ask from them, he points me in the general direction of Martha Thinstrungs office. I know I can trust her. She is one, if not the strongest magic caster in Tilley, and someone that identified a lot of my found treasures, when they happened to be magical. I knocked on her door and after a few seconds the door sprung wide open, with her sitting behind her desk, ever smiling. And brewing something, that smelled a bit bitter. As I later found out it is some sort of special drink, from an old recipe. I spare you the details.
I asked her for the favour, told her that Lady Trudgeon herself was asking, and if she has a way of preparing something for me. Oh of course, she assured me, and called one of her students. A highly gifted girl by the name of Sendra. She dabbles in illusion magic and is willing and capable of enchanting some clothes. Splendid! She told me a bit about the kind of enchantments would be best, so I decided on a very specific one, for both the Lady and myself. I make a mental note not to forget about Sendra and her particular skills. They might come in handy one day, who knows. I thank Madam Thinstrung. And as it is in the word of trades and deals she has a favour to ask from me in return. Something that has to do with some sort of research. I get to it as soon as we can burn that bridge, I suppose.
Taking the enchanted fine clothes, I bid her farewell, longingly waiting for the time when we can enjoy a cup of tea together again. I also say goodbye to Valis, so that we may come together again soon. And before I head to the orphanage to bring the clothes, I need to check the the fit and magic specifically and ask someone trustworthy if this would be perfect for the fundraiser. Back to Charles I guess. Or rather his wife, he is off to work now. But his dearest is even more capable of judging the aesthetics and beauty of fine garments like this. I put on the clothes for me, which seemed to be more magical in nature than I anticipated. They made themselves fit like a glove. Lovely, his wife says. Absolutely wonderful. Music to my ears. I am glad my sense for greatness is as sharp as ever.
I thank her, then take them off again, and am on my way to the orphanage now, dress and suit in hand, ready to bring Lady Trudgeon the best possible clothes she could have hoped for.