When the bard finished that verse, jumped down from his high stool, and tipped his hat to the people around him, Shade, who was eating, felt around in his pocket, took out two one-shilling coins, and tossed them over. With fairly skillful control of his strength and a bit of luck, both coins landed directly in the red soft cap held by the bard.
Two shillings was an extremely generous tip, and the bard immediately bowed to Shade.
Shade asked:
"I've heard too many legends. Do you have any fresh songs?"
"What would you like to hear?"
the bard asked politely.
"Anything related to Rhodes Cards?"
"Yes! Great City Player 1853 in Tobesk ended last week. That much-discussed final, along with the rather controversial identities of both finalists, makes for the best possible subject."
Having said that, he did not ask for Shade's opinion. He picked up his lute again, sat on the high stool, and immediately began the prelude.
The people in Sikar Inn were drawn in by this new song, and the atmosphere inside grew even livelier than before. Only Shade felt somewhat uncomfortable. Though everything the man sang was true, his depiction was far too exaggerated.
By the time Shade finished his meal, the bard's song about "Great City Player 1853" had not yet ended. Shade turned to look through the restaurant and spotted two men in Royal Army officer uniforms playing Rhodes Cards at a table amid the crowd. He stood and walked over.
Ordinary soldiers were not permitted to wander about in military uniform while on leave; only officers of lieutenant rank or above were allowed to do so. Of the two men playing Rhodes Cards at the table, the rougher-looking one was a captain, while the shorter but younger-looking one was a lieutenant.
Shade