The thief removes her hand; a smug expression on her face. “In a different situation I might have savored the irony of your reward being bigger than mine. But right now I’m more worried ‘bout what to do.”

The princess’ answer is a glare that the rogue reciprocates.

“Maybe” Solanus interrupts. “Omega could go to the inn by himself and leave the window open for us?” The dragon’s portrait is the only not to depict his current form. The drawing shows a huge black beast. It’s most likely based on the descriptions of the soldiers they left unconscious back on the chamber.

Aisha shakes her head. “A lone child rents a room big enough for four and then later orders dinner for a group. Could arise suspicious, no?”

They exchange uncertain glances.

“But seems to be the only...” The dragon’s words come to a sudden stop as a door to his side opens. A girl carrying a bucket and the noise of conversation come out of the house. The four remain motionless watching the young woman. Her height is about the same as Kai’s, but her frame is larger: the simple cotton dress she is wearing shows wider shoulders, waist and hips than the robber’s, and thicker limbs. Long curls the color of rust encircle her round cheeks. Looking their way a set of blue eyes blink surprised while full lips form an ‘O’. When she catches a glimpse of Aisha the circle becomes an ellipse and her eyebrows raise further up.

Loud voices from the main square startle all of them. Right, they are exposed there. At any moment a patrol could spot the group. Better decide where to go.

“This way.” The red-head takes the summoner, who was the closest to her, by the hand and pulls him into the house. The rest follow and she closes the door. Inside there is an older couple and an infant on the man’s lap.

“Jack! What are yo--.” The woman doesn’t have the same eye color as the girl’s, but the expression on her face is pretty similar upon seeing the princess. “Your highness.” She bows and so does the man, then they turn to Jack.

“I found them outside, mom.” Is all the explanation she offers before spinning on her heels and reaching for the door. “And now that we have guests I’ll have to fetch even more water.”

Kai holds the girl’s wrist and displays a dishonest smile. “Sorry to be rude, hon. But I’m not sure I trust you to go fetch water only to return with some guards and some money.”

Jack meets the other party member’s eyes and sees the same distrust in their gaze. “Okay.” She points at another bucket with her free hand. “But the well is in the middle of town, so only the kid can come with me.”

Out of options the thief lets go and the dragon agrees; Solanus tells Omega not to carry too much weight. And off they go while the remaining three are given bread and eat in awkward silence.