Dietrich Metzger

the eve of Ascension, at Vespers

I saw the bailiff's men again near the tavern. If they call my name for the levy, I swear I will drop a heavy stone on my own foot. A broken toe is better than a Hungarian arrow tearing my neck.

• 
  Bynyek Brown

  You're a coward, lad. The King needs spears, not shivering boys.

• 
  Dietrich Metzger

  And you are a fool, Bynyek. Keep away from me.

Nota scribaeHe spoke quickly and chewed his thumb the whole time.

the second Tuesday in May, at None

Hauling undyed linen all day for pennies, and my father Claus demanded half the moment I crossed the threshold. It is bruised shoulders for me and warm ale for him. At least the work keeps me out of the main square.

• 
  Claus Metzger

  It is my roof keeping the rain off your straw, boy. Show some gratitude.

the Friday after St George, at Terce

John Swift is fighting with his father over that girl Avice again. A man is lucky if his father only demands his coin and leaves his heart alone. It is brave of him, but risky.

• 
  John Swift

  He won't listen to reason. She is sent to Caslav and my life is ruined.

the Wednesday in Easter week, at Sext

Poor Stislav Weaver is weeping for his sister Betty again. He bought a good padded jack for the levy, but Bynyek took it and pawned it to Bohuta for ale. I wish I had the silver for a war jack, though canvas wouldn't stop a sword.

• 
  Stislav Weaver

  My sister is likely dead and my jack is gone. God have mercy on us.

• 
  Bynyek Brown

  I was thirsty, and Bohuta gave good silver for it!

Nota scribaeDictated from behind the church. He kept checking the street.

the second Thursday of Lent, at Prime

Kvyetoslav and Kubyenka have been bickering over tools and boundaries since the sun came up. I let them shout. As long as I am standing behind them, Julian's men and the watch do not notice me.

• 
  Kubyenka Fuller

  He encroached on my space by two whole hand-spans! I'll not stand for it.