[sylvanSpider]

Chidi's face morphed from one of sadness and anger to one of confusion, followed the sick revelation. A knot formed into her stomach, and seemingly on her tongue as she looked first at the bard, then down to Nanika to confirm. When the confirmation came, she looked back at Tritonia, mouth growing dry.

“I won't take your money,” Nanika said, scoffing, “I'm here because I have no choice. Chidi, you have to understand. I told her to leave, she drew the attention of all of the patrons and when I told her I would find you another place to live and prosper, she told me she'd ruin that too. She's now suggesting she hire you as a retainer...”

Chidi tried to wet her lips, slowly shaking her head as if that could never be a possibility. As the thought began to settle in her head, she realized that she didn't really have a say in the matter. Her reputation in this city, at least, was ruined for what could potentially be forever. She knew Nanika had connections, but she knew from experience that the bard had full capability of hunting them down and, as Nanika had hinted, ruining her life there as well. “How much will I be getting paid?” she finally croaked.