AVIGNON late May/June 1348 AD
Marius and Dominique went to the counter to order their drinks, unaware of the drama that had just unfolded. The landlord, Marcel, greeted the two customers as if there was nothing out of the usual. The hawker lifted the bloodied brawler to his feet and, although Alice did not answer his question concerning her involvement, or not, with Marius, the matter was taken no further.
“Good evening, Marius and Dominique. How goes your work combatting the infernal outbreak?” He ensured he spoke loud enough for the entire inn to hear, knowing the roughneck would not have the courage to continue to insult Marius to his face. “Sit, Alice, please. Mine is ever a friendly house and, best we keep it so.”
Puzzled, Marius wondered about possible events prior to his arrival.
