The Land of Grimney - The Illustrated Adventures of Cora Pearl, aged 12

Well battle-vultures... you have a good haul here and will be paid the usual price.

*He throws a bag of coins and nods at the guards to unload*

Now may I ask why you have requested to see the Princess? She is no business of yours and the Overlord of Stormrock is unlikely to grant Scavebgers an audience with his most beloved wife.

My men heard your mutterings to your... colleagues. You said the name of the Princess and I was sent for at once. She is the Overlord's most precious jewel, and as such I am charged to see nothing harms her or steals her away. Creatures such as you have no right to so much as mention her name. They used to hang your sort in the gibbet and now we trade with you.

*He stares at the book*

What is that? We have no need for secondhand books. We need weapons that are sharp and true... these swords are of poor quality and are rusty. Perhaps you're sending the best things to the High Council? I should take your heads...but I am a generous man.

*He reaches in his pocket and takes out another bag*

It's barely worth one bag, but you have mouths to feed I suppose... if you went out of trade another vulture would take your place and you would starve in the street like a stray dog. Now, be gone before I regret my generosity.

Why would I pay for something that has no value? Why would the Princess be interested in some tatty old book when Darl Thranmere would give her a library of new ones if she asked? You come here with some nonsense about a witch? Was there no message to give? You are a liar and a rogue sir.

*He looks at Dryce's colleagues*

I'd be careful of working with this man, lads. He'll slit your throat for a tobran if he gets a chance. Once the war is over his kind will be hunted down and dragged to the gallows. I've seen many wars and seen many peacetime lynchings. Make sure you put the noose round his neck or there'll be one around yours too.

*He nods to the guards*

Now "gentlemen", we've paid for the goods we need. I shall waste no more of your time.

A golden haired warrior... could it be possible?

*He frowns*

I think you should come and speak to the Overlord. He will be interested in what you have to say.

Any word of Kalvos is to go straight to Darl. Follow me... don't worry about him, I imagine you will all be rewarded well for this news.

*He smiles grimly*

Although I fear the poor Princess will not take the news well.

*He turns and enters the castle*