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

Saved... I think there is little chance of that now. We can only hope she has not been too traumatised. Dorlich was a lovely town, but it has been torn apart by war. There is a army camped nearby, and Jana is an opportunist. Soldiers like brothels. Did Jana give you money or a gift? You may be guilty of selling the child without knowing it. if Carados learns that you have sold a child to a brothel... well he wouldn't think twice about presenting the evidence to Princess Philomena.

*Arabella sighs*

Not all orphans are as fortunate as myself. I was taken to become a lady's maid but I knew the dangers that surrounded me.

*She whistles and Philomena's marsh hawk lands on the bar*

He always knows how to find his mistress.

Has it been so long that you cannot remember where there quill and parchment is kept?

*Arabella raises and eyebrow as she fetches the writing equipment*

You might not recognise Carados as having an influence over you... but he has Philomena's love and will exert an influence over her.

*She sighs*

The Princess was clear before she left, those who stand with the High Council are her enemies. You have already failed to keep your word and protect her and Karina... If you make an enemy of her father, you risk losing her love forever. She has forgiven your faults as she thinks you are dead... but will she forgive you for breaking her heart now she knows you are alive?

*As dawn rises, Arabella and Killgin Stark set off to Dorlich to rescue Sylvie. Kalvos is left alone downstairs in the bar, gazing at the portrait of Philomena that was painted by the outlaw Vance Scarab and remembering happier times.*

I would certainly agree with that...

*The Duke of Zoltar gives a wry smile and nods to his knights who take their positions by the doors.*

My daughter is better off without you, she is married to man of rank, power and honour... even if he is a Kanaran barbarian. I had hoped the rumours of your death would prove true... Normally I would make it happen myself but...

*Carados removes his sword and places it on the bar*

Unfortunately I swore to my daughter I would never harm you and I am a man of honour... so I guess I have to bribe you. How much do you want to start a new life, far away from my child?

You dare to presume to lecture me on honour? You get my daughter with child and then do not marry her? You talk of betrayal, but where were you for Philomena and Karina when the High Council's assassins were at the door...? Or perhaps you have stayed loyal to the mother who abandoned you at birth and signed the death warrant for her own granddaughter? You must already know that the High Council have ordered the deaths of Philomena and Karina.

*He gives a heavy sigh*

I did not sell my daughter to Darl Thranmere, I sought her a husband that had the strength and resources to protect her. Something you, the man she loved and trusted, failed to do repeatedly. You broke her heart long before Thranmere reached these shores.

*He looks up at the painting of Philomena*

She deserves better than Thranmere... and she deserved far better than the way you treated her.

*His voice chokes with emotion and he brushes away a tear*

Everything I do is for her...

*He slams his fist on the table*

I don't care what you think of me. I just want you out my daughter's life forever. Name your price to stay dead in her eyes and to abandon this ridiculous plan to hire mercenaries.

*Carados gives a chuckle*

You think that what you say in a brothel will not get back to me? You are too indiscreet and too stupid... whatever did my daughter see in you except a handsome face?