Chrysalis

Eran Thouris is beaming like a cat who got the cream. Also the fish. Probably nibbled on a rare and endangered bird as well.

[So it really went that well?]

[Oh yes,] she assures me. [The number of offers we received is modest, but the impression we made was devastating. Once we prove we are able to move the quantity and quality we promised, orders will start flooding in.]

Fair enough, I suppose. On the surface once again, Lakespire is now in our wake as the brathians are counting their gains.

[Quick question. Is Eran your name, or your title?] I ask.

She turns to me, still struggling to keep the satisfied smile from her face.

[It’s both,] she says. [The Eran is the head negotiator for the Conglomerate, which also became my name when I assumed the role.]

[Wait, you have to give up your name to become the head negotiator?]

[Of course,] she nods. [In this position, I am the sharpest blade and the stiffest shield of the Conglomerate. In many ways, my role is more important than that of the Satrap. An Eran is required to be ready to go into battle at a moment's notice and fight to the bitter end. There is no role for ego in someone who takes up such a burden.]

Yeesh. There’s a glint of steel in her eye and I know she means what she says, but I remind myself she’s just talking about haggling. She doesn’t literally have to fight anyone. The brathians take their commerce way too seriously.

[Soooo, can I just call you Eran?]

[That’s fine.]

[Right. So, Eran, where are we going next, and for the love of life, will I be able to stretch my legs when we get there?]

days! If this goes on much longer, I’m going to lift

Freehill and should be there in another two

the Folk hang

where they… live. They’re a fairly nomadic people, but Freehill is the largest permanent settlement they have. They don’t have a centralised government, as such, but their council meets in Freehill to discuss

be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the

right. I wonder if they’ve decided if the Colony qualify as

Eran frowns at me.

sure what

and they stayed with us for a while. White and Grey, they called themselves. Helped us out in a pinch. I should probably try and meet up

in nearby, chips

you meet

the second stratum. We were in a tight spot at the time and they really helped

to detail the siege we went through, fighting against the

up,] Marzban says, arms folded across his chest. [Whoever

of prodigy,

of rank your associates were? Grey was the trainer, I think you said? It might be helpful if this person can vouch for us when we set up our

Grey said he

Marzban blanches as I

something I should

me that something is going on. Thankfully, they’re willing to explain it to

are the most respected—] Eran

most dangerous,]