Chrysalis

Enid enjoyed spending time with Eran Thouris, though the brathian negotiator was often busy, such as now. But the retired merchant was content merely to be present and soak up the energy of frenzied trading. It reminded her heavily of the old days, a young Enid fighting for every scrap of gold she could get her hands on.

The secret to the brathian conglomerate’s success seemed to be: they always brought that level of energy. No matter how much wealth they amassed, they were as hungry for the next sale as they were for their first.

“Have the table dressings arrived? I wanted to see the samples two hours ago!” Eran demanded.

“Not yet. There have been issues with the supplier….”

“Inform them we will be cutting their payment by twenty percent as per our contract. Timing of the delivery was stipulated very clearly.”

“They may not like that. What if they drag their feet even further?”

“That’s what the second, thirty percent delay penalty is for. Have the ants approved the proposed layout for the market?”

“They have.”

Eran made a humming noise of approval.

“It’s wonderful to work with people who understand the importance of a prompt response.”

Enid smiled. The Colony loved being organised. They were likely just as appreciative of the brathian obsession with logistics.

“You seem to be putting more attention into this stop than the others,” Enid observed.

Eran turned to her.

important, and we made some good deals, but they were just rehearsals for the Silver City. As much as it pains me to admit it, this is the richest city in the

an incredible sight to behold. Enid had sat and watched the gate network in action, a vast number of people coming and going constantly, even

truly is a remarkable place,” Enid sighed. “I

The brathian smirked.

I can practically smell it. If all goes

from Royal Road; report any instances of

would make to the Colony. So far, they had subsided purely on what they could gain

samples

“Finally! Let me see.”

his face. The Eran was not in a forgiving mood, stalking around the stalls with a critical eye. The lace didn’t hang properly. The trim wasn’t up to standard. The sculpting on the legs

complaints were legitimate, but only barely. To the Eran’s eye, even the the slightest

her approval was given, but only begrudgingly. Had the contracts not already been signed, the formidable brathian would surely have demanded even further

decided on a venue?” Enid asked

before we departed the Conglomerate,”

presume that is a good

fortune, but it’s well worth it. The Dome is a prestigious and beloved venue here in the Silver

things are going well,

Eran cautioned. “There is still much to be done.

struggling with isolation somewhat,” Enid replied after a moment of thought. “He doesn’t cope well when he can’t move

Eran nodded.