causing consternation. ‘Many have made a fortune from materials, oh yes. Good timber is more in demand than usual.’ The interpreter tried to keep up with the merchant, who seemed only just to be getting into his stride as he listed the types of wood that sold best in Bushtabhar.
‘If I may, I’d like to find out more about those bodies.’ The colonel tried to gently interrupt his interlocutor. The interpreter quickly said something to the merchant, who nodded in understanding.
‘Mr. ib Arrat admits with regret that he has previously found bodies and battlefields in the sites of former merchant camps.’ The halfling had a chance to catch his breath, as the conversation slowed considerably. ‘It looked like a fight, but afterwards no one heard or saw anything. Everyone suspected what had happened, but no one dared to say it out loud.’ The merchant shook his head. ‘Back home, in the south, if two caravans have a conflict, they settle it on solid ground. But here? No one cares, and if blood has to be spilled, it’s strength that counts.’
‘You have to keep an eye on everything going on around you.’ Darius gave a wry smile as he saw the approaching quay and the soldiers waiting there in their immaculately clean uniforms. ‘Gentlemen, please excuse me, but duty calls.’ He smiled and walked off towards his mount.
