Sneak Peek - The Entertainer

You stay put, quiet as a mouse until you hear the sound of footsteps retreating far away. What on the continent could they have been fussing over? Some sort of business deal? It sounded like under the table work, which wouldn't be too surprising. If Lady Myrell is in the shipping business and Verdant is soon to close it's borders again in the fact of impending invasion, then it would make sense that others in this circle would be looking to turn a profit before that could happen. If so then it's none of your business. Not that you approve or disapprove, but the legal sense of right and wrong in this country hasn't done you any favors. So you don't feel particularly inclined to do it any. 

As you return to the lute and the fountain, you do spot something that strikes you as out of place. Two men come back from the garden, and neither of them look quite right. They're wearing Verdant clothing of a good make, but it isn't being worn correctly. The layering is off and their hairstyles seem askew. Foreigners most likely. Business men trying to make deals and buttering up the locals by adopting the fashions. Not your concern, much less your problem. 

The lute music fills the air and Mister Heith is drawn out into the crowd. He looks irritated that you've gotten such attention, but he does stick around to listen. As you play and sing, you notice one of the off-hand men approach Mister Heith. Before he can say anything, he's shot down quickly, and you can clearly see the words "Not in public." come from your hosts mouth. 

You turn your eyes away before he can catch you looking. being an entertainer has taught you how to know people. Being a thrall has taught you how to be deaf and blind to your surroundings when necessary. 

Set by set drifts by before you see the Lady Myrell approach her husband, taking him by the arm and nodding towards you. You can't tell what they're saying, but after a little while the woman turns a favorable smile to you and nods with assurance. Just like that the deal is done, and your future is secured to the satisfaction of everyone except you.