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“Sorak.” They shook hands.
“I know. I heard you tell the captain. Apparently, your reputation precedes you. He seemed impressed when you gave him your name.”
Sorak shrugged uncomfortably. “Whatever reputation I may have is much exaggerated.”
Kieran smiled. “Oh, I doubt that, judging from the way you handled that giant.” He glanced toward Ryana.
“Oh, forgive me,” Sorak said. “This is Ryana.”
“It is an honor, priestess,” Kieran said, inclining his head respectfully. “The reputation of the villichi sisterhood is known far and wide.”
“You are most gracious,” said Ryana.
“Are you seeking employment in South Ledopolus?” Kieran asked Sorak.
“I have not yet decided,” Sorak replied.
“Ah, well in that case, perhaps I may tempt you with an offer. I am on my way to Altaruk, where I have accepted a post as the new captain of the guard for the merchant house of Jhamri. I could use a man of your abilities, and the merchant houses pay top wages, as you doubtless know.”
“Thank you, I shall consider it,” said Sorak.
“Take your time,” said Kieran. “The caravan of Jhamri is even now in South Ledopolus, but it is not scheduled to depart for another day or two, and you can leave word for me with the captain.”
“Thank you, I shall,” said Sorak.
Kieran nodded. “I will let you rest,” he said, then moved off to give them some privacy.
“Why did you agree to consider his offer?” asked Ryana. “We do not even know if we are going to Altaruk.”
“I did not wish to seem impolite, after his courtesy,” Sorak replied. “Besides, the merchant houses pay very well.”
“But we are not in need of money,” said Ryana, glancing at their packs sitting on the deck beside her.
“Yes, but it would not be wise to advertise that fact,” said Sorak.
She nodded. “I see your point. Good thinking.” She looked up toward the bow. “It seems we have a welcoming committee.”
The boat was pulling up to the dock at South Ledopolus, where an anxious crowd was waiting with torches, having seen the battle from the shore.
“Well, it seems your arrival in South Ledopolus is destined to cause quite a stir,” the ferry captain said, gazing at the crowd as they approached the dock. “By tomorrow morning, the whole village will have heard of your battle with the giant. It’s likely you won’t have to pay for any of your drinks during your stay.”
Sorak sighed wearily. “I was looking forward to a bath. The last thing I want now is to be peppered with questions.”
The captain grinned. “A lot of men in your position would relish the prospect of an audience eager to hear a tale of battle. But never fear, I will have one of my crew escort you to my house while I distract the crowd. Please make yourselves at home, and I will join you after I am finished here.”
“You are very kind,” said Sorak.
“Nonsense. You saved my boat. I am happy for the chance to show my appreciation. Make ready the bowlines!”
The lines were thrown out to waiting ha
nds on the dock as the rowers stowed their oars and the boat drifted gently up against the moorings.
“This way,” said the captain’s mate, coming up beside them. “We will disembark from the stern while the others file down the gangplank. That way, we can lose ourselves quickly in the crowd and make our way into the village. I will take you to the captain’s house.”
“Thank you,” Sorak said, lifting his pack.
“No need,” the dwarf replied. “It is we who are in debt to you. Come, let’s go.”
