This chapter is a short way into the book. The companions, led by Tal, have just delivered the princess safely back to her father, the trader king of Verda. At dinner that evening, the king tried backing out of their payment and Tal lost his temper, threatening to accept blood in payment if necessary. Brus follows Tal back to their apartments in the palace...   “What happened out there?” Tal asked as they entered their rooms. “I was hoping you could tell me,” rep...

“Are you sure?” said the robed figure before the ornate fireplace. “Very sure, Most High. I saw the missive with my own eyes.” The robed figure turned and his eyes flickered from deep shadows cast by the fire. The Empress’ advisor suppressed a shudder and dismissed the rumours he had heard about the Most High. It would not do to show his fear here. “And what was our Empress’ reaction?” “She did her usual,” replied the advisor with a ...