Getting in Sync

Before they set out, Michael bought several Purification Spell Scrolls made by the Church of the Goddess of Wealth. Each cost twenty Gold Coins.

Compared with an Arcane Missile Scroll at forty Gold Narls, a Purification Spell Scroll cost half as much. But Annan remembered that the Ratfolk extermination contract paid only one gold and fifty silver.

"We don't have a Priest."

Michael explained, "Without them, if we catch the Plague or suffer Corruption, our lives will be worth only one gold and fifty silver."

"Not even that, King of the North," Francois chimed in eagerly. "Hyenas might steal our contract, too."

"Hyena?"

Annan was getting used to Francois addressing him by that extravagant title. His failure to stop him had nothing to do with vanity... Well, mostly nothing.

After all, it made nearby patrons "overhear Annan's identity and turn to stare in astonishment and disbelief." That way, more people would learn who he was.

"Exactly what it sounds like." Michael left the explanation to Francois.

Hyenas were Mercenaries too, but they specialized in the kind of despicable work that earned them the name: when other Mercenaries were carrying out a contract and won at great cost, died alongside their targets, or left both sides badly wounded, Hyenas would spring out and steal the quarry.

As they prepared to pay and leave, a Tavern worker told them the meal was free. The owner wanted to treat the King of the North.

Michael declared that "the King of the North doesn't need anyone to treat him" and refused. The owner refused Michael's refusal, saying he was "honored to treat the King of the North."

They nearly came to blows over who would pay. Annan finally intervened and accepted the owner's kindness.

Annan, Michael, and Della climbed into the Mage Tower carriage.