Lokenth smiled. He liked Rouen; practical and savvy. Back in Atamara there were nobles who were like lackwits compared to this man.
By way of answer, he signaled the bar wench over. She came promptly enough. Lokenth reached into his purse and pulled out a gold coin.
He gave it to the wench and said, "Two flagons of ale, and a bottle of this wine of yours." Her eyes the size of saucers, she hardly seemed to notice as Lokenth patted her rump on her way off.
"You're right about the king. He trusts no-one, but that only makes him wise. We can 'trust' in him to pay his servants well, because he knows that if he does not, he has not servants but enemies. Even a king can't afford making new enemies when good servants like us cost so very little to him. What's a few gold pieces here and there, to a man who can hand out entire duchies, and does?"
"As for me... our trust will be built on the shared hardships, the experiences you speak of ... the very experiences our work will entail. I know there is good work to be had in Hupar, for example, and the three of us could take on more than anyone out working for themselves. The more plunder, the more bounties, the more wealth. That anyone can trust. Friendship, however - "
The maiden came back with the drinks, sparing Lokenth the need to explain his views on that subject. He refilled his cup and filled his mouth, watching, listening.
