Rumors floated around as Merrium made her way back into town, William’s catch bundled in her arms, but this was to be expected of course. Rumors had been running since King Victor had taken the throne and began construction on his new capital. She ignored them as she always had, but noted a few curious looks her way.

Morgan’s Smithy was up and running this time, the man in question no doubt catching up on orders, as everyone would likely be doing today. Merrium waved politely as she passed his workshop and up to the counter where his wife and daughter ran the sales of his wares.

“Morning Merrium,” Cecily greeted, her eyes glinting with subtle mischief as Merrium approached. “Did you enjoy the procession yesterday?”

“I tried to avoid it,” Merrium evaded, and placed the pelt on her counter. “William made a great catch yesterday, look as the sheen of this fur.”

The distraction was perfect; Cecily had a great eye for good furs, and was ultimately the designer behind Morgan’s skilled wares.

“Hmm, your dear husband’s knife work could use some improving, no offense dear, but you’re right, this is a beautiful pelt!” She lifted it up, running her hands through the furs and leather. “This would make a lovely coat hem, I know a few upper-land dwellers who would pay a pretty penny. Premium fur price, minus a quarter of a pound for the botched skinning, sound fair?”

“That seems reasonable,” she agreed. She actually guessed it to be less, and she wasn’t about to argue that.

Cecily placed the piece on her scales and handed over the gold owed. “Anything else for you dear?”

“Yes, actually, you remember those boots I was eyeing last week? I’d like to place an order for those.”

“Ah, I remember those, they sold a few days ago but I can have Mason make you a new pair. Do you need to do measurements?”

“Not for me, they’re for William.” She listed the sizes she had taken a few weeks back in secret; she had wanted to surprise him with this soon as it was viable. His old ones were beginning to fall apart.

“They’ll be ready in about a month’s time, would you like to throw in delivery?”

“Oh, why not,” Merrium smiled. “He can be surprised if he catches it before I do. I’m sure he’ll love them, your work is beautiful.”

With the transaction finished, Merrium strolled about town, going through her plans for the future visits from the foreigners. It will be an exciting chance for her to learn about their culture and customs, though she’ll still need to be mindful of her words. It will help to have her husband present, as he usually knew exactly what was acceptable to company, and would be able to direct her properly.

The words Prince Arstel had spoken to her yesterday flitted into her mind, about secrets and prying. He had said it in humor, but it was just as valid a warning. Her questions will need to be careful, as well. Learning too much would be irreversible, and the consequences have gotten men killed for less.