Page 21 of Bloody Business

It was confusing.They were goblins.They had secret societies that took care of bad guys?

To most of the human world, theywerethe bad guys.

It seemed complicated.Too complicated for her swimming head.Julep grunted to show she was listening and propped her head on her hands.That was better.

Aunt Rho laughed.“Here girl, let me top off your glass.”

Julep missed a few things.She put her head on the table.That was better.

“...what?Not even half the bottle,” Aunt Rho replied to something Artur said.

“She's had enough,” Artur said firmly.

“Fine.Take the rest of the bottle with you, though.She'll need practice if she's to keep up with the rest of us.”

“A whole garrison can't keep up with you...”

She closed her eyes as Artur assisted her out to the carriage.Maybe she’d take a nap now...

Rivals

She was feeling outof sorts as she left her room the next day.Her stomach was fine, but her complexion was rather gray.That was some strong brandy.

“Good morning!I was wondering if you'd make it to breakfast,” Artur called as he jogged up the stairs.He had the look of a man who'd been up for a while.

She glanced left.The door to his room was open, as usual.She could see his neatly made bed.She'd only seen it closed at night.

“What?”

“You leave the door open.”

“It bothers you?”

“It seems like a security issue.I know it's your house, but I didn't grow up with servants.Makes me uncomfortable when someone goes into my room.I suppose you're used to it.”

“Ah.I don't leave valuables in the room.There's no need for concern.”

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