Page 47 of Grulen

“No issues?”

“None.”

“Good.Let’s get it unloaded and settle accounts.”Dablar looked at Stalad.“New member of your crew?”

“Stalad is traveling with us for a bit until we get in range of Costonia.Stalad, meet Dablar, the best technology merchant in Urzo.”

“Best on Arona,” the Orkite corrected with a grin.“Well met, Stalad.”

“Well met, Dablar.You have a beautiful home world.”

“Thank you, lad.”

Several younger Orkites assisted in moving the crates while Makai and Dablar chatted.Stalad noticed that their skin tones ranged from a pale green to a deep forest green.Some had piercings in one or both nipples, or their noses.I wonder if the piercings mean anything.

“Everything looks good.We have a meeting with Lord Heggar to get to,” Makai said.

Dablar’s expression turned serious.

“I suggest going forward, if you speak to anyone, you say you are paying your respects to the Lord, rather attending than a scheduled meeting.”

“Oh?”Makai’s eyes narrowed.

“It’s best if fewer beings know the real reason for your visit.”

“Can you elaborate?”

“Not my place.You’ll understand after you see Heggar.”

“Thank you, Dablar.I’ll do as you say.”

The Orkite clapped Makai’s back.

“I’ll let you know when I need another shipment delivered.”

“We’ll do what we can.”

Stalad walked with the Jalaxians toward the largest stone building with appeared to be four stories high.Every Orkite, male or female, wore weapons, be it daggers, swords, or axes.He narrowed his eyes at one huge male carrying a mace.Someone likes it bloody.

Two guards stood at the oversized wooden entry doors.

“Captain Makai and crew to pay our respects to Lord Heggar.”

“One moment.”The guard spoke to a boy behind him.The youngling scampered further inside the building.The boy returned quickly and nodded enthusiastically.

“I’m to escort you to Lord Heggar directly, Captain Makai.”He looked at the guards.“The Lord says they do not need to be disarmed.”

The first guard grunted.

“Follow the lad.”

“Thank you.”

The inside of the building took Stalad by surprise.He expected it to be dark, dank, and cold, but instead they traversed along well-lit, clean halls with doors leading to well-appointed, comfortable rooms.They climbed a wide set of stairs to the third floor.The ambient temperature remained constant throughout—just slightly cool.

The young Orkite stopped at a set of doors with another set of guards.

“Captain Makai for Lord Heggar.”

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