“We took packages there from the captain of the ship to The Cid’s storeroom,” explained the Sarian.
“I do not like the looks of you,” said the man. “I have never seen either one of you before.”
“We have been away upon a long cruise,” replied Tanar.
“Wait here until the captain of the gate returns,” said the man. “He will wish to question you.”
The Sarian’s heart sank. “If we are late in returning to our ship, we shall be punished,” said he.
“That is nothing to me,” replied the soldier.
Stellara reached inside her cloak and beneath the man’s shorts that covered her own apparel and searched until she found a pouch that was attached to her girdle. From this she drew something which she slipped into Tanar’s hands. He understood immediately, and stepping close to the soldier he pressed two pieces of gold into the fellow’s palm. “It will go very hard with us if we are late,” he said.
The man felt the cool gold within his palm. “Very well,” he said, gruffly, “go on about your business, and be quick about it.”
Without waiting for a second invitation Tanar and Stellara merged with the crowd upon the Korsar street. Nor did either speak, and it is possible that Stellara did not even breathe until they had left the palace gate well behind.
“And where now?” she asked at last.