"What is this favor?" asked the priest cautiously.
"I have become interested in one of the palace slave-girls," Jotan told him. "I should like to have her."
The modestness of the request confused Pryak. Somehow, such a petition seemed irrelevant, too petty.
"Of course," he agreed quickly. "I had expected that you would ask for something of more value. Take whichever slave you want—several, if you like."
"Your kindness indicates how generous a king rules Sephar," Jotan said smoothly. "If one of your men will accompany me, I shall give him the necessary instructions."
"Baltor, here, will carry out your orders." Pryak indicated the attendant who had ushered them in.
When they had left the room, Jotan said to the attendant:
"Go at once to the quarters of the female slaves. Instruct the guards there to turn over to you the slave-girl known as Dylara. You will bring her to my quarters."
"I understand, noble Jotan."
"When you have done this, return to the palace and seek out the princess, Alurna. Convey to her my greetings, and say that I wish an audience with her at her convenience.... Is all this clear to you?"