"Zollaria! Hai!" Robur exclaimed. It was the first time Croft had mentioned the northern nation to him.
"To oppose which Jadgor designs to betroth your cousin to Kyphallos of Cathur." Suddenly Croft grew bold.
Robur frowned.
"Rob," Croft went on, "I would ask favor if it may be granted."
"Speak," Robur said.
"I would be present at the betrothal-feast inside the next few days."
"By Zitu, and you shall," Robur declared.
"My caste—" Croft began.
Robur laughed and tapped him on the breast with a wrench. "Rise, Hupor! If this work succeeds, that will be arranged."
Croft felt his pulses quicken. "You mean—" he began again, and once more paused.