SLEEP

    Barton handed me two pouches, which I weighed in my hand before hanging them from my belt. Rusty Chalice was bustling with people, the room filled with the scent of cheap beer and steaks. Mira was working behind the counter with her father, attending to the bar. Her face was neutral while talking to customers, but as soon as we met eyes, her expression turned angry, and she snapped her head in another direction. Man – what did I even do?

Glancing over my shoulder, I saw Dorothea and Molly sitting at a table, eating while drinking an expensive wine.

I walked up to them, nodded, then pulled up a chair and waited for Dorothea to gesture for me to sit. When she did, I took my seat.

"Where's my gold? You owe me."

"Oh, my dear Axel," Dorothea said, smiling. "Welcome. How have you been?"

"Shitty. I've been shitty," I replied calmly. "Give me my gold."

"I've been good, too. Thanks for asking."

"Gold, Lady. Gold."