Scrivener's Tale by Fiona McIntosh

Author:Fiona McIntosh [Fiona McIntosh]
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Tags: cookie429, Kat, Extratorrents
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Published: 2012-11-29T13:00:00+00:00

TWENTY

Burrage regarded the man. ‘It is very unusual that we should grant such an audience; I’m sure you understand,’ he said carefully. The handsome fellow had been respectful, though, and earnest.

The man nodded. ‘I do understand, of course. But the people of Robissun Marth are keen to present King Tamas and Princess Darcelle with an early marriage gift. Briavel is having its difficulties with Morgravia right now. A show of our respect for Princess Darcelle and the new bond with the Isles of Cipres,’ he shrugged, ‘could go a long way. And you cannot fault me for wanting to make new ties and friendships with the people of Cipres, Master Burrage.’

‘Given that you are such a highly regarded merchant, no, I wouldn’t blame you one bit. You can lay the trail for our merchants in the future,’ Burrage replied.

‘That’s magnanimous of you, sir. Especially as my dealings have normally been eastward.’

‘Indeed. Although I’m surprised you have not presented yourself at court previously.’

His visitor placed a hand on his chest in a gesture of remorse. ‘It has been remiss of me, Chancellor Burrage. The truth is, even my own neighbours barely see me, sir. I am what many might term reclusive. Too many moons spent on ships crossing oceans to faraway lands perhaps. Whatever it is, I value my privacy. I have not had reason to present at court because much of what I am buying and selling is done with other merchants and conducted through my factors.’

‘An exception for a royal wedding, though,’ Burrage suggested, with a wry smile.

‘Yes, sir. This is an occasion that insisted even Layne Tentrell air his best cloak and make a special visit with a token of the huge respect I hold for the Crown of Morgravia.’

Burrage watched the merchant sip the apple tea that had been set out not long after they’d sat down in this salon reserved for the commercial dealings of the palace, far from the living quarters of the royals. He didn’t have a taste for the new concoction that had taken the people of Morgravia in its grip in recent times. He himself had taken a pot of minted tea, which he always found agreeable. He inhaled its menthol bouquet now.

‘And you wish to present this gift at your expense on behalf of your town?’

‘Correct again, sir.’ Tentrell gave a charming smile. ‘I am arguably the wealthiest person of the region — I hope that doesn’t sound boastful? I am merely being objective. It is my pleasure to represent the people and show our care for the princess. We can only hope the queen finds someone equally suitable soon.’

‘Most generous … most generous indeed,’ Burrage said, clearing his throat uneasily at the mention of Florentyna’s oft-discussed spinsterhood. ‘As you can imagine, this is an incredibly busy time. Her royal highness, Darcelle, is in fact preparing to meet the King of Cipres and —’

‘Why, yes, of course,’ Tentrell said, apology on his face interrupting the chancellor. ‘We noted all the preparations and bunting along the roads.

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