Gideon waited as Kang Cheol and Vernice left the coffee shop, excusing himself to try the local pastries and tea. He casually observed Lady Martella's guests, noting their behavior and questions.
"You should try their honey cake," Lady Matella said as she waved farewell at the solider and diplomat. "I heard it's the Grand Prince's favorite treat."
"Too sweet for me," the dwarf muttered as he gulped down his cup. "I'd rather eat my fill when all this is over."
"Nervous about your mission?"
Gideon gave the noble woman a forced smile. "I've got it planned out. Although I would need some additional information."
Lady Martella lovingly caressed her brass cricket toy, tenderly fiddling with its tin legs. "What have you got so far?"
Gideon carefully pulled out a small sack from under the table. "It took me weeks to get the details and the finishing done," he said as he revealed a large wine bottle from inside. "I paid good money for this level of design."
The dwarf handed the bottle to Lady Martella. "So I will go to the Senate pantry and switch the real wine with this counterfeit bottle."
"That sounds doable," Lady Martella raised the bottle and examined its contents. "I must admit you did an excellent job with this forgery."
"Only the best for my lady," Gideon replied as he took back the wine bottle and gently placed it in the sack. "Perhaps you have other aides in the senate building who can help me make the exchange."
Lady Martella gave the dwarf and amused smile, as if he said something offensive. "I wouldn't have hired you if I have people to do this job. You should do more work little alchemist."
Gideon blushed and quickly bowed. "I am sorry, Lady Martella. I was merely asking."
"Do you think a woman of my status would know people who work in the buiding?"
"No, but..."
"Go talk to the servants if you must, I don't care how you do it, just make the switch discreetly."
0 comments:
Post a Comment