The man at Hank’s feet started to voice an angry response. But he was interrupted by the leader of the slavers. “It's illegal to buy people in the kingdom. So, we wouldn’t know anyone who participates in such acts. We’re just looking after sons and daughters of some needy friends of ours. As you know it can be expensive feeding as many mouths as we are.”

“Yeah, Yeah, yeah. The heart bleeds for the poor darlings. But nobody in the north here is interested in the overly rigid rules of the south. So, these louts need to get moving and leave us to talk turkey, well after a bath.” Hank paused. “Where is my hot water? Really, the service here is terrible.”

A smirk appeared on the face of the leader who continued without reference to the bath. “Naturally, we accept donations for our charitable works resettling these poor lads and lasses. Those who’ve left home need work.” He took a breath “Any arrangements you enact for their ongoing remuneration are naturally your concern.” And smiling continued. “I understand that gruel can be expensive, lodging too, come to that. Perhaps there is nothing left for salaries.” The grin grew more malicious with each word.

“As I always thought. Father, however, is a bit more generous. He gives a small stipend. But he also has an arrangement with the local sanatarium where our poor lads and lasses contribute an insignificant amount for ongoing health checks and the supervision of any offspring. Unfortunately that amount is typically everything their stipend includes.” Hank shook his head as if to say he was bewildered. “I maintain that they are a hardier subspecies; no healthcare required. Though I do see the benefits of a proper breeding program.”

On the inside Hank was gagging, but he had come across slavers in his travels before, he knew the way they thought. It was also why there was an item on his imaginary to do list, wipe out slavers. It was rapidly heading for the top of the list.

“A most revelatory series of thoughts. I really must speak with my primary about them. But back to pecuniary matters you’re willing to make, ah, donations, for our, ah, wayward darlings?” Avarice joined the repulsive smile on the wretched man’s face.

“Donations?” Hank feigned momentary confusion. Couldn’t let them think he was too smart. “Oh yes, payment for transportation I think you said. Yes of course.” Hank paused for effect. “No, no, never carry wealth. Can’t have anyone think that a small robbery will make them rich, consequently costing me my life.”

The slaver started to scowl at this. His hand lowered towards his belt knife.

Hank continued. “That’s what my man is for. He’ll be up with the bank cheques, momentarily.”

“We don’t deal with that rubbish only coin.” The man was starting to get angry.

“Oh. Really that is a little disappointing. I possess a number of All Duchies guaranteed bank cheques countersigned by the duke of Sarness.”

The man had been fingering his knife until the mention of the duke of Sarness. He paused for a moment. Others might miss it, but Hank had been looking for a tell such as that. It was a name drop with a purpose. Was Sarness involved. Hank wasn’t disappointed, this time like the last time, the man had reacted.

“Well if he has countersigned the cheques, then they are as money already in his account. Assuming you’re happy to use the bank next door for verification that they are genuine.”

“Quite so. Perhaps we can negotiate now. What can you offer?” Hank paused. I have to keep up appearances he thought. “Really, where is my bath?”

Jamie finally turned up shuffling through the door. “All is as you desired sir. The man downstairs will be up in a few minutes with your bags so you can change out of your travelling attire.”

“Just so, it’ll be nice to have that bath. Now Martin, what’s in stock?” Hank rubbed his hands together appearing eager to get negotiations underway now that ‘his man’ had arrived.

It turned out that there were two men, three boys, five women and seven girls. Jamie had said previously that the rate was typically a Gohan and six Tsuki for men, one and three for women. Those younger than 16 were children and typically sold for less, as did those over thirty five. So Hank said, “I’ll take the lot for a Gohan and a Tsuki each”.

There was immediate outrage. Martin wouldn’t take a Do less than one and seven each. Jamie pointed out that many were underage. Martin talked about transport to the auction. Hank pointed out that he had to take the ones he didn’t sell further. Martin pointed out that the Redhead was stunning and easily worth a brace of Gohan. Jamie pointed out that many of the slaves were badly beaten and in a poor state for travel. So it went backwards and forwards until they agreed on a Gohan, four Tsuki and a hundred Do each and fair at three Suiden, two Gohan and three Tsuki for them all.

“Now lets see those cheques.”

“Certainly, my man will fetch them from All Duchies Bank next door.” Hank put his still booted feet back on the low table. “Take the rest of the manservants when you go.” He waved dismissively.

“I don’t think so. You will be coming with us until we see those cheques. You’re not taking the merchandise out the back when we’re not looking.”

“Fine” Hank grumbled as he rose with feigned reluctance.

The shortest way to the bank was across the lobby, through the taproom and out the side door. So after a bit of jostling Hank, Jamie, Martin and four other slavers worked their way to the bank.

“Sorry to bother you. I just put his lordship’s valuables into the vault. However, he needs to retrieve some of those.” Jamie politely addressed the bank attendant.

“Of course, sir. I'll take you both in.” He turned

“Well, I’m not traipsing off to some dusty hole in the ground.” Hank found a chair and flopped into it. He waved imperiously at the clerk. “Get one of your men to bring me a footstool I want to put my feet up whilst I wait.”

“Sir, we don’t have footstools but I assure you if it is only myself and your man we will be quick.” The clerk responded.

Hank could see the clerk rolling his eyes. He could also see a smirk on the faces of the various slavers. Hank, for reasons best not discussed, had previously looked into All Duchies Bank security, it was always formidable. This branch, despite being out in the middle of nowhere, was no exception. Like all branches, you did not mess with the ADB.

A short while latter. Jamie returned and handed over three of the single Suiden ADB cheques signed by the duke of Sarness. The bank was happy to verify that they were legitimate ADB promissory notes but there was no way that they knew that Sarness had already paid out on these cheque numbers. By rights the ADB should have destroyed them immediately but there was always a trade in “cashed in” notes. It’s why agents kept registers of paid cheques. So now was the test. Did the slavers keep an updated register for the duke of Sarness? Everything hung on those cheques.

“Right, Jock, confirm those cheque numbers.” Martin gestured to one of the other slavers. “You, pointing at Hank. Lets have the rest of it.”

“Jamie, you have the purse. I believe the rest is 2 Gohan and change.” Hank waved from his seat in a manner indicating he didn’t care.

“2 and 3 milord.” Jamie mumbled as he shuffled forward.

“Yes, yes. Pay the man. I am looking forward to the next few weeks, the red head looks delicious.” Hank remarked.

Jamie rolled his eyes at Hank’s feigned disinterest in the money as he handed over the coins from a slightly full purse.

Jock walked over to Martin and whispered in his ear, who, rubbed his hands together, before pocketing the coins and cheques. “Good, good. Lets all get back to the Cockerel and I’ll let the darlings know they’ve changed hands.”

They all exited the bank and with Hank and Jamie leading the way back into the taproom. The crowded bar provoked the usual jostling until someone dropped a Gohan bold. The lump of gold hit the floor with a dual thud that only a solid gold coin can make. All nearby conversation stopped. Everyone looked. Then, without warning, from three rows back, a desperate drinker made a lunge for the coin. It was inevitable, most people in small communities never saw a whole Gohan in their lives. Let alone posses one. Only the rich owned land and only they paid the Gohan tax.

Like a drop of blood to a school of piranha the place went nuts. Hank backed up against the bar and watched the biggest barroom brawl of his life unfold. In hindsight he might have gotten away without using a genuine Gohan but he needed to make sure there was a brawl. Slowly, he and Jamie shuffled their way around the edge of the brawl. Some yelling, a bit of jovial commentary and the odd shove or two made sure that they were seen on the other side of the room from Martin.

Hanks comments, in keeping with his role, seemed particularly offensive to some but as they were shouted from the sidelines, he remained uninjured. Jamie, in his role as the manservant, ‘protected’ Hank, receiving a black eye and a cracked knuckle for his troubles. More positively, three of the slavers were knocked out cold and couldn’t be woken. They were dragged into the stables to sleep it off along with about four other tap room fighters. One of the remaining slavers stayed with them to watch the horses whilst Martin joined Jamie and Hank going upstairs to finalise the transaction.

As they walked into the suite's reception, Jamie paused halfway though a particularly boring comment to Hank, suddenly reaching for his belt. “Somebody’s robbed me. Bastards.” He turned on Martin “You and your buddies in the taproom better not have stolen my masters purse from me.”

Martin was on the verge of protesting his innocence when one of the staff of the Cockerel arrived. He looked quite apologetic. “Sir, I understand that you’ve arranged a meeting for tonight in this suite, but it has been brought to our attention that you haven’t paid for the last two nights stay. Unfortunately, the owner is a little upset about the brawl downstairs and has asked you to pay immediately.”

“That won’t be a problem, let me just...” he reached for his money pouch. It was gone. “Why, those little brats. I’ve been robbed as well. Rory, get out here.”

The last slaver appeared from the ladies’ room.

“Give me your pouch, the inn keeper is demanding we pay.” Martin demanded

“But I don’t have any Tsuki, you haven’t paid me or the other lads yet. Speaking of which where’s my salary.” Rory snarled in response.

“You idiotic toad, I’ve been robbed. We'll all get paid. You know who we work for.” Martin was acidic.

“Yes, and I’m well aware of what happens to people who come back without goods or money. You’re in big trouble and I want my pay.” Rory growled in response.

“Well you can all pay a visit to the local guard house for failure to pay lodging and board.” The footman found his courage.

“My man paid you on the way in.” Hank remarked dismissively over his shoulder. Then waving a hand in Martin’s general direction. “You had better take your hireling here and get downstairs to sort out your payment. I pay upfront, it avoids this nastiness with the bill. In future I suggest you do the same.” Hank was doing his best to appear as if the whole thing was nothing more than a minor nuisance.

Hank paused. “I say, we might need to sell one or two of the ugly ones tonight just to pay for lodging on the way home. Jolly good show Martin here arranging a sale.” He turned to the footman. “Boy, I’m hungry. I’ll have cold cuts delivered. Be quick about it. Oh and bring something nice smelling. The hired help who’ve been in here haven’t washed. It stinks.”

He turned back to Martin and Rory. “Well what are you still doing here? I’ve paid. You haven’t. Get out.”

“We need to get our things. Besides, I think I need a small bonus. I’m keeping the red…” Rory glanced at the hotel staff present. “… ah, the red one.”

Jamie almost exploded at that. But Hank beat him to it. “No, you won’t. I paid for the lot. Besides Dad has a special place in his… ah heart. For reds. He likes it when they squeal. Can’t let you have that one.” Hank paused for effect. He was actually enjoying being the repulsive heir. “In any case I need to recoup my losses. I’ll sell that scrawny one you can see from here. The brunette for a Gohan and eight.”

“But I sold her to you for one and five.” Martin whined.

“So what, I’ve been robbed and I need enough to get a manicure and lodging on the way home. I suppose the merchandise will have to survive outside with the dogs. Still those are the breaks. Good job I completed my purchase before that little tussle. It would have been quite inconvenient to be without funds or property.” Hank paused as if remembering something.

He continued. “That’s right, you’re skint. No funds to buy anything back. Rotten luck old chap, but it’s time to leave. Someone mentioned the constabulary in that fracas downstairs you wouldn’t want them asking your boy’s too many questions. You might want to round them up and head off.”

Hank stopped and stared at everyone. “Well, off you all go. Oh, and boy, get hot water for my bath. I should have been soaking fifteen minutes ago. All this nonsense is quite wearying.”

A rather bewildered Martin left with his bag and a consolation silk handkerchief that Jamie handed him as he walked out. Rory was looking rather put out, but wasn’t offering any resistance either as Jamie, gently but firmly, pushed him and the footman out the room. Hank breathed a sigh of relief as Jamie shut the door. Whilst the sound of the upset hotel staff, still going on about the room rental drifted back up the stairs.

Jamie opened the door to a room holding the girls and was greeted by a rather teary Azar. A short explanation later and a few more doors opened, Hank and Jamie were confronted with a very mixed set of emotions. There was weeping and laughing and an extensive amount of stunned silences, none of which Hank could understand. He left Jamie to sort it all out after being asked to give, first Azar, then the rest, a health check. The, by-now familiar, screen popped up.

Inspect & Diagnose

Name:

Azar

Gender:

Female

Genotype:

Human

Specifically:

Wanderer

Level:

Majority not attained

Education:

? (Wanderer type)

State of health:

Suspected broken rib(s)

Broken finger

Split lip

Bruising around wrists, upper arms, stomach and kidneys

Poor state of feet, including small cuts, bruising and torn toe nails.

Life risk: minimal

Treatment Recommendations:

Tonic for internal injuries, unknown effect anticipated

Salve for cuts, some effect anticipated

Strapping of fingers

Washing for lip and feet, reduced risk of infection

Rest, good for all things, minimum 3 days no exertion

Hank looked at the recommendations, he didn’t have much of the salve left and her injuries were not threatening. He was almost out of tonic. So he focused on other things.

“Looks like you might have a broken rib or two and you’ve broken your finger. The rest of everything is bruising and dirt. You will need to wash both your feet and your face thoroughly. With clean, and I do mean clean, water. But you will recover from everything.” Hank paused and turned to Jamie. “She should stay off her feet for the next three days and will need new shoes.”

“Yep an army marches on its feet.” Jamie agreed.

“What was that?” Hank didn’t understand. “It seems kind of obvious.”

“Oh, just something some old-time general used to say. The wanderers always understood it to mean that if you don’t look after the feet of the troops they can’t move quickly. And quick movement is king in war.” Jamie was getting philosophical.

Hank rethought his stance on the tonic. “Also if you can find a good quality tonic, it might help with the ribs. Wouldn’t get my hopes up there though, ribs are difficult to heal.” Hank took a breath. “I’ll leave you two to catch up. I had better look at the rest.”

Almost an hour later Hank finally climbed into his bath and looked at the results of his medical efforts.

Log (Medical)

Skill

Target

Level

XP Gain

Inspect & Diagnose

10 underage former slaves & wanderers

NA

10

Inspect & Diagnose

7 adult former slaves & wanderers

7 to 16

7

Administer tonic

3 underage former slaves

NA

3

Administer salve

2 adult former slaves

8, 12

2

Bandage wounds

3 adult former slaves

9 to 12

8

Stitch wound

1 adult former slave (Joanna)

12

12

Reset Dislocation

1 adult former slave (Bradley)

11

9

The back of one slave had been a proper mess. Joanna, Hank thought her name was. Brave as can be. Hadn’t made more than a slight whimper as he stitched up a long cut. He had also put a lot of his precious salve into her wounds before bandaging the whole of her torso. Hank just did not understand why slavers treated slaves like garbage. It sickened him. “Even if they disregard human decency, surely they sell better when they aren’t beaten within an inch of their lives.” He muttered to himself.

Still what struck him was the number of tears he got from treating them all and not charging them. His announcement that they were free also garnered some tears. The tears only increased once the slaves understood this freedom included transport home. What shocked Hank however, was that not all the slaves were looking forward to going home. Some had been sold by their families to the slavers. They feared that if they went home, they would just be sold again. It left Hank with eleven dependants he hadn’t planned on, six of whom were underage. Well, he planned on starting a village, so perhaps it was fortuitous.

Hank didn’t get his stollen purse back. Well, truthfully it wasn’t his main purse. That had never entered the Golden Cockerel. Still all those Tsuki were gone. Payment, Jamie said, for starting the fight and robbing the slavers blind. Hank couldn’t bring himself to regret it. It had been blood money to start with and he didn’t hold with profiting from theft no matter how justified. Besides those cheques had been signed and paid out by the duke of Sarness. Asking Sarness to pay out again, shear lunacy, particularly once Sarness figured out that Hank was the same person who had stolen his slaves, killed his bandits, saved his assassination targets and uncovered his smuggling operations. On second thoughts Hank was glad he was leaving the kingdom soon. He was well on his way to making a mortal enemy out of the duke.