>>6073707>>6073836>>6073949>>6073989“Actually, I’d like to ask you some questions Lord Gallis. Namely, why wasn’t this problem caught earlier. It is your responsibility to ensure that the Royal Mint is adequately supplied.”
Gallis bows apologetically in his chair. “That is correct your grace and I do apologize for this failure. I chose Nialm to handle deliveries to the mint, specifically because of his trustworthiness, but clearly my faith in the man was misplaced. I will personally make sure that deliveries are made to the mint from now on your grace.”
A very reasonable explanation, Hilma likely would have never known about the missing shipments if she hadn’t gone to the mint in person. “See that you do Lord Gallis it is vitally important to keep the money flowing.” With nothing to go on Gallis is let off the hook for now and the two of you enjoy a somewhat tense lunch.
After lunch Captain Kilny returns, Nialm in tow. The merchant is obviously flustered and glances around equally nervous and fearful as he brought before Hilma and Gallis. “Nialm, the queen here tells me that the Royal Mint has not been receiving its regular shipments, why is that?” Gallis asks, his voice a warning that the answer had better be good. Nialm looks at Hilma stunned after recognizing who she is. He bows to her before addressing Gallis. “I-I do not know your lordship, I sent out my usual cart driver with his load twice now, and both times he has come back with a receipt from the master minter.”
“When did you last send out a shipment?” Hilma asks.
“Last week your grace.”
“May we see these receipts?”
“Of course, your highness.” Nialm says fishing the papers out of a pants pocket.
While Hilma scrutinizes the papers, Gallis asks “Where is your driver now Nialm?”
(1/2)
