Colemenoport
Port Market
It was a prompt Trader yos’Galan who joined the rest of them at the Market Master’s office, her manner so perfectly placid that Shan knew a qualm. He did not, however, succumb to the urge to scan her, merely inclining his head.
“Trader Padi, a good morn to you,” he murmured as she joined them at the table.
“Master Trader,” she replied calmly.
Market Manager banIngi had laid out a small sampling of foodstuffs—cheese, nuts, cake and cookies, tea, a carafe of pale liquid that might have been wine, and juice—and had taken up the role of host with enthusiasm.
“Trader yos’Galan, welcome!” he beamed.
“Thank you, sir,” she said, stepping closer. “This is very festive.”
“Please sample what you will. The dawn-wine is a specialty of the Vintners Collective, and the cheese was aged in the Caverns at Rochshile. The cake and cookies are from our own Market Bakery.”
“Of course,” Padi murmured, skewering a piece of cheese with one of the gaily colored picks provided, and choosing a cup of juice.
She moved down-table, where she was met by Assistant Manager Saru bernRoanti, with whom she had established a rapport, and Shan heard her ask after the origins of the juice.
He sipped the last of his dawn-wine, put the glass on the tray, and glanced ’round the room.
Dyoli and Mar Tyn were speaking with an intense person who had been presented as Chief Expediter rooBios, while Priscilla gave serious attention to Financial Officer graeLi. Their security personnel—all three—were in earnest conversation with their opposite numbers in Market security.
He turned at the sound of an approaching step and smiled at Market Manager banIngi.
“A very pleasant beginning, sir,” he said.
“Thank you, Master Trader. It is my pleasure to showcase our local goods, and to introduce them to those who have not yet had the felicity.”
He, too, gazed around the room.
“I think we may begin the tour now, do you agree, sir?”
“I agree,” Shan told him. “Will you be leading us yourself?”
“I have an hour before I am wanted elsewhere. Assistant Manager bernRoanti will take over from there. She is every bit as knowledgeable as I am.”
“Excellent. Let us begin.”