Negotiation

Maris sneers and says "Can it, barman, we're not here for drinks! I've simply come to collect some wayward property. He glares right in my direction. I shudder, and Nadia grasps my hand for support.

"So, you brought this many men just to collect one girl? She must be quite a handful."

"Just want to make sure no one trys to play the hero."

"She's my new employee. I don't think she wants to go back with you, isn't that right Harry?" I nod vigorously.

"Well then, why don't you just show me her work certificate, and we'll gladly be on our way." Zal is silent at this request, biting his lower lip. "That's what I thought." Maris says confidentdly.

"You know what the penalty is for harboring escaped slaves, don't you? I'd hate to see this little tavern of yours shut down by the ministry of commerce."

"Please!" I cry, unable to allow my new freinds to suffer on my account. "I'll go with you. Just leave them alone!"

"No, Harry." Zal says firmly. He turns back to Maris. "Slavery is a profitable enterprise. Come on, we're businessmen here. How about I buy her freedom? I'll pay more than you'll get at the slave auction, in any case."

Maris ponders for a moment, then laughs. "This isn't about money anymore! After the trouble she and her friend caused for me today, I'll gladly take a discount just to make sure she ends up at a brothel!" He turns to me and says "I can make this much worse for them if you do not cooperate!" His men raise their weapons menacingly.

I gasp at his hateful words. Nadia, sitting beside me, is crying softly. I stand up and say "Zal... thank you for trying. But it's time for me to go."

1. I allow Maris to take me prisoner
2. Zal refuses, over my objections, and continues the standoff
3. Rusty, the grumpy old cook, emerges from the kitchen and says "Get the hell out of here!" to Maris
4. "That's quite enough!" a voice calls out from the entrance. He steps into the bar, weapon ready. "Don!" I cry happily.

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