“We wish to discuss business,” the king had said after introductions and a shared bottle of port, effectively dismissing the balance of his guests and family.
“And to the bathhouse then,” Andrewe had grinned, bowing to the king, kissing his mother and gesturing for Emmett to follow.
Emmett left his father, not without concern, but his father had seemed comfortably satiated with tobacco and drink and had immediately begun a spiel regarding ship’s capacity, crew, and travels. It was his father’s element, the persuasion of business ventures, and Emmett always found it quite awe-inspiring that his father did so well with it. Emmett’s skill was simple numbers so he took no issue with sitting quietly and listening to his father preach of their vessel’s uncompromising strength, unquestionable s
