Buoyed by the success of his venture into monasticism, Rick decided it was time to keep the assignation with the seal trader at the appointed tavern on the quayside. Esme would come along with them but Rick refused to countenance her wearing the clothing of a noblewoman. As he explained to his reluctant girlfriend, garments of that kind would increase the dangers they faced. A young noblewoman frequenting the dock area might prove too appetising a prospect to the lowlife of the quarter. At the very least, they might consider her a target for ransom.
“I owe you, Rick, so whatever you say goes – for the time being, that is,” she added hurriedly. “I’m taking these clothes along in a bag so I can wear them in our village.”
With Esme kitted out in less eye-catching garb, the foursome set off
