Merran's practiced smile faltered for the first time as Elder Neria's command echoed through the hall. The ledger beneath his arm felt suddenly heavier, as if the ink itself had weight. He tightened his gloved hand over the leather, fingers whitening. For a heartbeat his calm slipped, a tiny, human crack in the porcelain.
(Shit… if I stall, I'll look guilty. If I show them, they'll notice. Calm down, Merran. Just another trade. Just another game.)
He bowed, the perfect picture of obedience. Sweat gathered at his temple although his clothes remained immaculate.
"Of course, Pearl Matron. I am but a humble merchant. I hide nothing from my beloved Pearlbay."
