#no relation

The vendor cleared his throat, his brain finally catching up, and nodded, "It's hard to teach old stubborn dogs.”

Veryl hummed, "you might be right, but it's certainly worth the effort, I think. Old dogs can be very loyal." She wrinkled her nose with a smirk. "You deal in rarities and fine things then?"

He gestured to the particular selection on the table between them, "I like to think I have a keen eye for beautiful and intriguing goods." He winked broadly, showcasing a mouth full of half teeth.

Sabriel mumbled something under her breath and Veryl could feel her starting to lose interest, especially since she had lost her any potential of a sale, gouging or otherwise.

"Well, it seems as though my friend has not properly considered the potential of such a valuable relationship, if nurtured properly." She patted Sabriel patronizingly on the head, her hand was slapped away. "Perhaps we'll visit on another day, when the mood is kinder." She gave her friend a pointed and derisive look, Sabriel stomped away.

She let her leave and then leaned across the table, "Oh dear, it seems I've lost your customer entirely."

"Don't worry about it, miss. Ingellvar makes me lose money half the time anyway just by standing here. Bloody no good liar," He grumbled.

"For your troubles." She handed him a couple of coins, gave him another smile and returned his wink. With a wave of her gloved hand she bid him farewell and quickly chased after her friend.

Only a few strides were needed for Veryl's much longer legs to reach Sabriel further into the market. In passing, she hooked an arm through hers and hauled her along,

Incensed, Sabriel whispered quickly, "What do you think-"

"With haste, Sabriel, no need to keep our appointment waiting,"

She spewed a line of curses and expletives as Veryl kept hold of her arm and insisted that she keep up.

Out of the back alley market and tucked far and away behind some crates and boxes, Veryl pushed Sabi into an isolated corner. Before she could protest, Veryl was tossing her the items from the crooked vendors table. One from her skirt pocket, another from her cleavage, and yet another from her reticule.

"These, right? They're what you needed?" Veryl spared her a glance for confirmation and then look over the top of the crate to ensure they weren't followed. She reached up to remove the quill feathered hat from her head.

"Yes, but-" Sabriel looked at the small objects and then back to her.

"He didn't notice the first time, or the second, I doubt he'll notice the third. They're not important to him, but he knew you wanted them."

Sabriel gave her and even and appraising look, like she was measuring a tool as to it's usefulness toward her end goal. She crossed her arms and frowned.

"I still maintain that hired female companions are ludicrous.”

"Consider me a self-aware unwelcome tagalong then."

"What about your husband problem?"