He set the quill down and folded his hands on the desk. "What I'm asking is, why are you here now?"

"I've fulfilled my request," she said, her tone unwavering. "And I demand my payment. At this office. Right now."

The man raised an eyebrow, his expression a mix of skepticism and curiosity. "And may I see some form of evidence?"

Without a word, Emilia slid the saddle off her shoulder and dropped it to the ground beside her. A cascade of objects tumbled out—bloodied coins, a few trinkets, and other odds and ends that clattered against the wooden floor.

The man leaned forward, peering at the scattered items. "And what's this supposed to be?"

"Your evidence," she replied flatly.

Chapter 1 - Blood Money