Lysandra consulted her notes. "The official estate treasury has 47 gold sols remaining. However, I discovered Vexler's personal vault hidden behind a false wall in his quarters. It contained approximately 80 silver sols and various luxury items: jewellery, silverware, and fine wines. Not enough to solve our financial crisis, but enough for immediate purchases."
"So we're broke, but not completely broke," Zen summarised.
"Correct, my Lord."
Zen looked at the letter, then at Lysandra, then at the window overlooking five hundred refugees who were depending on him. "Three days," he said quietly. "That gives us time."
"Time for what, My Lord?" Elara asked.
The Millbrook town hall was smaller than Zen expected; it was a two-storey building with faded paint and windows that needed cleaning.
The mind-controlled captain led them inside, where five merchants sat around a wooden table, looking like they were waiting for their execution.
