Because he did so last night.
Before he knew who you were.
True. But in spite of their enmity, they were still being cordial to her.
Maybe shewasbeing stupid.
Either way, she didn’t speak as they made their way to the docks outside another bustling town.
Oddly, she’d expected a single ferry for crossing the sea. But there were boats of all sizes lined up at the wooden docks and along the shore.
“This many people really go to Oath Island?” she asked as they dismounted.
“Not at all.” Xaydin stroked his horse’s nose before he headed toward the docks on foot. “No one usually ventures there.”
That confused her. “Then why so many boats?”
“They’re mostly for fishermen. There are only two ferries that go back and forth between then island. One stays there and one on this side. They’re always manned in case anaþaswereneeds to leave or return.”
As she continued to glance over all the so-called fishermen, she was even more confused by his words. “That’s a lot of fishing boats.”
Masakage chuckled. “Trolls and giants eat a lot of fish.”
Oh…that made more sense. She should have thought of that herself.
But then she wasn’t a troll, ogre or giant. She really didn’t know what they ate, especially since they’d refused to allow her to purchase food.
Without a word, Xaydin led them toward the largest boat where a troll sat off by himself.
He scowled at Xaydin, then sighed heavily. “You’re back.”
“Always, Ferris. How are you today?”
“Too sober to be taking you across. Can’t you learn to fly or capture a dragon or something?”
Xaydin tsked at him. “And miss out on your charming company? Why would I do that?”
“Because I’m getting a reputation, and my other clients are highly resentful that I ferry you to their shores. Can’t you find another hobby?”
“I like this one too much. Besides, I’m on an errand for the High King. Don’t you want to make him happy?”
The troll spat into the water. “Take your unicorn and shove it someplace highly uncomfortable. I got no use for the High King. Or any low king either. They can all rot for what I care. Except for your father. He was a good one. Theonlygood one.”
Chuckling at the surly beast, Xaydin held up a small red bag of coins. “What about your favorite hobby?”
“I do like making money.”
“Then consider this hazard pay.”
Ferris snorted. “I’m sure it’s not enough for the danger you’re putting me in.” He glanced past to Xaydin to where she and Masakage stood. “They with you?”
“They are. And you’ll be glad to know that the woman is here to save theaþaswereI’m after.”
Ferris arched a single brow. “She thinks she can stop you?”
He nodded.
The troll laughed uproariously. “That alone makes the journey worthwhile. I’ll be hearing tales of this for years to come.” He pushed himself to his feet. “Get onboard. Not like I’m expecting anyone else anyway.”
