Meeting the Diplomat

By the time the caravan reached the city limits, a group of thirty riders had already assembled to meet them. They were giants mounted on equally large horses, armored in leather and steel. At their head was a fair man with black hair and blue eyes, his scarred features spread into a genial grin. When the word had first come from his patrols that a train of centaurs was approaching, Sarj had feared the worst; but these were clearly tradesmen of some sort, and most welcome for it. Swinging out of his saddle, he went out to meet them, giving a tiny gesture for his men to stay put.

He let their leader speak first, politely admiring her displayed breasts as she did. When she was finished, he clapped his right fist to his heart and gave her a slight bow. "Lady Amber, I am Sarj Beorn, Boss of the Outfit, who are my people. Welcome to Shylo, in peace and plenty. I invite you to my Hall of Banners, that we may discuss the matter of my friendship with your people. Those with you have the freedom of my city, and the escort of my guards to see that there is no confusion as to their purpose. I will arrange for them to meet with my council, so that the needs and wants of all will be met and exceeded."