Hajin followed the appraisal signs through the atrium while somebody behind him read his new standing off the notice board. A second voice priced the court's favor out loud as he turned his injured shoulder clear of the crowded benches.
"New badge and a royal seal in one week," the stranger drawled, "bet the palace bought him both and threw in the sling."
Loccy looked back once, then strangled her hammer's worn wrapping as if the grip could answer the insult for her.
"He could ask Corin," she muttered, glaring after the man as he ducked behind two taller claimants near the board.
"Or read the seal, but I suppose that takes longer than opening his mouth."
Juna shortened her stride until all four could cross the crowd together, making room for Vella beside the rail.
"He likes the answer he already has," she said, ears flicking back, "so let him keep it until it stops anybody hiring him."
"Heh, look at you, defending my honor."
"I'm defending lunch, idiot."
