—Thank you. —he says, settling the bill. —I might drop by again today or in the coming days, hopefully with good news. And don't overlook the subcontracts: it might seem like unnecessary bureaucracy, but history shows that's where all the unaccounted-for funds end up. Well... and don't lose heart, I believe in the success of your venture. That's it.
Once the customers leave, Assa Kombini suddenly remembers seeing a similar man at yesterday's coronation, but ultimately decides they just look alike.
—They're not exactly "branded" items, but I like having a place where I can quickly stock up for an uncertain future. I hope nothing bad happens to them. Again... —she says a little later. —Don't you want to take a walk with me to school? I wouldn't want to skip Balder's lessons on the very first "school" day.


