Chat-Error/slightly-more-clean-ln · Datasets at Hugging Face

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Galkhein is a lovely country. Tully cut her off roundly. I believe we may spend a few days here to relax and take in the sights. One of your attendants even steered us to a suitable inn.
Please, wait. Let us discuss things a bit
Farewell, my lovely future majesty.
Tully left before Rishe could mount a protest.
***
I had no chance back there, Rishe thought, idly sipping a cup of tea. Shed shed the ridiculous jewels and changed into a plain, serviceable gown that was easier to move in. She was sitting in her parlor in the detached wing with a plate of fresh-baked cookies in front of her, but she couldnt even summon up the energy to try one.
I admit, I was nervous, but I thought I maintained my composure well enough. Yet he still saw through me. I lost that round, no doubt about it.
The truth was, shed never beaten Tully. Not even in her subsequent lives, when she knew what to expect.
Around her, her maids chattered among themselves.
He finally proposed!
Wow, Im so happy for you!
The girls had finished their studies for the day, and they too were clustered around drinking tea. On most days, Rishe would join in. Today she barely heard them.
Aww, I hope I meet a man that wonderful someday!
Maybe he was simply being cautious? He doesnt jump into deals that look too good to be true. Still, did he really read the desperation in my face? Hes a gambler at heart. This isnt like him.
After much thinking, she only had one conclusion: He didnt choose me, and thats a fact.
Rishe sat in quiet dejection. Without the trading companys connections, she couldnt appeal to powerful people, and she couldnt prevent the war. Without that, her happy life wouldnt last. And as loath as she was to admit itRishe hated being met with Tullys disapproval. Shed wanted to take her old boss for everything he had.
Also, something he said was still bothering her. That couldnt have been an accidentcould it?
Speaking of weddings, what about you, my lady? one of the maids cried. How did His Highness propose to you?
Oh, Ive been wondering too! chirped another. All the girls in the city are dying to know!
He said specifically that hed be staying in Galkhein over the next couple of days. He even told me how to find the name of the inn.
My lady?
The maids gave her concerned looks as Rishe began to smile. Im so sorry. Im feeling a bit indisposed. I think Ill retire for the night.
The maids all chimed in with concern. Rishe waved them off.
No need. Ill join you for tea another day. I wont require dinner this evening either.
As you wish, my lady. Well be sure to let you rest.
And well have plenty of tea ready tomorrow morning!
Rishe thanked the girls for their understanding, then went to her chambers and locked the door. In her hands were a few packets of herbs.
***
Youre in fine form tonight, sir.
Kaine Tully strode down the streets of Galkheins capital, flanked by his employees, who commended him on his festive enjoyment of the local spirits.
He was in a good mood, his shirt half-unbuttoned, nearly humming with pleasure as he said, Galkhein has wonderful liquor. We should buy up the whole store to sell up north.
Why would we do that, sir? Youd just drink our profits down before we even got them in the wagons!
Yes, yes, hilarious. Not wrong, though. He laughed with his men as they made their way back to the inn. Hed have preferred to bring a woman or two back with him, but he had his reasons. Say, Im still thirsty. Another round? Im sure the tavern floor can pull a decent pint. Indeed, raucous voices floated from the taproom. The mood seemed to be good tonight.
Sir, Ive been thinking One of his employees was so drunk he could barely stand. That was the Galkhein crown princess! I cant believe you just blew her off!
Working with royals is bad business, you dolt. Believe me, I know.
Isnt she fifteen? What did she do to you?
Tully snorted, swinging open the door to the inn. Listen, that little girl is
Welcome back, Mr. Tully.
That voice sobered him instantly. Tully forced a stiff smile. Sitting poised at a table was Lady Rishe, the future crown princess.
Thank you for your invitation, Rishe purred. So very kind of you.
It took a lot to surprise Tully, but the sight in front of him caught him completely off guard. Hed predicted she would come, but not so soon. He thought shed disguise herself, but he truthfully had not anticipated the mousy brown of freshly dyed hair.
No, that wasnt what surprised him. What drew him up short was the score of unconscious men seated around her, half-full mugs still gripped in their hands.
Would you care to join me for a drink, Mr. Tully?
Tully had to clear his throat several times before he managed to ask, What happened to those guys?
Oh, we bet on who could hold their liquor, and they lost. Rishe grinned and tilted her glass. Dont worry, Im not here for drinking games. I was hoping we could continue our discussion.
***
The inn Rishe sat in was near the imperial palace. Shed asked the innkeeper to clear out everyone whod passed out. The onlookers of the drinking game were gathered around excitedly.
Ya sure can hold your liquor, missy! I couldnt challenge ya since I dont drink, but lemme treat you anyway for putting on such a good show.
Why, thank you, Rishe said.
Here, try this! The chicken with melted cheese goes great paired with wine.
This is delicious! Rishe said. Thank you.
Rishe looked with satisfaction at the food and drink piled on the table. She wished she could relish her victory, but her adversary sat across from her, watching her coolly.
When their eyes met, Tully offered a crooked smile. Well, I certainly wouldnt have anticipated that youd drink my men under the table while you waited. What a fool I was.
Oh, they were your employees? Rishe asked, her voice airy. We were having such a good time, though I admit we got rather carried away.
Naturally, Rishe knew who they were. During her time working with the Aria Trading Company, Rishe had beaten all of her coworkers at a drinking game at their very first banquet. The ones shed competed against tonight were the very same people.
Tully wore the same look then too.
Rishe had been brought up at courtshe had a high tolerance for spirits. Drink?
Tully accepted the glass she pushed toward him, eyeing her. You did a fair job with your hair.
Thank you. The color does stand outI figured this would be easiest. Shed dyed her hair chestnut brown with the herbs the knights picked on their journey to Galkhein. It would wash out easily with hot watervery useful for temporary disguises. Ill trade the recipe for the chance to do business.
Tully laughed. Nice try. He leaned forward on his elbows, eyes glinting. You can do better than that. And I suspect you will.
Rishe let that wash over her. His surety made her nervous. What did he know?
Shall we open negotiations, my lady? First, a toast.
Please address me as you would anyone, the disguise is worthless if you keep my lady-ing me. Besides A pause. Hearing it from you is odd.
Tully gave her a quizzical look. Well, okay. If thats what youd prefer. He raised his mug, and Rishe clinked hers against it. Tully drained half of his in one go, letting out a long breath.
Just miss, then. Anyway, stop with the charade. I know this isnt about a dress.
Yes, tricks dont work on you, it seems.
Glad thats been established. Tully drained the rest of his drink. My instincts tell me you arent a customer. Youre a potential partner.
So he had lured her out here. Once again, Rishe felt how truly out of her depth she was. But she had no choice but to get him on her side. He had once been her boss and her ally, but now things were different.
Tell me every little detail about whatever moneymaking scheme youve concocted.
Mr. Tully.
Im not agreeing to anything until I know exactly what youre doing. Despite how I look, Im very good at my job. Whatever you hope to bring in, I can double it.
Mr. Tully.
Ill come up with the perfect strategy. Now, tell me
I cannot.
He gave her a sharp look. What?
I cannot disclose my plan. Nevertheless, I want to be able to depend on the Aria Trading Company when the time comes.
His mouth twisted into a grin. Thats quite a bold ask, miss. You want a handshake deal based onwhat? Promises and starshine? I dont do that sort of business.
Youll be well compensated, of course.
Youre expecting me to go in with you for the potential of profit?
Rishe wished she could blurt everything outtell him that in the next few years, her husband-to-be would kill his father and throw the world into turmoil. Obviously, she held her tongue.
Listen, miss. When I decide whether to go into business with a person, I mostly go off my instincts. But I also emphasize
Previous results and track record, correct?
Tully looked stunned. She had completely caught him off guard. How do you?
Ill sell something in the city. If it is well received, and you judge me worthy of your time, can we talk?
Tully stared at Rishe a moment before he burst out laughing. Oh, go on. A gamble? Now thats how I like to do things!
Believe me, I know. Next youll tell me to hit a profit goal in a specified time frame.
Youve got one week. I look forward to seeing what you come up with, miss.
Rishe smiled, emptied her glass, and then stood up. We have an agreement, then. Thank you for your time. Ah, and when your people wake tomorrow, give them this.
Tully held up one of the little packets of herbs. Oh? Whats this?
Theyll find out, Rishe said and made her exit.
***
Rishe returned to her balcony with the rope of bedsheets left dangling in the courtyard, pulling herself up hand over hand. The inn was only ten minutes from the palace, but sneaking out had been an ordeal. She moved quietly across stonework to conceal her footsteps from the guards posted at her door.
It seems I wasnt missed. In the morning, Ill have to hide beneath the bed curtains until Elsie brings me hot water. Ive got to get my hair color back to normal before anyone starts asking questions.
Rishe pushed open the glass door to her chambers. She gasped.
Arnold sat in the rooms only chair, legs crossed. Youre out late.
What are you doing here?
Rishe hadnt seen him since the party a few nights ago. He didnt yet have his own chambers in their detached palace, and shed heard he was still laboring under a mountain of work. As far as Rishe knew, hed only been here once. Why did his second visit have to be the night she snuck out?
You met with the merchant from the Aria Trading Company today, no? Arnold asked. He stared at her with his chin propped on his fist, as usual.
The lamp by the bedside flickered, flames guttering. The chamber was too dim to read his expression.
I was waiting to know what you intended to buy, but I didnt hear from you all day. I asked your guards for a report, and they told me the merchant declined your contract. Arnold stood and took a single step toward her. A curious thing for him to refuse a future empress.

Galkhein is a lovely country. Tully cut her off roundly. I believe we may spend a few days here to relax and take in the sights. One of your attendants even steered us to a suitable inn.

Please, wait. Let us discuss things a bit

Farewell, my lovely future majesty.

Tully left before Rishe could mount a protest.

***

I had no chance back there, Rishe thought, idly sipping a cup of tea. Shed shed the ridiculous jewels and changed into a plain, serviceable gown that was easier to move in. She was sitting in her parlor in the detached wing with a plate of fresh-baked cookies in front of her, but she couldnt even summon up the energy to try one.

I admit, I was nervous, but I thought I maintained my composure well enough. Yet he still saw through me. I lost that round, no doubt about it.

The truth was, shed never beaten Tully. Not even in her subsequent lives, when she knew what to expect.

Around her, her maids chattered among themselves.

He finally proposed!

Wow, Im so happy for you!

The girls had finished their studies for the day, and they too were clustered around drinking tea. On most days, Rishe would join in. Today she barely heard them.

Aww, I hope I meet a man that wonderful someday!

Maybe he was simply being cautious? He doesnt jump into deals that look too good to be true. Still, did he really read the desperation in my face? Hes a gambler at heart. This isnt like him.

After much thinking, she only had one conclusion: He didnt choose me, and thats a fact.

Rishe sat in quiet dejection. Without the trading companys connections, she couldnt appeal to powerful people, and she couldnt prevent the war. Without that, her happy life wouldnt last. And as loath as she was to admit itRishe hated being met with Tullys disapproval. Shed wanted to take her old boss for everything he had.

Also, something he said was still bothering her. That couldnt have been an accidentcould it?

Speaking of weddings, what about you, my lady? one of the maids cried. How did His Highness propose to you?

Oh, Ive been wondering too! chirped another. All the girls in the city are dying to know!

He said specifically that hed be staying in Galkhein over the next couple of days. He even told me how to find the name of the inn.

My lady?

The maids gave her concerned looks as Rishe began to smile. Im so sorry. Im feeling a bit indisposed. I think Ill retire for the night.

The maids all chimed in with concern. Rishe waved them off.

No need. Ill join you for tea another day. I wont require dinner this evening either.

As you wish, my lady. Well be sure to let you rest.

And well have plenty of tea ready tomorrow morning!

Rishe thanked the girls for their understanding, then went to her chambers and locked the door. In her hands were a few packets of herbs.

***

Youre in fine form tonight, sir.

Kaine Tully strode down the streets of Galkheins capital, flanked by his employees, who commended him on his festive enjoyment of the local spirits.

He was in a good mood, his shirt half-unbuttoned, nearly humming with pleasure as he said, Galkhein has wonderful liquor. We should buy up the whole store to sell up north.

Why would we do that, sir? Youd just drink our profits down before we even got them in the wagons!

Yes, yes, hilarious. Not wrong, though. He laughed with his men as they made their way back to the inn. Hed have preferred to bring a woman or two back with him, but he had his reasons. Say, Im still thirsty. Another round? Im sure the tavern floor can pull a decent pint. Indeed, raucous voices floated from the taproom. The mood seemed to be good tonight.

Sir, Ive been thinking One of his employees was so drunk he could barely stand. That was the Galkhein crown princess! I cant believe you just blew her off!

Working with royals is bad business, you dolt. Believe me, I know.

Isnt she fifteen? What did she do to you?

Tully snorted, swinging open the door to the inn. Listen, that little girl is

Welcome back, Mr. Tully.

That voice sobered him instantly. Tully forced a stiff smile. Sitting poised at a table was Lady Rishe, the future crown princess.

Thank you for your invitation, Rishe purred. So very kind of you.

It took a lot to surprise Tully, but the sight in front of him caught him completely off guard. Hed predicted she would come, but not so soon. He thought shed disguise herself, but he truthfully had not anticipated the mousy brown of freshly dyed hair.

No, that wasnt what surprised him. What drew him up short was the score of unconscious men seated around her, half-full mugs still gripped in their hands.

Would you care to join me for a drink, Mr. Tully?

Tully had to clear his throat several times before he managed to ask, What happened to those guys?

Oh, we bet on who could hold their liquor, and they lost. Rishe grinned and tilted her glass. Dont worry, Im not here for drinking games. I was hoping we could continue our discussion.

***

The inn Rishe sat in was near the imperial palace. Shed asked the innkeeper to clear out everyone whod passed out. The onlookers of the drinking game were gathered around excitedly.

Ya sure can hold your liquor, missy! I couldnt challenge ya since I dont drink, but lemme treat you anyway for putting on such a good show.

Why, thank you, Rishe said.

Here, try this! The chicken with melted cheese goes great paired with wine.

This is delicious! Rishe said. Thank you.

Rishe looked with satisfaction at the food and drink piled on the table. She wished she could relish her victory, but her adversary sat across from her, watching her coolly.

When their eyes met, Tully offered a crooked smile. Well, I certainly wouldnt have anticipated that youd drink my men under the table while you waited. What a fool I was.

Oh, they were your employees? Rishe asked, her voice airy. We were having such a good time, though I admit we got rather carried away.

Naturally, Rishe knew who they were. During her time working with the Aria Trading Company, Rishe had beaten all of her coworkers at a drinking game at their very first banquet. The ones shed competed against tonight were the very same people.

Tully wore the same look then too.

Rishe had been brought up at courtshe had a high tolerance for spirits. Drink?

Tully accepted the glass she pushed toward him, eyeing her. You did a fair job with your hair.

Thank you. The color does stand outI figured this would be easiest. Shed dyed her hair chestnut brown with the herbs the knights picked on their journey to Galkhein. It would wash out easily with hot watervery useful for temporary disguises. Ill trade the recipe for the chance to do business.

Tully laughed. Nice try. He leaned forward on his elbows, eyes glinting. You can do better than that. And I suspect you will.

Rishe let that wash over her. His surety made her nervous. What did he know?

Shall we open negotiations, my lady? First, a toast.

Please address me as you would anyone, the disguise is worthless if you keep my lady-ing me. Besides A pause. Hearing it from you is odd.

Tully gave her a quizzical look. Well, okay. If thats what youd prefer. He raised his mug, and Rishe clinked hers against it. Tully drained half of his in one go, letting out a long breath.

Just miss, then. Anyway, stop with the charade. I know this isnt about a dress.

Yes, tricks dont work on you, it seems.

Glad thats been established. Tully drained the rest of his drink. My instincts tell me you arent a customer. Youre a potential partner.

So he had lured her out here. Once again, Rishe felt how truly out of her depth she was. But she had no choice but to get him on her side. He had once been her boss and her ally, but now things were different.

Tell me every little detail about whatever moneymaking scheme youve concocted.

Mr. Tully.

Im not agreeing to anything until I know exactly what youre doing. Despite how I look, Im very good at my job. Whatever you hope to bring in, I can double it.

Mr. Tully.

Ill come up with the perfect strategy. Now, tell me

I cannot.

He gave her a sharp look. What?

I cannot disclose my plan. Nevertheless, I want to be able to depend on the Aria Trading Company when the time comes.

His mouth twisted into a grin. Thats quite a bold ask, miss. You want a handshake deal based onwhat? Promises and starshine? I dont do that sort of business.

Youll be well compensated, of course.

Youre expecting me to go in with you for the potential of profit?

Rishe wished she could blurt everything outtell him that in the next few years, her husband-to-be would kill his father and throw the world into turmoil. Obviously, she held her tongue.

Listen, miss. When I decide whether to go into business with a person, I mostly go off my instincts. But I also emphasize

Previous results and track record, correct?

Tully looked stunned. She had completely caught him off guard. How do you?

Ill sell something in the city. If it is well received, and you judge me worthy of your time, can we talk?

Tully stared at Rishe a moment before he burst out laughing. Oh, go on. A gamble? Now thats how I like to do things!

Believe me, I know. Next youll tell me to hit a profit goal in a specified time frame.

Youve got one week. I look forward to seeing what you come up with, miss.

Rishe smiled, emptied her glass, and then stood up. We have an agreement, then. Thank you for your time. Ah, and when your people wake tomorrow, give them this.

Tully held up one of the little packets of herbs. Oh? Whats this?

Theyll find out, Rishe said and made her exit.

***

Rishe returned to her balcony with the rope of bedsheets left dangling in the courtyard, pulling herself up hand over hand. The inn was only ten minutes from the palace, but sneaking out had been an ordeal. She moved quietly across stonework to conceal her footsteps from the guards posted at her door.

It seems I wasnt missed. In the morning, Ill have to hide beneath the bed curtains until Elsie brings me hot water. Ive got to get my hair color back to normal before anyone starts asking questions.

Rishe pushed open the glass door to her chambers. She gasped.

Arnold sat in the rooms only chair, legs crossed. Youre out late.

What are you doing here?

Rishe hadnt seen him since the party a few nights ago. He didnt yet have his own chambers in their detached palace, and shed heard he was still laboring under a mountain of work. As far as Rishe knew, hed only been here once. Why did his second visit have to be the night she snuck out?

You met with the merchant from the Aria Trading Company today, no? Arnold asked. He stared at her with his chin propped on his fist, as usual.

The lamp by the bedside flickered, flames guttering. The chamber was too dim to read his expression.

I was waiting to know what you intended to buy, but I didnt hear from you all day. I asked your guards for a report, and they told me the merchant declined your contract. Arnold stood and took a single step toward her. A curious thing for him to refuse a future empress.