[CptCarrot]

Carrot was reading through the daily reports of supplies being gathered when the report arrived of the Queen approaching. Dismissing the messenger, he set about readying himself for her arrival, it wouldn't do to meet her in a dishevelled state. Donning a doublet bearing the royal crest across the breast and ensuring his boots and sword were polished, he set about gathering a report of the preparations for her.

She sent him to this accursed city of merchants that had been a mewling pain to prepare for the turmoils of war, she was going to enjoy all the fruits of that labour. He smiled mischievously at the thought of handing the growing pile of papers to her for approval. It seemed such a time had passed since setting out on this expedition to facilitate some mercantile nonsense that had gone so thoroughly awry, it would be good to see her again. There would be some fun to be had.

He was expecting the valet, having seen Aynia's party passing through the courtyards below. He dismissed the valet with orders to have the kitchens prepare food for the queen. He walked briskly but deliberately toward the chambers that she had availed herself of. Speaking loudly as he approached the door: "These merchants!, 'But Sir, think of the cost of all this grain', 'Sir do we really need so many pike?', You'd think the insufferable bunch would be grateful I am willing to coddle them" he roared dramatically before stopping at the door and controlling his smile.

Opening the door, he strode confidently to within a few paces of the Queen before kneeling and committing to a flourishing bow. "Your Majesty's Humble servant heeding your summons" he managed, before cracking into a smile and looking up at Aynia.