It had been some time since Philip had been in a fight with Baron Holmes' son. The wounds on his face had healed enough that at one of the dinners the master of the house had a proper conversation.
At first all went well, until Mr. Ridley brought up the subject of their impending plans.
— Tomorrow you and Serge are going back to the market.
Mr. Ridley made the announcement at the dinner table quite casually, while the crown prince absolutely disliked it.
— What did you say? — He indignantly interjected.
— I said that you would continue to help Serge again.
— Why do I have to do that?!
Despite the boy's raised voice, the landlord tried to remain neutral.
— Our sales are going better with your participation,» said Uncle Serge reasonably, «It will be better for everyone if you continue to work together.
But this explanation did not satisfy Philip at all. It seemed to him that he was simply being used.
