The father and son were close to a desperate gamble. They had sold not only some of the family's most prized possessions but also a large number of shares to Lady Falia. All they wanted was to secure a significant share in the upcoming Ten-Day Festival, three months later. However, as the saying goes, "Misfortune never comes alone." Helbo had invited the father and son to a banquet, and the implications were clear. They needed to find a way to stabilize this volatile situation.
On their way to the mansion, they encountered Viserys. Both father and son felt a chill. Viserys was now the most dynamic member of Helbo's inner circle. He could transform from a reassuring ally into a dangerous adversary at any moment, putting them under immense pressure.
"Master Morel," Viserys greeted from his carriage.
"Lord Viserys," Morel responded, trying to maintain his composure.
After exchanging greetings, they fell into a brief, tense silence. Morel managed to stay calm, but young Rabbi was on pins and needles. The sight of the dozen or so corpses kept haunting him. He had dealt with the aftermath of those deaths himself, a memory he could never forget. The thought of becoming one of them made his desperation grow.
"Helbo mentioned he had some fine wine, quite exciting," Morel finally said, trying to break the silence with an insignificant comment.
Viserys took it as a simple greeting and replied, "Then let's hurry and get to the banquet early."
"Yes! Good!" Rabbi echoed, almost too eagerly.
Viserys urged his driver to speed up, leaving the anxious father and son behind.
Rabbi watched the dust kicked up by Viserys' carriage ahead of him, feeling a profound sense of desolation. He believed that, in Viserys' eyes, they had already become the party being pursued for payment. Remembering the "fish-eater" incident only deepened his dread, causing his hands and feet to grow colder.
To calm himself, Rabbi clung to the thought that Lady Falia had a stake in the workshop, and Helbo wouldn't dare push them too far. This gave him a fragile sense of security. However, he was well aware that Falia owned many properties and it was unclear how much help they could provide. They were essentially using Falia's name to gain leverage against Helbo, who was unaware of the true extent of Faria's involvement.
As these thoughts churned in his mind, they arrived at Helbo's mansion. Helbo, accompanied by a young accountant, greeted them. Contrary to what they expected, Helbo had not prepared a full banquet, but had set out some wine and refreshments in the living room.
Helbo's attention first went to Viserys, about to speak, but noticing Morel and Rabbi behind him, he let them settle in first. Viserys, however, had his own agenda and didn't quite agree with Helbo's plan. Though he worked for Helbo, the nature of their relationship would soon change.
Everyone took their seats, and Helbo got straight to the point. "Master Morel, I heard there was an incident at the workshop recently. How is it being handled?"
Morel quickly replied, "Thank you for your concern. It has been dealt with properly and will not affect subsequent production."
"That's great!" Helbo raised his voice. "Let's toast to the workshop!"
After a few drinks, Helbo continued, "Master Morel, it is an honor to work with you this time, thanks to Lord Viserys, of course."
Morel and Rabbi raised their glasses to thank Viserys, who acknowledged them with a nod.
"Our cooperation will end in a few days, and I hope to receive some payment in advance. I know this is a bit rude, but I can reduce the amount," Helbo said, spreading his hands helplessly. "I believe you understand that we are responsible for many people."
'Here it comes,' Morel and Rabbi thought, feeling a sinking sensation in their stomachs. They knew this was Helbo's test, and their future depended on today.
In reality, the money they had was far from enough, as almost all of it had been invested back into the workshop. They hoped to buy time until the first batch of goods was delivered, which might give them some breathing room. What they really needed was for Helbo to agree to delay the payment a little longer.
Morel looked troubled and said, "I'm really sorry, Master Helbo. We have obligations to others as well, and I understand your position. Rest assured, as soon as the first batch of goods is delivered, we will pay your fee as soon as possible."
"Yes, as soon as possible," Rabbi added, trying to sound convincing.
Viserys touched his chin, observing Helbo's changing expression. He watched with interest as Helbo continued, "Oh, is that so? I've heard some troubling rumors recently that the skilled workers in your workshop have all left. When exactly will the first batch of goods be delivered?"
The father and son exchanged uneasy glances before forcing smiles. "A little over a month, two at the most," Morel replied.
"So after the celebration? If that's the case, I'll have to charge interest, and..." Helbo said seriously, "I may also need some collateral."
"Collateral? I wonder what you think we can use as collateral?" Morel asked, feeling a sense of dread.
Helbo raised his glass, swirling the red liquid inside thoughtfully. "The candle workshop. I believe the whale oil is the most valuable asset you have."
"But whale oil is the raw material for making candles. Without whale oil..." Rabbi began to protest, but Morel quickly silenced him.
"Whale oil is indeed valuable. I wonder how much you think is appropriate as collateral," Morel asked, his voice tight with anxiety.
"How much do you have?" Helbo inquired.
"About 700 pounds," Morel replied.
"Then 500 pounds," Helbo said decisively.
Morel felt a pang of despair. Mortgaging 500 pounds would leave them with only 200 pounds, making the production of the first batch of goods quite tight.
Helbo's real intention was to sell their collateral to another candle workshop. If it weren't for Falia's involvement, he would have taken it all without hesitation.
Just as Morel and his son were about to argue, a voice like the sound of nature rang out. "Helbo, I'm not in a hurry for my share. If my share is temporarily set aside, I think we should leave 350 pounds of whale oil for the workshop."
Rabbi looked at Viserys with gratitude, never expecting that this "god of death" in his heart would turn out to be such a considerate person. 350 pounds would make the production of the first batch of goods much easier.
Morel, more seasoned and perceptive, saw the unexpected defection at the negotiating table. It was surprising that Viserys would directly oppose Helbo in such a manner.
Helbo, meanwhile, glanced at Viserys with some displeasure but quickly masked his irritation. 'What's wrong with him? What is this kid doing?!'
Viserys continued in a calm, confident tone, "However, I have two conditions."