After the Count boarded, the vehicle roared to life again. Rorschach couldn't help but wonder—if it burned coal like other vehicles, where did this mobile palace get its fuel?
Trading one commission for another was certainly feasible, but it promised a long negotiation. Heeding the Minstrel's warning, Rorschach and the Dwarf steeled themselves, determined to prevent the Count from exploiting any loopholes.
"I can look for your person, yes, but it's not every day a Mage comes along. I need you to do me a favor as well. Let's call it mutual assistance." Elgin would never have spoken of "mutual assistance" with the Minstrel or the Dwarf. 'What is your station compared to mine? A Mage, however... now that's a different matter.'
He sized up the young man. In the Count's experience, an arrogant brat like this was probably a Low Tier Mage. At his age, most were still Apprentices; simply becoming a full-fledged Mage was reason enough to be proud.
