“Salutations! I am Jene Vallon, travelling sage for the marvelous Royal University Mysera from the Kingdom of Aynor.” I spoke aloud while in the audience of the Count Dolamass of Filcha and his court. “And I have traversed the lands to offer you all my services.”

“Pray, tell us what kind of services could a bookwormy librarian from a foreign land offer our great count?” One of the advisers chimed in. Judging by the look of him, I’d presume his title was Master of Coin. His voice being too dry, sharp, and sure to be of a lower status, but still a little too wordy for him to be the Constable or Master of War. But scanning across the faces in the hall I can see none whom I can assume to be a scholarly adviser. Good, a job opening should make getting hired that much easier.

“Well,” I responded, “aside from the obvious benefits of an academic advisor, educating the court and the counts citizenry, I also have an in-depth knowledge of history. It is my specialty.”

This time the Count cut in with a booming voice of authority and clearly a bit annoyed. “And why should I care about some dusty old tomes telling the stories of dead people.”

“Ahhhh you see, for that very reason. Because they are dead and their lands stolen. But I can help advise you in ways that will keep you from repeating their errors, and thus help ensure you and your estate much longevity. And,” Here’s where I move in for the kill, “I am also highly versed in the field of economy. Now…”

“Ahem! I believe that economy is MY duty on this estate!” The annoying Master of Coin chimed in right on cue. It really is too easy sometimes.

“Ah, but you see, even you could use my help! It has been a proven tactic over in my home land of Aynor that by having the common folk farm even larger areas of land you could reap 25% more in taxes! Now that may sound like common sense, but as you know there simply isn’t enough labor for such an increase in production. But through trial my kingdom has found that the common folk will adapt and toil happily on for your benefit Count Dolamass. As it turns out, those lazy squatters living off your land are holding out on you! Such a discovery is how the fair land of Aynor has accumulated enough gold to fund the Royal University of Mysera. Certainly you do not want to let the aristocracy of Aynor besting you! And neither do I. Those misers refused to give me any more than a measly silver piece a week for my services. And at this point, I’d be happy to accept that lowly pay from you just for the opportunity to spite the Aynorian nobles!” A strong finish. My audience seemed riveted.

The Count of Filcha grinned like a child who just learned he could have two sweats instead of one. “Alright, if you can do what you say you are capable of in your advising I’ll keep you around. And if you can get me that 25% more taxes, I might even give you this weasel’s pay!” He said as he pointed a thumb at the clearly on edge Master of Coin.

Giving a quick bow and a thank you, I set off for the wagon where I had left my belongings. I felt each of my six daggers hidden on my person. Soon you will taste the blood of the corrupt again my dear blades. The count will pay for his despicable treatment of his citizenry.