A secret meeting

Slarb the Fang walked past the jail. He headed toward the back of Books and Crannies. When he arrived back there, he discovered Zouzab the Ridgerunner waiting for him.

"You're late." Zouzab said.

Slarb rolled his eyes. "At leasssst I cared enough to come."

"Well, I think I know where the jewels are."

Slarbs eyes widened. "The jewels of Anniera? How?"

"I have my ways Slarby."

"Don't call me that." Slarb growled.

"As you wish. Now, as I was saying, I know where they are."

"Where?"

"I will not tell you unless I get something in return."

Slarb rolled his eyes again. "Like what, fruit?"

"No, nothing of that sort. I want money. I also have the whereabouts of the jewels main protectors." Zouzab said. "But, I will not give them up unless I get something out of it."

Slarb thought about Zouzabs offer. "How much money do you want? You do know that if you were to go to Gnag himssself, that he would probably pay you a whole lot more than what I can give you."

Zouzab smiled. "I want 300 trunks of gold. If you give me that, I will reveal to you where the jewels are, as well as who their protectors are."

Slarb growled. "I don't have 300 trunksss of gold, Zouzab."

"Well, then don't expect me to give them up so easily."

Slarb pondered his offer. "How long does your offer sssstand?"

"For as long as the jewels are still in reach. Once they are gone, then my offer time ends."

"Well," Slarb started, "I will see about those trunks of gold. But, I want you to tell me first where the jewels are."

"No. "Zouzab said flatly. "Get me the gold first, then I'll tell you."

Slarb growled. "Fine. " He muttered. "I'll get the gold."

"When should I expect it?" Zouzab asked.

"When I get it to you!" Slarb replied, irritated.

That night, Slarb went back to the barracks, more mad than ever.

But Zouzab went back to Books and Crannies, happier than ever.