The Paired-Lot Clerk
The confirmation is recorded. Clear the gate and let Garran depart before another broker challenges the premium lot.
The paired-lot clerk signals the exchange porters aside. Garran turns the joined chain toward the road, and the boys’ iron cuffs catch against the wooden cangues, forcing their steps into a halting rhythm.
The Paired-Lot Clerk
Slow down. If those cuffs keep striking the cangues, you will damage the lot before it leaves my gate. Keep the pair aligned.
Garran
Timothy, keep Tobin compliant. The buyer’s payment depends on a smooth delivery, and I will not lose the premium because he stumbles or resists.
Garran shortens the shared chain without jerking it, placing himself between the pair and the open street. Timothy’s cangue remains locked across his shoulders, and his travel irons permit only the measured pace the restraints allow.
Tobin
I will keep pace. Tell me when to lift my feet, Garran, and I will not make the payment fail.
The Brokers
There goes the premium pair. If they reach the buyer intact, the recorded contract will stand.