Reconciliation - Part 6

"I have a number of things that I want from you," Vol said. "I plan to stay here for another 2 days. In an hour, I want your house cleaned out. I don't care what you do with the leftover furs – burn them if you want to, but have it cleaned. I'll pay a gold coin for that."

"A gold coin, just for cleaning?" The chief said, bewildered. In truth, it wasn't just for cleaning. The price included that of obedience, a more docile folk. Vol had no use for terrified villagers skulking on the edge of town.

 "No, not just for cleaning," Vol corrected him. "With that coin, I want you to reconsider what you just said. Are you still not open for trade? My men need feeding. I will pay triple what you would pay for it at the market."

"Triple?" The chief said. "…Do you mean to trick me, Commander?"

"No tricks," Vol said. "There has been much blood spilt today. The coin is a gesture of goodwill. I don't need to make enemies of you or your people."