Illiendi once more uses that word and for the first time Amano wonders why he says it like that. It's easy for him to tell that the way he says 'master' is far different than the way he says anything else. [i]'The only time he didn't say it like that is when. . . .When he called me “young master”. When he said it that time, it was. . . .cold. Like the way all the servants say it. Like it didn't actually mean anything'[/i] As the chill travels over his body the youth's eyes skate over the vendors, seeking out the honest faces. Though his thoughts are elsewhere Amano's perceptions are as sharp as ever. He may not know it, but he's far more shrewd than one could give that innocent face credit for.

He lets Illiendi lead him around but keeps an eye out in case he finds a need to deviate. However Illiendi stops leading at the very shop Amano was sure he wanted to visit and he can't help but smile at that. [i]'It's not a coincidence. Even I know that we need those cracker things the sailors always complain about. Maybe some hard breads with the soft core too. Those things can last months and the soft core is good for sopping up the last bits of liquid from soups and stuff. As long as the waters are calm it's possible to cook even on a rocking ship'[/i] That remind him that he'll have to ask if they should try and find a cook, or just try for a sailor who can make basics.

He does some quick calculations in his head, figuring on at least seven people, and even if Illiendi doesn't eat, they could use the extra ration if they get stuck at sea for a while. Once he’s done with his figuring he pulls out the max he's willing to pay for the lot and hands his purse to Illiendi. “The butcher in town has unreasonable priced, but if you go down that side street you can find a small shop of dried goods. Order us some meat and fruits if you would, and anything else you think we need. Rudolf here can take a long time to haggle something out and I'd rather we both be productive.” Once Illiendi is on his way Amano mentally push up his sleeves and heads inside to begin his purchase.