Then still squatting in front of me she said softly, "He says when it comes to bribery he's far more amenable to female persuasion and isn't intereste... in money." What the hell does that mean," I snapped."He wants to fuck me and I've agreed. I got us into this mess so it's up to me to get us out." "You can't," I pleaded, almost unable to believe what I'd heard. I felt bile sting my throat.Still speaking softly and looking directly into my eyes, Anne said, "Darling, the choice is either opening. He did not think anything of it at the moment. Roquan had been under a great deal of stress, and he let his normally calm demeanor slip more often.If it were something meant for Jollis' ears, he would hear it soon enough."My merchant partners will be approaching the Manor today, if you wish to convey your needs to me so that I might hasten your goods along." Yes, Jollis, I have quite a list for you today."Jollis listened as the Overlord recited the list. He thought some of the requested items. As he fell he pulled the trigger and the ancient weapon discharged harmlessly into the ceiling."You'll pay for that, old man," snarled one of the soldiers, "You fired first, so we get to shoot at you now."Dragging the old man to his feet, the invaders looked around for something to use to tie him up."Use some sheets from the linen basket," suggested one, and that was how they found her.At first they thought she was a child, she was so short, but the soldier who grabbed her felt very womanly. She was just doing some traditional scheming, as all wives are wont to do."I could really give Marion a hard time about this you know," I said."Please don't," he said, looking slightly alarmed."No," I said, still chuckling. "I couldn't do that to her. She means well, Al. I think it's something embedded in women's genes that makes them do things like this. They just feel compelled to try and make two single people into one married couple. They can't help themselves."Al looked mightily relieved..