"Found what you needed to?" inquired Bladedric, standing at the crossroad near Gerbel Bubblewock's shop and squinting against the bright sun high in the sky.

"Indeed, I did" smiled Skye. "There's a copse of trees about half a day away that is large enough. It has enough shade for our purposes. I also sent word last night to my gals in Dieren. They're already procuring the goods we need."

"Let's get this done then."

---- two days later ----

In the early morning light, a train of 12 beasts of burden, mostly horses with some oxen, are seen emerging from a thicket of trees. An elf and a human are seen handlings and directing the animals with a soft touch, and the animals seem to respond almost intuitively. Two other elves are finishing up packing the tents and campsite for this small merchant group.

They soon rejoin the main road that leads to Gradsul, and after several hours of journey they make their way into the city proper. Fees and dues are paid, and Skye meets up with Don Mario Canalloni and his entourage. They exchange pleasantries and then go their separate ways, the beasts split up amongst the two. Throughout the day money and goods are exchanged with local merchants. As everyone considers their monetary blessings, two words are foremost in their mind: the "Soldi League".