Steve worked hard to keep his face. All of the older faerie had the ability to create their own pocket worlds, their own domains. So why this particular lord was using an abandoned multi-storey car park was a mystery. Moss and weeds tumbled over the dark courtyards and the claustrophobic atmosphere was affecting more than him. Armani had taken one look at the place and climbed into Steve's inside pocket.

Steve walked warily past the stained pillars and knots of people around the scattered braziers. Lord Gwill Mawr waited on a large makeshift throne at the far end of the central floor of the building. While the rest of the building huddled in gloom, Lord Gwill Mawr had arc lights rigged around him and growing lamps focused on ferns draping luxuriantly over the wall behind. It was very well staged.

"You sent for me, Lord Gwill Mawr," Steve said respectfully.

Lord Gwill Mawr inclined his head regally. He was wearing the glamour of a street beggar with a tattered hoodie. "I thought it best to meet here, Steve Adderson, merchant. You are becoming quietly adept at elfen magic but here in your normal world you are slightly less dextrous. I thought this would make a good meeting place for trade and counsel."

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Steve glanced around at the miserable courtiers. "I have never thought to understand the complex depths of the elfen lord," he said tactfully.

A smile flickered across the eyes of Lord Gwill Mawr. "I will be having my accustomed feast on the last day of October, and I would have great things. A few brief months ago there was no knowledge of such wonders as edible glitter and popping candy or the wonders of the sugared colours that you have brought to so many courts. That Lord Ragnar has a candyfloss machine is a source of stories. But such things come at a cost, even with your known acumen and fair dealing."

"I have to make enough to eat and pay my dues," Steve said carefully. "I am sure no elfen would deny me the fruits of my hard work."

Lord Gwill Mawr shrugged slightly, baffled as all elfen by the concept of working. "I can offer you little coin. However I can offer something that while not currency may be of value."

"I am willing to trade fairly, but Halloween is only a month away and negotiations take time." Steve felt Armani digging deeper into his pocket.

"I can offer you the long, faithful love of Elaine, guaranteed for her mortal lifetime, to be ever true to you." Lord Gwill Mawer studied his broken nails.

"A bought love is worthless." Steve kept a lid on his emotions. He may be inwardly reeling but he couldn't risk letting his guard down.

Lord Gwill Mawr sat back confidently "I can offer you something that you desire more, something that you have already touched on, something that drives your study of magic. I can offer you the name of your father."