Agilus spoke with Jethru about accommodating them over the next few days. Though reluctant, the gold that Agilus offered finally loosened his resistance and sealed the deal.
Only Prince Alaric was allowed to sleep on the second floor. He was given the room furthest down the corridor, a corner room that has a good view of the garden at the east window and the backyard at the north window. It was however, beside Samuel's quarters, followed by Jethru's. The two elderly men had agreed to split one spacious room into two smaller ones — neither of them saw the need for a big room — so what was once five rooms became six.
So as not to burden the Mendels with the sudden influx of guests, Agilus proposed hiring servants. Lara, quick to seize the opportunity, suggested that her Gabriella ladies could manage the tasks. The offered pay was generous — far more than a day's usual earnings — and the women eagerly agreed.
