Вилорп

→I draw myself up to my full height, which still leaves me a few inches short of Horm.

→"As opposed to Turai's greatest braggart," mutters Coranius.

→"Aren't you Turai's greatest rak player?" says Makri.

→"I don't want to play with you as the stake."

→"Why not?"

→"I don't want to do it," I say.

→"Then I accept," says Makri. "Thraxas, go and win the Ocean Storm."

→"I believe I could see it through the senate . . ."

→He pauses, and looks troubled.

→"It would require a change in the constitution of the Imperial University. Which would require a discussion in the senate."

→All eyes turn to Deputy Consul Cicerius.

→"But I do agree," insists Makri. "If I can go to the university."

→"I'm number one chariot at rak," I protest. "Not that I agree to the bargain."

→"Not that good, from what I hear."

→"Thraxas is good at rak."

→"Don't be insane, Makri." says Lisutaris. "If Thraxas loses, you'll have to marry Horm."

→"I'll put myself up for the stake if you allow me to enter the university. I'm qualifying as top student from the Guild College. It's enough to gain admission to the university. But they don't let women in. Or anyone with Orcish blood. If you promise to waive the rules, I'll do it."

→"What?"

→"I'll do it if you let me into the Imperial University."

→She turns to face the Deputy Consul.