Iskandar

The paper is only a handspan, but the name is always longer than that. I've trimmed it neat again today.

• SelimI don't read paper. I listen with my ears.
  IskandarWhich is why your share is always heard once, and mine three hundred times.
• DayaOld man, if there's a name in that column who owes me, tell me first. I'll make it worth your while.
  IskandarThe ledger isn't for sale. I only lend it out, and the interest is very steep.

A single well is the nation's purse. Today the scale tipped once, and I know whose hand tipped it.

• DayaOld man, that hand wasn't mine. I was only loitering outside.
  IskandarLoitering is a line in the ledger too.
• FaridaChancellor, the throne is tipping before the scale is.
  IskandarThe throne isn't my concern. I only mind the columns.