As far as I can understand, we agree that Hani is the logical and necessary middle woman - as long as they both have some sort of illicit understanding with her in the first place.<br/><br/>I agree that moving the barrels are an operation needing not just muscle but a way to enter the building where they are stored, and to get past the various guards and officials as well. Greased palms, yes, smuggling in similarly marked barrels in which one actually contains a cat burgler - I see this whole thing as a bit of an Ocean's 11 fun. Yes, I can see Pieter having mulled over this problem for months while the magical part of the wine starts wearing off, and leaping at the chance when Hani mentions the high officer that is hanging out at her inn. My character's motivation is clear, and Hani could get rich from this deal alone - but right now, my biggest problem is what to tempt Doryn with. After all he has everything a man could want already.<br/><br/>No, a merchant does not openly hang out in the dock inns - too many dirt poor people. He'd go there for deals but not for his dinner. Class can be a killer.<br/><br/>This is known as a boot pistol; a small one shot gun that an upper middle class gentleman might discreetly possess for dealing with ruffians or loose dogs.<br/><br/>(http://www.antiquearmsinc.com/images/percussion-single-shot-boot-pistol/percussion-single-shot-boot-pistol%20(4).jpg)<br/><br/>In my post, Pieter will give Hani a prearranged signal like a double nod which means that he has seen the mark and would like a separate room.