“Berric?” she asked, but she knew as soon as she uttered the name it was not her brother. He was an older, slim man with a pockmarked face, well groomed black beard and mustache, and slicked back hair. He wore a fancy fur jacket over a red tunic, and his heavy cloak was pinned by a silver brooch of a man and woman fornicating. His black eyes were piercing and shiny. He smelled of lavender and danger. 

“I can be Berric if you like, but most folks know me as Puzzle Pete,” he said. “I keep an eye out for fresh newcomers. If you’re looking for work, I’m your man. A redhead would bring a fine bonus,” Pete said. 

Pete opened up a small silver case and took out a pinch of snuftabak, which he placed on the back of his hand, and sniffed up his nose. His mouth opened and his eyes closed, and he sneezed into his sleeve. He offered the open case to Kasha, who declined.