What if i said i don't care?

Rhyme eyed Vladimir as he shifted enough for the alpha to shield himself from the elements. Rhyme really shouldn’t have accepted the offer, but Vlad’s meek demeanor lulled him into compliance. He stood and arranged himself under the overhang, enough distance from his captive that he could react to a sudden attack if need be. The dark head hunter had changed his tune, he was no longer spouting insults now that he had been subdued.

Vlad was right, Rhyme knew his ways. The highest bidder won. He absently wondered what kind of deal had been offered the hunter and if he would be able to best it. But really, it was Vlad who should have been doing the bargaining. He held all the power over the boy’s freedom or lack of it. He wasn’t particularly satisfied with the slaver’s answer, and less enthused about answering his question. However, Rhyme was feeling rather generous.

"I know how you work, Vlad. An answer for an answer." A good bargain with the position he was in. "This land has belonged to my family for a long time. I have investment in the future and goals to work towards." He answered the question, knowing Vlad already knew he ruled here. "What were you offered to bring Epitaph back?" He asked his question for a question back.