With his back turned to the man in front of the bakery and facing the kid, Ellis replied instantly.
"You look like you're from a noble family, don't trouble yourself with these matters and go on your way. I need to reprimand him so there won't be a next time."
"Can you not hear me? I'm telling you I told him to do it."
Not a single stutter. Ellis's voice was as calm as his face. The shopkeeper's expression immediately mixed with indignation for him too.
"I just wanted to play a prank, let's not get too serious, here's your money for the bread and for compensation. Please go about your day now."
Keeping his head slightly lowered, Ellis reached into his coat pocket and wordlessly handed the burly man a handful of gold stars—enough to buy out every loaf of bread in the bakery. The coins gleamed under the dim afternoon light, their weight heavy in the baker's calloused palm.
