"Kharne Vereel is a strange fellow, of course, but he's a fine businessman — especially when he takes a break

"Kharne Vereel is a strange fellow, of course, but he's a fine businessman — especially when he takes a break from his poison for a day or two. The thieves' guild brought down the old families for good, and have achieved fabulous profits. But of course you know all that — you take the lion's share. Though the city pays a heavy price. Alas, especially the young. They're simply incapable of withstanding the temptation. Even Starfall seems to use fewer bloodbush extract than Pitax."