"That- would be helpful."

Tarinda counts it out of slush fund. Exact amounts are not currently critical; she's building a business base off which to make more money, not an actual computer. Tarinda will not get scurvy if she lives off rice till her next commission pays.

"...Thank you."

"I wish I could do more."

"It's more than I expected- Someone's coming."

Tarinda peeks out the window.

Several somones, an older man and a pair of guards.

"Old guy, couple guards. Run or hide?"

"-I can make a hole and close it if you can move something to cover the mark up."

"Yeah, go for it."

She stands up, puts her hands together then pulls them apart. The floor below parts in a neat line, and she drops down out of sight. A moment later, the seam closes itself back up.

Tarinda rearranges the furniture.

Knock knock.

She opens up with a spoon in her mouth and a teacup in her hand. "Mmhm?"

"You are the foreign inventor Tarinda?"

She takes the spoon from her mouth. "Yeah. You want, uh, a price sheet?"

"Have you seen this girl?" He holds up a passable sketch of Eliko.

"I think she came to my booth at the festival. She didn't want a price sheet either."

"Be aware that she is a rogue earthbender, and any attempts to hide or assist such are considered a high crime by the Fire Nation."

"It's very considerate of you to let me know! Thanks."

"Hn. Be vigilant, and report any suspicious activity to the guards immediately."

"Where do people go to do that? I haven't seen a guard station or anything."

"Either one of the market guards or patrols, or at the headquarters."

"Okay, thanks!"

They head off.