“Exactly. I’m discovering quite a number of benefits to having seconds.”
“Which I’ve been telling you about foryears.”
“You have? Funny, I don’t recall—” Valek ducked as a small pillow flew over his head. He held up his hands in mock surrender. “Okay, okay. You were right.”
“Nice of you to acknowledge it.” Ambrose put down a second pillow and smoothed the fabric before moving his knight. “Check. When are Ari and Janco leaving?”
“Dawn.” Valek pushed his king to safety.
“Stop by my office and I’ll have their papers ready.” Ambrose slid his bishop forward a few squares. “Check. Anything else of note?”
“Apparently, I have my very own housekeeper.” Nudging his king to the next spot, Valek glanced up. Amusement sparked in Ambrose’s eyes. “I think it’s excessive.”
“I don’t. Check.”
Valek suppressed a sigh. He was running out of places to move his king. “Trevar and Adrik are also leaving on a mission in the morning.” He explained about sending them to figure out Captain Ryda’s puzzle.
“Aren’t they still in training?” Ambrose asked.
“Yes, but Trevar’s time as a baiter for the black market dealers gives him a unique insight into the citizens of Castletown. He’s good at spotting those who could be coaxed into breaking the law.”
“Have them report about the new group of black market dealers. Once they’re feeling secure, I want you to do another raid.”
“Yes, sir.”
“Good.” Ambrose moved his queen. “Check-mate.”
* * *
Valek wasn’t a fan of early mornings either, but there was something promising about the gradual arrival of sunlight. Night and shadows were an integral part of his trade. Within them, danger lurked and hunted. Seeing the sunrise after a nighttime op signaled survival.
The castle’s stables, pasture, and training ring occupied the northwest corner of the complex. Ari and Janco had arrived before him. They had saddled their horses and were packing their supplies into leather knapsacks.
Steam puffed from the horses’ nostrils as they stamped in anticipation of an adventure. The crisp air smelled of hay, grain, and that distinctive earthy scent of horse.
Valek handed them their official papers signed by the Commander.
Janco fiddled with the small scroll. “Kinda disappointing. I thought we’d get something…more.”
“More?”
“Yeah. Badges or a special jacket. Something that says, I’m a second-in-command.” Janco puffed out his chest.
Valek snapped his fingers. “I’ve the perfect thing for you.”
“Ooohhh?” He rubbed his hands together. “Do tell!”
“It’s a black cloak with a giant red bullseye on the back.”
Janco’s brows creased in confusion.
Ari laughed. “Nice. Don’t worry, I’ll explain it to him while we’re on the road.” He mounted. “Any last minute instructions?”
“Don’t linger. It’s a nine-day journey each way. I’d like you back home before the blizzards start.”
“Yes, sir.”
Janco hopped up into his saddle with ease. They clicked their tongues, urging their horses toward the east gate. Valek followed, watching until they both disappeared.
