Page 91 of Lady's Steed
As expected, Avera couldn’t sleep, worry chasing anxiety round and round with the worst kind of scenarios. They’d be arrested the moment they left the room. This captain would say no. She even wondered if Zhos could send its mist down this side of the Spire to infect the people. Surely if it could, it would have already. Opal had mentioned something about it being blocked, but Avera still couldn’t shake her unease.
By the time a soft tap came at the door, Avera was more than ready to act. She immediately swung her legs over the edge of the bed and pulled on her jacket before grabbing her pack. A yawning Josslyn followed suit.
Gustav also instantly woke and stood, sheathing his sword before once more wrapping himself in the ragged cloak. As they emerged, laden with their packs, they found Korr in the hall. The man said not a word, putting a finger to his lips indicating they should be silent. Walking carefully to avoid overly loud creaks,they descended into the quiet tavern, the patrons gone for the night.
As they reached the main door, Gustav gripped Korr’s arm and gave him a nod. Avera also put a hand on him and murmured, “Your loyalty won’t be forgotten.”
Korr smiled. “Best of luck, Majesty.”
They emerged into a cool evening, the crescent moon overhead barely enough to light their path as they made their way up the street, heading for the docks and then moving past them. The large, nameless ship remained berthed, its crew belowdecks for the evening. Or so she assumed. Most likely a sentry kept watch to ensure no one stole aboard.
They walked alone, everyone abed at this hour. Despite seeing and hearing no one, Avera’s nape prickled. She kept a hand on the hilt of her dagger, ready to draw if needed. The series of docks ended as did the warehouses, leaving them to walk on a path of crushed seashells and coral. The smell of the ocean filled her senses, slightly fishy, definitely salty, with a hint of the pungent seaweed that washed ashore.
The lapping of the waves proved soothing but at the same time had her turning her head left and right since it could mask the sound of someone approaching. Gustav proved just as alert, his sword in his hand as he strode, straight-backed, every inch the protective rook.
The chapel sat atop a stony outcrop that jutted above and slightly over the sea. Under it, waves crashed against the rocks, sending up spray and foam. The building itself, made of stone that stood the test of time, wasn’t overly large. Maybe a dozen or so paces long, not quite as wide. The doors to it were weathered wood, warped by salt, rain, and sun. Gustav grunted as he heaved one panel open, the creak of it ridiculously loud and causing Avera to glance back at the path they’d just taken. The crescent moon barely illuminated, but she saw no movingshadows. However, she remained aware anyone could have been hiding and spying.
Gustav entered first only to exit growling, “It’s dark in there.”
Josslyn snorted. “What did you expect? Did you not bring a lantern?”
A disgruntled Gustav grumbled, “No.”
None of them had thought to bring light, but the person inside had. A sudden glow spilled from the partially open door.
A startled Gustav whirled, sword held in front of him as he barked, “Who goes there?”
“Calm yourself, old man. I am here at your request,” a deep voice stated.
“You’re the ship’s captain?” Gustav questioned.
“For the moment.”
“Meaning what?” A suspicious Gustav frowned.
“Meaning I command only so long as my crew continues to approve of my performance and doesn’t make me walk the plank.” A hint of amusement tinged the words. “I hear you wish to strike a bargain for passage.”
“Yes. But I’m not negotiating without seeing a face.” Gustav went to enter only to have the man inside say, “You can stay outside. I will deal only with the one in charge.”
“That’s me,” Gustav announced.
“Do not take me for a fool. You are but a servant. Send in the woman whom you answer to.”
Gustav opened his mouth to argue but Avera put a hand on his arm. “I’ve got this.”
“It could be a trap,” he warned.
“And if it’s not? He’s our only chance,” she whispered. “Let me handle the negotiation. If I need help, I’ll scream.”
“Before or after you try to deal with any situation by yourself,” Gustav replied sourly.
Her lips curved. “You always did tell me to practice as much as I could if I wanted to hone my skills.”
“This isn’t a training ring.”
“I’m aware, and this isn’t me asking but telling you. I am going inside. You and Josslyn watch for perfidy.”
“If I hear even a hint of danger?—”