“Out where everyone can see us,” Mattox explained. “If others knew we were talking somewhere hidden, like in a back room, they’d become suspicious, and think we have something to hide.”
Edge took a moment to digest that as he stared at Mattox. “You make a valid point,” he finally responded. “The reason I came to see you and your father is to thank you for saving my daughter’s life. And if there’s anything you need from me to help you find the person responsible, just ask.”
Mattox caught the slight shake of his father’s head, and understood. They wouldn’t tell the man about the arrow belonging to Atty, but there was another issue still needing answers.
“Caralas told me she had an idea who might be behind the attempt, but she didn’t elaborate. Do you know who she might be thinking of?”
Edge lowered his face and raised a hand to his chin. “I have several names I could give you, but none of those men are here.”
“They didn’t accompany you on your trip?” Mattox confirmed.
The man shook his head. “No. They’re back at Vega City.”
Yulen made a slight gesture where Edge couldn’t see. Mattox nodded.
“How about those who did?”
“No. Sorry. Everyone I tapped is loyal to me. I trust them explicitly.”
Mattox forced himself to smile. “I’m glad I was able to be there when she needed me.”
Reaching out, Edge grasped his arm and gave it squeeze. Mattox sensed a slight revulsion coming off of the battle lord, even though the act was sincere. As was the man’s thanks.
“If you or your men discover anything, let us know immediately,” Yulen spoke up. “Even if it’s just a feeling, a portion of conversation someone overheard, anything.”
“I will,” Edge promised. He flashed a smile at Mattox. “It’s a good thing you were with her out on that field.”
“Is Caralas your sole heir?”
“Yes, but she’s capable. She’s strong, and she has a good head on her shoulders. She can also hold her own.”
“I have no doubt,” Mattox remarked.
Edge glanced in the direction of the main lodge. “I’d better get back to the meeting before Borlee sends the troops to look for me. Thank you again. You have my eternal gratitude.”
Mattox and his father watched as the man strode off. Yulen stepped closer to his son. “I’m not Mutah, and I know that man just lied to us.”
“I agree. He suspects someone in his party, but he wants to be the one to accost him, not us.”
“What I don’t understand is why they targeted the daughter instead of Edge. Unless they plan to take out the both of them, and she was an opportunistic moment.”
“If that’s true, the big question is who would benefit? If they take out CaralasandEdge, who assumes command of Vega City? Borlee?”
Yulen gave a snort. “Borlee couldn’t command a platoon with a handbook of specific directions and a staff of experienced advisors.”
“Unless Borlee is sandbagging it.”
“You mean pretending to be inept and subservient all this time?”
“I wouldn’t write him off just yet. You never know. He could have connections.”
Yulen agreed with a nod, then looked to his son. “Is it possible Caralas is behind the attempt?”
“No,” Mattox vehemently denied. “Her fear was real. Besides, if I hadn’t been there, she definitely would have died. Neither do I believe her father’s in on it. No, I believe someone is using this conference to get what they want, and by using Mom’s arrows, wants to place the blame on us or other Mutah.” He was hit with an idea. Yulen noticed his change of expression.
“What are you thinking?”
“I wonder how many archers Edge brought with him? For that matter, how many archers did any of the battle lords bring along?”
