“Pay,” said the barkeep.
“Oh, the dworgh—”
“Gone,” he said. “You drink. You pay.”
Hels’ hooks.I had no coin. As quartermaster, Smoke had arranged a kit for me, consisting of this peacoat, a woolen blanket, neckerchief, second tunic, and socks. Fahr had passed me an ink stick, some chalks, and a small, leather sketchbook because I told him I liked to draw. An amenable life, all told, contained in one hand-me-down sack, but they had completely overlooked my need of a purse.
“I…”
…had a mind to bolt. I was fast and nondescript. I could be lost in that sea of faces in a heartbeat.
“I…”
Bolted.
But he was expecting it and grabbed my arm before I could flee. It was above the glove, so chimeric flared, and he hollered, snatching his hand away.There!For once, my luck had turned.
“What is this?” I shrieked. “Poison?”
“What?” He glanced around at the patrons. “Here! You pay your bill.”
I gripped the cup, forced the chimeric to heat and glow.
“You cut your rum with magik?”
“No!” Stools scraped along the wooden floor as patrons rose to their feet. “No, it’s just rum!”
I bubbled the brew until it flashed in a burst of chimeric.
I shrieked again and sprang back from the bar.
Chaos ensued.
I snatched the rucksack and made my escape.
It was brilliant, and damnations,yes, I was proud.
It was raining when I rushed out into the square.
I caught them as they were boarding the longboat, skidded to a halt on the slippery dock.
“A plot!” I gasped. “I heard them talking about taking the ship!”
Fahr and Smoke exchanged glances.
“I’m sorry, Blue,” said the first mate, wiping the rain from his face. “But you can’t come back.”
“I don’t care about that. Listen.” I crouched down, keeping my voice low. “A crew of twelve harpiar has set their sights on theTouchstone.They will attack from the skies.”
Smoke rolled his eyes.
“And why would they do that, Blue?” he asked. “We’re not at war with Braithe. The harpiar are our allies. Why, ask Kit if you doubt.”
“Blue can’t ask,” muttered Buck, “if she ain’t on the ship…”
My heart swelled at that moment, and I knew that at least I had two friends in all the world.
“I’m sure you heard something, Blue,” said Fahr. “But it has nothing to do with us, or our ‘hels ’n’ holy commission.’”
