‘Look, can we speak about this in private? Just for a moment?’

Vongella thought about it, then nodded at the loremasters, who shuffled out of the chamber.

‘You’ve got one minute,’ she said. ‘Make the most of it.’

‘I’m going back to where I started. Adeard has been taken, that we know. He might still be alive. He might be in bits. But I don’t think that’s the important thing. Something bigger is at stake, and we’re being dragged into it. Maybe Udmil wants to use us. Maybe Mordach does. Maybe they all do. I don’t think you like being used, Castellan, so I’d like to get to the bottom of it quickly. The Vidora are involved, that’s for sure. But I need to look into Yuti’s eyes, hear what he has to say.’

Vongella glared at him, long and hard. ‘You’re quite right, I don’t like being used – by them, by you, by anyone. Right now, though, all I see is a probator in a coma, and some long-overdue cleaning house taking place. That’s all for me to handle.’

‘Sure. Like I say, I don’t need to do much. Just be there. It won’t get in the way of my other lines.’

‘I can send you a report.’

‘It wouldn’t give me what I need.’ His scar started to itch. ‘It’s a favour. Another one, I know.’

‘You’re already in plenty of debt with me.’

‘I’m aware of that.’

Vongella rolled her eyes. ‘So what is it with you, Zido? It’s never simple, for some reason. Why do they even call you lucky? I’ve never understood that.’

‘My looks, I think.’

‘Yes, that’d be it.’ She sighed. ‘This is the second time I’ve taken a chance on you. I’m getting bored of it.’

Zidarov allowed himself to feel a surge of relief. He’d have had to tail them, if the request had been turned down, and that would have been a problem. ‘Do you have a time and place yet?’

‘Tonight. We’re still discussing a location. Adimir’s made them all nervous.’

‘Good. Then you’ll let me know?’

‘I said I would. Go away, now, probator, before I change my mind.’

‘I appreciate it.’

‘You’d better.’

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Thirteen