Cazvar shrugged. “She works hard. I have no real complaint.” He turned and went back into the house.

“Why are you here?” Alisa asked Korgan. “I don’t believe it was because you wanted to check up on me. Are you finished with the council?”

“Not quite. But I got a phone call from Vogel and I thought I’d take a break and come and tell you about it. I didn’t want you complaining to me later that I didn’t keep you informed.”

She stiffened. “Something’s wrong?”

“Maybe. I’m not sure. Something’s different, and with Reardon and Masenak that could signal a change either way. Reardon wasn’t scheduled to arrive at Jubaldar for another few days, but he altered his plans and Vogel said he ordered that Nightshade be ready to be picked up and flown out early this morning. Evidently Reardon is either anxious or excited about what’s happening with Masenak and wants to be on the spot. He should be arriving late today.”

She frowned. “I don’t like it.”

“I didn’t think you would,” he said. “But it’s only one day. It could mean nothing.”

“But you’ve studied Reardon and you know him. You don’t like it, either.”

“I think it’s worth noting. Reardon rarely does anything on impulse,” he said. “It’s a repositioning at an earlier time. I want to know why. But Sasha might be able to tell us that if she contacts you tonight. We’re not going to know before that.” His gaze was focused on her face. “Though I know you hate the idea of being this far away from Jubaldar when there seems to be any action going on. If you hadn’t sent Harris to Morocco to pick up that other shipment, you could have him take you back.”

“And hover?” she asked grimly. “Yes, I want to be as close as I can to her, but I couldn’t do anything there but wring my hands and wait for answers. She has Margaret and Gilroy nearby to do that. But I might be able to get some answers of my own if I stay here.”

“Because Samlir is more ‘convenient’?” he asked softly. “What are you up to? Isn’t it about time you told me?”

“No. Not until I know I have a chance. I’ll let you know when I do, Korgan.” She turned to follow Cazvar back into the house. “In the meantime, I’ll keep busy. Go back to the council and get me the four riders we need to move those horses.”