“She’s safely on her way to the rendezvous with Gaunt. Etcher arrived just before dark and I sent her with him. She’ll likely stay with Gaunt, sending dispatches back to Melengar via messengers until Alric’s forces join with the Nationalists.”

“And if Gaunt turns her down?”

“It’s in Gaunt’s best interest to see to her safety. It’s not like he’s going to turn her over to the empire. She’ll probably end up returning to Melengar by sea. Actually, it’s better we aren’t with her. If Merrick is out there, I’m sure he’ll be more interested in me than her. So that job is complete.”

“I guess there is that to be thankful for, at least.”

Royce chuckled.

“What?”

“I’m just thinking about Merrick. He’ll have no idea where I am now. My disappearance will drive him crazy.”

Hadrian sat down.

“Isn’t that water cold?” Royce asked, watching him and making an unpleasant face.

He nodded. “And the bottom has sharp rocks coated in a disgusting slime.”

Royce looked up at the opening once more, then gritted his teeth and slowly eased himself down across from Hadrian. “Oh yeah, real comfortable.”

They sat in silence for a few minutes, listening to the breeze flutter across the grating. It made a humming noise when it blew just right. Occasionally, a droplet of water would drip into the pool with a surprisingly loud plop! magnified by the chamber.

“You realize that with this job over, I’m officially retired.”

“I assumed as much.” Royce fished beneath him, withdrew a rock, and tossed it aside.

“I was thinking of returning here. Maybe Grimbald could use a hand, or Armigil. She’s getting older now and probably would welcome a partner. Those barrels can be heavy and brewing beer has its perks.”

Moonlight revealed Royce’s face. He looked tense.

“I know you’re not happy with this, but I really need a change. I’m not saying I’ll stay here. I probably won’t, but it’s a start. I consider it practice for a peaceful life.”

“And that’s what you want, a peaceful life? No more dreams of glory?”

“That’s all they were, Royce, just dreams. It’s time I faced that and got on with my life.”

Royce sighed. “I’ve something to tell you. I should have told you a long time ago, but … I guess I was afraid you’d do something foolish.” He paused. “No, that’s not true either. It’s just taken me a while to see that you have the right to know.”

“Know what?”

Royce looked around him. “I never thought I’d be telling you in a place like this, but I must admit it could be a benefit that they took your weapons.” He pulled out Danbury’s letter.

“How do you have that?” Hadrian asked.

“From Arista.”