The Jagged Crown by Thanos Kalimeris

Author:Thanos Kalimeris
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Thanos Kalimeris

CHAPTER 15

REUNION

Under the bright morning sun, thousands of faces shrouded in the shadow of the cloak, or the parasol crowded the narrow streets, milling around and crisscrossing through a dozen markets. Fields of fabric in all stripes and colors stretched across balconies and doorways to provide cool shade over the countless alleys running through a labyrinth of whitewashed houses.

Wrapped in generous local garb, Aenrindel followed the Hemet-tepi as she wove through the bustling alleyways. A few feet behind them, a pair of loyal Guardians trailed in tow, their eyes searching the crowds, their hands ready with the knife. Every so many steps they’d glance at the overhangs, watching for any trouble lurking above. A strange sense of excitement made his heart beat a little faster. Navardi had warned against using any magic other than Holy Prayer, or too many eyes would notice, and the open use of magic would invite unwanted attention. So, it came down to skill and a steady nerve as they made their way north inside the second wall. Embassy Row.

Their destination was the house of Sir George Vearhart, the Arunari ambassador. It was a small compound set on the hilltop, concealed behind limestone walls. The main house was nestled in a private courtyard surrounded by old cedars and palm trees. In the front stood a large pond full of turquoise crystal water, brilliant as the white shallows of Kabir Bay. Saltwater fish, turtles, and rays swam over and through thick patches of seaweed that dotted the bottom, staining the sand. A gaggle of seagulls hovered loudly over the surface in search of an easy meal.

Beyond the house loomed the Second Wall. Stacks of large stone blocks faced the north wind, savoring the briny mist of the open water. Traffic was sparse compared to in the market, mostly carriages and palanquins making their way to and from the walled estates, ferrying petitioners, and diplomats on private matters. Navardi ignored the front entrance, choosing instead to duck into a wooded spot overlooking the rocky shore. She pointed to a set of steps carved into the wet rock, leading down to the water’s edge. She moved with the confidence of someone who knew their way. Aenrindel followed her quietly, careful with his step on the slick pavers. The tailing Guardians stopped at the edge of the trees, watchful for anyone who might have followed.

Navardi led them down to the last landing, a few feet above the churning surf. A rough-hewn, salt-crusted door guarded the way, dug in against the towering rock. A sturdy brass lock kept all but the keyholders out. She stood by the narrow doorway, putting her hand on the tarnished wood, and spoke a command. As the magic receded, the door swung open quietly on freshly oiled hinges to reveal a dim corridor leading under the villa. Just inside the doorway, a narrow skiff rested on its side below a set of wall hooks that held oars, sails, ropes, and other seafaring supplies.

A few feet further

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