The Edge of Black Wing

1 Prologue

"But first, a little detour!" Erick commanded, raising a hand at the Hunter behind the ship's wheel, in silent symbol.

No one on any of the ships got a lot of rest, having sailed through the night; the energy bouncing around practically vibrating the air. A cloudless, navy blue sky was fading faster than one could register - even if they were staring right at it - to the deepest burgundy Pavel had ever seen. It reminded him of dried blood. It unnerved him, like a doomed premonition of what was to come.

At Erick's command, a confused look of dejectedness shone clear on Pavel's face, before he repeated, " 'A detour,' sir? Isn't that something you normally discuss with me?"

" 'Normally,' " Erick snapped back. "A captain's first mate isn't an incompetent imbecile!" Pointedly turning away from him, he ignored him so well, that he failed to see the crestfallen expression Pavel didn't even bother trying to hide. "No, there are a lot of things I do without your approval - let alone your knowledge - Pavel."

"Sir," another hunter approached them on their way to the poop deck. Erik gave him a nod as permission to speak. "The order you gave, has been carried out, and we have gathered the information. What would you like us to do?"

The intensity in Erik's eyes grew, as he stared, unblinkingly delivering a finality tone to his order, "Continue."