The King's Knights

Chapter Forty-Seven: Evil Masterminds

Vines did not want to be here right now.

For one thing, the meeting spot was in Zigildrazian territory. Over the past few weeks, the influence of the Zigildrazians has increased. Meticulously following the rules and regulations set in place, Vines had become paranoid. He'd been sloppy, coming here so often, taken up by good fortune.

Once he started trying to use that good fortune to pay off his debts, that good fortune disappeared. Even as the money came in, he had to take it to send it out. The death of quite a few criminals had bought him time, but their backers still had prices to pay. At one time, he could have relied on those debts not being called.

But he wasn't necessary for them anymore.

With High King Relma on the warpath. With all the bloody violence going on, navigating the two sides was getting worse. If he met directly with Relma, he'd be perceived as one of her entourage. But if he didn't cooperate with her, he'd be perceived as favorable to the Thieves Guild.

It was at times like this he wondered what might have happened if Hadleim had lived.

Well, it wasn't anything that hadn't been done by someone else and there was no going back on it. No one had any proof and it had happened a long time ago. If High King Relma suspected what Vines had done, she'd have had a batallion of wearwolves kicking down his door. Right now, Vines is on his best behavior.

He only had to stall long enough for her to move on.

Right now, he had to appease Schezar and his Bretusian debters. They were desperate for money to recoup their losses and waging a very expensive war. So as long as Vines continued to pay, he could keep their support.

If only Vines hadn't made such a fool of himself and started gambling.

If only Zigildrazian women weren't so seductive.

Dakan emerged from the shadows at that moment within the room, clad in his usual green. He had not been down this way for years since he'd acted as Tuor's go-between. He'd brought money and the possibility of promotion. Recognition of the services Vines had never received, whereas Vanion had.

With no obligations to any old family history, Vines had picked his sacrifice.

"Dakan," said Vines.

"Indeed," said Dakan, adjusting his glasses. "You'll be happy to know things are progressing better than anticipated, Captain. Tef Lock and Bastille should soon be fully usable by our organization. We've also received news of your recent payments toward settling outstanding debts.

"While not necessary, we do appreciate the effort.

"It has helped to smooth things over with our friends in Bretus."

"That was my intention, sir," said Vines, though truthfully he didn't give a damn about Dakan. Lilas had worked with him before. "I didn't like the idea of them thinking we were unreliable actors."

"Yes, and I'm told your secondary mission was also a success," said Dakan, moving past him. "These reports about local fauna and floura are quite good. It should go some way toward satisfying Atraya and save the Judge Knight Order."

"I'm pleased to have been of assistance, Lord Dakan," said Vines, looking out his office window.

"Yes," said Dakan. "So tell me, how are things progressing on the subject of the third fragment of Jaha? Designated; Princess Oresa?"

"I put out some feelers," said Vines. "Requested that men be sent out to apprehend her, as you asked. I can base it on the idea of law for the law's own sake. That has become popular, and Korlac will appreciate it.