Page 75 of Captive of the Stolen Empire

Lucien stood in the yard talking with other guards, though his eyes often wandered to where I stood near the main entrance, stirring up far too many memories. The false captain ordered men and grooms around in a show of authority, the governor at his side, as trunks and supplies were loaded for the journey.

“I’d hoped to have the chance to enjoy your company over breakfast,” I continued. Our host and his wife had both been absent. Unfortunate, when they were the most likely ones to know something of the rebels.

“Basilla, well, she wasn’t feeling well this morning. She might have had too much wine. She started thinking all sorts of mad thoughts last night.” He shook his head. “Kept me up far too late, but I’m glad I got to see you off.”

Gooseflesh raced up my arms.

“Do you mind if I ask what thoughts she had?” A certain face caught my attention out of the corner of my eye—one looking our way despite the chaotic scene.

“Impossible thoughts, and too long a story for now.”

I barely held in a plea for more when two of Stefan’s household brushed by carrying sacks of supplies.

“Be careful with those!” he called at their backs. “Always in a hurry.” Stefan looked over his shoulder before turning back to me. “The birds are ready to migrate. They only await a sign.”

My brow wrinkled.Birds? Why mention—

My heart skipped a beat. Stefan’s gaze bore into mine as the meaning hit home. Reyna’s birds. An army?

“I’m…I’m glad to hear that.” Truly, I didn’t know what to say, but his curt nod told me I’d done something right.

“Several flocks, in fact. Some headed west recently.”

West. Toward Zhine.

“They might roost in the foothills of the Everspelt range if the weather is right.”

My heart picked up its pace, pounding away within my chest. I needed to talk to Reyna. She’d know how to get information to the rebels. The certainty of it settled on me like a second skin. I’d become a pawn in someone else’s game without knowing it, yet it was one I longed to have a bigger role in. To take down Ryszard, to free Sorrena.

“Your enthusiasm will show to the captain if you’re not careful,” he mumbled.

Shit.I twisted around, scanning the yard, but the gleaming armor I searched for had vanished.

“The real one,” Stefan continued in a hushed voice. “With that cluster near the carriage.”

Lucien looked away, pretending to attend the conversation in front of him. “He’s just a guard,” I said.

Stefan let out a roaring laugh. “I’m not so easily fooled,” he said, voice low so only I could hear. “The way he holds himself, his aura of authority over the others…that boy in armor could never pass for a captain. He lacks the commanding presence. I’ve met Captain Lucien before—a change of clothes can’t fool me.”

What about a change of face?Lucien gave up any pretense of pretending to be distracted and watched us. Any minute now, he’d invade my discussion with Stefan. I had no doubt of that.

“The way he looks at you…”

My head snapped to Stefan. “What do you mean?”

His beard quirked with his lips. “Like a lover.”

Heat rushed to my cheeks. “I’m not…”

He laughed again, a deep rumble that turned into a fit of coughs. Stefan wiped at his mouth, regaining his composure. “I didn’t think you’d turn so easily. But could he?” He followed Lucien with his knowing gaze as he headed in our direction.

I swallowed my apprehension.

“Lord Stefan,” Lucien bowed before us at the base of the stairs. “Thank you for watching after Lady Ilya, but I should show her to her carriage now.”

Stefan took my hand and kissed the back of it, his beard tickling my skin. “It’s been a pleasure. Emperor Ryszard can send messages through you any time.”

“Likewise,” I answered. “And do say farewell to your wife on my behalf.” I turned my back to Lucien. “I think she’s right.”

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