Page 5 of The Study of Fire
Soon he was absorbed in his work, making notes. Reports came in weekly from his corps. They’d been assigned to all the garrisons, manor houses, and large cities in Ixia, as well as the Sitian Citadel and all the big cities in Sitia. It was a vast network that sent him information and updates. Most of it was routine and ordinary, but occasionally there was a tidbit that intrigued him, that hinted at potential trouble brewing. In that case, he’d send a message back, asking for details. Then he’d either give the agents instructions on how to follow up, or he’d dispatch more of his agents to help. In a few cases, he’d investigate himself.
Valek grinned. With the promotion of Ari, Janco, and Maren, he could go on more missions. Especially if those missions just happened to be in Sitia. Kenda, his corps manager, would fuss at him over the danger, but Valek didn’t care if it meant seeing more of Yelena.
A knock interrupted his pleasant thoughts. “Come in.”
Ari, Janco, and Maren strode in, surprising him. Between celebrating and moving to new quarters, Valek didn’t expect to see them today. They wore their new adviser uniforms; the same one Valek wore every day. The all-black pants, belt, and tunic were plain. The only adornment was on their collars, where a red diamond shape had been stitched onto each side.
Janco held his arms out and did a little spin. “Nice, eh? This outfit commands respect.” He’d bathed and his short brown hair was still wet.
“What else does it command?” Ari asked. His wide shoulders strained the seams of his tunic.
“Anything that has to do with security. The Commander’s security, the castle’s security, and Ixia’s security. Overseeing security protocols, ensuring the guards are following those protocols, preventing treason and espionage,” Valek said.
“Do we outrank the guards and officers of the Army?” Janco asked. Glee glowed in his dark eyes.
“Yes, but not the advisers, as they are your colleagues, or me, the Commander, or the generals.”
“What if it’s about security?” Ari asked.
“If I’m not here and you are acting as Chief of Security, then you outrank everyone and have the right to take the lead.”
“What about the Commander?”
“Oh, he’ll want to take charge, but his safety is the most important. More important than your own lives. So, you just have to tackle him to the ground when you hear the twang of a bow launching an arrow.” Or, to avoid a sneeze. Ambrose was never going to let him forget that one.
“What about your corps?” Janco asked. “Are we in charge of them?”
“Not yet. You’ll be working with Kenda for now, learning how the organization runs. Eventually, you’ll have more oversight and will assume my role when I’m out of town.” He scanned their concerned expressions. “You’re my seconds. You aid me in my job and fill in for me when needed. Don’t worry, there’s bound to be some growing pains, mistakes, and miscommunications. What I want you all to remember is to not jump to conclusions. Thoroughly investigate everything, even if it’s an offhand comment. Ensure the intent before getting insulted or offended or angry.”
They considered his comments in silence for a few moments.
“What do you need us to do right now?” Ari asked.
“Continue with your spy training. It’s currently quiet.” He held up a hand, stopping Janco’s outburst. “I promise to bring you in when the next crisis happens. In my experience, these quiet spells don’t last long.”
While not happy, they agreed.
“Can we have a rematch with the puppy dogs?” Janco asked. He had not been happy when the corps’ four youngest spy students had accused him, Ari, Maren, and Kimette of cheating at the last training session.
“Yes. We’ll do another set.”
“Same exercise?” Ari asked.
“No. I’ll come up with something different. Perhaps more challenging for you since you’re now my seconds.”
“Ahhh, good,” Janco said. “’Cause that last one?—”
“Janco,” Ari warned.
Somewhat mollified, Ari and Janco left his office, but Maren lingered. She hadn’t said anything during the discussion. Her hair was wrapped in a tight bun, giving her a more mature and regal bearing. A tall woman with an athletic build, her posture was always military straight.
She ran a finger along his conference table, leaving a clean streak behind. “This is filthy.”
“I’m aware. Do you need something?”
“I…” Maren inspected a pile of books.
Valek waited.
