Page 45

“What do you know of the Third Guard?”

Sithe turned, slowly. “Sister Ai’s hawks?” she asked. Lady Heiler nodded. “I know that they’re exceptionally ... well, they’re taken care of. Their salaries are head and above any of the other regiments.” Lady Heiler bristled at this; clearly, this was not the answer she had been looking for. “Their skills are rare. Unknown. Some would say unknowable.”

Lady Heiler’s stern expression softened. “Magic,” she said. “They’re magic users.”

Sithe shrugged. “I suppose you could put it that way. It’s roughly as specific as calling Captain Milford an ‘enthusiast,’ but ... fine.”

Lady Heiler chuckled. Aric Milford was the only member of the Third Guard who had no skill in arcane manipulation at all. He made up for this deficiency with an encyclopedic knowledge of his subordinates’ abilities. In terms of practical ability, he was less than nothing. In terms of theoretical ability, he was a savant.

“If I recall correctly, there’s a new rising star in the Fire-Hawk’s ranks,” Sithe said. “His name is Heiler, too, unless I’m mistaken. You’ll forgive me if I assume that isn’t a coincidence.”

“My Loki is more than a rising star,” Lady Heiler said, unconsciously swelling with pride. “Sister Nan-Tamé is convinced that he holds the key to victory in Moonguard’s fight against the Sorcerer Tribes. After all, can you imagine how dangerous a pyromancer could be in a desert?”

“Pyromancer, is it?” Sithe asked. “A bit flowery. I wouldn’t have expected you to dig up that moniker. So ... I can only assume you’re talking about this for a reason. If you simply wanted to compare children, I think I have you beat. Just on pure numbers.”

“His training is nearing completion,” Lady Heiler said. “He’s earned a silver badge. Captain Milford will start sending him on assignments within a ten-day.”

“Again, I ask, what can I do for you?”

“... Protect him.”

* * *

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