Varric stood over the map only briefly before rolling it closed.
He had heard enough of Theodore’s warnings. Enough of the careful language. Enough of the emphasis on not underestimating the lady.
In his mind, too much caution dulled instinct.
“She trains alone,” he muttered to himself, pacing once across the chamber. “She leaves alone. She bleeds like anyone else.”
He saw no need for extended surveillance.
He summoned two mid-ranked blood generals the next morning. Men whom he believed were capable, fast and experienced in coordinated capture.
They entered his war room and bowed.
“You called for us, General.”
Varric did not waste time.
“You are to retrieve the fire wielder,” he said. “No spectacle, no unnecessary violence. Bring her alive.”
One of them smirked faintly. “The gir
