“How can you say that?” asked Marlena. “Since your arrival, the streets of Lidenbach are safer, and even Lord Corbin has fallen silent.”
“Yes, he has, but that only makes me feel worse. I sense he’s up to something. Tell me, am I right to fear that, or am I just imagining things?”
“The history of Halvaria is one of deceit and deception. I would trust your feelings in this.”
“Meaning my fear or that I’m imagining things?”
“I wouldn’t call it fear. Rather, I’d refer to it as cautious mistrust.”
Charlaine laughed. “You’re becoming quite the diplomat. Are you sure you wouldn’t prefer to represent us at court?”
“I’ll leave that in your capable hands. Now, best get to work, Commander. Those letters won’t answer themselves.”
Marlena left the room, leaving Charlaine to the stack of papers.
