The woman’s face betrayed no hint of emotion as she studied him. She was as inscrutable as a sphinx.
“Then we are of like minds,” she said at last. “You may share space with us tonight. I never offer a safe space, because we never know what may emerge from the shadows, but at least you won’t be out in the open.”
She stepped aside, allowing Effrax to join the group. The others relaxed once she made her call—she was clearly their leader—but when they sat in a loose circle, Effrax noticed them shoot furtive looks his way. Some looks were hostile, others merely curious.
It struck Effrax that an amazing opportunity had presented itself. He’d come to lay the groundwork for phase one—placing the enchanted teleportal poles—but he’d also come to scout the city’s defenses, to count the shadowtroo
