Chapter 1“Snails.” Aric crossed his arms, raised both eyebrows, and glared at the village council members from the advantage of his height and muscles and swordsman-for-hire reputation. That generally worked. “You want us to go hunting for snails. Your messenger said it was lake-dragons.”
Around the heavy oak table, in the sturdy local guildhall, the seven members of the ruling council of Dun Nas found various ways to avoid his gaze. Behind him, a thin dark knife of a shadow, Emrys propped a shoulder casually against the wall. Aric couldn’t see his partner’s expression.
He could feel it, though. Aimed like an amused arrow at his back.
“We apologize for the deception.” The youngest of the council members finally unearthed words in the face of mercenary displeasure. Under shaggy mouse-bro
