Political expediency was something that always galled, but such was the way of the world. Aldren nodded thoughtfully as the Captain laid out the plan. It was risky, no doubt. 50 gold seemed a fair price, for all that he would rather waive the coins. And Duvan hopefully had the right of it. Common thieves would scatter at a raid and not offer much resistance.

He smiled at the mention of the Prince of Shadows. Such was the rumour in every city, town and broken hut in Avistan. By the sound of it, the Prince was behind everything.

"Well, I am no tactician. I trust your judgment on this, Captain Garess. I shall be prepared."