the local leaders of the organisation, chaos had crept into its ranks, and its actions had become not only less coordinated but also more driven by emotion than by the militants' doctrine. Quel-naza in Bushtabhar had turned into more of an armed gang looting whatever they could under the guise of a higher purpose. The lack of organised leadership was plain to see.
The last problem that needed to be addressed was the disappearance of the Azure Guard's informants and field agents. While spies could be exposed and eliminated for one reason or another, the Guards were not so easy to deal with. Even if they were exposed, they were magicians with significant combat abilities. Disappearing without a trace was out of the question for them. Especially since their latest reports indicated that they wanted to investigate something in the savannah surrounding the city. The third issue only raised more doubts.
‘I have a feeling this isn't going to be easy,’ Rex muttered when he finished reading the last report.
Darius looked up from the map. He had been studying the locations marked on the reports for quite some time. It was difficult to find a common denominator other than the fact that everything had happened outside the city.
‘The more I learn about this, the more it stinks,’ agreed Bleist. ‘Too many unknowns, coincidences, and conflicting testimonies.’
‘I think it could be dangerous,’ said the corporal, shifting uncomfortably as the carriage slowed and turned into the Ed'heer gate.
‘Unfortunately, you may be right,’ Darius sighed heavily. He wasn't happy about it at all. He thought he had enough problems, but it turned out that they were just beginning. ‘That's why they're sending us there,’ he smiled wryly.
