timing coincides with reports of Quel-naza commanders disappearing in the area.’
‘A City Watchman serving on street patrol would be involved in the elimination of the leaders of a fanatical organisation?’ Rex raised one eyebrow, presumably trying not to look too sarcastic.
‘Why not?’, Darius shrugged. ‘If someone went to the trouble of changing the dates in the reports, they must have had a reason.’ He looked at the meticulous Guardsmen and decided that their presence during the search was more of a hindrance than a help, so he headed for the exit.
‘Do you want to question them again?’ The corporal followed his superior.
‘No, or at least not yet. First, I’d like to speak to the victim’s family and find out what the reason was for Rocha’s return to Bushtabhar.’ Bleist stifled a yawn as he left the room. ‘But that’s for tomorrow.’
They spent the night on the top floor of the inn, which was divided into four large suites. As Stave had said, these were used by the wealthiest merchants visiting the area. He had made the entire floor available to the Guard unit, apologising for any inconvenience. Darius was tired, so he fell asleep quickly, but he didn’t sleep very well. It wasn’t even the temperature or the stuffiness, but the peculiar atmosphere of the place. It was also possible that he had been dwelling on unpleasant thoughts for too long.
At dawn, they had breakfast and, following the priest’s advice, set off for Elder Jome. To avoid giving the old man a heart attack, Darius took only Rex and two Ruby Guards with him, who had insisted on accompanying the colonel. Fortunately, they had left their heavy shields at the inn, deciding that broadswords and pistols would be quite sufficient in the narrow streets.
They had to walk through the entire village, so Bleist had a chance to get a better look at the inhabitants. Even now, the locals avoided the Guards from a distance with fear, trying not even to meet their gaze. Generally, everyone here looked alike. Dressed in long, light-coloured tunics
