Chapter 14: To Leave Victory Behind
Nathan and Stella joined up with the rest of the Heirs a few streets away from the Nhir estate. They had decided to stay out of sight, because the notes from Camran indicated that anybody in line of sight to the reinforced villa got fired upon by trigger-happy mages.
“This seems a trivial task.” Sarah said as she arrived. “Nathan goes in, strips the magic from the mages, then leaves.”
Nathan shrugged, glancing around the corner to study the fortress of a house. “That would probably work. But when I go in the front they might flee from the back. I also can’t break through that metal door very quickly. All of you have better solutions for that sort of problem. And you need the levels more than I do. How about this, I go first and draw their fire, then take to the air and watch for runners. Sarah stays on high overwatch in case of anything unexpected. The rest of you go in the front and secure the mages.”
Aarl looked hesitant. “This is a poor attempt. Why don’t you come with us? I have a weapon that won't kill my targets, but it can’t penetrate mage armor.” He showed off a small dagger that gleamed with a filmy iridescence, as if it was covered with an oil slick.
Nathan tilted his head from side to side as he thought. “I’ll be able to keep an eye on you and the mages inside with my magic senses. When you reach the mages I’ll disable their magics so you can capture them. Doing it that way might actually be easier than if I had to also dodge the traps and soldiers they have in there.”
“Traps?” Stella said questioningly.
“Traps.” Nathan replied with enthusiasm. “Do you think somebody would build their house like that and not put traps in? Just don’t let Khachi die, and he can bring you back!” He’d meant the comment as a joke, but all of the Heirs nodded along thoughtfully.
We really are all kind of insane.
The wolfman rumbled, hefting his hammer. “These foes will not be my end.” He sounded utterly certain about that. He pointed ahead with his shield. “Take the lead.”