Page 68 of The King's Man 3

“I wasn’t in a position where I had to interact with the captain. They checked the wagons, took some of the goods, and reluctantly sent us through. Then you spotted me and had me brought here.”

Absently, Nicostratus touches the end of his ribbon. “He would’ve wanted lives to be saved.”

My chest and my throat ache to call out.

Quin clears his throat. “Did the regent get the message about the wyverns?”

“He got it. He knew immediately you were the source. He didn’t seem pleased and he didn’t divulge his plans.”

Quin grimaces, and from my hiding spot, so do I. The regent had better take action, or... I shiver.

At a distant shout, Nicostratus tenses. “I shouldn’t be too long from my unit. They’ll wonder why.”

“Say you have family here. You were recognised by a cousin.” Quin’s straight back sinks against his chair and he smiles. “One day, we’ll be free to spend time without worries between us.”

“I’ll bring wine.”

“We’ll bring out the bows and arrows.”

“Best archer gets to make an outrageous request.”

“You’re not getting me to perform in the square again.”

Nicostratus laughs. “You played the flute so... uniquely.”

“Get out of here.”

Nicostratus stands. Pauses. “Uncle’s reach is growing,” he murmurs, his fingers brushing the ribbon tied around his head.“Hinsard is crawling with his men, and they’re not just watching—they’re preparing for something.”

Quin’s voice is clipped. “Then we’ll be ready.”

“My unit is moving south after this. I’ll break from them and head to Hinsard. Many of my people are there, too. I can send some to help you.”

“Too loud. When the gates reopen, I’ll slip out.”

“They have your image. There will be checkpoints everywhere.” Nicostratus laughs on a sigh. “Of course, you’ll have a way. What’s your plan from here?”

“The southern border—Commander Thalassios of the Wyvern division.”

Nicostratus’s eyes flicker as if in recognition. “You have dated information. Uncle has ordered half to retreat into Hinsard until further notice. Wyvern division is among them.”

“What is he up to?”

“Anything that saves him money.”

“He messes with our people’s lives and now he dares mess at the border?”

“That’s why I’m going. For more information; to find out what the situation is like.”

“Good. We’ll meet there in ten days. Wait—”

“If we cross paths publicly, I won’t know you.”

“That’s best.”

“One more thing,” Quin says.

Nicostratus hesitates at the door, glancing back. “Your mother?... Or his akla?”

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