Page 56 of The Dragon King's Assassin

Taroc snorted a laugh at Prince Racmar's rolling eyes.

“What is it, Assassin?” the Prince demanded.

“What race is your necromancer?”

“I don't see why that matters, but she's an Eljaffna.”

“Necromancers use specific techniques unique to their cultures. Additionally, every necromancer's magic is unique to them. They can bring about similar results, but the way they get those results differs, and in a situation like this, that may matter. I don't know much about the Eljaffna, we don't see a lot of them here, but I do know they consume blood, and I assume blood is a part of their process. Whereas, a Raltven necro would not resort to such measures.”

“A Raltven?” the Prince growled. “You can't trust Raltven.”

“It depends on the Raltven. From my experience, their loyalty is hard won but once given, it's unshakable. That, however, is moot. You don't have to trust Raltven to hire one.”

“Lock used to work with Raltven,” Taroc said to the Prince. He looked back at me to ask, “Do you have someone in mind?”

“I do. And I'll tell you this, Prince Racmar, there are no better necromancers than a Raltven necro. They are born with one foot in the spirit realm. Death walks beside them.”

“Yes, I expect it does. Just as it does with you.” The Prince didn't look happy. “The situation is dire enough that I'm willing to try anything.”

“Fetch your necromancer, Lock,” the King said.

I blinked. “You mean . . .”

“Yes, go and fetch the Raltven. You have two hours.”

“Your Majesty, it may take more time than that. I don't know where he is.”

Taroc grimaced. “Very well. You may have five hours. That is all, Assassin.”

“Yes, Your Majesty.” I bowed and hurried from the room before he changed his mind.

And before he realized that I wouldn't just be looking for the Raltven necromancer.

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