Page 49 of The Elven Spymaster's Thief

“So, why the hesitation?”

“He is my uncle.”

“Then you wish to stand on your own reputation and find your own way?”

“More that people assume I have influence over my uncle, or I have access to his secrets.” Chislon grimaced. “Or they fear my connection to him. He doesn't exactly have a reputation for letting those who insult his family walk away without consequences.”

Illeron nodded. “True. Do you have an issue with keeping secrets from him?”

“No. I am my own elf.”

Illeron studied Chislon for a few moments, letting the silence fill the room. Unlike the previous candidates, he waited without fidgeting or any signs of discomfort.

“I will take you on as a trial. The position comes with room and board. I expect you to be available as needed. The pay will be commensurate according to the level of effort. I will expect you to learn on the job. Do you have any questions or concerns?”

“I would wish to live somewhere else.”

Illeron eyed him with interest. “How much of a delay from summoning to appearing should I expect?”

“Twenty minutes.” Chislon tilted his head. “How often should I expect summons at odd hours?”

“Hard to say. We ordinarily don't, but when we do, I will need an immediate response.”

“Understood.”

Illeron lifted his eyebrows at the younger elf. “Are you still interested in the position?”

“Definitely.”

“In that case, you are hired for a probationary term to see if we suit.” Illeron motioned toward the door into the corridor. “My house manager, Ergon, will show you around. I will expect you back here within a half-hour for an explanation of your duties.”

“Thank you, Lord Spymaster.” Chislon bowed perfunctorily in Illeron’s direction and offered both Casimir and me a respectful nod. Then he departed through the door with admirable directness.

“I like him,” I declared.

“What news do you bring?” Illeron asked Casimir.

“We figured out who was behind the attack. Loriena has been seen mingling with some of our shadow elves. One of them came forward, saying that she offered him money for information. He declined, but he suspects she has approached other elves.” Casimir grimaced. “It would explain how the siren slipped through the wards. All it takes is for one of our guards to cooperate.”

“Any progress on narrowing that possible traitor down?” Illeron began pulling reports from the air.

“We have it narrowed down to three. I will be interviewing two of them in your study today.” Dark smudges marred the skin beneath Casimir’s eyes, and exhaustion glazed his eyes.

“When did you last sleep?” I asked him.

He shrugged with one shoulder. “Two nights ago.”

Illeron straightened. “Go sleep.”

“But the first interview is scheduled in an hour.”

“Do you have anyone you trust?”

“Keir,” Casimir rubbed the side of his face. “I suppose I could have him do it.”

“Let him. Go get some rest. You are no use to any of us half asleep.”

Casimir nodded wearily. With a soft whoosh of air, he was gone.

---