Jackal Among Snakes

Chapter 175

Galamon stood on the docks of the seedy underground Smuggler’s Cove with Argrave, watching the slightly turbulent waters. Elaine had told them that the Veidimen were going to be coming by today—Argrave hoped to the pickup some Ebonice here. Considering Jast was a city of magic, it stood to reason the smugglers that come here would bring some for protection.

Argrave had taken some extra days to do that little display with Durran. He didn’t like idling about for too long, but he felt this matter was important. It came with a bright side—they managed to catch one of the Veidimen smuggler’s arrival times.

“I’m really glad I remembered the date of the collapse right,” Argrave confided with Galamon. “The whole thing could have gone extremely sour. Could’ve taken the guy out drinking, wasted time telling stupid stories. I always thought I had a bad memory. I guess I was very wrong. I just hope it works…” Argrave kicked the tip of his boots against the ground.

“He’ll be reliable,” Galamon nodded.

Argrave turned his head. “You think?”

“Had soldiers like him once,” Galamon crossed his arms. “Capable, but individualistic. Punishing turns them into troublemakers.” His teeth showed in the faintest of smiles. “Develop a rapport, show your own capability. That’s the path to respect.”

Argrave looked to Galamon, feeling a bit more confident now that he’d weighed in. He appreciated Anneliese and Galamon much more now that he’d dealt with a third party member who was not so compliant. Someday, he’d like to do something to show his appreciation.

A thanks is a nice place to start, Argrave mused. As he opened his mouth, Galamon shifted.

“Boat,” he said, tone low. “Big. Eight on it. A galley, probably, and rowed.”

Argrave dismissed his thoughts and focused on the matter at hand. Though it was not even in vision, that soon changed—first, Argrave saw the disturbed water, and then a galley came into view, just as Galamon had said. It was painted for night travel, barely visible against the black sky marking the horizon.

Soon enough, it rowed into view of the lights within the smugglers cove. The giant paddles sticking out of its side were retracted, pulled into the boat, and it slowly drifted. A dockworker—one of Elaine’s men—moved to receive the boat. Argrave and Galamon moved towards where it was slated to harbor.

The lookout of the boat spotted Galamon and Argrave, and her eyes stayed on them curiously. Soon enough, the boat was docked, tied by a thick, hearty rope. One of Elaine’s men came on and explained the situation. Argrave could barely hear his name, but perhaps it was his imagination.

Once the situation was explained, the lookout of the Veidimen stepped off her boat onto the docks and moved towards Galamon and Argrave speedily. Galamon tensed, fearing what was about to happen. Argrave remained relaxed. The Veidimen soon stood before them.

woman lookout asked, standing before him cautiously. She had a certain cheery intensity

“Once,” he confirmed tensely.

her mouth. “I cannot believe it. I never thought…” she shook her head wildly, like she was meeting

on the pommel of the Giantkillers at his belt. “Gold of hair,

him,” she smiled excitedly. “I cannot wait to tell him

a glance at Argrave, perplexed. He only returned with a smile, amused at his friend’s bewilderment. Argrave knew well that Galamon was still revered by the Veidimen, despite both his vampirism and his exile. He was not welcome in Veiden, true enough, but the people still loved

Argrave. “You must be the First Finger

Argrave asked loudly, taken

human to set foot on Veiden, spurred by the god of knowledge himself,”

am,” he

alone against the calamity,” she

“Hardly alone. But yes, I have that great misfortune.” He shook his head. “Not

she looked between the two of

hope you’re not asking me to explain what that is,” Argrave said

dulled

he’s been using it responsibly. An unfortunate happening made it lost to us. This is for Galamon, not for me. An axe, preferably, or whatever you have on

see what I can get from

walked away. Argrave watched him. A

me,” he said quietly,

“Should they?” Argrave questioned.

said resolutely. “I am an abomination before

for decades? You had

me,” Galamon nodded. “But… everyone? They must hate me. It is only right. I

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