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I found a hidden spot to observe the entrance Not a lot of e would create a flurry of activity, but the shifts ered Every two hours, some officers went in and three or four would leave Even delivery wagons were few and far between

Janco would be delighted by the challenge, but I wouldn’t ask hih trouble because of me There had to be another way inside

Cold and stiff frouards’ afternoon session with -sleeved tunic tied with a belt, and a pair of loose-fitting pants Both garments were dark brown to hide the bloodstains and dirt I wore my softest pair of leather boots, also broith black rubber soles

I joined Nic and Eve, and it wasn’t long before my stah to getand blocked Nic’s sword a few times before he unar up with her training"

"The ulps of air "What are your next words of wisdoru er "Street fight" He lunged

Not quite a fair th, but I used a few nasty ain

At the end of the training session, my arms ached and I couldn’t lift a sword let alone defend myself All my hard work to reach a coht activity

Eve bumped my shoulder with hers "Don’t worry The skills are there And you’re looking a lot better than the last timeyou"

"Loads better," Nic said "Then I could have blown you over with ivenher head "Trust me, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to slam hi as you’re in Fulgor"

Nic put a sweaty ar shape in no time"

"Great," I said, and held my breath until Nic released iene?" I asked Eve "Is that why the place is called the Pig Pen?"

Her sly smile failed to reassure me

My first impression of the tavern was utter disbelief The place smelled of spiced beef and fresh-baked bread Patrons filled all the tables and a bright fire warh the crowd A bunch of people gathered in front of the bar All the stools should have been occupied, but two reht toward them Eve slid onto hers as Nic called to the bartender He settled in his stool, and before I couldthe bar and an eestured for me to claim it