Page 27 of Salt Between the Wolves

“I think he'll do well.”

Another pause stretched between them.

“Then what's the problem?”

Kael studied him for a moment before answering.

“The patrol was yours.”

The words landed cleanly, without accusation or judgment, which somehow made them harder to dismiss.

Soren turned his attention back to the map.

“There are matters here that require my attention.”

“Of course.”

“Supply negotiations.”

“Mm.”

“The southern alliance situation.”

Kael's mouth twitched slightly.

Soren's expression darkened.

“Say what you mean.”

The hint of amusement vanished immediately.

For a few seconds, Kael simply watched him before shaking his head.

“Nothing.”

It was an obvious lie, and they both knew it, yet neither chose to pursue the matter.

Eventually, Kael crossed the room and reached for the roster.

“I'll inform him.”

Soren inclined his head once.

The matter should have ended there.

It almost did.

Kael reached the door before stopping. Without turning around, he said quietly,

“Riven will be pleased.”

The comment sounded harmless.

It wasn't, because Soren immediately knew who else would be riding with that patrol.

Kael opened the door.

“Good night, Soren.”