Disciple of War Disciple of War (Art of the Adept #4) - Michael G. Manning Page 0,98

a strictly need-to-know basis, just between the two of us. If he doesn’t like my plan, he won’t go along with it. Even if you don’t trust me, trust his judgment.”

The field marshal started to open his mouth to protest, but Commander Bradshaw put a hand on his shoulder. “Calm down, Felix,” he said, using Lustral’s first name. “We’re all nervous, but I trust Mark’s opinion. If he thinks the plan won’t wash, he won’t stay silent.”

Will saw Lambel and Hargast relax slightly as Bradshaw spoke, and he felt sure he’d gotten past the hard part. After a bit more grumbling the meeting was adjourned and the officers returned to their men, leaving Will alone with Sub-Marshal Nerrow.

Before Will could say anything else, Mark said, “Thank you, for the regeneration potion. They told me Laina would surely have died without it.”

He nodded. “It wasn’t even a choice. She’s probably the most important person to me in this army currently.”

“Then our personal priorities are aligned,” said Will’s father. “Although we have to subordinate them to the army’s needs. I hope you have a good plan after all the drama you created during the meeting.”

“I do.”

“Should I call for Scholar Sundy then? She has all the details regarding the rituals we can use.”

Will nodded. “I would like to look at them. Just to see what is available in the future, plus it will help reassure those who doubt me.”

His father’s eyes narrowed. “It sounds as though you don’t intend to use them.”

He hoped honesty was the best course. “That’s correct.”

“Despite our connection, I’m still going to need more information,” said the baron. “Thousands of lives are at stake. I won’t pretend to believe in something if I don’t know what it is. First, let me ask, you think we have a spy among us, don’t you?”

Will nodded again. “The less said about that the better.” He quickly constructed a force-dome around them and spent a minute examining the area around them, to be sure no astral witnesses were present. “I have suspicions, but I don’t want to talk about them until I know something concrete. I’ll tell you what I plan for Klendon, though.”

“I’m guessing this means I’m the only one you trust,” said the sub-marshal ruefully.

“We’ve had our differences, but I don’t doubt your intentions,” said Will.

“Trust is a rare commodity for someone in your position, William, but be careful in giving it out. I’m glad you trust me, but in your place, I’m not sure if I would have done the same.”

“If I can’t trust you then I have even bigger problems. Now, down to brass tacks. First, I have to insist that even after I confide in you, I’ll want you to keep the plan secret even from your own staff. I don’t want any instructions issued or officers brought into this until the last possible moment, which will probably be after we’re in position at Klendon.” He began explaining, slowly and carefully.

Mark Nerrow listened seriously, and though he asked for clarification several times, he didn’t argue or debate. At the end he made several suggestions, which Will thought might help refine his idea, so he agreed.

“It’s a sound stratagem,” said his father, “with a fair chance of success, but the potential risk is high. If it falls apart, the losses will be extreme. We probably wouldn’t have the resources left to continue the campaign, and after returning to Terabinia the blame will fall squarely on your shoulders. Have you considered that?”

“Not only mine,” Will pointed out. “As the person who vouchsafed for me, there might be serious consequences for you as well.”

The sub-marshal raised one brow. “Are you trying to talk me out of supporting you?”

“Just giving you the same consideration,” said Will, smiling faintly. “Though it’s clear you’ve already made your choice.”

Mark Nerrow grinned. “I’d say the chances are better that we’ll succeed. The potential risk is great, but the reward justifies taking the chance. Let’s call Scholar Sundy. You still need to see the rituals she’s brought.”

“And we need her advice about the bridges,” Will reminded.

“Even so.”

Chapter 27

It was late by the time Elizabeth Sundy and Mark Nerrow returned to their own tents and Will was finally left to his own devices. It had been a long day and he was exhausted, but tired or not, he still had more to do. He’d planned to have Laina and Darla guard him for his forays into the astral, but both of those notables were still recovering, so