Free Rise Of Empire by Michael J. Sullivan

assault. Also, an alliance with the Nationalists could very well be the advantage we need to persuade Trent to enter the war on our side.”
    “That’s fine,” Royce replied. “I expected as much, but did you have to deliver this information yourself? Don’t you trust your messengers?”
    “One can never be too careful. Besides, I’m coming with you.”
    “What?” Royce asked, stunned.
    Hadrian burst into laughter. “I knew you’d love that part,” he said, grinning with the delight of a man blessed with immunity.
    “I am the Ambassador of Melengar, and this is a diplomatic mission. Events are transpiring rapidly and negotiations may need to be altered to suit the situation. I’ve got to go because neither of you can speak for the kingdom. I can’t trust anyone, not even you two, with such an important mission. This meeting will likely determine whether or not Melengar survives another year. I hope you understand the necessity of having me along.”
    Royce considered the proposal for a few minutes. “You and your brother understand that I cannot guarantee your safety?”
    She nodded.
    “You also understand that between now and the time we reach Gaunt, you’ll be required to obey Hadrian and myself and you won’t be provided any special treatment because of your station?”
    “I expect none. However, it must also be understood that I’m Alric’s representative and, as such, speak with his voice. So where safety and methods are concerned, you’re granted authority, and I’ll follow your direction, but as far as overall mission goals are concerned, I reserve the right to redirect or extend the mission if necessary.”
    “And do you also possess the power to guarantee additional payment for additional services?”
    “I do.”
    “I now pronounce you client and escort,” Hadrian said with a grin.
    “As for you,” Royce told him, “you’d better have some coffee.”
    “I’m not going, Royce.”
    “What’s this all about?” Arista asked.
    Royce scowled and shook his head at her.
    “Don’t shut her up,” Hadrian said. He turned to the princess and added, “I’ve officially resigned from Riyria. We’re divorced. Royce is single now.”
    “Really?” Arista said. “What will you do?”
    “He’s going to sober up and get his gear.”
    “Royce, listen to me. I mean it. I’m not going. There is nothing you can say to change my mind.”
    “Yes, there is.”
    “What, have you come up with another fancy philosophical argument? It’s not going to work. I told you I’m done. It’s over. I’m not kidding. I’ve had it.” Hadrian watched his partner suspiciously.
    Royce simply looked back with a smug expression. At last, Hadrian asked, “Okay, what is it? I’m curious now. What do you think you could possibly say to change my mind?”
    Royce hesitated a moment, glancing uncomfortably at Arista, then sighed. “Because I’m asking you to—as a favor. After this mission, if you still feel the same way, I won’t fight you and we can part as friends. But I’m asking you now—as my friend—to please come with me just one last time.”
    Just then, the barmaid arrived at the table.
    “Another round?”
    Hadrian did not look at her. He continued to stare at Royce, then sighed.
    “Apparently not. I guess I’ll take a cup of coffee, strong and black.”

S HERIDAN

     
    T rapped in her long dress and riding cloak, Arista baked as the heat of summer arrived early in the day. Making matters worse, Royce insisted she travel with her hood up. She wondered at its value, as she guessed she was just as conspicuous riding so heavily bundled as she would be if riding naked. Her clothes stuck to her skin and it was difficult to breathe, but she said nothing.
    Royce rode slightly ahead on his gray mare, which, to Arista’s surprise, they called Mouse. A cute name—not at all what she had expected. As always, Royce was dressed in black and grays, seemingly oblivious to the heat. His eyes scanned the