Free Lair of Killers by Will Molinar Page B

acolyte ushered Muldor into the large room, he was asked to sit before it.
    The chair was of the highest quality, with fine silk draping over thick oak. It was very comfortable and easy to get lost in. The environment was tranquil and serene, with light cascading down through the window in a transfixing kaleidoscope of colors. It was stunning and had the effect of lulling one to sleep with its power.
    Muldor knew Becket would appreciate the scene, but he pushed the artistic ruminations aside for the moment and knuckled down his mental capacity, for it would have been needed in the minutes ahead.
    Morlin stood at the window and remained there for a few moments longer, even after the Guild Master sat. The Arc Lector looked back over his shoulder and smiled. The smile and attempt to comfort him with the look seemed sincere, and this unsettled Muldor even more than a glance of contempt would have.
    “What a beautiful city we have,” the Arc Lector said. “It is a wonderful complex entity that whirls and flexes with a myriad of parts all jumbled together to create a synergistic whole.” His smile deepened as he sat. “I sometimes forget how this city moves, the intricate parts and how they work together. It is fascinating to watch.”
    “I suppose a man in your lofty position has a very good opportunity to watch many things, being so high above the common man.”
    The smile crinkled. “Indeed. Guild Master,” he said and walked around to come in front of Muldor, his thin hand extended. Muldor took it, staying wary. The grip’s strength was surprising. “I have not yet congratulated on your recent promotion. Forgive the transgression. There is no better man for the position.”
    Muldor shook the proffered hand and let go. “I thank you, Lector Morlin. The Guild has been my life’s work, but I would have never imagined being its leader one day. I am humbled by the placement.”
    Morlin patted his shoulder and went back to his side of the desk. “This is the perfect reason for you to be promoted to the position. Your concern for your people is well known, Master Muldor. Kudos to your sacrifice. It has not gone unnoticed.”
    They were watching Muldor. It was no surprise and was to be expected in fact. Perhaps he would have to assign some of his own people to keep an eye on the comings and goings of the church personnel.
    The Arc Lector steepled his hands in front of his face. “So, Guild Master, what is it that brings you to our humble sanctuary this morning?”
    “Nothing in particular, your grace. The church is something I have little experience with, and I had some spare time this morning, so….”
    Morlin’s chuckle was airy and amused, not condescending. “I doubt very much you have ‘free time’ as you say. Forgive my amusement at your expense. I meant no disrespect, but you are far too busy a man to have time to spare to come here willy-nilly. Please, humor me and tell me what is on your mind. Believe that I am a good listener, it comes with the position as Arc Lector.”
    Muldor gazed at the man, his eyes blank. The Arc Lector stared back, his intelligent eyes full of expectant warmth. It was like looking into the eyes of a loving parent. But Muldor had his doubts. He stood and indicted the window.
    Morlin spread his hands. “By all means.”
    Muldor went to the window and peered out. Among the stained glass, there was a clear spot of regular glass that allowed him to see the portion of the inlet leading to the shipping yards. The rushing water flowed by, slapping against the rocks on the north shore. The sheer cliffs rose above the limits of his vision. The rock was a light brown in color, nearer to where the water hit the sides, where an eternity of time had carved a path to the ocean beyond.
    “Your mind is on your fleet,” Morlin said. “Is it not, Guild Master? I suspect they are making good progress by now. I congratulate you again on its construction. War and the resultant death are abhorrent,