Free BloodLust (Rise of the Iliri Book 1) by Auryn Hadley Page B

asking them to get horses to move out, but you did.  That's why I wanted to go last, so I didn't give away the answer."
    "It took me a bit," she admitted, aware that he wasn't going to go away, "but the horses they offered didn't make much sense.  Granted, I don't have a lot of riding experience, but I listened when I worked here."
    "Ah, that explains it.  So, I'm better with horses than you, but you obviously fight better than me.  Can't wait to see what's going to be the tie breaker."
    "Me either.  I admit, I'm nervous about it, but I'm ready to know.  I'd wish you luck, but it would be a lie." She shrugged.  Maybe he'd write her off as a threat.
    "Same here.  Let's just wish each other a good recommendation, fair 'nough?"  He held out his hand.
    She took it, disliking the feel of his human flesh.  "Fair 'nough." 
    Knowing she'd passed the test was different than being told, so when the Lieutenant sauntered toward them, her stomach tried to climb out of her throat.  Beside her, Passel stiffened, but the other recruits seemed oblivious to the upcoming culling.  Sal and Passel stood respectfully to face the Lieutenant, but the rest stayed seated, lowering their conversations until they were called to attention.
    The Lieutenant didn't bother.  "Some of you have guessed by now that the horses were a test.  What you may not be aware of is that it was about more than just the horses.  We wanted to determine your situational awareness and your ability to assess the environment.  Only two of you met our expectations," LT said.
    Those were the words that pulled the recruits to their feet.  Shocked expressions on their faces, they muttered in confusion.  Sal couldn't help but think of them as a group; so few of them showed any independence.  It made her appreciate the trials more.  In less than a week, the true character of the soldiers had crept to the surface.  The easily overlooked Passel had become her strongest competition, while the decorated men across from her were barely worth her notice.
    "Lance Corporal Arton Wheton," the Lieutenant went on, "your ability to recognize horseflesh and take initiative has given you a score just high enough to continue with the trials.  Specialist Doron Passel and Private Salryc Luxx, you both completed the task as we hoped, resulting in another passed test.  The rest of you, speak with Arctic.  He will sign your release papers and arrange transport back to your previous post.  The horses you chose will be returned to the pastures, or you have the option of purchasing them at a discount as your bonus for the trials.  Additional training is available at your own expense.  You are dismissed.
    "Wheton, Luxx, and Passel, come with me." the Lieutenant said, turning.
    They followed him through what passed for streets to his room.  Little had changed since her last visit and, at a gesture from LT, Sal found a seat before the desk.  This time, Wheton and Passel flanked her rather than the officers of the Black Blades.
    "Your next trial won't be as easy, I'm afraid," LT began.  "Each of you will have two days to prepare, then you will lead the Blades through a training mission.  Orders will be given immediately before the start time, but you have your assignment now.  I encourage you to use any means necessary to gain intelligence about the mission details."
    "Espionage?" Passel asked.
    "Expected," LT agreed.
    "Rules of engagement?" Wheton wanted to know.
    "Enemy territory."
    Eyes turned to Sal.  With a smirk, she reclined into the chair.  "We can treat off duty personnel as resources?  Is funding for bribes and equipment refundable?  And finally, does our assignment brief list a location?"
    "It does."  LT chose to answer her questions in reverse.  "The assignment lists Stonewater Creek.  You will be given a stipend to draw from for preparations, so those of you with less personal resources will not be unfairly penalized.  And yes, until your start time for the