SWNOVELS Chapter Savage and the Stone Board
“That went well.” A low gravelly voice rose from several feet ahead of Chavias in the tree.
Chavias’ gaze shot forward, adjusting from the vibrance of the candlelit chamber to the dark night. He spotted Savage standing leisurely on the thick branch of the tree. A hand calmly resting on one higher, near his head.
Thadeus comfortably perched on Savage’s shoulder.
He trusts him now? Apparently, the traitorous bird had found the younger man’s shoulder when he’d abandoned Chavias.
Which means he was close enough for Thadeus to find.
He’s been following us. For how long? The thought was somewhat eerie, since Chavias hadn’t sensed at all that they were tailed.
“Splendid.” Chavias agreed sardonically.
“Why’d you kill her?”
“Didn’t like what she had to say.” Chavias eased past him. Still wiping palms on his pants as he hopped to the grass below.
Savage on his heels. “You didn’t like anything that just happened in there.”
“They’re a threat to my Captain.”
“Former Captain?” Savage’s voice was soft. He’d paused, knowing the words would cut Chavias.
Why?
“Ouch. Is there a meaning for your wounding?”
“To get your attention.” Savage Jaxson cocked his head. Wood warrior beads clinking next to his face. “You don’t have to do whatever Radix has in store for you.”
“Yes, I do.” Chavias kept walking.
He heard Savage on his heels but Chavias’ usual joy in their odd companionship was dampened by the danger to the Fallen. A threat I can’t think how to circumvent.
I don’t even know what Worthington will do! Chavias paused. Rotating to stare back up at the window. I could beat it out of him.
That’d qualify as hurting him. And would illicit Radix taking swift, brutal, action.
Dammit. What do I do?
“I’ve a query.” Savage said, distracting him momentarily.
Interesting.
“Regarding what?”
“That stone board of Radix’s. I saw it many times but couldn’t get close enough to look at them.”
The table in his personal chambers.
“What would you know of it?”
“The names of the pieces.” Savage said tonelessly.
The players Radix maneuvers.
“I don’t know who they are.” He stopped walking. Back ramrod straight.
How many times have I wondered, myself?
“But I will find out.” Chavias agreed.
“Be careful…” Savage Jaxson cautioned. There was a long pause before he murmured. “Your mind is heavy, Old Friend.” He said. “Anybody you want me to kill?”
“Yes, Radix.”
Savage went very still. “In truth?”
Chavias sent him a derisive look. Aggravated to see no trace of fear in the other man’s face. “You know better!”
“You said it.” He was very still. “We could do it.”
“No. If we fail everyone dies.”
“Who’s to say we would?”
“Savage, for all your darkness and death, you’re astonishingly optimistic. Almost hopeful. Something I’ve never given due attention before.”
“No. I’m a bloodthirsty man. Quite simple really.” Savage shrugged. Glancing away.
False.
“Nothing simple about you, My Boy…” Chavias had rotated to walk again and stopped when the silence was prolonged. “I didn’t mean that. You’re right. You’re no boy.” He didn’t turn around but heard Savage walking away.
Gratified. I hope.
I’d not insult him. He’s never done me wrong.