Chapter 15 · The Ash Ledger - Chapter 15: The Hunter's Price

Soren held the signed warrant in his hand. His hand didn't shake. Couldn't. Not in front of Lord Harwick and his two guards.

"You want me to burn the refugee quarter," Soren said.

"We want you to contain a security risk." Harwick adjusted his cuff. The ring on his finger caught the lamplight, some kind of red stone Soren didn't recognize. "The mark-bearer was seen near the east shelters two hours ago. Fire spreads. Unfortunate, but predictable."

Soren looked at the ink. Official seal, dated today, signed by three Council members. Harwick's name at the bottom.

"There are four hundred people in that quarter," Soren said.

Harwick smiled. Thin. Polite. "And your family is in the north wing guest housing. Comfortable, I hope?"

There it was.

Soren folded the warrant. Slipped it into his coat. "I'll need two hours."

"One," Harwick said. "The mark-bearer moves fast. So should you."

Soren turned and walked out. Kept his stride normal. Boots on marble, then stone, then dirt. He didn't look back. Didn't let his jaw tighten until he hit the alley three blocks down.

Then he stopped. Put his hand on the wall.