fly on the wall
“It’s a shame, really.” Lining up her shot, Adelaide drove the cue stick forward, breaking the rack with a series of loud clacks. The result was disappointing and admittedly not her best break.
“And what exactly would that be?” Harlan was focused on lining up his own shot, walking carefully around the table, studying the field from every angle.
“I’m going to have to kill her eventually. Rendain’s ineptitude in the matter is clear and his Thrall don’t stand a chance against Valeria. She’s smart; she knows what she’s doing and none of Rendain’s defenses seem to have slowed her down so far. I’m actually impressed. If she weren’t going to die I might have tried to genuinely befriend her, or at least ally myself with her. I like the way she thinks.” His shot sent two into the pockets. He stopped between shots, studying her face with an undecipherable expression. “I know. You would rather I not kill anyone, but it’s going to be them or me. If I have to snap Reyna Valeria’s neck to get what I want she’s practically dead already. At least I’ll have the look on her face to look forward to when she realizes what’s going on. Still, it’s a shame.”
“And if you can’t get to her? You said she’s smart.”
“Smart, but not omniscient. I’m sure she doesn’t know I’m working for Rendain and she has no idea what I’m capable of. Let her try to outwit me, we’ll see how long she can keep it up but I won’t be losing to her.”
“Adelaide, the first mistake–”
“I know. Which is why I’ve continued to associate myself with her. She may be an impressive leader, but what will she do with no one left to lead? What will her mess of a crew do without their fearless leader? If I can get within striking range she doesn’t stand a chance.”
Harlan sighed, setting his cue stick aside and shoving his hands into his pockets. “I hope it doesn’t come to that.”
“For her sake, so do I. It’s still your turn.”
