I settled into my study chair, fingers steepled as Roric and Cassian Vance stood before my desk. The afternoon sun cast long shadows across the floor, highlighting the grim determination on their faces.
"Report," I commanded, cutting straight to the matter at hand.
Roric stepped forward, a dangerous glint in his eye. "I followed Lady Beatrix as instructed, Your Grace. She went to the Red Fox Inn on the eastern edge of town."
"And?" I prompted, already sensing the satisfaction in his tone.
"She has a secret room there. Paid in advance for three months." Roric's mouth curved into a cold smile. "She didn't notice me trailing her. When she left, I waited a quarter hour before confronting her in a secluded alley."
I nodded, approval evident in my gaze. "And?"
"I sliced her face," he stated plainly. "Not enough to kill, of course. Just enough to ensure she understands the consequences of targeting the Duchess."
