Kael looked at him for a moment. Then he nodded, turning on his heel.
"Follow me."
Alaric fell into step behind him, maintaining a respectful distance as they crossed the square.
Kael pushed the inn's door.
Creak!
Inside, the atmosphere was warm.
Kael chose a table near the window, good light, view of the street, far enough from others that conversation wouldn't carry. He dropped into a chair.
Alaric sat across from him, settling in with deliberate ease.
Kael leaned back in his chair, arms crossing over his chest. His eyes fixed on Alaric with renewed intensity.
"Now." His tone was all business. "Tell me what important business you have with Lord Rothgar."
Alaric smirked. His hand slipped inside his coat, fingers finding the inner pocket and pulled out a small knife.
Nothing ornate. Just a blade about four inches long, straight-edged, with a plain wooden handle wrapped in worn leather. The kind of utility knife any traveler might carry.
Except for the blade itself.
