Cardinal Eldrian, Aaron, and Koen were walking down the gravel path down the side of the Montrose church. On the side, were more headstones, a lot like the front. The path winds through the headstones and ends at the east gate, which is commonly used by the assassins to keep them separated from the civilians.

“So who am I being forced to work with?” Aaron asked looking at Cardinal Eldrian.

“He’s a very skilled assassin in the making. He’s still an acolyte currently. His name is Daniel McClure. He’s also a big fan of yours.” Cardinal Eldrian finished saying with a slight grin.

Aaron sighed and stopped, “I’m babysitting?”

“Not babysitting. Teaching.” Cardinal Eldrian and Koen both stopped and turned towards Aaron, “You are going to teach this young man. This is the only way you’ll be able to stay in the Shadows.”

Aaron continued walking behind them down the path. When they reached the east gate, they could see a tall figure, a short figure, and another figure that was obviously Cardinal Minerva. They all turned to face the new group walking their way.

“Aaron Fritter meet Daniel McClure.” Cardinal Eldrian gestured to the tall man standing next to Cardinal Minerva. He held out his hand towards Aaron. Aaron looked at his hand and then at Cardinal Eldrian.

“Shake his hand.”

Aaron reaches out and grips Daniel’s hand, who begins to shake it vigorously. “It’s an honor to meet you sir. I’ve been looking forward to this since they told me that I would be working with you on this assignment.”

Aaron stares at Cardinal Eldrian. He can see the failing attempt to hide a smile. Aaron grabbed onto Daniel’s hand to slow it down long enough to pull his hand away.

“So what assignment are we doing?” Aaron asks turning towards Cardinal Eldrian.

“You two are going to Greyspire. You’re assigned to protect and escort a member of the Syrax family.” Cardinal Minerva told Aaron.

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“Which member?” Daniel had asked.

“Thana Syrax. The only daughter of the head of the family, Ezekiel Syrax.” Cardinal Eldrian said while observing Aaron’s reaction.

Aaron just looked at Cardinal Eldrian until he finally said, “Where is Ms. Syrax being escorted to?”

“They will tell you that when you get to Greyspire.” Cardinal Eldrian says.

Aaron just nods and walks up to Daniel, “Are you ready to leave now? I’d like to go as soon as possible. The sooner we get this done, the better.”

“I just need to grab my bag and then I’ll be ready.”

“Good. The grab it.”

Daniel, Cardinal Minerva, walk back towards the church and they stop at the door. Aaron turns to Cardinal Eldrian, “What’s with the escort job?”

“The family wants to make sure that Ms. Syrax get to her destination safely. They believe that she needs to be protected by assassins because they’ve heard that someone has sent someone out to kill her.”

“Ezekiel Syrax has been paranoid about assassins since his head was targeted years ago. This is easily a one man job. I don’t need a partner.”

“The council’s decision is final. It’s either you and him go or just him. On this job, I want your set of skills. As well as to train Mr. McClure.”

Aaron sighs and pulls his satchel over his head as he sees Daniel and Cardinal Minerva walking back. Aaron looks over and realize that the short individual looked like he was a young man. He looks like he’s not a full grown man yet, but he’s not a boy either. He’s shorter than Aaron and Cardinal Eldrian. He turns towards Aaron and smiles.

“Who is he?” Aaron asks Cardinal Eldrian.

“That’s Cardinal Minerva’s rector, Miro. He normally just keeps to himself. I wouldn’t worry to much about him.”

Aaron turns back as Daniel and Cardinal Minerva walk up to them. Daniel is now carrying a big bag on his back.

“I’m ready to go.”

“Then let’s go.”

“May the Shadow Walker guide you. May the Shadow Maiden hide you.”

Aaron and Daniel started walking down the dirt road. Cardinal Eldrian and Koen both turned and walked back into the church. Cardinal Minerva and Miro were left standing at the gate.

“Did you make sure they had it?”

Miro turned to her and nodded.

“Good. Let’s head inside. We have other matters to discuss.”