The councilwoman took a moment to compose herself.

“I trust there will be no more interruptions?” Her gaze cut through both of us.

Neither of us could speak. We both just shook our heads.

“Good.” She shuffled some papers in front of her, “Your mission is to go to Port Town and check it for zombie activity.” She held up two pieces of paper, “Here are your travel documents. You are to report back in a month.”

The Junk apprentice didn’t move, so I stepped forward and took the papers. Since neither of us had marks, there was no way for the humans to know that we were with the Bokor. The papers were signed in heart stone ink and would serve as our verification. They were only good for one month, but for that month, we commanded the authority of the Bokor whenever we showed the papers.

I walked back over to the Junk apprentice and handed him his paper. I stood at attention and waited for further instructions while he looked it over.

The councilwoman glared at us, “What are you waiting for?” She growled, “You’re dismissed!”

I turned and hurried out of the room with the Junk apprentice on my heels. We didn’t stop moving until we were outside.

I began to plan out what we would need before we left when Master Junk came around the corner.

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“Follow me,” He ordered as he walked by.

I didn’t want to follow after someone who had just challenged the council, but obeying him right now wasn’t violating our mission. Disobeying a Master was a punishable offense.

He led us into the garden and didn’t stop until we reached the apple trees on the far side. It was one of the most open areas of the garden, and also one of the least colorful.

I wondered why he took us there but didn’t ask. I just wanted to start the mission so I could get on to the next one and become a Master.

He looked around like he was checking for eavesdroppers, “What’s your mission?”

“I don’t think that the council would like us talking to you about that,” I said.

His apprentice handed his paper over, “A scouting mission to Port Town. We have one month to return.”

I scowled at my partner but said nothing. A fight here would just delay us.

“Port Town?” Master Junk looked up like he was calculating, “That should be enough time.” He handed the paper back.

“Enough time for what?” I asked. I really wanted to start the mission, but I was curious about what he was planning. Plus, the council might ask me when we reported once we got back. I didn’t want to get in trouble because I didn’t ask questions when I had the opportunity.

Master Junk ignored me, “Max, I won’t be here when you get back.” He looked at both of us, “This is an easy mission, but Port Town is dangerous. Guard those papers, they’re your ticket home.”

He turned and walked away before I had a chance to ask anything else. I wondered why he wouldn’t be here when we got back. I thought about going back to the Council, but that thought only lasted a moment. I knew nothing for certain and I didn’t want to be held up any more than we already had been.

I tugged on Max’s arm and urged him towards the exit. It was time to start our mission.