15
Lugworm had done his work well. The two rat sentries guarding Damug Warfangs shelter of brush and canvas sat upright with four empty grog flasks between them. The crafty stoat had known that the strong drink would be irresistible to beasts standing guard through die cold lonely night hours. Lugworm watched them from his hiding place until he was sure the pair were sleeping soundly. Slipping away he found Borumm and Vendace waiting at the place he had arranged to meet them.
Borumm drew his curved dagger, impatient to go about his business. “Everythin ready, mate, coast clear?
Lugworm nodded fearfully, wishing he had never been drawn into the conspiracy to slay the Firstblade. “Aye, tis ready, but go carefully, Damugs a light sleeper.
Vendace drew his blade, suppressing a snigger. “Light sleeper, eh? Well e wont be after tonight!
Lugworm edged away from the would-be assassins nervously. “There, Ive done me bit, the rests up to youse two. But remember, if yer fail an get caught, then not a word about me!
Borumm the weasel kicked out, sending Lugworm sprawling.
Vendace stood over him, snarling scornfully. “Garn, git outta my sight, stoat, yore in this up to yer slimy neck. The only consolation youve got is that we dont intend ter fail, or git caught. Now beat it an keep yer gob shut!
As Lugworm scrambled away whimpering, the fox winked at his cohort. “Well deal wid him tomorrer, no use teavin loose ends lyin about. If Lugworm can betray Damug ed do the same fer us someday. Come on, lets pay the Firstblade a liddle visit.
Damug perched in the branches of the ash Uvc near his shelter, the rat Gribble crouching by his side. Together they watched the weasel and the fox as, daggers drawn, the pan-slid by the two sleeping sentries, silent as night shadows. The Greatrat waited a moment, until he heard blades grating against the sack of stones hed wrapped in his cloak and laid by the fire. Then he nodded to Gribble.
The rat blew two sharp blasts upon a bone whistle.
Pheep! Pheep!
Ten heavily armed Rapmark officers broke cover, rushed in, and surrounded Borumm and Vendace.