119
“Let’s not rush in there,” you say, echoing Mae’s advice. Ashur nods his agreement.
They’re still looking at you, which is what clues you in that they don’t just want a decision—they want a plan. “Um, okay,” you continue. “Who’s the best at… moving around undetected?”
The other three exchange a glance. “Ashur,” Mae and Tarquin say, almost in unison. There’s a beat and then Ashur, who didn’t join in, admits, “Probably me.”
“Right,” you say. “Okay. Ashur—” and you still can’t get over how strange it is to call the Viper by an actual name, like he’s just a person you met at the market “—there’s a ledge over there. I bet you can get around behind them through the tunnels, or up above us. Flank them and let us know what you find?” It’s a question, because you can stomach calling the Viper by his first name, but there’s no way you can give him an order.
He nods. “Good thinking,” he says. “I’ll go up.”
“Of course he will,” Tarquin says, rolling his eyes. “Closest thing he’s got to a rooftop.”