The red reflection off of Tertius illuminated the Verdan night so well that Jerabel could barely find shadows large and dark enough to hide his fat torso. These nightly outings had increased in volume for him several times over in the past few months. His Contact in the Tree had more and more calculations for him, and Jerabel was unfortunate enough to have no subordinates.

“I compiled the shipment schedules and have calculated the beat to be in one week. Is that… is that when it is going to happen?”

His Contact said nothing, but identified himself with the Grip, and so Jerabel handed over his calculations.

“The Brotherhood thanks you and prides itself in your work.”

This was it! Jerabel was almost giddy to finally be promoted, awarded subordinates, become their Contact! How he would enjoy his just scheduled 15 cycle vacation! Even as the knife slid into his side he was thinking of how wonderful it was to no longer be the lowest hanging branch, or leaf, or whatnot. Dying hadn’t even crossed his mind.