* * * * *
The next few days flew by in a rush. We had agreed to lay low in the monastery, hoping that Fuchs would never hear about my chase through the city. This seemed like a shallow hope, but what could we do? I was certain that Logan and Phillip were becoming more than anxious in the cramped way-station, but it simply wasn't worth the risk to be expedient. Jacob continued to heal, although any large movements sent jolts of pain through his back. It would be weeks before he healed well enough to actually participate in any action we planned.
I had indeed shaved and was getting used to the look. In truth, the change was stark. I felt like a child once more. Eva enjoyed my consternation at the adjustment and made playful jibes to that effect. I found I enjoyed her company more and more. It couldn't last though, and after relaxing amid the brothers' care for half a week, we resolved to set things in motion.
The monks were sad to see us leave. Abbot Baum had joked about how adventuresome it was to have us there. He mourned the king's loss, of course. As Eva said, they'd been apparently very close. But he found us to be a respite from the routine that hovered around the place. Despite their sadness, the brothers were willing to assist us even more. They resolved to conduct subtle forays about the city, listening for any pertinent news. The brothers lavished their meager funds on us. We tried to refuse this money, but they were insistent. In the end, we took the crowns and promised to put them to good use. What's more, the monks raised our petitions in prayer, and I felt deeply reassured at their religious intercession. In the days ahead we'd need all the help available.
With their blessings, Eva and Jacob departed at dawn. Loading Jacob into the carriage proved difficult. The transition elicited sharp grunts of pain from the man, but he refused to complain. We'd cropped his hair short to avoid detection, but even so, every precaution was necessary. As quickly as possible, we sent the vehicle off down the deserted street. The trip to Hemline and Simon's fencing school was supposed to take several days, but once they arrived, the two would brief the Frenchman on the situation. With any luck he'd accept our plea to help and provide a safe-house for our preparations.
At sunset, it'd be my turn to go.
The Faith: Book I of the Uprising Trilogy Page 25