Istra led him along a back lane between the upper canal warehouses and into an old counting house still scented with ink and wet rope.
Two of her own people were already inside, one covering the rear door, the other tucking small sealed tags into a case. They did not bow. They studied Lucian with all the interest of men who had decided he was the cause of all this trouble and moved on.
"We leave before fourth bell," Istra said. "Once we're out of Keth-Arel, the city hold does not matter as much. The houses find it harder to grab you. Harder does not mean impossible, so we do not stand around."
Lucian paused by the table where they'd set cases and inspected the room. 'Who would try to stop us here?"
"Tonight? Anyone who thinks you are worth the fine." Istra pulled on a darker glove. "The delegates like their paper and process. The houses favor speed. If either sees you walking with me, speed wins."
