Marcus and Liz walked back through the marketplace in silence, both lost in their own thoughts. Vendors called out their wares. Children ran between the stalls, laughing. Normal life continuing like the world wasn't about to get complicated.
"We need to prepare," Liz finally said. "If we're really doing this."
"We are." Marcus's voice left no room for doubt.
"But first, I need to finish up with something. Get stronger. Whatever's waiting in Ashveil, I'm not walking in unprepared." He paused, jaw tightening. "Though the longer we wait, the more disastrous it'll be for Corvin. Don't know if he's already dead now."
"Meh, I'm confused?" Liz stopped walking and turned to face him. "He went out of his way for us. Basically, you would've slept in that cell for who knows how long.
Marcus smirked while facing down. "It would never had come to that."
Liz's eyes widened slightly. "I hope it's not what I'm thinking you were planning?"
Marcus didn't answer, which was answer enough.
