Snippet #1952764

Corben blinked against the afternoon sun as he stepped outside for the first time since this morning. The dull lighting and stale air of meeting chambers and hidden halls had done little good for his eyes. His engagements had dragged on but considering it was still light he had actually finished earlier than usual. The thought cheered him a bit after the negative outcomes of the day's discussions. Things were in motion that he'd have rather not have. Events triggered events and soon he would be forced into action, already he was receiving instructions to prepare. It made him bristle to contemplate how the council, having remained silent for so long, thought they could now force their will. But they could.
He shook the thought away and allowed his mind to travel to more pleasant concepts. Shai. He grinned.
As he walked across the clearing Cole came up to him quickly, and Corben smile faltered.
"Sir!"
"What is it?"
The guard held out an object silently and Corben took it. It was a piece of green cloth with a dark stain. Raising it slightly Corben inhaled and his frown deepened.
"Blood," he said. "And this cloth... I had garments in something similar my reserve housing..."
He studied the rag a moment longer before looking suddenly back at Cole with dark angry eyes, his voice was low and dangerous when he spoke, "Where is she?"