Planning and Failing

Chapter 48

Things had escalated from idle talk to building an actual plan of action. The Order members Laine and Vorrak, along with Prince Taka and his circle of war strategists, were all gathered in the royal strategy room. 

We stood poring over a large stone table with a glowing map carved into its surface. I squinted at the chart, trying to look thoughtful enough to avoid people guessing that I was actually clueless. The sea chart was rather confusing, and I couldn't figure out what any of the symbols meant. 

I could barely tell which direction was "up." 

So, I settled for rubbing my chin like I had an idea what I was doing. Classic strategy: fake competence and hope no one notices.

Prince Taka, as ever, explained the battle plan. His voice was sharp, clear, and a little too confident for someone who had so much to lose.