Page 1 of Kingdom of Tomorrow (Book of Arden #1)

To: Tagin Dolion

From: Baracas Heta

Subject: A potential problem

Your Highness,

The following is an encrypted exchange between the Soalian known as Sparrow and an unknown associate referred to as “Unicorn.” How would you like me to proceed?

Begin Exchange

Sparrow: You’re ready for your first mission. Agreed?

Unicorn: Considering I submitted a formal request eight months ago, yes. Agreed.

Sparrow: You weren’t ready then. You’re barely ready now.

Unicorn: Have you even read my file? I’m the best of the best.

Sparrow: We’ll find out soon enough. You will recruit Arden Roosa.

Unicorn: Seriously, read my file. The best of the best—in battle. Recruiting isn’t my thing.

Sparrow: Recruiting is every Soalian’s thing. But don’t worry, I’ll take care of introductions.

Unicorn: Why do you want her? Who is she?

Sparrow: She’s the one you will recruit, as previously stated.

Unicorn: Stop being stubborn. Why should I risk my life for hers?

Sparrow: The Book of Soal. Why else?

Unicorn: The Book is your answer for everything. But why seek Arden Roosa specifically? (See? I can be stubborn too.)

Sparrow: Perhaps you need a reminder of law 2.1.5.44. Book of Soal, volume 2, section 1, paragraph 5, verse 44: Whenever it is within your power, aid the maddened.

Sparrow: You were once maddened, yet I risked my life to recruit You , a snot-nosed kid whose issues had issues.

Unicorn: Fine. I’ll do it. But you may not like my methods.

Sparrow: What, are you going to use your “signature charm?”

Unicorn: . . .

Unicorn: . . .

Unicorn: Maybe.

Sparrow: Soal help us all.

End of Exchange

To: Baracas Heta

From: Tagin Dolion

Subject: re: A potential problem

This is a job for the High Prince. My son lacks charm, but he never fails.