The corner of Kale's mouth curved into a faint, almost imperceptible smile. It seemed that coward Albert had truly gotten hold of some useful information and was eager to claim credit before him—or seek instructions for what to do next.
He hesitated no longer. His body leapt lightly as though weightless; with one hand pressing against the top of the courtyard wall, he flipped over it and landed without a sound. Rather than use the front door, he followed the shadows along the outer wall of the house and climbed nimbly up to the second-floor balcony like a gecko. His movements were practiced and seasoned; he was clearly an expert at this.
The balcony window was left ajar, a narrow gap between its panels. Kale gently pushed it open and slipped silently into the lit study like a nocturnal civet cat.
Inside the study, the scene remained unchanged. Albert sat behind the desk with his back to the window, seemingly holding a cup in his hand. He leaned forward slightly, looking restless and ill at ease.
Hearing the faint sound behind him, he shuddered all over and spun around like a startled rabbit. His face still bore the cringing, nervous, ingratiating expression Kale knew so well.
Kale wore the smile of a man with everything in his grasp. He closed the window behind him and drew the curtains before strolling leisurely to the desk, his gaze falling on Albert's face. "It seems Mr. Albert's intelligence gathering was faster than I expected. You called for me in such a hurry—do you have good news to tell me?"
He leaned forward slightly and lowered his voice, carrying an oppressive force that brooked no doubt. "Now tell me: where exactly has Her Highness the Princess been transferred to?"
Albert looked at him. The