After quite some time, the first to arrive are the guards.
I narrow my eyes, trying to sharpen my sight, and I recognise the uniforms: the royal guards!
«You contacted the Palace!» I whisper to Alexander. There's no need to talk in a low tone since we're far from the crossroad where the slavers will be caught by chance.
However, it feels conspiratorial to whisper all the time. And it reminds me that my husband and I have plotted this together. It's our first joint venture!
«Yes,» he replies, using the same tone. He breathes on my ear, maybe using the chance to stay closer.
«Have you prepared an alibi for when the Viscount suspects you?»
«Yes, wife, of course. During the trial, the guards will say they were sent by his majesty in person. One of the people whose family is lost went to court and asked for help...»
«Which isn't a lie,» I realise, «if you sent one of the bandits as messenger!»
«Yes, my dear. Am I smart, now?»