Craddock was stony-faced when Aubrey shared his insight. Tallis swore, loudly enough to make all the people in the room look his way before hastily returning to their business. ‘We have squads ready to board Tremaine’s fleet and take him,’ he said, ‘as long as that magic whatnot is available. Craddock?’
Craddock eyed Aubrey. ‘We’ve had magical teams at work on altitude enhancements in order to get our aircraft up to Tremaine’s skyfleet. The notes you left about your levitation escapade in Lutetia last year have been helpful.’
‘Ah. I may have something to add to that.’
‘You’ll have a chance to implement it in person, then.’
‘Sir?’
‘When I said that we were throwing everything at Tremaine, that’s what I meant. Is your unit able to go?’
Aubrey went to speak, but first looked to his friends. They were ready: he could see it. They were steady, determined, unfazed by the possibilities that lay ahead, and he knew he was lucky to have them as friends.
Aubrey saluted. ‘Sirs. Permission to depart.’
‘Permission granted,’ Craddock said. ‘And godspeed.’