While Sidal was elated by the evidence they had uncovered, Ezra found himself far less interested in the mountain of stolen records.
Analyzing trade routes, identifying vulnerabilities, and leveraging the information into a strategic advantage were matters better left to Sidal and Frederick.
Both men possessed the patience and disposition necessary to navigate merchant politics and economic maneuvering.
As had already been agreed upon during the meeting, they would oversee that aspect of the operation.
Ezra's attention remained fixed elsewhere.
Jakin. Whose name Sidal had unintentionally reminded him.
The captured operative represented something far more valuable than ledgers, manifests, or coded correspondence.
Information becomes outdated, trade networks shift.
People, however, were different.
Jakin had been the most dangerous variable on the enemy's side.
By removing him from the board, Ezra had effectively cut off a large source of worry.
