Caliphate

Castle Honsvang, Province of Baya, 23 Muharram,

1538 AH (3 November, 2113)

"I'm pulling up to the castle gate," Hans told Hamilton through the earpiece communicator. "Be very still."

"I understand," Hamilton sent back. He felt the brakes bite, heard their screech. The truck slowed and then shuddered to a stop.

"Evening, sir," the gate guard said. "You're back late."

"I was out looking for a place for a night exercise," Hans lied. "I think I found a good one, too."

"Allah help us, sir," the guard answered, rolling his eyes heavenward but then smiling to show it was a friendly joke. He turned around and lifted the crossbar from across the roadway. Without another word, but with a friendly wave, Hans guided the truck into the compound. Before reaching the castle proper, into which the truck would never fit, Hans turned right and drove toward the motor park. There he stopped, put on the emergency brake, but left the engine running for the moment.

"We're here," he whispered into his communicator. "There's a roving guard walking by. I may have to speak to him. I'll let you know when it's clear."