The first footsteps reached the backyard door.
Simon had not knocked over the shelf because he wanted Sorn and Ossik exposed.
He wanted them separated.
The Fourth Shroud had entered Black Horn several minutes ago. Every moment Simon spent watching the two spies exchange needles and metal threads gave the assassin inside Lower Ward Three more time to reach the unconscious vice-leader.
Allowing their fight to continue gave Simon little benefit.
If Ossik won, Simon could lose one of his few paths into the Eastern Hand's hidden network.
If Sorn won, he could lose a known connection to the Sleeping Commander.
Both demons were more useful alive.
More importantly, the apothecary supplied medicine to Black Horn. Once the owner discovered evidence of an intrusion and poison in his backyard, he would have no choice but to report it.
Simon did not know what Black Horn's response would be, but every response created movement, and movement created opportunities.
The door began to open.
