Ferra set the fourteenth-bell errand on the test slate while Hajin's duplicate waited beside the courtyard boundary marker.
The itinerary included a return receipt, giving the watchers proof of completion before the temporary body dissolved.
A single duplicate vessel stood near the boundary marker, dressed in an ordinary gray tunic and sturdy canvas trousers.
"State the operational itinerary one more time before departure," Ferra commanded, holding a stick of charcoal over a fresh cedar shingle.
"Departure at fourteenth bell, direct transit to the southern granary depot, handover of the sealed inventory record, and immediate return," the clone recited.
"Direct transit without detours, zero unauthorized conversations, and immediate voluntary dissolution upon crossing the yard threshold."
"Most governed errand in the entire history of the world," Hajin murmured from his seat on the mounting block, rubbing his forehead.
