As for the possibility of killing General Sterling on mistake, supposing he really was merely out on patrol without betraying him - what did it matter? No one would know it was him who slew Sterling. He could always let Tobe Maxwell take the fall.
After all, in his battle with Maxwell, the worthless Sterling wouldn't have been of much help.
With a flicker of thought, Master Joseph pulled the light strands entwined around Sterling into his own body. Sterling shiver few times, his movements returning to normal. His eyes, however, were listless, something that wouldn't be noticed unless observed closely.
...
With daybreak, Master Joseph and Sterling set out once more. They didn't go far before sighting Maxwell once again. He led them into a patch of sky devoid of a sun, and instead hung with seven large stars.
