“So she’s made clear to all of the High Court that Sedarias is a valued ally—but she can’t do more than that without diminishing Sedarias. Teela’s not happy,” he added, as if it needed to be said. “What are you going to do?”
“I’m going to keep Nightshade here. Andellen thinks it’s a good idea only because there was a second war band in the streets of the fief, and getting through that was going to cause issues. Mostly us dying.”
Mandoran held up a hand. “What do you mean,secondwar band?”
Oh, right. Mandoran had probably been sent to get what information he could from Kaylin on behalf of Annarion and the rest of the cohort. “Nightshade was leaving his fief. He was attacked on the edge of the border zone by fourteen armed and armored Barrani. We believe it was a war band. They’re dead,” she added, in case it was necessary. “But whoever sent the Barrani didn’t believe fourteen armed and armored men could be trusted to finish the job.”
“Well, they clearly couldn’t,” Mandoran replied.
“We were trying to decide whether or not to carry him back to Castle Nightshade when we caught sight of the second group. Tiamaris was waiting for us in full Dragon form; if he hadn’t been, I think they’d’ve charged right in to stop us.”
“They wore no identifying insignia?”
“I’m not familiar with Barrani coats of arms. I’m not Barrani—and before you ask, I’m not familiar with human coats of arms either. I thought he’d be safer here, and we were kind of pressed for time. Although I guess Tiamaris could have killed them all if it came to that.”
Mandoran winced. “Probably better to have Nightshade here. Might even be better for Annarion. It’s certainly not going to help the rest of us, though.”
“Has Terrano seen anything that might be a clue? Has Serralyn?”
Mandoran shook his head. “Torrisant is headed this way as well.”
“Why?”
“Because he’s really good at anchoring people who lose their forms, and we’re going to need it.”
“Kaylin,” Helen said as Mandoran rose. Both Kaylin and her housemate turned in the direction of the voice. Helen’s Avatar didn’t materialize. “A messenger has arrived at the door.”
“From who?”
“They did not say. They left a letter and retreated. They did not require a reply.”
“Did it look important?”
“The messenger was Barrani.”
Kaylin rose. “I’ll come and get it.”
“No need,” Helen replied, materializing in person, a silver tray bearing a scroll case in her hands. “I do not suggest you touch it,” she added, looking in Mandoran’s direction.
“Specific enchant?”
Helen nodded. “Whoever sent this message didn’t want anyone else to read it. I’m not certain if anyone else would even be able to touch it.”
“You can.”
“I serve Kaylin. And I am not Barrani.”
Kaylin picked up the scroll case. It wasn’t sealed. She opened it, twisting the top off; her arms tingled faintly. Normal magic.
Lord Kaylin, the sender wrote.
It has been some time since we last crossed paths. I would like to see you in person. The Lake is restless, and there is much to discuss. It has come to my attention that you are nursing the fieflord.
Information traveled far more quickly than Kaylin could predict.
Ynpharion was annoyed, but silent.
A dangerous choice, the message continued,especially at this juncture. I would suggest, if safety is a concern, that you make a different one.