“Right. Helen made clear that unless Terrano attempted to harm either her or you, she wasn’t prepared to do that. Sedarias then sent Valliant—from the Academia—to cross into the fief of Bellusdeo. Bellusdeo is obsessed with Shadow—and with the danger it presents.”
“Please tell me Teela isnowhere neartheRavellonborder.”
“I could, but I’d be lying.”
Kaylin dropped her face into her hands. “Helen, can you raise Tiamaris on the mirror network?”
“Yes, dear. I believe Tara is waiting for you.”
“Which fief is Teela in?” Kaylin demanded of Mandoran.
“We believe she’s walking the border between Tiamaris and Bellusdeo. The Norranir are there, and they seem to have better defenses against Shadow encroachment. She’stryingto be careful.
“Serralyn has questions about the Erenne mark, but she also has questions about why Nightshade couldn’t contact you. She’s been listening in to everything. Killian found that last part troubling. And I’m guessing so does Helen.”
Helen did not comment.
Kaylin turned to the Avatar of her house. “Do you want me to try to reason with Bellusdeo, stop Teela, or join Teela when I have to meet the Consort first thing in the morning?”
“Yes,” Mandoran said.
“Which?”
“Was it an either/or question?”
Squawk.
“Everyone’s a critic,” Mandoran said. “It’s serious. Teela went out carryingKariannos, and we’d like her not to have to use it against Bellusdeo.”
“Bellusdeo isn’t likely to attack Teela.”
“No—but Emmerian has already lost his temper while visiting us. We don’t hold it against him. If he weren’t a Dragon, he might actually fit right in. You think he’s going to stay home when Bellusdeo flies out in a panic?”
“I get it. I get it. I’m going.”
Do you want company?Severn asked.
At this time of night? I’d like us not to both be dead on our feet when we meet the Consort tomorrow. Or later today. One of those two.
When Severn failed to respond, she said,I’ve got Hope with me. If I can get to Teela, Andellen’s there. And Bellusdeo will probably be there as well. The only reason the cohort wants me to head to thefiefs is they trust Bellusdeo not to completely lose her mind if I’m there, because she knows I won’t survive it.
Severn concurred.I’ll meet you at the bridge.
When Kaylin hesitated, he added,Itmight concern Shadow. You know that’s her biggest sensitivity.
Fine.
Helen wasn’t happy.
“I’ll be fine. Severn’s meeting me at the bridge. We’ll head into the fiefs together.”
Squawk. Squawk.
“That is exactly what I’m afraid of,” Helen replied.
Hope snickered. Kaylin flicked his snout.
“Terrano, I believe you were asked to remain at home,” Helen then said, her voice the severe Helen voice, not the gentle one.