And the Lady considered him one of her most important guards.
“We’ll leave. The research being done to alleviate Nightshade’s condition seems very relevant to yours. The momentwe hear anything, the moment we have any clues, we’ll let you know.”
“If Ynpharion cannot reach me as he has done in the past, I will keep him far closer than I do now.”
This pleased Ynpharion; it was proof of his value to the Lady. Even if that value was simply the fact that his True Name was known to Kaylin.
“Do that,” Kaylin replied without thought. Her response filled Ynpharion with comfortable outrage—at least, comfortable for Kaylin. She turned and then turned back. “Do you have any idea why someone would send two war bands to Nightshade right now? The timing seems way too close to be coincidental.”
“Throughout the centuries, it’s been tried. Calarnenne possesses one of The Three, and it will not leave his hand until his death.” At that, a hint of a troubled smile touched her lips. “He was asked, once, for the return of that sword. He refused.”
“...who asked?”
“My grandfather. But I should not speak of it where he has not. Let me say instead that attempts were frequent in the past and occur very seldom now. I hope the timing was coincidental.”
Hope wasn’t belief. That much was clear.
“Kitling,” Teela said in her best officer voice. “It is time to let the Consort rest.” She glanced at Severn, who stood as a perfect and almost invisible guard. “Corporal.”
He nodded.
The Avatar of the High Halls was waiting for them at the end of the path that led, through the interior forest of the Halls, to the Consort’s personal fountain. To Kaylin’s surprise, he wore armor, not the usual robes. He was silent, but not still; he offered Kaylin a deliberate, perfect bow.
“Do you know who attempted to assassinate Nightshade?”
The Avatar did not answer. “Terrano wishes to remain. He desires to avoid carriages for the rest of the day.”
Teela’s eyes narrowed.
“My apologies, An’Teela, but Terrano—as I am certain you are aware—is a bit peculiar for your kin. I believe that is what he meant to express, but I am translating his spoken words into language more reflective of the environment. Perhaps I err.”
He didn’t. They all knew it. Kaylin would have walked home herself if she weren’t wearing this ridiculous dress. It was supposed to make her feel powerful. It was supposed to help her fit in. It had the opposite effect. A dress like this didn’t belong on a person like Kaylin, an officer of the Halls of Law.
The Avatar turned and began to walk away, moving slowly enough to imply he intended to be followed, not chased.
“Why is he wearing armor?” she whispered to Teela.
Teela didn’t answer.
Severn did.It’s meant to discourage possible conflict. Our visit has drawn attention.
He didn’t wear armor when he met us.
No. When we arrived, unannounced, no one had enough time to prepare. We spent some time speaking with the Consort, which would allow possible enemies to plan a more traditional attack.
They’re Barrani.
The Consort is now entangled in the politics she is meant to be above. His words were neutral.
Who is An’Tellarus? You recognized the name.
He was silent for at least ten yards’ worth of steps.I did.
Is she dangerous?
Is Teela?
Kaylin frowned.Teela’s powerful, but she’s not dangerous.