Caden watched her go, before flicking a hand at Horace, telling him without words to follow her and make sure she arrived safely.
Horace left his post, shadowing the woman on whisper-soft feet. She didn't react to the other man’s presence, and something told Caden she didn't even realize she was being followed.
CHAPTER FIVE
"What is your opinionof the woman?" Darius asked when the door had shut behind Eva, leaving the rest of the council and Ajari behind. "Can she be trusted?"
As Fallon's strong right arm, Darius was a skilled tactician. More importantly, he filled Fallon's role when the warlord's attention was turned to more important things. He was loyal down to the bone and would defend Fallon's place as the head of the Trateri clans with his very life, if necessary.
If he hadn't been, Caden would have already eliminated him despite their long history. The three of them—Caden, Darius and Fallon—had grown up together. They'd been the first to pledge their allegiance to Fallon's cause and would be the first to fall in defense of it if necessary.
Darius had proved his worth as one of Fallon's best leaders. Gregarious and seemingly laid-back, his smile hid darker shadows. He could put anyone at ease, then stab them in the throat in the next moment. He was a chameleon, and what many didn't realize was that he operated one of Fallon's spy networks.
Caden had established himself in a different way. He had no desire to take on a larger role with the army, content to guard Fallon's back and make sure the Anateri were well-trained and equipped to handle any situation.
Shea's gaze was thoughtful. "I believe so. Eva helped me the night you were injured."
Fallon appeared remote and forbidding; he didn't like remembering that night or all that came after.
Neither did Caden. It prodded at feelings of failure for not protecting his warlord and sent anger burning through his veins.
His fists clenched at his sides were the only sign of his inner tumult, as he wished he could kill the traitor, Ben, all over again. He'd strung Ben's torture and eventual death out over a week but eventually the man had breathed his last breath, much to Caden's regret.
He would have liked more time to vent his frustration on the former clan leader. To make him suffer in ways that would be remembered and whispered about for years to come.
Maybe then others wouldn't be so quick to test their luck.
Shea's hand covered Fallon's in a silent acknowledgment of his inner demons. "She impressed me with her courage."
Caden finally stirred. "She informed me of Shea's direction and success once Covath's people released her."
"What's your assessment of her?" Fallon asked.
Caden was silent as he considered his words.
There was something about the woman that was difficult to put his finger on. She was an enigma, lingering in his thoughts long after she'd made herself scarce, like a burr that refused to be brushed away.
