That’s why it was so surprising to see Wren shift, the movement small and almost unnoticeable if it had been any other. This was a man used to commanding. His self-possession rivaled Harlow's. To see it disturbed meant the puzzle had been more difficult than Wren had anticipated.
"I thought so too," Wren finally admitted. "Which is why I approached the humans. Neither seemed surprised, nor were they willing to reveal its meaning."
The revelation was a startling one to those present.
"Loyalty. Who would have thought it from humans," Caius mused.
"I've witnessed the evidence for myself several times," Graydon rumbled from his spot near the window. "Somehow, she has managed to secure their loyalty, though the presentation of its depth can often take a surprising form."
From first glance, the humans seemed to have an antagonistic attitude toward her, but when it counted, they moved to provide support when needed and protection when warranted.
Graydon understood from his oshota, both humans had faced multiple challenges from the other initiates. Neither had sought out Kira for assistance in dealing with the matter. The male went so far as to intercept those who might push her for a fight, making himself a target. He did this through a combination of cutting remarks and cocky bravado.
Raider had acquitted himself quite well for someone with his limitations. The initiates were coming to understandkiwasn't the overwhelming advantage they'd assumed. Raider met them head to head, winning decisive victories almost every time.
Caius propped his elbow on something unseen, his expression unconvinced. "Are we sure we're not seeing things that aren't there?"
Finally, Harlow stirred, nodding at Graydon.
Graydon touched a spot on his forearm, flicking the data package at Harlow's desk. "These are a few clips my oshota have taken over the last week or so."
Caius stirred, focusing a gaze on Graydon that saw far more than his enemies ever gave him credit for. "And what are your oshota doing keeping an eye on the lost daughter of our House?"
"They've taken a liking to Kira." Graydon's smile barely touched his eyes. "I fear once she has progressed to the point where she can take a pod for herself, they will desert me for a chance to pledge their loyalty to her."
Surprise touched Makon's face. "High praise considering your oshota are among the elite."
Graydon dipped his head. "Praise she's earned." He glanced at Silas. "Unless you disagree."
One side of Silas's mouth twitched up. "There was more than one reason I chose to intercede when it seemed she would retreat to human space."
Caius wasn't one to be deterred, his expression faintly suspicious as he stared at Graydon. "I find it interesting you've chosen to linger on Ta Sa’Riel. It's not like you."
Graydon wasn't fazed by the abrupt change of subject, brushing it aside with the ease of long practice. "My oshota and I have been away for too long. I decided it would be wise if we reacquainted ourselves with home."
Not even Caius could argue that point. Graydon represented the emperor's interests. He'd served on consecutive front lines in the protection of his agenda.
Sometimes he was a mediator. Sometimes he was the executioner. It meant long periods away from the safety of the main planet.
Caius's expression was grudging as he let the matter drop.
The rest of them took in the image that had formed over Graydon's desk. Kira held a practice en-blade in her hand, her outfit disheveled, trees surrounding her. Her eyes were narrowed at something off-screen. Even through the holovid, it was impossible to miss the overwhelming focus in her stare.
She burst into movement between one second and the next, her form fluid as a drone dove into view, firing a barrage.
Maida leaned forward in outrage. "Is that one of mykattas? Where did she learn that?"
"Joule likely showed her," Graydon murmured. "The two are close."
"Even so, for her to have mastered it to this extent…" Maida trailed off.
Few could.Kattastook an instant to learn and a lifetime to perfect. Kira flowed through them with the ease of someone who'd practiced them relentlessly.
Her primus was one thing. It was powerful, but like all things, it had its weaknesses. Most Tuann with a primus became overly reliant on the form. They had incredible power while active, but it only lasted so long. When they reverted, it left them vulnerable and weak. More than one primus had been killed in such a moment.
This, though, pointed to hard work. Dedication. Years of sacrifice as she trained her body above and beyond.
"She watches. She learns," Graydon ignored the impatient feeling crouched in his middle. These people hadn't spent as much time around her as he had. They thought she was a child, her development delayed and hampered by her history among the humans.
