In the next moment, Kira burned across the sky at a speed considerably faster than before.
"The Rocci's split," Jace murmured.
Elena's breath shuddered in excitement.
Himoto and Jace shared a glance.
"It looks like we'll have to update the record books again." There was the faintest curve in Himoto's cheeks that spoke of relief. His gaze was gentle as he focused on Kent. "The Haldeel have no need for our services now."
Kent's teeth clenched at the unspoken rebuke in Himoto's words.
Himoto bowed toward theza na ri na. "I apologize for any offense my companions have caused. I am sure that wasn't their intention."
Theza na ri na'sstance relaxed, speaking of acceptance. "No apologies are necessary. We understand tensions are high."
"If that is all, I will take my leave," Himoto said. "All of this excitement has made me tired."
Graydon saw through Himoto's motivations. Excusing himself now gave him the time to investigate the attack without interference from his own people.
While the Haldeel wouldn't allow any of the parties present to actively interfere, they also wouldn't stop them from looking into this matter.
Graydon doubted the rest of the humans, with the exception of Jace, understood Himoto's intentions.
Theza na ri nadid, though.
The motion she made to her master of the guard wasn't one Graydon had seen before. Most Haldeel in high positions developed their own set of motions only understood by their close confidants. A secret language, if you will.
"My guards will escort you out," she said.
Seeing an opportunity, Graydon motioned to his people. "My oshota will go too. They have their own matters to address."
Auralyn and Zoella nodded, escorting Elena out of the box, Noor and Solal taking up defensive positions around them.
They'd take the child somewhere safe in the event this was a misdirect and the Tsavitee were after Elena.
A commotion from the stands pulled Graydon's attention to Kira. His heart dropped as her board collided with Devon's.
"Lord Graydon, my people have dropped the barrier protecting the stands," theza na ri nasaid. "You have permission to act."
Graydon gave her a sharp look.
Seeing it, theza na ri natilted her head. "Restraint should be rewarded."
She stepped forward, her voice lowering and developing a vibration that would ensure no one listening would be able to hear. "Besides, neither of us want to see such a precious treasure damaged."
Graydon eyed the royal with suspicion, only catching the faint impression of a smile behind the veil.
"Go," she urged.
Graydon didn't wait to be told again. "With me."
Torvald launched himself over the balcony, creating a streak of light as he raced unaided by technology toward the two racers.
Graydon and Wren sprang after him, leaving their own trails of light.
Be safe, Graydon urged, even knowing they'd never make it in time.
*
