Just her gut feeling.
While the Tsavitee gave the appearance of defeat after the war, it was a cover to launch a much more insidious attack—one that sought to take advantage of the fact everyone believed them gone.
"It's obvious from the royal that whatever Kira's actions, they were seen as legitimate by the Haldeel," Yukina said after a projected silence. "We have no reason to reject their invitation to tomorrow’s banquet. Kira will attend with the rest of those who’ve distinguished themselves today so as not to insult our hosts."
She sent a hard look in Kira's direction. "There will be no surprises during this banquet. No fights, no scuttling of ships. Nothing. Am I clear?"
Kira really wanted to know exactly what sort of person Yukina thought she was. It was almost like the Emperor's Face didn't trust her.
Seeing Kira didn't have an argument, Yukina flicked her fingers toward the door and sat back. "You're dismissed."
Kira excused herself, Raider following.
Kira headed toward the room Auralyn had shown her to last night.
Two corridors later she finally looked at the man at her side. "Is there a reason you're shadowing me?"
Raider stuck his hands in his pockets. "Just waiting."
"For what?"
"To see if you'll keep your side of the bargain."
Kira's footsteps came to a halt as she watched him out of the corner of her eye. "It looks like there's no need for that since you already know."
Raider smirked but said nothing else.
Seeing Elena rocket around the corner, Kira started toward her. "No matter what, make sure you're on the station tomorrow night."
Raider sent her a startled glance. "You have a plan?"
Kira made ammmof agreement.
"Will it start a war?" he asked.
"Don't be ridiculous. Even I know better than that."
Seeing Elena's suspicious gaze as she slowed in front of them, Kira reached out to ruffle her hair only for her niece to duck away with an expression of disgust.
Kira's hand froze in midair as she stared at it, feeling a similar repulsion. It wasn't that she'd forgotten she was covered in saliva—it was far too repulsive for her to do that—but she'd put it on the backburner until seeing Elena's expression.
"I'll leave the two of you to get caught up. I'm going to get a shower," Kira said.
Kira walked away. Despite her assurance to Raider, Kira wasn't entirely sure what she'd do if the Haldeel rejected her offer. One thing was for sure—she wasn't leaving the station until she talked to the woman who wore Elise’s face.
