Tension rolled off Sebastian as he glared at Danyon.
Concerned, Eva set a hand on his shoulder. As much as she appreciated his defense, she didn't want him getting into trouble on her account.
Although Sebastian was powerful, she wasn't sure of his chances against the chestnut. Let alone the blood bay whose aura said he'd probably stomp all over her friend.
Laughter chimed in Eva's mind.Ignore them. Dominance games are a way of life for us. They know not to take it too far.
The mare moved closer, blocking the rest as she stared into Eva's eyes.
So strong,the mare breathed.You have no idea how strong yet.
Strength is only half of the equation, Talia,Polaris rumbled.In the wrong hands, that very strength can become a weapon pointed at our throats.
The look in Polaris's eyes deepened. Though his words were aimed at Eva, she didn't get the sense they were really meant for her. There was a weight to them. A history.
It left Eva with the feeling that he would say the same to any human standing there. This wasn't a personal attack. As long as whoever faced them was human, his reaction would have been the same.
Eva's not like that,Sebastian spat.I'd trust her with my life and the lives of my mate and foal.
Danyon snorted.That's convenient considering you already have.
Sebastian sent him a look.Which proves my point.
Eva couldn't hold back her soft snicker anymore. Five pairs of eyes focused on her.
Sebastian's were questioning while Orion's remained steady and calm from beginning to end. The other three looked at her with varying degrees of confusion and reserve.
Eva bumped Sebastian with her shoulder. "Sorry, it's just a little funny hearing those words out of your mouth considering our beginning."
If a Kyren could blush, Sebastian's face would be bright red. His head turned as he tried to avoid her gaze.
Ironically, this wasn't her first experience hearing a Kyren or mythological question her honor or use her humanness as a sign of defect.
Sebastian had voiced similar reservations during their first meeting and for a long time afterward. It took weeks and many encounters for her to prove she wasn't what he thought.
Now, here he was, defending her against his elders. How times had changed.
Not even going to defend yourself?Danyon challenged.
She sent him a cool look. "Why waste my breath when your minds are already made up?"
Eva had never been the type to beat herself against walls. To continue would only take up more of their time and hers.
Call her pragmatic but she had better things to do.
Number one on that list—returning to camp and Caden.
Pretty sentiment, but somehow your words lack impact when the proof of your treachery is currently intruding into your valley,Polaris said.
Ah, Eva had wondered when they'd get to that. It was, after all, the entire reason they'd called her here.
She shot a quick glance at Orion, seeing nothing but calm patience there. As if he had all the time in the world and the answer didn't really affect him one way or the other. Almost like a parent whose child was brought to account for their misdeeds.
Eva nodded to herself. Okay then. If that's how it was, she was game. She'd had a long time to consider on the journey. Once the panic had gone, a lot of things became clear.
She just wasn't sure if her conclusions matched Kyren expectations.
"You're upset about the appearance of the Trateri." Eva's words were a statement more than a question as she took the time to get her thoughts in order.
