The general started down the steps to the avenue below. Elena pulled her gaze from the landscape to hurry after him.
"Idolizing the Phoenix will only lead to heartache and loss," the general informed her when she caught up.
"Says you."
The general shook his head at Elena. "You're a fool."
Elena shrugged. "Then I'm a fool."
She was willing to accept that. Elena knew who Auntie was and that was good enough for her. There was no point wasting her breath arguing the case with one of Auntie's enemies.
"What am I supposed to call you anyway?" Elena asked.
She was getting tired of addressing him as 'you' or 'general' in her head.
The general stared before he gave another shake of his head. “Ajix.”
Elena made a face. "Odd name for a general. Did you know it's close to the name Ajax?"
"A human name," Ajix sniffed in disdain.
"It means eagle in some languages. It was also the name of a hero in one of their myths."
"Which one?"
Elena brightened at his interest. Maybe there was a chance this general wasn't so bad after all. "The Iliad. Ajax was a hero from the Trojan war, known for his large stature and bravery."
Ajix grunted.
Elena couldn't tell if he appreciated the explanation or not.
"At least you're not as mad as that woman," Ajix said as they reached the structure that he'd been leading her to. "She would never have been so quiet this past week. She would have caused a scene and drawn attention as soon as she arrived."
Elena took that as an insult. "I'm just as capable as her."
Just on a smaller scale. On account of her being so short and all.
"It's a compliment."
Elena didn't take it that way. "Where are we going anyway?"
"Curiosity will get you killed."
Or it would save her life.
In Elena's experience, the latter was more likely as long as she was careful.
"What is your name?" Ajix asked as they entered the tower.
"Elena."
She considered lying but what was the point. Lothos had already mentioned their spies within the Houses. Any attempt at deception on her part would lead to increased scrutiny. Something someone with her secrets couldn't afford.
"Very well." The general stopped in front of a delicate, filigree door stamped with a strange symbol. "We're here. I suggest trying to lay low. Being noticed is a good way to get killed."
"Is there anything in this place that won't leave me dead in the end?"
"No."
