“Did it work?” Dren asked, stepping into my chamber.
I patted the pouch at my side. “It did.”
Dren let out a low whistle. Of surprise. Respect. I wasn’t certain.
“Lyra?” I called.
She stepped forward.
“You’ve met my right hand? Dren, Lady Lyra.”
She held her fisted hand to her heart in greeting. Dren did the same. Both cordial. As if they were not enemies.
“I have,” she said. “You accompanied Terran and Kael to the treaty of Arlyn Cross.” She smiled. “Though I recall you were less diplomatic then.”
Dren smiled back. “And you were more effusive than usual. A side effect of too much wine, if I remember correctly.”
“I’d hoped you had forgotten that.”
As if it were possible. It was the first time, in many meetings, I’d seen a hint of her true self. The Lyra that, just moments ago, had melted into my arms. That kiss…
“I risked my neck bribing a steward and disabling the north tower scrying spell.” Dren interrupted my thoughts. “So unless you mean for her to get caught, it’s time for me to take her.”
My eyes met Lyra’s.
“I arranged for Dren to escort you safely from the palace,” I explained.
This would be the true test. If Lyra came here to ensure the Stone was safely away from my father, to prevent any further Unbalance, there was no reason for her to stay.
“You will not come with me? To speak to my king? To your brother?”
I could see Dren watching us both carefully.
“No. I won’t.”
Though her eyes didn’t dart to the Stone, I sensed they wanted to.
Your move, Lyra.
“Very well.” Heading deeper into the chamber, she gathered her satchel, slinging it over her shoulder, and stood beside Dren. “I’m ready.”
She’s ready? Lyra would simply… leave?
Impossible.
“If you change your mind,” she said, “I will wait at Grimharbor, at The Siren’s Rest, until the new moon.”
“Grimharbor is no place for a?—”
Her eyes widened, challenging.
I remembered her treatment of the guards. This was no ordinary Aetherian, and I’d do well to remember that.
“It has been a pleasure, Lady Lyra,” I said instead, hand to my heart.
She did the same. “I do hope you reconsider.”
With that, she strode to the door, forcing Dren to follow. He looked back at me.
