Though I would not say it aloud, my immediate horror at what Kael and I had done had been replaced with another: the realization that I would do it again.
“As would I,” he said somberly. “Though we both knew the risks.”
Dell sat up straighter. Looked me in the eyes.
“I was a spy for Aetheria, embedded here for many years. By rights, you could send me to the same fate as my fallen comrade.”
“And yet.” I snagged a piece of warm bread. “You have returned and sit before me. Knowing the risks of doing so.”
“Knowing you,” he said, not hesitating, “you would not have killed Seryn.”
If not ordered to do so.
The silent words hung between us. Bold for him to come here. To make that claim. But it was also true.
“Nay,” I agreed, “I would not.”
“I chanced coming back for that reason. And also to offer my services.”
I finished chewing, watching him carefully as Dell took a sip of centuria from his clay cup.
“Your services?”
“I have become accustomed to living here. When the speech you gave the day you returned as king was recounted in Aethralis, I decided to come. If you truly do wish to usher in a new era of Gyorian and Aetherian relations?—”
The decision was an easy one.
“I would welcome you onto my Council.”
Dell froze. “Your…”
“Council. Two spots remain. I can think of no better bridge between our clans than you.” I drummed my fingers against the table. “Although you proved quite competent at it, your spying days must come to an end. You will be expected to swear your allegiance to our clan as a resident and member of the Gyorian Council.”
“There would be no reason to undermine one whose goal is to work with Aetherians. We have the same vision for our lands and people.”
I waited.
“And aye, I would gladly swear allegiance to one who has ended a centuries-long feud.”
I laughed, unable to keep the bitterness from my tone. “Ended? Every day, we root out my father’s loyalists who attempt to undermine my rule.”
Dell leaned forward. “Another reason I am here,” he said, voice lowering. “Your father’s reach did not end with his death. Some still answer to the memory of him, as you know. One group, in particular, meet under the guise of trade in the southern quarter, using the same signs I once did myself, only clumsier.”
I studied him carefully. “And you know this because…”
“Because I was trained to be unseen,” he said with a smile. “And because I once often sat in the same shadows they now occupy. You should know, their eyes linger on the Stone and on you. If left unchecked, that rot spreads.”
“The Stone?”
“There have long been rumors, among these warriors, that it was used to close the Aetherian Gate.”
Ones which needed to remain only that: rumors.
“It seems I will be visiting the southern quarter.”
Dell’s eyes widened. “Yourself? You will not send others?”
“This is my clan,” I said, resolute, as Dren returned. “Change of plans,” I told him. “I will meet with the Thalassari envoy now.”
