“I’m fine.”
“You’re exhausted.” His eyes searched mine. “And you’re using work to avoid thinking about what happened between us the other night.”
Direct hit. I pulled back from his touch, needing space to think. “Can you blame me? Everything’s changed. Vax tried to sabotage the power systems to get rid of me. Your marks are calling me your mate. And I still don’t know if I’m staying or leaving once we find my crew.”
“Do you want to leave?”
The question was quiet, but it hit like a hammer.
Did I?A week ago, the answer would have been an immediate yes. Get off this isolated planet, return to my team, file reports, move on to the next assignment. That was the plan. That was always the plan.
But now…
“I don’t know,” I admitted. “I don’t know anything anymore.”
Rezor nodded slowly, like he’d expected that answer. “Then we take it one cycle at a time. No pressure. No demands. Just…see what happens.”
“That’s very un-lordlike of you. Thought you were supposed to be all commanding and decisive.”
A smile lifted the corners of his lips. “I’m trying something new. Letting things develop naturally instead of controlling every outcome.”
“How’s that working out for you?”
“Terrifying.” He moved closer again, and I let him. “But also…good. Better than I expected.”
Before I could respond, there was a sharp knock at the door.
“Lord Rezor.” It was Zelana’s voice, formal and urgent. “The council has reached a decision.”
Rezor and I stepped away from each other. “Enter,” he called.
Zelana swept in, her expression grave. She glanced at me briefly, something unreadable flickering in her eyes, before focusing on Rezor. “The council has voted to demote Vax to scout, and station him to live in the mountain tunnel for one full sun-cycle. He may petition for return after half that time has elapsed.”
“One sun-cycle,” Rezor repeated. “That’s lenient.”
“The council was divided,” Zelana said carefully. “Some wanted exile to the forest. Others felt his intentions, if not his methods, came from a place of loyalty and just asked for demotion. Installing him in the mountain pass was a compromise.” She paused. “But there’s more.”
Of course there was.
“Several council members expressed concern about the sky people’s presence in the valley. They acknowledge that Cleo’s technical knowledge has been valuable, but theyquestion whether the risk of keeping three outsiders here is worth the benefit with the increase of storm activity.” Zelana’s gaze shifted to me. “They’ve requested that you and your companions remain under close supervision until a full assessment can be made.”
“So nothing’s changed,” I said flatly. “We’re still prisoners.”
“You’re still guests,” Zelana corrected. “But yes. Your movements will remain restricted.”
Rezor’s jaw tightened. “The council doesn’t have authority to restrict my guests.”
“They have authority to voice concerns about threats.” Zelana’s voice was gentle but firm. “And right now, Lord Rezor, you need the council’s support. Vax’s betrayal has shaken people’s trust. They’re looking for stability. For reassurance that you’re making decisions based on the clan’s best interests, not personal attachment.”
The implication was clear.They knewabout Rezor and me. Whether Vax told them or not, it was out. Over. And I’d have to tell Mierva and Baleck before they heard it from the guards.
“I’ll address the council’s concerns,” Rezor said coolly.
“Good.” Zelana inclined her head. “Remember that you’re not just making decisions for yourself.” Her eyes flicked between us. “You’re making them for everyone.”
She left, and the silence she left behind felt heavy. Oppressive.
“She’s not wrong,” I said finally. “You can’t just ignore your council because of some glowing marks.”
