“I don’t know.” Dourin waved his drink through the air, an airy motion that was at odds with his expression. “It might have something to do with that insane female they call their queen.”
“Farah has to know her soldiers aren’t ready for another battle. She’ll never win.”
“Unless she is moving forward with her black powder plan, in which casewinningis subjective.” Dourin studied Venick. “Do you want the other bit of good news, or shall I keep it a surprise?”
“Just tell me.”
“The Elder is coming,” Dourin said. “He sent a letter this morning to announce his arrival.”
“He sent a letter to Harmon?”
“To me.”
“But why?”
“He did not say. The letter only mentioned wishing to—how did he put it?—reunite with his brave heroes. I think we both know what that means.”
“The war isn’t over yet.” Venick could hear his own voice, pitching high with desperation. “The Elder can’t take back his men.”
“He can try.”
“Harmon…Harmon wouldn’t let him.”
“Right.” Dourin’s reply was pointed. “And howarethings between you and Harmon?”
“We’ve come to an understanding.”
“Does that mean we are back to trusting her now?” When Venick gave no answer, Dourin said, “You see the problem this poses. If the Elder comes for his men, and you aren’t around to stop him, he could reestablish control. And if Harmon sides with him, that will only make reclaiming power all the easier. The Elder arrives tonight.” Dourin tipped his head. “You see where this is going.”
“No, Dourin—”
“You must stay in the city.”
“I can’t.”
“It’s the only way to ensure that the Elder doesn’t seize back his army, exposing us to the incoming attack.”
“Ellina leaves to meet Farah this afternoon. I’m going with her.”
“For moral support.”
“Yes.”
“Sorry, little human. The resistance needs you here for actualsupport.”
Venick was shaking his head, despite already knowing its futility. If the Elder was on his way to Kenath, Venickdidneed to be there. And yet: “The Elder owes you his life price. You could bargain on the resistance’s behalf. Ask him to call off this visit, return to Parith.”
“His life price has already been repaid.”
“Those damn horses.”
“Do not blasphemy. The horses are perfect.”
“They were a bribe.”
“I am not above bribery.”
Venick steepled his fingers, set their tips between his brows. Eyes closed, he gave it one last try. “You could still help. Talk to him. He likes you.”
