Noire looks as pleased as a cat. “A special talent of mine.”
“I think we all know that I definitely will need his guidance,” I say. “And I’ll also need yours, Vera.”
“Of course, General. Whatever you need, anytime. You know where to find me.”
I shake my head. “I don’t think that’ll be enough, Vera. I need you closer.” Her eyebrows rise to her hairline. “I need you to be part of my new government.”
Vera’s speechless. Her eyes are wide, lips parted as she stares at me. Finally, she shakes her head.
“You can’t—House Dzuni is comprised of the hundred and thirty noble families. I’m not?—”
“You won’t be a part of House Dzuni. I know the law,” I say. “Noire is not part of Dzuni, yet he’s part of my governing body. I want to bridge the gap between the regular people and us. Nobles have representatives; Ezkai do, too. How about the regular folk? I think it’s time. For that, I need a liaison, someone who’s well versed in the ways of Dzuni while also in touch with the regular people of Ekios.”
Vera nods. “Okay. I see.”
“That person is you, Vera. I want you to join my government as my spokeswoman for the people.”
Vera blinks, stunned.
It takes her a couple of moments to get her wits back. “Phoenix…That’s huge. It would mean showing my face in an official manner during the meetings, and events. Not as anoutsider, the entertainer, but as one of the officials. I—it would mean giving up on my studio and practice. And Savage Kin?—”
I nod. “I know. It’s a lot to ask, and it would be a huge change for you and your apprentices. You’re excellent at what you do, I won’t deny that. And you have done so much to help people already. However, I think you could do much more, and help many more if you were to become the spokeswoman. Don’t you think you’ve had enough of operating from the shadows?”
“I would need to find my replacement at the studio,” Vera says. “My mentor passed it down to me, and I must do the same if I am to join you.”
“Of course. I understand the transition will take time. Take however long you need. Do you have a mentee?”
“Yes. Bart. He’s not quite there yet, but with time, he will be,” Vera says.
I smile. “So, does that mean you accept my offer?”
Vera hesitates and it’s then I understand how desperately I want her to accept. How much I want—need—her at my side.
Finally, Vera dips her chin low and hope surges through me. It’s extinguished quickly when Vera says, “It’s an honor to be considered for this position, General. However, I must ask you for time to consider your offer. I don’t want to make rash decisions based on emotions. This is too big of a responsibility, and I want to take it seriously.”
I scold my features into neutral. I don’t want her to see the disappointment.
“Of course, Vera,” I say. “Take your time. As much as you need. The offer still stands and it’s yours if you want it.”
Vera smiles. “Thank you, General.”
I wave her off. “Please, don’t make this into a habit.”
Vera and Noire chuckle.
“It was a memorable fight, Phoenix,” Vera says a moment later. “How—how are you? I imagine it must not be easy on you.”
My stomach twists.
I don’t want to talk about it.
I clear my throat. “It was a memorable fight, indeed. I’m sure it will stay with many of us for a long time.” Eager to change the topic, I ask, “Did you receive the invitation to my inauguration ceremony later this week? Will you be coming?”
“Yes, thank you for the invitation. I wouldn’t miss it for a thing,” Vera says. “I’ve already picked the outfit for the night. You’d better believe I’ll be the first one there.”
I smile. “I’m counting on that. I’ll need your wicked charm as I navigate the nobles.”
Vera flicks the dust from the sleeve of her tailored purple suit jacket and says, “You sure will, Phoenix. We all know charming the crowd isn’t your forte.”
