"Foresight." He takes a slow sip. "One of many gifts forbidden across the kingdoms."
That gives me pause. "I didn't realize it was forbidden. I thought seers went into hiding because they were hunted. Like healers."
"It's astounding how someone raised by women who claim to value knowledge above all else can know so little about the world beyond these walls."
"Your arrogance is what's astounding," I say, snatching the glass from the table and draining what's left. "Especially considering how much you're expecting me to help you with."
He pours another glass and claims it before I can. "How is it that someone raised by the Sages is so easily baited?"
"I'm not easily baited. You just happen to naturally annoy me." I lean back in my chair, matching his posture. "Which does not bode well for our current situation."
"Some would argue that means you care what I think."
I raise an eyebrow. "People like to argue many things. That doesn't mean they're right."
He huffs a surprised laugh and sinks deeper into the chair, sprawling like a king on a throne. Legs extended, wine glass dangling from careless fingers, golden eyes watching me like I'm a puzzle he hasn't quite solved.
I remember what Margot said at Siren's and wonder, briefly, if I have a type I never knew about.
I extend my hand, palm up, signaling for the glass.
He tilts his head. "I'm sure you have more in the kitchen."
"Oh, I'm sorry." I press a hand to my chest in mock offense. "I didn't realize sharing my wine, from my favorite glass, in my own home, was somehow inconveniencing you."
I don't actually have a favorite glass, but watching the emotions flicker across his face makes the lie worthwhile. Surprise. Consideration. And finally, amusement, breaking through like light through storm clouds.
He laughs. It's a deep, husky sound that doesn't last nearly long enough, but it warms something in my chest all the same. His eyes are bright when he finally hands over the glass.
"Thank you." I take a sip and pass it back.
He drinks, watching me over the rim. "What does 'Temp' mean?"
I snort. "It's what my friends call me. Unlike you, who claim only friends call you Bain, yet everyone seems to use it."
His eyes gleam. "Is that jealousy I'm sensing?"
"I'm merely pointing out the hypocrisy."
"Hypocrisy." He considers the word like he's tasting it. "Temper?"
I laugh despite myself. "No."
His expression shifts, the playfulness draining away. "Let's talk about healers."
My pulse kicks. I pray he can't feel it through the bond. "What about them?"
"You said you thought seers were hunted the way healers were."
"Are you saying they weren't?"
"Not everywhere. Not by everyone."
"But they were hunted," I say carefully. "When they still existed."
"Do you know why?"
"I've read accounts of kings collecting them. Imprisoning them." I keep my voice steady. "I assume Cato was one of them."
