Lu’ma’s hands moved slowly now.
Deliberately.
‘This Nameless belongs to the Unspoken Choir.’
Auryn couldn’t recall the name or what it meant. Kailorien spoke for the first time since the training ended.
“A rumor that has circulated through the Lattice for centuries,” he said quietly. “A network of Attendants who observe and report to the Solutus.”
Lu’ma inclined her head.
‘The Choir watches. Listens. Gathers truths others overlook.’
Auryn studied her for a long moment. “And you’ve been reporting things about me?”
‘For many years,’Lu’ma signed.
A few beats of silence passed. Zarrek’s shoulders had tensed. Beside her, Kailorien stood stiff.
How long have you known?
For some time.
She didn’t trust me…
She was protecting you.
We both know silence protects nothing.
Spare her your pride, starlight. She has not learned such a lesson yet.
Auryn sighed. “I wish you’d told me sooner.”
Lu’ma’s hands moved again, but Auryn stopped her.
“It’salright. I am not angry. Only a little…surprised.” Auryn rubbed the bridge of her nose. Lu’ma’s expression didn’t change, but her tension was palpable.
At last, Auryn looked up.
“Lu’ma,” her tone softened. “You have stood beside me through things most in this city cannot even imagine.”
She gestured toward the courtyard.
“You trained with me when I could barely hold a blade. You sat with me through nights when the magic inside me nearly tore me apart. Brought me tea. Meals. Helped me bathe. Followed me when I walked in my sleep.”
Auryn shook her head.
“If you were going to slip a knife in my back, you’ve had countless opportunities.”
Lu’ma lowered her gaze, but Auryn took both of her hands before shame could bloom in her eyes.
“I trust you, my friend,” she said.
The words settled like a vow, and Auryn reached up to touch the golden braid at her shoulder. Her chest ached when her fingers touched the violet ribbon there.
“Once,” she said. “Someone taught me that family was not about bloodlines and lineage. It comes from actions. From loyalty. If there is such a thing as family, you are part of mine, Lu’ma.”
For several moments, the Attendant’s expression remained passive. But in a blink, a fine moisture welled in her eyes. She blinked rapidly, and Auryn squeezed her hand.
