Page 147 of Given to the Black King

Callas stares at him.

“You taught me that documents survive people, Minister.”

Callas closes his eyes. “Good.”

Iona steps down from the dais.

The guards start forward.

I raise one hand.

She stops in front of the man who trained her.

“Did you ever intend to warn me?”

Callas takes too long.

“No.”

Pain moves through the bond again.

Final this time.

Iona nods. “Then do one useful thing before you retire. Tell the truth before someone else has to force it out of you.”

“I will.”

“You will also carry the Black King’s terms.”

Callas looks past her to me.

I lean forward.

“The river towns and orchard districts keep the peace she negotiated. The coast houses repay every company they defrauded and surrender the customs claims listed in those books. Speaker Reth submits to her inquiry.”

“And if he refuses?”

“I publish every page to every court and merchant house between here and the sea.”

I let him imagine the rest.

“If any named lord raises a private spear, I cross the border.”

“For Serath?”

“No.”

Iona’s hand tightens at her side.

“For her.”

Callas bows his head. “And if they comply?”

Iona answers.

“Serath keeps its sovereignty. Vessel keeps the grain terms already signed. The north road opens under joint tolls at spring thaw.”

Callas looks at her for a long moment.