Monday, April 18, 2011








The phone has barely begun to jangle before it is answered. It's an obnoxiously loud ringtone, something like the bell in a firehouse, and Thea hates it. On the other hand, it's impossible to ignore, which is a good thing for an emergency line….

She's none too fond of the elaborate greeting, either. "Thea, secretary to Lord Adrian of Acheron. How may I direct…? Laila? What has happened, sister? Has Rath…?

No… oh, no. Hold the line, please."

A moment later, Lord Adrian is on the line.

"Laila? What has happened, child?" Thea watches as Adrian's face goes still, his eyes like chips of onyx. "You are certain of your facts, of course." It is not a question. "if you would be so good as to arrange lodgings for us at your so-excellent Tavern… we will be there as soon as appropriate transportation can be secured. Yes… take care, little one. Goodbye."

Thea is already on the other phone, arranging for a night flight. Adrian sits as though the news has fixed him into stone, staring straight ahead with eyes that glitter like moonlight on cold steel….

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