Monderyn appeared tense. He was quiet for a short moment, looking to Ahnasha with his head down and to one side. When he spoke, it was with reticence otherwise not seen by Ahnasha before. "Huhm. I didn't think I would get an understanding answer." His eyes glanced off. "I suppose you're surprising me already. You don't lie."

After all the obstacles they had come up against so far, Fendros felt hopeful. Monderyn having apparently done some thinking since they last met was not exactly what Fendros had expected. Fendros gave Ahnasha a small smile before turning to Monderyn again. "What you said earlier about it being better if I hadn't walked in just now. I'm sorry if I've made things worse, I just..."

Monderyn spoke over Fendros' trailing off. "Things were bad before you walked in the door, that much you have seen. I think I overheard Llarasa say something about poison, so you've heard just how bad it is." Monderyn closed his eyes and leaned forward on his elbows, running his hair through his hands. "Mother wants you back, Fendros. She wants you back the way you were. The way things were before you left. I know that is impossible." Monderyn stilled his palms either side of his head, facing close to the table top. "I don't know if you'll be leaving things better or worse. I guess it depends on what she decides when she's done with her rest."

"And father?" Fendros asked, taking his turn to hesitate.

There was no wavering in Monderyn's voice. "You heard what he said. You know what he's like."

[hr]
Janius poked out his lower lip and nodded. "Very well."

Given what kind of mood Lorag was in, Janius didn't want to test his patience. However, Janius had one last question that at least bore thought by Lorag. "What if the kid comes looking for you?"

Janius saw Meesei from the corner of his eye and turned his head to give her a half smile as she approached. Lorag was confronted, but he wasn't considering anything particularly rash.