Janius did not raise his voice. He remained as though he did not know what to think, but he sounded insistent. "But what about now? Just knowing what you currently know, would you make the same decision if you could choose?"

[hr]
"No, no, he would not do that," Calia said, now holding her clasped hand more tightly. "Not for gaining authority." She paused and lifted her eyes to Ahnasha. "Meesei must be quite formidable to have done that. However, the problem is in convincing Rossarm, not...subordinating him. He is better than this. Better than out there, this afternoon." Calia quickly wiped her eye with one finger. "He just has...difficult days. Not as many as when you went missing, Fendros, but...he still has them."

"Why is he like this?" Fendros asked quietly.

Calia swallowed. "I hope he one day finds it in himself to tell you, Fendros. You both deserve better than how he has treated you."