Gray’s face seemed drawn, but his eyes smiled. “I have good news. My father agreed to send men to infiltrate the slavers’ camp.” He leaned against a column for a moment.
“Thank you, my friend. Now let me help you to your room.”
As I led him away, I realized this was the first time I’d touched a human and not felt afraid.
“Might you be Avari?”
Surprised, I turned to see a younger Ciana standing with her eyes downcast. “I heard you were here and wanted to meet you.” She turned, as if to leave.
“Wait.” I stood and walked in front of her. “What’s your name?”
“Liana,” she whispered.
She’s very shy for a clanner… I don’t recognize the scent. I gestured back towards the table, where I’d left breakfast half eaten. I didn’t care about protocols. “Liana, will you sit down, please.”
To my surprise, she did. A tiny smile curled her mouth.
“What clan did they take you from?”
"I'm sorry?"
“Don’t you know? I could help you return to them.”
