“Brother is plenty talented,” Kirielle said suddenly. “But, um, they probably also accepted him because of our brother Daimen. At least that’s what Mother said happened.”
“What?” asked Zorian flatly.
“Umm…” Kirielle stammered. “Please don’t be mad, because Mother told me not to tell you this because you would get mad at me, but she said you and Fortov were only accepted so easily because Daimen became so important and successful…”
“Daimen had nothing to do with it,” Zorian said, grinding his teeth in annoyance. “I achieved good enough results that my admission was never in question! Mother is, like usual, ascribing everything good in the world to Daimen and lumping me with that lout Fortov in order to—”
“I believe you, Mister Kazinski,” Rea interrupted him. “Calm down. There is n
