The hall was nearly empty when Kael approached Aria. The last of the elders had gone. Ethan had retreated to the corridor, his sharp eyes watching. Nyssa and Bael lingered near the doors, waiting for Aria and Rowan to leave. But Kael stepped forward, his eyes fixed on Aria with an expression she couldn't quite read.
"Aria. I'd like to speak with you, Privately."
Rowan's hand tightened on hers. "Whatever you have to say, you can say in front of me."
"It's alright." Aria touched his arm. "I'll be fine. Wait for me here."
Rowan's jaw tightened. His golden eyes searched her face. Whatever he found there made him nod, though his posture remained rigid. "I'll be right here."
Aria followed Kael through a side door and into the cold morning air. The sun had just crested the mountains, pale an
