The trio stood, and Toria mouthed “We?” to Kane as they passed Liliah’s desk and entered Max’s office. The spacious room embraced her with its familiarity. She and Kane had spent many hours here discussing military tactics and history with Max, surrounded by wall-to-wall bookshelves and overlooking the Guildhall’s gym through a glass wall that stretched from floor to ceiling.
Max led them to the two couches facing each other in the center of the room, much more comfortable than the wooden chairs outside. Syri’s great-great-uncle, the ancient elf Zerandan, sat in one, hand resting on his simple wooden cane. Toria knew the cane was an affectation, and his close-cropped blond hair, an unusual style choice among elves, threw her as always. Max settled next to him, looking much too casual in j
