Episode 3 Sneak Peek #32

“This is the fastest route to Diradan with the lowest probability of detection,” Malsara explains. The annoyance is clear in her voice, frustration at being tasked with shepherding you across an entire district. Being restricted to the mundane means must feel debilitating to a planeswalker. “Even so, it will take some time. I suggest you use it to make whatever preparations you need. Once we arrive within the vicinity of Diradan Tower, you will have to act quickly.”

“And Kellis?” Veyer asks. They gaze pointedly at Malsara and run a hand over their chin, an index finger pressed to their upper lip. The emerald ring glints in the early morning light, gold and green. “It hasn’t escaped my noticed that he has failed to join us for this little sojourn. I would be overjoyed to be rid of his company, but I cannot imagine he would neglect his promises so brazenly. Odd sense of commitment, that one.”

You stiffen. Veyer isn’t blind—it was only a matter of time before the subject was raised. Perhaps you should be grateful that they have broached the topic in your stead.

“Kellis departed last night to scout Diradan in advance,” Malsara replies. “He—”

“Scouting?” you blurt. “Why?”

“It was his request, one Her Grace and Archsage Bellaris were happy to grant. There is much we do not know about the current state of Diradan Tower. Not only did the explosion cause cataclysmic damage to the tower grounds, there is the shroud to contend with. While the Guild has been observing changes to the shroud through surveillance orbs, a Wayfarer’s perspective can help us greatly. He should have a clear understanding of the premises and the dangers you may encounter by the time we arrive.”

Veyer chortles and raises their hands, threading their fingers together as they rest them against the back of their neck. “Wonderful. Kellis must be having a delightful morning.”

Malsara exhales a sharp breath. “It is not my place to say,” she says tepidly. “Though I would consider practicing the art of holding my tongue, if I were you. Your loathing for the man is well known—”

“Well known? It is only known because I warned Zenaida myself when she first proposed the idea of seeking a Wayfarer’s aid.”

“And Her Grace would be very vexed should it interfere with achieving our goal. She would like to remind you that you keep it to yourself. As she said herself—ten years is a long time to hold a grudge, even for an elf with your particular proclivities.”

Veyer’s expression hardens and they glance out over the water, their casual bearing evaporating. You watch them carefully, chewing your bottom lip, your mind racing. What happened in the Imperial capital ten years ago? You assumed their dislike of Aeran stemmed from general annoyance and his… well… Aeran-ness, but it must be more than that.