A Thorn emerged from the shadows at the foot of Lord Aren’s desk. Dressed in black reliefs, the collar of his form-fitting shirt hugging his neck and his trousers neatly pressed, he might have just come from his quarters, but Lord Aren knew differently. He had been expecting him.

  The Thorn saluted, his gaze darting to the shepherd’s hook hung just behind his master’s head. His gaze shifted to the general, and his arms snapped to his sides.

  “Your report?” Lord Aren said, setting aside his work. He folded his hands together in his lap, and fixed a stony regard on the Thorn.

  “Lady Therien’s movements betray a complication to us.”

  “More of her philandering?”

  The Thorn shook his head. “No. That is being dealt with.”

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  “Speak plainly, then.”

  “I’ve just come from the Servants’ Tunnels. A reach near the entrance to the dungeons. She entered an area that requires certain clearances. However…I have never seen the symbol before.”

  “The color?”

  “Black.”

  “I see.” Lord Aren tapped his knuckles against his knees. “Were you able to learn anything from her?”

  “The area does not permit shadow walking. It refuses entry…even to open a doorway.”

  “Yes, then there is enchanted quartz somewhere inside. A substantial amount.”

  “I was able to glean something. When she returned from that chamber, she was furious. She looked as if she’d just endured some strenuous activity. No, I do not think it had anything to do with the affair.

  “She did also say something I thought odd. Something about…’blue-eyed scum.”

  A chill swept through Lord Aren at that. He kept his expression even.

  “You are dismissed. Leave this matter to me. Tell no one of what she said.”

  “Understood, sir.”

  The Thorn saluted, and slid back into the shadows, leaving Lord Aren to himself.

  “Blue-eyed scum, huh.” He mumbled. How much damage does that woman intend to do. So close to the Emperor’s arrival, no less.