So that’s why the manor house is the ideal place for the kingdoms’ most powerful to gather. Here, we are all rendered equals.

“The strongest among us feel its effects more acutely,” he says, eyes appraising. Does it surprise him to count me among those strongest? “You’ll become accustomed to it soon.” He turns away, his tunic rustling as he ascends the grand staircase.

Willing my legs to obey, I release the door frame. Phaut helps by shouldering my weight as the servant guides us to my room. Saengo grips my other hand. Once we’re settled, maids arrive to help us wash, but I send them away. Saengo and I bathe alone so that no one else will see the startling lines of infection that spider Saengo’s chest.

The maids have left me gorgeous plum-colored silks in the Nuvali style of flowing layers and intricately embroidered hems. But I regretfully pass on the gown. Instead, I put on formfitting pants and a loose top, belted with a simple red sash. I’ll need the freedom of movement.

Once we’re both washed and dressed, I empty my satchel of everything save my swords and then sling the bag over my shoulder. Saengo gives me a firm nod, her eyes dark and serious. The hot water has returned some much-needed warmth to her cheeks.

“Be careful,” she says.

“I will.” My plan is simple. After consulting some maps in the library, I learned that a creek runs through the rear of Vienth Manor. It flows directly south through the Dead Wood and cuts close to the western border of Spinner’s End. It’s the most direct route and should take a full night and day’s ride. If the trees cooperate.

Once I’m missed, Saengo will say I went to meet her father to explain his daughter’s circumstances in person. Falcons Ridge is only a couple of days’ ride west of here. I’d be back in no time. Ronin will still be furious, and Phaut will probably go after me. She won’t realize the deception until she arrives at Falcons Ridge and learns I’m not there.

It genuinely pains me to deceive Phaut. She’s my friend, and I have so few of those. But she’s also loyal to Ronin. Breaking his bond with his familiar is as much an attack on him as it is on the Dead Wood. I can’t be certain Phaut would believe my theories or that she wouldn’t report my intentions back to him.

Something rustles at our window. Saengo’s eyes light up. “Millie!”

The falcon perches on the sill, watching us with a slight tilt of her head. Sometimes I’m convinced she understands what we’re saying.