“Perhaps we should wait for Malikel’s return.”

“There’s no time. The last dose of antidote is to be delivered this week. Either way, the Council has made a decision.”

An unpleasant suspicion came to mind. “And if Kyra refuses to do this, will she still get the antidote?”

“Venom antidote is scarce. Without Far Rangers to replenish our stores, we need to ration our supplies wisely. And that includes prioritizing those who are actively serving the Palace. Do I gather that you object, Tristam?”

Tristam fought to keep his voice even. “If I may speak freely, Your Grace, I’ve been working hard to win her trust, and a move like this may undermine my efforts.”

“I understand your concern, but the city is in danger. We don’t have time to proceed gradually.”

Tristam looked down, reminding himself to speak carefully, that he was addressing the most powerful man in Forge. “I suppose, Your Grace, that these tactics remind me too much of what the Assassins Guild would do.”

“How so?”

“It’s underhanded, and it’s cowardly.”

Willem’s expression hardened. “Watch your tongue, young knight. You speak above your station.”

The rebuke hit him with almost physical force. Tristam took a slow breath. “My apologies, Your Grace. I spoke inappropriately.”

“One of my biggest misgivings about putting you in charge of the prisoner was your youth. At your age and experience, I worried that you’d be unduly influenced by a female prisoner so close to your own age. I expressed my doubts to Malikel, but he vouched for your maturity and character. I hope you don’t prove him wrong,” said Willem. “Remember that we’re working toward the same goals. You lost a good friend to the Demon Riders, isn’t that right?”

“Yes, sir.”

“And you do wish to defeat them, do you not?”

“Yes, sir.” And the frustrating thing was, he did. He still wanted it, more than anything. And now that Willem had put the idea in his head, he could see how Kyra could help them if she were willing. But that was the sticking point. She wouldn’t be willing with a threat like this hanging over her.

“Remember also, that the prisoner is already under a death sentence. We are offering her a chance to avoid it. Can I be assured of your cooperation, Tristam?”

It wasn’t really a question. “Yes, Your Grace.”

“Good. Then I will accompany you to speak with her.”

“Now?”

“I see no reason to wait.”

Tristam was surprised at how desperately he wanted to stall, but he couldn’t find a way. He was bound to obey the Council, and Willem was its head.