“And let you nearly set it on fire again, holding it to the flame trying to read the message inside?” Ashyn shook her head. “You’ll find out soon enough. We cannot risk tampering with it.”

“I’m not tampering. I’m trying to learn more. Once we hand it to the emperor, we have only his word on what’s written within.”

Ashyn’s brows shot up. “You think he would lie?”

“Perhaps not, but I don’t like knowing so little. Let me see the seal again.”

Ashyn sighed and took the envelope out. Moria examined the wax seal.

“It looks like a family crest,” Moria said. “But there is no creature in it, and Gavril did not recognize it.”

“Because if it is a family crest, it is not from a family of the empire. These are mercenaries. They must work for a foreign king.”

“If we could identify it, then . . .”

Another sigh. “Then what? What difference does it make?”

“It would be knowledge. Insight. Before we hand it over.”

Ashyn shook her head and pocketed the envelope. “You’re bored, Moria. Go for a walk. Visit Gavril. He’d be happy to see you.”

“No, I’m quite certain he’s enjoying the respite.”

“Oh, I’m not so sure.” Ashyn smiled. “I think he’d welcome a visit, particularly if your sister is not tagging along.”

“Do not play matchmaker, Ash. Or, if you must, find a more suitable target for me. Gavril is a valuable ally. I respect him.”

“Meaning you do not find him attractive? Because I’m sure I caught you watching at the stream when he took off his tunic to bathe.”

Moria shrugged. “He was doing so within view; it was no invasion of privacy, and it was a sight worth watching. So is a pretty sunset. It does not mean I wish it for my own. I respect Gavril. I admire him. Therefore, he is not a potential lover.”

“Because you respect and admire him? That may be the most ridiculous thing you’ve ever said.”

“Not wishing to dally and amuse myself with someone I hold in regard?” Moria sat cross-legged on the end of the sleeping mat. “I think that is perfectly reasonable. I like Gavril. I enjoy his companionship. He infuriates me, but he challenges me, and I appreciate that. I can talk to him honestly. That’s rare.”

“And all qualities you ought to seek in a lover.”

“Why? I don’t want a lover so I can talk to him. That would defeat the purpose. I can think of much better uses for a lover’s energy. And his mouth.”

Ashyn’s cheeks colored. “I’m going to pretend you didn’t say that.”

“You keep your notions of romance, Ash, and I’ll keep mine. Just understand that they do not include Gavril Kitsune.” She crossed the room and peered out the window into the courtyard. “Is the sun not even down yet?”