“Maybe if you were desperate for revenge,” Han said. “Or willing to do whatever it takes to win.” Like me, he added to himself.

They sat in silence for a moment, each alone with his own thoughts.

“Have you tried returning to Aediion?” Han asked. “Since that day in Gryphon’s class?”

“No, I haven’t,” Dancer said, staring up at the ceiling. “I never saw much use in it, and after what happened to you the first time, I wasn’t eager to try it again.”

“We should go,” Han said, after another long pause. “I can bring you along, or you can come on your own power.”

“I’ll come on my own,” Dancer said. “That way I can leave on my own. Are you wearing your rowan talisman?” Dancer reached up and touched his own. He’d made one for himself after Han’s had prevented Crow from possessing him.

Han nodded, opening his collar so Dancer could see. “Wait a few minutes before you follow me. I’ll give Crow a bit of warning that you’re coming.” Han didn’t know if that was a good or a bad idea, but it seemed only fair. “I don’t think it really matters where we meet, as far as Crow is concerned. He’s just always there, waiting. But let’s you and me meet in Mystwerk Tower.”

What if Crow doesn’t show? Han thought. I’ll look like a fool.

That was the least of his worries.

He lay back, closing his eyes, and spoke the familiar words that would let him pass through the portal. And opened his eyes to Mystwerk Tower.

Midnight. Moonlight shafted down from the windows, kindling the dust motes in the air.

Crow sat cross-legged on the floor in front of Han, dressed all in black, eyes closed, head bowed, his flax hair the only brilliant thing about him. If Han didn’t know better, he’d have guessed he was either despondent or praying.

Han reorganized his clothes, ridding himself of the clan garb he’d been wearing and arraying himself in elegant flare, down to the glittering rings on his fingers. It had become his way of honoring Crow, of meeting him on his own turf.

Crow opened his eyes and blinked up at him. “Alister!” He scrambled to his feet, brushing at his somber clothing. Then glittered up a bit, sprouting rings and sequins and jewels, as if to present a more cheerful appearance. “You’re alive!” He looked eagerly into Han’s face, examining it for damage. “Are you…are you well? How are you feeling?”

Han shrugged, surprised at Crow’s concern. “I’ll live.”

“It’s true, then, that the Maker looks after fools,” Crow said, sounding more like his usual self. “You nearly killed yourself healing that girl. You stripped your amulet and yourself. I thought you were dead. Why did you do it?”