"We are not taking any chances," Ze explains. "It is clear the demons are planning something, but none of our sources have been able to find out what it is."

"That is terrible," Rhea whispers. "I have to ask... Is Cerenios in danger?"

Ze's lips flatten into a thin line.

"His mission is dangerous, but Cerenios is more than capable of handling it. I have trust in him and his abilities."

Although Ze's words are assuring, that doesn't stop Rhea from worrying, and she's not the only one. Glancing at Thea, I note the pallor of her skin and the light tremor in her limbs. Catching my gaze on her trembling hands, she removes them from the table, folding them in her lap as she straightens her back and attempts to act unbothered.

"The demons have never tried anything like this before. Why now?" Rhea asks as she shakes her head in disbelief.

"I am not certain. It is possible they did not have the resources before. But after Elias's defection..." he trails off, and my brows go up in question. No one explains what that means, though, and a heavy silence descends upon us.

"That damn Elias." Maros strikes his fist against the table. "I cannot believe I trusted him."

"You were not the only one," Ze comments drily.

"We should have taken your counsel. If we had, none of this would have happened. The chalice wouldn't be missing either."

"It is what it is." Ze shrugs, though I note the ghost of a smirk touching his lips. "For the time being, I will reside in Arche to oversee the security detail for Arwyn's majority."

"What?" Wyn's eyes widen.

"Why would that be a problem?" Rhea asks.

"It is merely a precautionary measure. Arwyn's majority will be attended by some of the most important people in Aperion. It will be the perfect opportunity for an attack, if that is their plan."

I stare at Ze unblinking, a little taken aback by this new manner of his. He's surprisingly eloquent and persuasive, his words and tone demanding immediate attention and respect.

"You are right," Maros sighs. "You are welcome to stay in our home for any amount of time you require. Having you here for Arwyn's majority will, indeed, put my mind at ease."

"Why don't you go stay with the king?" Thea suddenly quips, not even bothering to hide her disdain. "Our home may be a little too lacking for a figure as lofty as yourself," she adds sarcastically.

Ze's lips curl around the corners.

"I have decided to lower my standards. You are welcome."

"Ze." I give him a harsh look as I kick him under the table.

He turns to look at me, the picture of innocence.

"I will have the guest room at the end of the hall," he says, not taking his eyes off me. It slowly dawns on me that the room in question is right across from my own.