“So,” I say, “I’m going to Velmara.” The enormity of what I’m about to do hits me, but I push down my reservations.

“You’re going to Velmara,” she repeats. “I’m not sure I’m prepared to rule Thayaria without you. We haven’t even discussed what to do about the Sons and Daughters of Thayaria.” She rubs her hands across her face. Laurel looks exhausted and worn down. Her always-on composure and control make it easy to overlook the pressure she puts on herself to be the perfect leader. Glassy eyes stare back at me. She likely hasn’t slept well in weeks.

“I’ve already spoken with Admon and given him direction for the Sons and Daughters, though I didn’t tell him about the mole,” I tell her gently, hoping to ease her concerns. “I counseled him to have the advisors spread whispers telling the truth of this arrangement—that I’m going to Velmara to seek answers about the thayar and that we are dipping a toe in the water of reconciliation with Velmara. I also instructed him to mention we’ll be getting increased revenues for our exports. This should quell their recruitment efforts and take away the full power of their narrative.” Guilt and shame at not being able to stop the rebel attacks before leaving for Velmara churn within me.

“Who are you going to take with you?” she asks me, and I once again hesitate to tell her my plans, knowing how she’ll feel about them.

“Well…” I start slowly. I take a deep breath, steeling myself. “I think I should go alone.”

“Absolutely not.” Laurel’s expression leaves no room for argument. I groan.

“El, you’ve got to stop saying no to everything that puts me at the slightest amount of risk.”

“I don’t, actually. I get to do whatever I want, and what I want is to keep you, my sister in every way that counts, safe. And this isn’t a slight amount of risk. Going alone to Velmara is insanity. Surely you know that.”

“Of course I know the risk. I’ve been through everything you have,” I snap, unable to keep the frustration from my voice. I immediately regret it when I see Laurel’s face shutter. Sighing, I rub a hand across the back of my neck. “I only mean, I’m just as aware as you are of what I’m walking into. And I’ve weighed the benefits and risks. Trust that I wouldn’t put myself in danger unless I had a good reason.”

Her bright green eyes search mine. “And what is this good reason?”