The pair made their way down the road a ways, Taleal just a pace or two behind the robed man. Once they were out of sight of Lyna and the gate, Taleal stepped ahead of the Exarch, whirling on him with a dagger at his throat with blinding speed.
"We will go no further."
The Exarch stood statue still as she spoke.
"You will tell me what you have done with the Scions, now. And you will tell me what has become of G'raha Tia."
The Exarch stared at her much too calmly, not even flinching at the blade that pressed against his throat.
"Of the Scions, I am more than happy to help, and will do so. But who is this other you ask of?"
If looks could kill, the Exarch would have died from her glare alone.
"He would have been in that Tower you have laid claim to."
"There is - was - no one by that name, I am afraid. Now," he reached up with the crystallized hand, moving the dagger away from his throat. "If you would but sheath your daggers - and pray, your temper - I will explain all that I am able, if you would but follow me?" The Exarch tilted his head, hooded gaze momentairily drawn by the strung beads in her hair.
Taleal narrowed her eyes, letting him move the dagger away. At last, after some moments, she put the blades away, nodding curtly.
"Very well. This story had best be a good one."
"I shall strive not to disappoint."
This meeting was not what he had thought it would be. What he had hoped it would be.
But she is here, and that is what matters. He thought to himself, biting back a sigh.
