Page 51 of Sundered By Fate

"Oh, so many things." Valerian smiled, though it didn't reach those too-perceptive eyes. "But let us start with your thoughts on our current political situation."

"I would hardly presume to advise you on such matters?—"

"But I am asking." His fingers squeezed Aric's hand with surprising force. "As one outsider to another. I find myself in need of fresh perspectives these days."

Aric nodded slowly. "I think...there are many threats to our stability that must be addressed," he said cautiously. "Both internal and external."

"Indeed." They twirled again, and Valerian's hand slipped lower on Aric's back before returning to its proper position. "I've heard worrying rumors about certain factions gaining influence within our ranks."

"The Pureblades have their own agenda," Aric agreed, unable to fully hide his distaste.

"And what would your agenda be, Solarian?" Valerian leaned closer as they dipped together in perfect sync with the music.

Aric swallowed hard. "To protect our realm from all threats. No matter where they might come from."

"A noble goal." Valerian pulled him back upright, and their eyes met once more. "I share it as well—though I find our methods may differ."

The song began to wind down, the final notes stretching out between them like a taut wire.

"Tell me," Valerian said softly. "Have you given any thought to my proposition? About joining me in my...research?"

Aric hesitated as the last chord hummed in the air around them.

"I fear my answer may disappoint you, my lord."

He braced himself for anger or scorn—but instead, Valerian only smiled.

"On the contrary." Valerian lifted Aric's gloved hand to his lips with gallant deference. "You continue to intrigue me all the more."

As the dance with Valerian ended, Aric's eyes were drawn to Ruta and Olaya in a secluded alcove, the two of them standing far closer than mere friends might.

Olaya's hand rested lightly on Ruta's arm, her head tilted as she listened to whatever Ruta was saying with a soft smile. Ruta glanced up at her with an expression Aric had only seen when the other mages in their group spoke of their hometowns, or when recounting their own stories of battle victories—but never like this. Something deep and warm and far more intimate.

Aric's heart lifted for her.

He hesitated for a moment longer before approaching them, unsure if he should intrude. But Olaya caught his eye and gave him a barely perceptible nod, and Ruta turned toward him with a warm smile.

"Aric!" Ruta greeted him, stepping away from Olaya just slightly. "You look as though you've been enjoying yourself."

Aric shrugged, but he was smiling. "The Lord Regent is...an intriguing man."

"Intriguing is one word for it," Olaya muttered, her expression cooling slightly at the mention of Valerian.

Ruta elbowed her gently, and Olaya sighed. "I am glad to see you here, Aric," she said more warmly. "It has been far too long."

"For all of us." Aric's gaze flickered between them again. "Though it seems you two have not been apart in quite some time."

Ruta laughed softly, linking her arm through Olaya's. "We have been quite inseparable since our return to Astaria." Her dark eyes glinted at Aric. "I owe you so much for bringing me back to my people."

Aric waved off the praise awkwardly. "I only did what anyone would do."

Olaya was watching him carefully now. "Not everyone would take such risks for those they barely knew." Her voice was quiet, serious. "You have always cared far too much for your own good."

Aric felt himself blushing, though he wasn't sure why. Maybe it was the wine or the heat of so many bodies packed into one room.

"I care because I believe we can be better," he said finally.

Ruta smiled at that, squeezing Olaya's hand fondly. "Yes. We can."

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