Page 21 of Tempest Blazing
"Moriyana said a lot of things." Theron's interruption was gentle but firm. "But increased security doesn't mean you're safe,especially when you're working alone in sections of the Library that are isolated from the main areas."
I shifted in my seat, torn between defensiveness and unexpected relief that someone was actually looking out for me.
"What are you saying?" I asked.
Theron was quiet for a moment, his gaze fixed on something beyond my shoulder. When he spoke, his voice was carefully measured. "You need to be extra careful about when and where you work. Even with heightened security, there are... vulnerabilities."
The way he said it—the careful selection of words—told me he knew more than he was saying. But he wasn't going to elaborate.
The fact that he was warning me at all meant something. Maybe not full trust, not yet, but it was a start.
"Okay," I said finally. "What do you suggest?"
"Don't work alone." Simple words with unmistakable weight. "When you need to be in the Library, make sure other people are around. Better yet, invite someone to join you."
"That's going to make some of my research more difficult," I pointed out. "There are areas of the Library that most people can't access, and some of the materials I'm working with are... sensitive."
"Then you'll have to get creative." His expression softened slightly. "I'm not trying to make your job impossible, Tess. I'm trying to keep you alive."
The blunt honesty actually made me relax slightly. This wasn't political maneuvering—this was genuine concern. The knot of tension I'd been carrying since the attack loosened just a fraction.
"I understand," I said, and meant it. "I'll be more careful."
"Good." He stood, signaling that our conversation was over. "And Tess? Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, don't ignore it."
I nodded, rising from my chair. As I reached the door, his voice stopped me.
"The people in this room today—they're willing to help you. Don't be too proud to let them."
I turned back to look at him, surprised by the gentleness in his tone. "I won't be. And... thank you. For looking out for me."
Something flickered across his face—surprise, maybe, or approval. "Just doing my job."
I was halfway down the Guild corridor when the realization hit me like a physical blow. The interview with Garanth Kreel. Friday evening, for the Oral History project.
My chest tightened. I'd just promised Theron I wouldn't work alone, Kane had warned me about this exact meeting, and the timing couldn't be worse with the trials moved up. The cafe in Drakehaven suddenly felt like walking into a trap, but canceling now would mean losing the opportunity entirely.
For a split second, I considered asking Kane to come with me. His strategic mind would be invaluable, and he already knew about Garanth's reputation. But the thought of spending an evening with Kane's calculating stare and careful distance made my stomach twist.
No—I'd ask Mason to come with me. His steady presence would be reassuring, and his experience with dangerous people would be invaluable if things went sideways. Plus, our bond meant he'd understand the situation without needing extensive explanation.
The Library doors opened ahead of me, but the familiar warmth and golden light no longer felt like a sanctuary. Now, I saw the shadows. The potential hiding places in the beautiful, dangerous maze.
Chapter 9
Tess
I stuffed my notebooks into my bag, half-listening to the chatter while my mind kept circling back to Friday. Garenth's interview had its hooks in me deeper than I'd expected.
Mason was gathering his things at the desk beside me, his movements methodical as always. Perfect. Having him there would make everything feel more manageable.
"So," I started casually, slinging my bag over my shoulder, "any plans for Friday evening?"
He looked up, and something flickered across his expression—guilt, maybe. "Actually, yeah. Family dinner with Kali. It's been a while since we've had time just the two of us, you know?"
The disappointment hit harder than it should have, though I tried not to let it show. Of course Mason would prioritize his sister. They'd been through hell together, and their bond was sacred. I couldn't—wouldn't—ask him to change those plans. I'd have to figure something else out.
"That sounds really nice," I said, and meant it. "You two deserve that time together."
