Villain Ch 1720. Invisible Exam
Jordan sat back slightly, finally letting the air ease. "You're in a position of power now, Azura. Information is power. So is restraint. I've seen leaders destroyed not by their enemies, but by their own need to shout."
Emma nodded slowly. "That's why he runs half the world."
Allen finally spoke again. "You did well," he said, voice low. "With the duel. With tonight."
Azura turned to him, wary. "Don't patronize me."
"I'm not," he said, gaze steady. "I meant it."
Something in her chest pulled taut again.
Jordan watched them both carefully, as if studying a flame flickering too close to a curtain. Then, at last, he waved a hand toward the hall.
"Kai."
Kai reappeared instantly. Azura half-wondered if he'd just been standing behind a curtain with his eyes closed, waiting for a psychic cue.
"You may bring the food now," Jordan said.
Kai bowed, and the air softened again.
