The Vanguard Stars' temporary office inside the Spire smelled of ink and old parchment. Late-morning sunlight came through a narrow window, falling across the heavy mahogany desk in the center of the room.
Alex closed the door behind him and walked directly to the chair opposite Sophie. He didn't wait for the guildmaster to ask him to sit. He crossed the room, pulled out the high-backed leather chair, and sat down.
Instead of hiding his injury, Alex lifted his right hand, still wrapped in fresh white linen, and placed it flat on the desk between them.
Sophie watched the movement. Her sharp eyes stayed on the white bandages against the dark wood.
"You wanted the truth," Alex said, keeping his voice steady despite the dull ache in his palm.
"I did."
Sophie leaned back in her chair. Reaching into the inner pocket of her guild coat, she pulled out a small box lined with black velvet and pushed it across the desk.
