Page 196 of The Fifth Heir

“The date will be announced after the Trial site passes inspection.”

Torren left the bed. “And Talia’s status?”

“Still subject to challenge.”

“Your family again?” Rafe asked.

Leander looked at him. “All seven territories possess the right to challenge an heir.”

“That wasn’t the question.”

“The North has not withdrawn its petition.”

I stood.

Leander’s attention moved to me.

“I need to speak with you privately.”

The wall runes turned white.

Rafe laughed. “They really do dislike your conversations.”

“About what?” I asked.

“The legal challenge.”

“I think we’ve established your position.”

“My position is why you remain an heir.”

“Your family’s position is why I was on that platform.”

Torren came to stand beside me.

Leander looked at him, then at the rumpled blankets behind us.

Something cold entered his expression.

It disappeared too quickly for me to name.

“Knowing what the council can ask and what you are required to answer may determine whether their challenge succeeds,” he said.

I wanted to refuse.

I also knew nothing about succession law beyond the records kept in the Hall. Those accounts described results, not procedures. Leander had studied crown law since childhood.

Being angry with him did not make ignorance safer.

Listening to him for one morning would not erase what he had done. It would keep his family from using my ignorance against me a second time.

“After breakfast,” I said.

The wall runes softened.

Rafe looked disappointed.

Leander waited for me in the study.