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Incredible. Eudias still had honor within him, which had not been pounded out of him by his ordeals in Corona. His opportunity to act as Cassia’s defender seemed to have tapped into the role he had once played for his own people at home, at a happier time in his life.
But Eudias’s sudden attack of conscience, however considerate, was more likely to inconvenience Cassia’s cause at the moment.
Lio bit back a sigh. “I understand.”
“I remain convinced a message would be sufficient,” Mak said.
Lio nodded. “I would gladly convey your thoughts to her in a message. If you are not confident in us to deliver your words on your behalf, you could write a letter to her yourself, and we could bring you her reply.”
Eudias swallowed and moistened his lips, his first betrayal of nerves since their conversation had begun. “I dare not commit what I have to tell her to paper. Please do not take offense when I say she would not trust my words, should she hear them from a Hesperine.”
Lio frowned. “Apprentice Eudias, it sounds to me as if you have more to say to her than an apology.”
“It is in your best interests to deal straightly with us,” Mak said.
“Well.” The young mage took a deep breath. “Where is the harm in confessing apostasy to heretics? Ambassador Deukalion and Steward Telemakhos, would you like to help me throw away my career in the Aithourian Circle, which most mages would kill for—and have killed for?”
Lio took a step closer. “Apprentice Eudias, are you…defecting?”
Mak crossed his arms over his chest, but he studied Eudias with consideration.
Eudias looked from Lio to Mak. “I hardly know what will become of me after tonight, but I am going to tell the truth, nothing more and nothing less, about the corruption in my order. I will tell Basilis what really happened at the Equinox Summit this winter past. I believe your people already have a suspicion of the truth, as do some Tenebrans. All they need is for someone to confirm the rumors flying about. I can do that.”
“What do you know?” Lio asked.
Eudias’s aura chilled with apprehension even as it heated with anger. “I was privy to all Master Dalos’s conversations with Basileus. I know the Tenebrans’ king conspired with my order to murder most of the nobility and your embassy.”
Eudias was ready to stand witness to Cassia’s truth.
“We did know,” Lio said, “but Tenebrans are more hesitant to believe such a thing of their mages and their king.”
“They deserve to know the truth.” Eudias had never sounded so vehement. “I think they will believe me, because it is not in my best interests to say this. I think you will help me because it is in your interests for them to hear it. Why would I lie about something that will…well. End my career.”
Or get him executed by his order.
“Eudias,” said Lio, “we appreciate the risk you are taking. The sacrifice you are making.”
“Yes, I suppose you do.”
Lio looked to his Trial brother.
Mak nodded. “On behalf of the Stand, I can assure you release from house arrest—into our protection.”
“Whatever happens,” Lio promised, “we will see to it you come to no harm on Orthros’s shores.”
Eudias took another deep breath, as if he had cleared a hurdle. “I will worry about my future later. Please take me to see Basilis so I can tell her the truth. The other Tenebrans will listen to her.”
“Let me tell the Guardian of Orthros the new facts of the situation.” Mak stepped out of sight.
A moment later, he reappeared in Eudias’s guest room. Lio felt Mak’s wards come down, and Eudias must have as well, for his eyes widened.
Mak gave him a short bow. “The Guardian of Orthros has approved your request and thanks you for your courage and honor in the face of danger. The ambassador and I will take you to Lady Cassia right away.”
“In fact, now is a perfect time. It appears she is in council with the lords here in the common room.” Lio added innocently, “I cannot imagine what they are discussing, but perhaps it will prove an opportune setting for your revelations.”
Eudias gave a nod. “I am ready.”
Lio offered him a hand. “I don’t know if it means very much coming from a Hesperine, but you have my utmost respect.”
