Linsy remained perfectly still, her composure a thin veneer over the turmoil within. Before she could form a response, a voice, cold and authoritative, cut through the tension from the entrance hall.

"And why should she speak to you with any deference," the voice stated, each word a chip of ice, "when you afford her none?"

All eyes turned. Michael Helwart stood framed in the doorway, having entered with silent, predatory grace. In a few swift, ground-eating strides, he was at Linsy’s side, ...