It felt very odd to see such deep and genuine concern on a Palatian’s face while directed at me, that for a long moment, I didn’t know how to react. He returned to eating his stew as if he didn’t expect a reply from me, his gaze thoughtful.

“Smart slaves that keep their heads down and mouths shut are usually better fed,” I said, my voice soft, but Doxon looked a bit stricken I’ve said anything at all. “I tend to not be one of the smart ones.”

I couldn’t help mirroring the ...