Tavin couldn’t help but stare at Baelon’s outstretched hand. He couldn’t sense any dishonesty in his words; Baelon really was offering him this. A chance to become powerful, a chance to do something that really made a difference. But would it also mean fighting against the Empire? Fighting against Chalea and Valina?

“Hold it!”

It was Chalea’s voice. She stormed up the street toward them. Baelon took a step backward and squared himself up against her approach. The old ...