LYRA

The six of us gathered around in my chamber making sure everyone else had sat down, speaking in hushed tones that wouldn't carry beyond the walls. Sera immediately began checking the room for any leaks, running her hands along walls looking for spy holes, examining the fireplace and windows for listening devices, moving with the training of someone who knew exactly what to search for.

"Clear," she announced finally, positioning herself near the door where she could watch the corridor. "We ...