“You’re beautiful, even so,” Tevan said. He stood up and scowled. “But if you feel that way, then maybe you should go out to the bleakest place in all Theranis and be alone. Maybe you’ll like that better.” He picked up his belt and pouch then stomped to the door, where he knelt to strap on his sandals. He didn’t look at her. He was on his way out the door when Darna spoke again.
“The guild master will need to approve it,” she said, “and the prince.”
“You’re the master’s favorite.”
Darna would have protested, but Tevan was already on the landing outside.
“Leave the prince to me,” he said, his back still turned to her. “Good riddance to you.”
He didn’t look back. Darna gaped after him. The well-worn staircase shook in his wake. As he clattered down to the street, the bells sounded, sign
