Kaelon waited until he was back in his own study before making the call.
The drive sat inside a secure case on the desk in front of him. He had no intention of carrying it around any longer than necessary. His father's words had only reinforced what he already knew: the information inside it was too dangerous to leave in the hands of someone who might see an opportunity instead of a responsibility.
He picked up his phone and found Lyle's number.
For a moment, his thumb hovered over the screen.
Lyle Aelion was not someone Kaelon contacted casually. The man was notoriously difficult to read, and Kaelon had no doubt that Lyle would immediately recognize that this was not an ordinary call.
He pressed the button.
The call connected after only two rings.
"Kaelon."
Lyle's voice was calm, low, and unmistakably alert.
"Lyle. Are you busy?"
"Yes."
Kaelon almost smiled. Of course he was.
"I need to speak with you about something important."
