The Aether-neutral pavilion rose like a white marble fortress in the middle of neutral ground. Crystal chandeliers floated without chains, and the long negotiation table was carved from a single slab of voidstone. Aiden sat at the head, flanked by Elizabeth on his right. Across from them sat Lady Veyra and Captain Sylas.
Veyra looked like she had stepped out of moonlight—silver hair pinned high, sharp cheekbones, and a dress that shifted colors when she moved.
Sylas leaned back in the chair, androgynous and dangerous, short black hair, leather vest, and a smirk that said they had already won whatever game was being played.
"Straight terms," Aiden said. "Your Veilweaver intelligence network joins our coalition. In return, we open three trade routes through the Shattered Expanse and guarantee protection from the Dominion."
Veyra smiled. "Acceptable. But alliances need… trust."
