The journey back to Duke Arkwright's territory was a quiet one, the rhythmic beat of Ignis's wings the only constant sound. Ignis flew with steady purpose, the conquered Howling Crags shrinking behind them. Elise dozed fitfully against Adam, Seraphina kept a watchful eye on the horizon, and Lilith sat with her usual preternatural calm, looking for all the world like a noblewoman on a leisurely aerial tour.
In the silent space of their shared mental link, Adam's voice brushed against Lilith's consciousness, dry and pointed. 'So. About our uninvited guests. Did you manage to learn anything useful before you… dealt with them? Names? Who sent them?'
Lilith's mental reply was a picture of serene innocence. 'I am afraid not. They were remarkably fragile. They expired before any meaningful interrogation could begin. A pity.'
