Rin did not answer Aelion immediately.
The archivist was struggling to stand, and Eryndor had drawn him away from the shattered crystal wall. Around them, the remaining lights flickered weakly, illuminating a chamber that seemed to be losing its shape.
But Rin could think of only one thing.
Kaelith asked you to bring me here?
Yes.
Why didn't you tell me?
Aelion's silence lasted long enough to become an answer of its own.
Because I didn't know what he intended to do once you arrived.
Rin stared into the darkness where the doorway had vanished.
You knew he was searching for me.
I knew he had never stopped.
And you still kept me in the dark?
I was trying to protect you.
Rin let out a humorless laugh.
Everyone in this world uses those words when they want to make a decision for someone else.
He felt Aelion withdraw, but not before a flicker of pain passed through their shared mind.
Rin turned toward Eryndor.
"We need to speak with the archivist."
