Liam considered that, then glanced down at the notes accumulating across his tablet.
"How did he open the Trial?"
Cassian's expression changed to the immediate, absolute vigilance of a man who had governed Nuria for nearly two centuries while waiting for Goliath—or someone carrying his blood—to return.
"No."
"I asked a question." Liam tried to maintain a neutral tone, knowing Cassian could smell his curiosity.
"And I answered the intention behind it."
Liam settled farther into the leather chair. "You said the Core opened the passage at sunrise. Was that automatic, or did Goliath activate something in the sanctuary?"
Cassian reached across the narrow table and switched off Liam's recording projection.
"Cassian."
"You are already the mate of a recognized sovereign. Whatever qualification the Trial was designed to establish, you possess its authority through your bond with Arik."
"Borrowed authority."
