Fair Play

[Eidolon]

Eido was a silent shadow at Zephyr’s side, as she nearly always was, especially in the days following her brief absence and the resultant changes in her manner. After Jacob’s visit, Zephyr’s brooding over the strange jewellery had resolved to action, and Eido didn’t question it – outwardly at least. They had never spoken of whatever had happened, though Eido surmised enough to understand that the other woman was dealing with loss. Such emotions were likely to flame recklessness, and Zephyr’s passions raged hot at the best of times, which was why Eido stayed quietly close. But the subject of their hunt did not sit entirely easy with her. If Zephyr needed a channeler on which to test the device, Eido would have far preferred they use it on her. But despite promises of servitude, they had not been able to recreate a situation in which Eido had been able to access the reserves of her own power. And Zephyr pointed out that her loyalty would make the experiment moot anyway.

She couldn’t disagree that the Atharim’s notes on this man marked him as dangerous, not simply in theoretical terms, but in actual terms. But none of this sat easy. Silently, she helped Zephyr back to her feet, glancing once at the metal now attached to the back of her head. The trust between them would be tested by this; already Eido considered the honour of her word, and the reasons for it, against Zephyr’s methods. Nothing betrayed her thoughts but her eyes were vigilant. Conflicted. The man did not seem able to move. His scream was ear-splitting. The way he soon fell to his knees made her swallow in discomfort.

She said nothing as she followed.