Water's Reflection or Hero's Guilt

Chapter Forty-Seven

          Madame Lyss remained quiet for a while; she said nothing, and Maya, who spoke for her, did not make a sound either. The girl had her eyes closed, her one hand touching Madame Lyss, the other down by her side. She concentrated on reading the thoughts of the old Librarian. The others did not speak either. They watched Madame Lyss, waiting for a reaction. She was conflicted—would she decide not to allow Adam to continue his plans? Would she attack them? They could not be sure.

          Adam chuckled awkwardly. He rubbed his neck in an attempt to hide that his other hand already took a knife out of a sheath hidden in the seams of his clothes. Terrance looked around, to take in the room. It seemed to be a straightforward location, a simple room with only a few exits. They'd probably have to run, he considered. The Librarian would probably have tricks that they did not expect, traps that would soon cost them the fight. Not now.

          Finally, Maya's voice sounded through the room. “No.” One word, and one word alone—it surprised everyone. She did not continue at first, but then added, “No, he can be trusted. Terrance doesn't, but Terrance is not always right. Adam is not straightforward; he is crooked. Twisting and bending. But that is good...” She waited again, and Terrance understood: she did not speak for Madame Lyss anymore. No, she spoke for herself. She read her thoughts, and with that, her answers. They were only listening to Maya's side to the conversation.

          “We do not need straightforward,” said Maya. “We have no advantage. We cannot dare to be straightforward—we need trickery. Adam will help... No, I know. Terrance knows. Betrayal is a possibility. But it is not guaranteed... If that happens, what would you do? It would not matter. Mr. Evangely is hated, Adam would be too... Substitution is not bad... Yes, I know... Yes, but... What if it's better?”

          “I am not lying when I say I'll be a good Legate,” Adam quickly said. “I do not intend to harm or torture. I don't even want to harvest souls, if it were up to me. I only want to be rid of a servitude sworn in a haze of euphoria and ignorance...”

          Madame Lyss hesitated, but finally, Maya spoke her thoughts aloud; “The youngest of you all may be the wisest; you have me convinced. However, do not think this as support for your cause, or approval even. I shall... condone this quest. But, Adam Clay, if you succeed, do not expect any amity or goodwill. We shall be enemies, and I shall not invite you to see me, nor receive you if still you try.”

          Adam nodded. “I understand. Thank you...” He smiled at her, and continued, “Shall we get to business?”

          “That is the reason you have come here; I know.” Madame Lyss motioned to the satchel at Terrance's side. He produced what was inside: a soulbottle. It was small; smaller than usual. Terrance couldn't tell if it surprised the Librarian. She held up her hand, waiting for him to give it to her.

          “Not yet,” he told her.

          Adam agreed. With a slight nod, he said, “Some of us dislike the deal you proposed. They think it too... steep.” He quickly glanced at Terrance and Michael, to make sure neither of them would burst out in an angry fit again. They both seemed satisfied with him doing the talking though; they both knew Adam was the best to speak now. “Personally, I do not care one way or the other about the price for June's cure, but...”