Chapter Three: The Flameless Makes the Stele Bow

Red Dragon soldiers surrounded him. Cassian did not object. The pity in his eyes had become possession and killing intent. Ysolde spoke first. “Under ancient trial law, whoever receives an imprint passes. The master of ceremony cannot imprison a council member without a vote.” “His imprint belongs to no recognized order.” “The law lists red, frost, storm, and stone. It never says there can only be four.” She used Lain’s own logic. “If the marquis wishes to revise it, he may wake the king and request a signature.” Frost guards stepped between Lain and Cassian’s men. Cassian began to clap. “Excellent. My brother has passed, and the family has gained a councilor.” He approached Lain. “Last night was luck. Was today luck as well?”