[What do you mean by that?]
Lucavion glanced toward Vitaliara. She remained at the edge of the bed, golden eyes fixed on him with enough concentration that the Academy card had clearly lost its place as the most interesting object in the room.
"I mean that Elara ranked lower than I expected."
[And that brought a smile to your face?]
Lucavion considered denying the smile, then decided that doing so would only invite a longer argument. "Yes."
Vitaliara's ears shifted. She had been present in Stormhaven, knew enough of what had passed between him and Elara, and had watched them closely enough since reaching the Academy to discard several explanations on her own. Apparently, one possibility still required confirmation.
[Do you hold a grudge against Elara?]
Lucavion shook his head. "Quite the opposite."
[Then why are you pleased?]
He turned the card once beneath his fingers. "Because this may be better for her."
Vitaliara continued watching him. [Why?]
