Fin processed this. An ancient, powerful organization, observers of fate, offering help. It sounded too good to be true. There was always a price.
"And what do you want in return?" he asked, his voice flat.
Lyra's smile was serene. "Nothing that you would not already do, young King. Survive. Grow. Learn. Understand the power you wield, and the responsibilities that come with it." She took another small step closer. Her voice dropped slightly. "And, perhaps, when the time comes, remember who offered you a guiding hand when all others sought to crush you."
He stared at her, trying to read beyond the calm facade, beyond the enigmatic pronouncements. An alliance with no strings attached? Unlikely. But information, resources… those were things he desperately needed. The Association, King Kain… he was fighting blind, relying on instinct and raw power.
"What kind of information?" he asked.
