"If I were more of a bookworm, this is where I'd say the plot thickens," Shain said, sparing Letti an inquisitive look before turning his attention back to Liandre. "It does answer a few questions, though, starting with that attitude of yours. I haven't heard much about the Realm, but the one thing everybody agrees on is that its Dragonblooded love to act like they own the world...no offense, Ma'am."

That was when he noticed Reyva coming down. Grinning sheepishly, he raised a hand to forestall replies.

"Speaking of which...there's something I need to take care of. Hold on a minute."

He moved quickly, standing up, turning round his chair and taking his first step in one smooth rolling motion, born from a lifetime of quick reactions. One moment he was sitting there, the next he was standing at the foot of the stairwell, resting a hand on one of Reyva's wrists.

"You don't want to do this now." His tone was stern but bore no malice. Even somebody as thick as a teenager could tell his words weren't meant as a threat. "There's a time for swords, kid, and this ain't it. If you want to pick a fight with him, you'll get your chance to do it later. Trust me."