Free Melissa McShane by Melissa Proffitt Page A

of the funds toward making his life more comfortable.”
    “I don’t like him much, but I agree with you there. Even so, it doesn’t begin to solve our problem.”
    Zerafine noted that “our.” “So, in your opinion, what needs to be done?”
    Dakariou smiled again. “I think your role as, as you put it, impartial third party will go a long way toward easing pressure on the Council. Until now, people have been leaning on them to validate one theory or the other; with you around, the people will be less inclined to throw the blame at the government.”
    “That’s certainly how my presence benefits the Council. Shouldn’t we be more concerned
    about how it benefits the people?”
    Dakariou gave her another genuine smile. “I’m talking like a politician again, aren’t I? The truth is, at this point most people don’t know whom to listen to. Genedirou is charismatic, but with the apparitions being mostly passive, it’s hard to believe they’re a form of madness. People want some kind of official declaration, and they want it from someone who doesn’t have an axe to grind. Genedirou will make a stink about you poking your nose into his affairs, but even he can’t challenge your right to investigate. And, to be honest, you’re far more attractive than either Genedirou or Berenica, and people will respond to that.” He wasn’t smiling now, but there was an intensity in his eyes that made Zerafine blush. She considered telling him what she’d learned about the non-physical nature of the apparitions, but decided against it. It would be better, she thought, to learn more about them before sharing information that made no sense.
    Instead, she said, “I think I will have to find an excuse to be at one of these banishments of his. Does he ever give advance notice? I’d think he would want an audience.”
    “A performance is exactly what it is,” said Dakariou sourly. “He makes sure the Council
    knows about his banishments so they can witness them. All in the name of open honesty, but he really wants to be seen as someone with power.”
    “I’d take it as a kindness if you’d send me word,” Zerafine said. “I may not always be here, but I’ll find a way to check in occasionally.”
    “Certainly, if you’ll do me a favor in return. Will you keep me apprised of your progress?
    I’d like to be able to give something to the Council.”
    “Agreed,” Zerafine said, and reached out to seal the bargain, clasping Dakariou’s hand. It was warm and smooth and sent an unexpected tingle down her spine. Dakariou had a firm grip that lingered, perhaps, a little longer than necessary. It seemed the council liaison still felt the need to flirt with her. She found she didn’t mind all that much. It had been a long time since anyone had looked at her that way.
    The three rose and exchanged pleasantries for about a minute, and then Dakariou and Giara excused themselves. Zerafine showed them to the door, which she closed behind them, and then leaned against it, her forehead pressed against the black wood. “Can we be done talking to people for the day?” she asked, hearing a plaintive note in her voice that surprised her.
    “I don’t trust him,” Gerrard said. Zerafine turned to look at him. He sounded almost angry.
    “I trust him as far as our interests coincide,” she said. “He seemed very forthcoming about his role in all of this.”
    “He’s trying to get on your good side by flirting with you.”
    “So? He’s handsome and I don’t mind being flirted with, given that I know what he’s up to.
    Besides, with a face like that, I think he does it by reflex.”
    “I liked him,” Nacalia said. She’d found a seat in the corner and had silently been observing the proceedings. “He’s handsome and she was pretty. I liked how she did her face.”
    “Let’s find you a place to sleep, whelp.” Gerrard scooped the girl up and carried her,
    squealing in mock fear, down the hallway opposite the bathing