Page 39 of Tears for a Broken Sky
“We have a question about your time in Varrowmere,” Phoenix said.
“Ask away.” Lacey’s tone was crisp, businesslike.
“Syrena—Her Majesty—said you worked as a spy. Through the markets and the pit, getting information out.”
Lacey folded her arms. “Is there something specific you’re after?”
“We want to know if you still have any contacts in the castle,” Elle said, her voice even.
“I might.”
Phoenix glanced at her. “We think Thorne might still be alive.”
Lacey stilled. “Really?” She asked in disbelief. “We all saw him fall.”
Elle winced at that, “We did but we never saw a body.”
“He was set upon by an entire army.” Lacey said. “All due respect, I know he was a good fighter but who could survive that?”
“Thorne could, if Vasquez wanted him alive.” Phoenix replied.
“Why would he want that?”
“To use him against us,” I said quietly.
I turned to Phoenix, a sick certainty settling in my gut.
“It’s exactly the kind of thing Vasquez would do.”
“Yes,” Phoenix said, his voice tight.
“But how would he be useful?” Maddie asked, moving up beside the table. “Thorne wouldn’t turn on you guys, would he? You were all so close.”
“Did Thorne cut off his brand?” Elle asked quietly.
I turned to her. “Why?”
“Didn’t you say the brand’s a failsafe?” she said. “That once it’s cut, the Shades are programmed to hunt you?”
“Yes,” Phoenix said, already following her line of thought.
“And you trained together,” she continued. “He knows all your moves. And you know his.”
Phoenix swore under his breath. “So Vasquez gets a personal hunting dog—if he breaks Thorne.”
“Thorne’s strong,” I said quickly. “It would take a lot to break him.”
“Is there any way we can find out?” Maddie asked. “If he’s alive? Can we get word out?”
Lacey nodded. “I can. I’ll speak to my contacts this afternoon.”
“Thank you,” Phoenix said. “Send any information directly to me.”
“No problem,” Lacey replied.
“Why can’t you do it now?” Elle asked.
“We have set times to communicate,” Lacey said evenly.
