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“I have no clue.” Aculus rolled his eyes to the ceiling when he realized he’d dropped off in the middle of Nadzia’s story.

“Did Nadzia seriously take on a pair of them?” Merus asked incredulously.

“Aye and I’m as confused as you are.” He shook his head.

“Truly amazing. I guess I’d denounce my conclave for a female like that then, too.”

“So that’s why you really came to check on me,” he accused his brother.

“Whoa. If I was cracked about you denouncing Premiere Servant, I would’ve awoken you with a punch in the face.”

“Like when you learned I joined the Paladin and was going off planet, leaving you here. My jaw still aches.” Aculus rubbed his jaw and grimaced at the memory.

“Good,” Merus chuckled then grew serious. “I wish you’d reconsider.”

Aculus sighed. “You know I would do anything for our people, but I won’t risk Nadzia’s life. She’s everything I ever wanted and more amazing than I ever imagined.”

“I understand and am happy for you.”

Merus smiled earnestly but Aculus could tell he had something more to say.

“What is it?” he asked his brother.

Merus was still quiet, his expression shifting through a host of emotions.

He gripped Merus’ hand. “Brother, you may not have been born Premiere Servant, but you grew up here, same as me. I truly believe you are capable of leading our people.”

“You honor me, brother.” Merus squeezed his hand. “I am undoubtedly capable, but you’d excel.”

He was touched hearing his brother’s vote of confidence.

“I wanted to ask you something else.” Merus paused.

“Ask. Anything,” he encouraged.

“Your conclave. I worry about them,” Merus admitted.

Aculus tilted his head as he considered his brother. “You are fond of them!” He smiled.

“Perhaps.” Merus’ lips tipped up ever so slightly.

Merus had spent a lot more time with his conclave than he had, being off world most of the time.

“I denounced my conclave along with my birthright. If another male approaches them I have no objection,” he informed Merus.

“Thanks. Well, I’ll let you get some rest.” Merus smiled as he stood.

“No. I’m up. I need to find Nadzia. Considering the day we’ve had I’m a little afraid of what she might be up to.”

“I can imagine,” Merus laughed as they headed to the door. “Have a good evening and try to not get abducted or killed by the wildlife.”

“Will do,” he replied as they parted.

Aculus paused halfway down the hall, hearing Merus knock on Umerus’ door. The male was wasting no time petitioning his former conclave.

Good for you, he laughed and continued on.

When he reached the mezzanine, he glanced over the rail at the grand foyer and stopped abruptly.