She led them to one of the living towers in the center of the camp—a colossal tree with roots that formed spiral staircases, with suspended floors intertwined in broad branches. As they climbed, whispers spread through the camp like fire on dry leaves.
Kael approached Exelia as they walked:
"Are you sure she won't sell us out too?"
Exelia smiled wearily. "She defended me against the Council when I was nine. She broke a ceremonial staff over an archmage's head. Liora has only one problem: she never learned to be afraid."
"I like her more and more."
At the top of the tower, the steps ended in a circular platform carved directly into the trunk of the mother tree. There, magical petals floated in the air like fragrant ashes, and a meeting table made of amber and living root dominated the space. Three elders were already waiting for them.
