Rout of the Dem-Shyr (The Ascendant Series) Read Online Free PDF Page A

“I was under the impression that the audience had been called for that purpose.”
    Shaya’s cool gaze swept over her. “That wasn’t a negotiation. That was a capitulation. You took the position of power we held over the V’larians and essentially disintegrated it.”
    “What are you talking about? Our relationship with the V’larians is stronger than ever. They were thrilled.”
    “Of course they were. You made them feel like our equals.”
    Anger brought heat to Kyr’s cheeks. “You say that as though we don’t need them as much as they need us.”
    “We don’t.”
    “Is that so?” Kyr deliberately let her gaze travel to the gem-encrusted gown her mother wore. “You don’t seem to mind wearing the goods they provide us.”
    Shaya’s nostrils flared. “I wore this gown to the audience as a gesture of goodwill to the V’larian ambassadors. Their gems and fabrics are far from essential to our way of life.”
    “Let’s not delude ourselves, Guardian. V’laria is all that stands between us and Shelvak, a world with which we’ve had a volatile history. The V’larians are our allies, which means we should nurture that relationship.” Kyr saw Shaya’s surprise over her insight and barely contained a self-satisfied smile. “As to your point about their goods being nonessential to our way of life, I couldn’t agree more. That’s why I think it would be in our best interests to adjust the trade agreement the next time we meet with the ambassadors. It would benefit Alametria to negotiate for more of the healthy V’larian food supplies instead of gems and textiles. We can distribute the food among the megais to those who need it, rather than serve it only here in the palace.”
    There was a moment of silence, during which time Shaya stared at her without blinking. Kyr found herself holding her breath. It was like waiting for a bomb to explode.
    Eventually, Shaya nodded once. “You make excellent points, Ma’jah.” Her tone sounded calmer than her eyes looked, making Kyr doubt her sincerity. “It’s nice to see that all of my training has gone to some good use.”
    Bolstered by the unexpected praise, Kyr said, “Thank you, Guardian. While we’re on the subject of interstellar relationships, I’d like to discuss Shelvak. I know things are strained between our planets, but I think that might be because we couldn’t communicate with them before. I can. Perhaps it’s time to consider opening a dialogue with them.”
    What are you doing? Ty thought.
    Asserting my authority , she explained. The V’larians were right. I should begin assuming my role and responsibilities as the Ascendant. I can’t let Shaya and Vycor tell me what to do all the time .
    Ty backed away from her thoughts, but she got the sense he understood and supported her. Shaya, on the other hand, wore an expression that told Kyr she should have stopped while she was ahead. Before either of them could speak, a Wrym male carrying a tray approached from the back entrance.
    Gren, who is that? Ty thought as he read Kyr’s thoughts.
    I haven’t made it around to the back door yet , Dem-Shyr, Gren answered. I had to break up a fight between two Borlls over a territory dispute .
    “Did you ask for food to be sent in, Guardian?” Kyr asked, picking up on Ty’s concern.
    The Wrym answered, “If I may, Ma’jah, I was asked to deliver this tray by Guardian Brunyr. It is a sampling of all of your favorite foods. The Guardian thought you might enjoy them while you converse.”
    Don’t touch anything on that tray , Ty warned her.
    She received a mental picture of him reaching for the doorknob. Wait. I really don’t want Shaya upset right now. I want to talk to her about you while I have this chance. I promise not to eat or drink anything .
    Her stomach rumbled as though mocking her vow. It had been several hours since the bowl of warm cereal she’d eaten for breakfast. Still, if it meant she could sway her mother into realizing that Ty was