Harper's open honesty in the bond was a refreshing change from the common barriers of most Mer. It was a matter of courtesy when all shared the Bond - particularly in public places and among strangers - but even if it was simply Harper's way, the trust it indicated was just as touching as the sharing of the councilman's heart. Harper might not blame him, but Hadama still felt remorse keenly. You are my friend. And also my advisor. You deserve better, the King stated with unadorned certainty. During the past season he had begun to feel the weight of ruling what were, effectively, two nations, but the excuse was only that - an excuse. Not an acceptable reason for neglecting those he depended on.
The name Phoebe was known to him, and he sent a pulse of subdued recognition through the bond as Harper continued. The emotion in the other man's mental voice revealed just how much her previous disappearances had hurt, even before the bond's link.
The mermanta did not speak at first once Harper had gone quiet again. They swam, slowing as the tunnel grew to be half water and half air, angling gradually upwards. Several branches led off deeper into the Fingers, but Hadama remained steadfastly on the path that would most easily lead them back out again.
Mmm. That is what Phoebe wants. But what do you want?
The name Phoebe was known to him, and he sent a pulse of subdued recognition through the bond as Harper continued. The emotion in the other man's mental voice revealed just how much her previous disappearances had hurt, even before the bond's link.
The mermanta did not speak at first once Harper had gone quiet again. They swam, slowing as the tunnel grew to be half water and half air, angling gradually upwards. Several branches led off deeper into the Fingers, but Hadama remained steadfastly on the path that would most easily lead them back out again.
Mmm. That is what Phoebe wants. But what do you want?
