The Emperor's Edge (The Emperor's Edge, #1)

by Lindsay Buroker

“I didn’t faint, I passed out in a manly way,”

“Technically speaking, Maldynado is the better fencer. Your man is the better killer.”

He was crouching on the balls of his feet, watching her approach. “They let you go?” His gaze fell on the cakes and ranmyas clutched in her hands. “Not intentionally.” An alarm bell clanged at the fort, and Amaranthe winced. “In fact, we should leave. Now.” They ran down the slope and onto the lake trail. “What were you doing?” she asked. “Waiting for nightfall so I could retrieve you.” “Really? Like a rescue operation?” Touched, she smiled at him. “Is it possible the stodgy, emotionless assassin has perhaps grown to care about me?” “You are needed to implement the final phase of the plan.” Her smiled deepened. “Don’t worry. You don’t have to say it.” “What?” “You like me.” “Since it’s your plan we’re following, it is logical to make a priority of your safety until Forge is thwarted.” “Easy, Sicarius. If you’re not careful with all these affirmations of affection, I might assume you want to be friends.” He gave her a sidelong look with the faintest hint of amusement seeping through his stony façade.