‘I pray God and Mothermaid watch over you, de León. But more, I pray you watch over yourself. And above all, watch Seraph Talon.’ “‘… Talon? Why?’ “‘The night the Empress arrived at San Michon. The night he … caught Baptiste and me. At the feast, I swear I felt someone in my head. A touch light as feathers, but still … I fear Talon didn’t discover us by accident as he said. I fear he wanted rid of me.’ “‘To what end?’ “‘I know not. But he is not to be trusted, Gabriel. Watch your back.’
