“Think about it. The resonance started with your two. It spread to Solus because of your bond, and to Morok and the rest of the Balor race because they are somehow attuned to Ryla, you, or both.” Quylla said.

“Also, don’t forget that having access to the Eyes of Menadion and the instruments of the Infirmary would be a great help in my research.”

“Solus?” Lith asked while he pondered Quylla’s request.

“Ryla is a trusted ally and Garrik is a good kid.” She replied. “Yet they are still naïve in the ways of the world, and they spend too much time with Jirni and Orion. I don’t question their discretion so much as their ability to keep our secrets.

“If Quylla discovers something with the tower’s help, Garrik is bound to brag about it and Ryla to be happy. Once Jirni notices, I doubt either of them can resist the pressure of Jirni’s ’friendly’ interrogation techniques.”

“I agree.” Lith shook his head. “I’m sorry, Quylla, but our answer is no. I trust Ryla with the knowledge of the tower, but not your mother. There’s no telling how Jirni would react and what might demand from me in exchange for her silence.”

“This isn’t your fault, Lith.” Friya groaned, holding her head in her hands. “We are the ones who should apologize to you. You have welcomed our entire family into your house to protect our mother, and now she stands in your way.”