Chapter 54

Ronan's POV

I wanted to hit Severin. Mara wanted answers.

This was one of the many ways she was better suited to political leadership than I was.

"How did Grayfen choose him while he is standing here?" she asked Adeline.

"Founder's Accord transmissions remain active through the relay network. Local recognition does not require physical presence."

Severin adjusted his cuff as if the black point on the map had not just given him a foothold inside the system.

"Grayfen has spent two generations on the edge of rogue territory. They understand what happens when hierarchy disappears."

"They understand fear," Mara said.

"Fear is still a reason."

"Yes. That is why pe