Curiosity got the better of her. Adriel had once praised her inquisitive nature, and she only hoped it wouldn’t get her into trouble now. There was simply no way she had the self-control to refrain from investigating.
She crept closer to the open door and listened.
“A system that does not evolve is a system that dies.” She recognized Adriel’s voice. “We have seen evidence, and we cannot ignore it any longer.”
“The repercussions of failure are high.” The voice that responded was high and clear, neither distinctly male or female, and laced with a power so intense, shivers raced across her skin.
Could it be…?No, surely not. Third Sphere angels weren’t permitted to interact with the Dominations. Adriel would know she was not to cross paths with this sacred being, and he would not have summoned her unless…
Unless hewantedher to overhear the conversation?
“They always are for any worthwhile endeavor,” Adriel replied.
There was a long pause.
“You have never involved yourself in the affairs of this plane before, Adriel. Mind your equilibrium.”
“I intend to.”
Yet another painfully long pause ensued, and Sunshine found herself bouncing on the balls of her feet with impatience. Apparently, powerful immortal beings took their time making up their minds.
“Very well,” the ethereal voice finally said. “But there will be a test. If it is passed, you may proceed.”
“I have every faith it will be so.”
“An unusual matter to inspire faith.”
“It’s been a long time since I have been surprised by something. I suppose one could say I’m inspired.”
There was no farewell given or any kind of pleasantries. A flare of energy sent shivers down Sunshine’s spine, and she suddenly knew the other angel had gone. It had to be one of the Dominations. There was no other explanation.
Was the angel aware of her presence? They must have been. They were all powerful beyond comprehension. Of course they knew where she was. Which meant they didn’t mind her eavesdropping either. But why?
Adriel suddenly appeared at her side, and she couldn’t help it—she jumped. “Sir!” Her poor nerves couldn’t take many more surprises today.
But it seemed she was in for one more.
There was an intensity to Adriel’s normally smooth features that she’d never seen before. His face was always unlined by emotion, and he radiated the kind of peace many humans would only dream of experiencing.
But right now, his starry eyes were so piercing, they cut like blades. There was a single line between his brows that looked like…concern. Or even sadness.
“Greetings, Sunshine. This is a surprise.” He didn’t smile. He always smiled.
Her gaze flicked between his face and the open door. She knew he was aware she’d been listening, but she wasn’t sure how to bring up what she’d heard or if she should bring it up.
“I’m glad to see you well. I had hoped to check in sooner with your progress, but I was unable.”
“Oh, that’s fine.”
His head tilted. “Did my assistant let you in?”
She frowned. “No, sir. You summoned me.”
He blinked. “Did I?”
“Yes…”
He doesn’t know he summoned me?But surely he did. He would have sensed her arrival while he was still in conference with the Domination.
