Contents
CHAPTER 19: Reunion in Lybon
Overview
Hilo and Tar travel to Lybon to confront Eyni and meet Lan’s son, Nikolas. Hilo presses for a return to Janloon and offers extensive support, but Eyni refuses. When Lors arrives, Hilo proposes a custody split and a follow-up dinner. Afterward, Hilo instructs Tar to investigate Lors.
Summary
Hilo arrives in Lybon with Maik Tar, opting to visit Eyni immediately rather than check into a hotel. At Eyni’s home, he introduces himself warmly but senses her fear and distrust. He meets toddler Nikolas, instantly recognizing the boy’s Kaul features and feeling protective.
Hilo presses to discuss Eyni returning to Janloon with Niko. He acknowledges their strained history but offers a comprehensive clan-supported life in Kekon, including housing, staff, and help for Eyni’s partner. He emphasizes family, Niko’s Kaul birthright, and forthcoming cousins. Eyni admits homesickness but rejects the Green Bone life as dangerous and unhappy, not what she wants for Niko.
Lors arrives, and Eyni frames the visit as casual. Hilo stays cordial, and Lors, somewhat oblivious, speaks amiably about their relationship. Seeking middle ground, Hilo proposes that Niko split time between Lybon and Janloon, attending international schools before Kaul Dushuron, positioning him as a “global citizen.” Lors readily agrees; Eyni remains tense and silent.
Hilo suggests a dinner in three days to settle details and meet with Niko, which Lors accepts. After leaving, Hilo instructs Tar to tail Lors and learn everything about him, signaling continued leverage and intention to secure Niko’s connection to the Kaul family.
Who Appears
- Kaul HiloPillar of No Peak; visits Lybon to claim a role in Niko’s life, proposes custody split, orders surveillance on Lors.
- EyniLan’s ex-wife and Niko’s mother; resists returning to Janloon and rejects a Green Bone life for her son.
- Maik TarHilo’s Pillarman; observes the meeting, fetches drinks, and is tasked to tail and investigate Lors.
- LorsEyni’s Stepenish partner; cordial and accommodating, accepts Hilo’s split-custody idea, unwittingly targeted for surveillance.
- Nikolas (Niko)Lan’s son; toddler resembling the Kaul line, briefly meets Hilo and shows interest.