nobody knows how the story ends

Acere had little reaction to his words, likely he had been expecting to be confronted. Not that Rhyme had outright said what the plans were, but Acere assumed the important ones and Rhyme was perfectly alright with that. The pale man made an effort to mention that his niece and nephew were coming of their own volition. Rhyme would have never kept them within Abaven against their will. Nor would he have accused Acere of doing the same. Rhyme nodded, knowing the two were old enough to start making their own decisions. He hoped they used the knowledge they gained in Abaven wisely.

”You’re a strong man, Acere. I’m sure whatever path calls to you, you will succeed. Actaea and Ignis are lucky to have you as an uncle.” He spoke proudly of the two praetor yearlings. Rhyme had gotten to know both of them, and Abaven would be poorer for their loss. ”Do you have a time frame?” Rhyme wanted to be able to plan ahead, and know the when would help ease that task.