Greer’s infiltration, Donovan’s suspicion, Blaine’s manipulation — all of it had been designed to force her out of hiding. Once she returned publicly, Crestwood could claim the Accord had reactivated after years of illegal covert work.

“What happens if they win?”

“The trusts are dissolved. Our international agreements become void. Every family and institution protected by those agreements becomes exposed.”

“How long do we have?”

“Nine days.”

The claim would be decided by a five-member panel at the Conclave. Four seats were already filled. The fifth belonged to a line of succession no one had expected: Adrian’s father had inherited the appointment right through an old agreement, and on his death it had passed to Adrian.