Striving for an honorable life by no means made one immune to temptation . Arlan could see it dancing on his friend ' s face now , in the way he furrowed his brow and pursed his lips . It was almost as though the columns of a ledger were being adjusted behind his blue eyes , as though he we trying to find some way to let slip information while maintaining the the strictures of his oath . He found none . The Lord Hand had been very clear . I can not say . Arlan would remember from their youth that , to Aeryn , honor , honesty , and his word were sacrosanct . An illfitting silence fell over them . It was one the crashing of waves and the apologetic glint in his eye could not hope to fill . Regardless , the frown on his face said what words could not Lord Tyrell had made plans for the Council , and Aeryn did not find comfort in their details . Forgive me Arlan , but I have made an oath , and my word is my bond . I can not . I can say only that you will know the Lord Hand ' s plan before long . The tides shift , and the waters are uncertain , but you will know soon enough , I promise you .