The woman turned, her eyes filling with relief as her hands wrapped around my neck. “Cordelia,” she breathed, her hands squeezing me tightly.
“I missed you.” I returned the gesture. My eyes closed when I brought her closer. The familiar smell of wildflowers and sunshine erupted within my senses, filling my lungs with relief.
We stood in an embrace as the warriors’ steps disappeared into the distance. The now empty halls quieted.
“Are you hurt?” Florence pulled away, eyeing my—wrapped in cloth—arm.
“No, it’s nothing.” I shook my head, surveying her for injuries. When I found none, I continued, “They needed vampire blood for the Royal steel. That’s all.”
“I was so worried,” Florence sighed, her eyes closing when her hands wrapped around me anew.
“Let’s go,” Roxanne’s voice echoed through the hall. “We have much to discuss,” she added quieter, searching every direction for unwanted ears.
Chapter 40. No Soul.
The rich smell of irises followed us to my old room, spinning my head into sickness.
We walked through the wooden, beautifully carved, doors when the morning twilight fell upon us.
Florence paced nervously across the room, her eyes studying each corner, while Roxanne surveyed the halls before locking the door behind her.
“Gabriel will accompany us to the palace. I made sure he is stationed at one of the outskirt posts to draw less attention when he escapes.” Roxanne’s eyes jumped between me and Florence. “The moment the fight breaks out, he is to meet us in the woods, on the west side of Silverstone.”
Florence nodded, taking a seat on the settee. The ends of her black trousers were wet from snow, her deep crimson tunic was tucked into a belt that carried five small blades with no visible hilt.
“We must be ready to leave at a moment’s notice,” Roxanne continued, fixing her undone braid. “The moment the first sounds of battle reach you, head for the stables.”
“What if Kane doesn’t attack tomorrow?" I voiced my biggest concern, hoping to not have to leave alone when the sun goes down. “We cannot wait any longer.” My lips turned into a thin line, waiting for Roxanne’s and Florence’s replies.
“We must,” Roxanne’s voice cut through the air; her gaze boring into mine. “We’ve discussed this: we need as many Wurdulacs as possible out of the palace before we enter.”
“They could kill Francis at any moment,” I whispered, plea filling my voice.
The room fell into silence. No one dared acknowledge what was so loud in the air.What if they have already?A thought I had not allowed myself until this very moment.
I would know if Francis’ soul resided with the Moon. I would know,I told myself.
“We have no choice.” Roxanne’s throat bubbled before she straightened her shoulders. “I must help Tamira get orders to our armies before sunrise. You two—” Roxanne pointed at me and Florence. “Get as much rest as you can.” Roxanne’s eyes lingered, her head inclined slightly.
“I got this,” Florence mouthed, allowing a soft smile to spread her lips.
“I will see you soon.” Roxanne threw over her shoulder as she slipped through the door, leaving us alone.
“We cannot wait.” I met Florence’s gaze, taking a seat beside her.
