The camaraderie between them brings a flicker of warmth to my chest. Despite their contrasting temperaments, the bond they share is clear.
Before I can voice my gratitude, Iridessa and Onora step forward, their spears glinting faintly in the sunlight. They carry themselves with the grace and strength their lineage is known for, though their expressions betray a quiet reluctance.
“We are assisting your friends down the mountain,” Onora says softly, her warm smile a gentle reassurance that eases some of my tension.
“Thank you.”
Onora hesitates for a moment, exchanging a glance with her sister before continuing. “We wish to accompany you to the Outlands to save your mate, but our father forbids it.”
Her words stir a pang of guilt, though I know Chief Barak’s reasoning is sound. I reach out, clasping her hand in mine. “Your father only wishes to keep his daughters safe, and I don’t blame him.”
Iridessa’s lips press into a thin line as her attention lands on her brother with a spark of indignation.
“Kaden gets to go,” she huffs.
“He is helping me bond with my luxaryn,” I explain gently, hoping to ease her frustration.
The sisters exchange a look, their disappointment evident despite their understanding.
“I will visit again, once this is all over. I’d love to bring Maxon here.”
That seems to break through their melancholy, their faces lighting up with identical smiles.
“Promise?” they ask in unison.
“Promise.”
Nero strolls over with a relaxed confidence that seems to command attention without effort. My gaze catches on the black tattoos winding over his skin, their shapes eerily reminiscent of the white markings of the Skythari Nomads.
“I will ride Storm down the mountain, if that is okay with you, My Queen.” Nero’s deep voice is smooth as he stops beside us.
I glance at Onora, and it’s impossible to miss the way she drops her gaze, her cheeks blooming a soft, rosy pink. She fidgets slightly, her composure slipping for just a moment.
“That would be great, Nero. Thanks,” I reply.
Nero dips his head in acknowledgment, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. Then, with a deliberate grace, he turns to the sisters. Reaching out, he takes each of their hands in his, his movements fluid and practiced.
“I appreciate the beautiful company and your hospitality,” the words come out rich and laced with charm as he presses a light kiss to the back of each hand.
Both sisters stand frozen, their mouths falling open in surprise. The faintest hint of color rises in their cheeks, and I have to fight the urge to laugh at the scene.
Nero releases their hands with a casual flourish and throws me a playful wink before sauntering off toward the horses, his every step exuding a kind of effortless magnetism.
Chapter sixty-eight
Everly
Irub my hands over my face before letting out a long breath, then send a prayer to whoever is listening for the strength to do what needs to be done today. We reached Escalle by nightfall yesterday evening, the dense woods around the village shrouded in an eerie silence that made every sound feel amplified. The small cluster of houses were illuminated only by the faint glow of lanterns, their flickering light casting long, dancing shadows across the cobblestone streets. The armies were camped outside the village walls, Fenris and Alivar having arrived only that morning with the last of the soldiers.
I was devastated to hear that the City of Starlight was attacked two nights ago while the city was sleeping. Ogres, giants, and deadlings swarmed the walls. Yet Alivar still showed up for me, for Maxon.
With the first rays of sunlight piercing through the mist, we gather in the village hall. Maps were spread out on the central table, weighed down by mugs of steaming tea and small rocks to keep them from curling.
After a lot of back and forth, we decide that the primary group will attack from the valley, aiming to draw the Shadoweaver’s army out of hiding. It’s a bold strategy, as the valley itself is a natural choke point, wide enough for an army to advance, but narrow enough to create vulnerabilities if an ambush were sprung. It is there that the clash will begin, with the main force acting as both bait and hammer.
Meanwhile, I, along with Kaden and the luxaryn, will infiltrate the cave system. I shiver remembering how the air crackled with tension as the plan was explained; nervous glances were exchanged, yet I stood firm in my decision.
Locating Maxon will be the most challenging aspect of our plan, but the luxaryn cloaking my presence will buy me the necessary time. Not to mention the verse says only they can break his chains.
