I stepped closer to examine the blades more thoroughly. They were both about 22 inches long and slightly curved, but that’s where the similarities ended.
The first appeared to be made of smoke-stained steel that absorbed the light. Faint crimson veins ran along the blade, as if there were embers trapped inside the metal.
The second blade shimmered with a pale, silvery glow as if a thin layer of frost covered it. Faint, jagged patterns resembling ice fractals were etched along the edge.
“I call them Ashfang and Frostbane.” Zeke muttered to himself, “I felt duty-bound to make them.”
Berrick grunted, “Always follow your instincts. A true ironsmith lets the Ancestors guide him.”
“Seems like a representation of you and Zane.” I narrowed my eyes. “If those are intended for my Nexi, I think a dagger to represent me should be your next project.”
“I’m sure you do,” Zeke smirked. “I’m not surprised you’d request she wear a phallic symbol on her person to remind her of you.”
“No need to make it true to size. It wouldn’t be practical for her if it drags on the ground.” I was designing it in my head when a loud bark of laughter startled me out of my musings.
“Damn boy, you don’t lack in self-confidence.” Berrick guffawed, slapping his thigh in amusement.
“He definitely doesn’t.” Zeke rolled his eyes. “Was there a reason you tracked me down?”
“Yes. Jet got the information we’ve been waiting for. My Nexi is alive and being kept at the coliseum.”
Zeke dropped to one knee and bowed his head. “Thank the Ancestors. She’s alive.” He stayed still for a few moments, then got to his feet. “Now let’s figure out what kind of hell we’re going to unleash on those motherfuckers that took her when we find a way into Aurathia.”
“Fuck yeah, brother. Now you’re talking my language.”
Chapter 6
Reverie
Iwas startled awake by a banging on my door. I rubbed my hands down my face, then stumbled to my feet. “Who is it?”
“It’s Seamus, get your ass dressed. Selene wants to see you in her apartment.” I heard him stomp away, likely off to brighten someone else’s day.
Fuck.
I sank back onto the bed, knowing this was inevitable after the hall incident. I rested my head in my hands, questioning how much longer I could endure this.
I missed Oren, Jet, Nathan, Zeke, and Zane.
I missed my Mom.
I missed my Grumpy.
I missed Pops and Dad.
I missed Pantar.
I missed safety.
I missed laughter.
I missed not being afraid.
I missed Chloe and everything she represented.
I missed living my life on my own terms.
Until I arrived in Aurathia, I hadn’t faced any real hardships. Yes, I lost two of my fathers, but I was loved so deeply by myremaining parents that the only sorrow I’d felt had been through their experience. I hadn’t even been born yet when their tragedy occurred.
