"You're the one who decided to fly off in a huff. You can't complain," Eva said as Jason drew back, attempting to pretend he hadn't just tackled her.
You could have called for me.
Eva’s eyes narrowed at the unfair accusation. “I did. You didn’t answer.”
Sheepishness flooded through their bond.I forgot how much a storm like that can affect its surroundings. They’re rare, and it takes a powerful mind to cut through the noise. I didn’t realize until it was too late. By that time, I’d come across a group of suspicious humans who needed to be eliminated.
Eva could sense the smugness that came from that thought. Sebastian had enjoyed his fight. She didn’t know whether to pity the humans for being so unlucky or be glad he’d managed to eliminate some of the enemy.
I only figured out what had happened when I returned and saw signs of the attack. I never want to go through that again.
Brisa head butted Eva’s shoulder, distracting her from Sebastian. The Tenrin's wing was wrapped in white bandages, the arrow having been removed at some point.
Eva looked at Jason. "I hear you're the big hero. I wish I could have been there to see how you managed that."
It would have been quite the conversation, she was sure.
Jason flushed, his expression quickly turning insulted when Brisa nudged him out of the way.
The Tenrin pointed at her face, looking proud. "I was the one who translated for him. Didn't I do a good job?"
"Claiming credit for someone else's triumphs is below you, cousin," Ajari drawled as he made his way toward them.
To Eva's pleasant surprise, she found more than one Tenrin among those present. Even the Kyren had remained after the battle.
"I didn't expect you here," Eva said.
"I cannot help it if you misjudged the situation." Ajari's smile was playful even as his words were sharp enough to draw blood.
Eva didn't take offense, knowing that despite his harsh words he cared about her and the Trateri. That much was obvious in the way he'd maneuvered Brisa into following them.
"Did we accomplish what you were hoping for?" Eva asked.
There was a twinkle in Ajari's eye as he gave a small nod, running his gaze over the three groups present. "It's a start, but there's still a long way to go."
"Your confidence leaves me breathless," Eva said in a dry voice.
"It should, little rabbit," Ajari said as he turned to go. "Come, Brisa, the flock leader wishes to know why you disobeyed his instructions and involved yourself with the humans."
A look of betrayal settled on Brisa's face. "I thought you weren't telling him about this."
Ajari’s gaze was playful. "That was before you made such a big commotion. Getting yourself injured. Pleading the mouse's case with the Kyren. Convincing some of our more rebellious brethren to join the fight. Did you really think he wouldn't find out?"
"You promised."
"He doesn't get to keep promises that hide things concerning members of my own flock," Covath rumbled from their right.
The flock leader's gaze was locked on his cousin as she stared at the ground
"Say goodbye, cousin. You have things to answer for," Covath said.
Seeing the Tenrin named Merc, Covath gave him a nod. The Tenrin male approached Brisa with a tentative look on his face, holding out his arms.
Brisa hesitated. "Do I have to?"
Covath's expression was calm as he regarded her. "Yes."
Brisa's shoulders sagged as she dragged her feet toward Merc. He picked her up gently before launching them into the air.
