“Thanks. And yes.”
She nodded. “So interesting they all look so much alike.”
Somehow, I’d put it out of my mind that the other women had similar jewelry. I fought the urge to reach for the pendant, opting instead to sip at my tea that was mostly whiskey and regretting my choice.
“I’m the forge mistress at the stone kin conclave. I’m working on some Dark blades now, to better defend against the angels, should things go sideways. But for you… perhaps something more specific.” Her head tilted to the side as she scrutinized me. It should have made me feel uncomfortable, but there was nothing threatening about it.
“That’s very kind, but I’m pretty miserable with weaponry.”
She laughed, and the sound reminded me immediately of her father. “Well, still. Everyone needs a good knife. Maybe we can find you something you feel comfortable with? I’m sure there’s lessons to be had as well, if you care to learn. Myself, or my sister could show you, though Calla is also very skilled.” She tapped her finger to her chin. “Honestly I’d bet anyone at d’Arcan would be happy to catch you up.”
“I’ll keep that in mind. What’s a conclave?”
“That’s what we call our settlement outside of Revalia.”
“There are a lot of you, then? Stone kin?”
Imogen reached for her cup, then seemed to remember she didn’t want it. “Yes. We have grown steadily in numbers over the years we’ve been there.”
“And a… Dark blade? What’s that?” I felt like I’d stumbled into a whole other world and it was exposing just how sheltered my upbringing had been.
“Oh. It’s a sword or dagger, is all. Just forged in a way that enhances its effectiveness against angels. Some fae too.” She shrugged. “Greta is largely responsible for our understanding of them, actually. Light blades are forged with angelic essence—blood or a feather usually—and are more dangerous against demons. Dark blades are forged with demon essence and are more effective against angels and fae.” She frowned, seeing me tense. “Sorry, did I say something wrong?”
“No, no. It’s just, I’m both, so it sounds like I’d be in danger from either one.”
“Plain steel is always an option, though of course still deadly.” She nodded empathetically. “In any case, it seemed like a good idea to get started on some additional weapons for the armory, given the circumstances.”
It was me.Iwas the circumstances. My presence required an entirely new batch of weapons to be made. My stomach twisted. No wonder Tap was uncertain about having sealed the bond.
Tap stepped away from Ophelia as she started laughing and they joined us back in the small living area.
“Thank you, Ophelia,” Tap said, even giving her a little bow.
“Think about all I’ve said,” was her response. “Both of you. I appreciate the portal. Set it up on your way out?”
“Of course. Nice to see you again, Imogen.”
“Tap.”
I stood as it became clear we were leaving. I turned to the sorceress, confused, and a bit relieved that we were going. “Thank you.”
“Come back to see me if you need to, Phin. My door is always open to you.”
Flattered, I responded that I would, said my goodbyes to Imogen, and followed Tap outside.
He remained silent as he led me to one side of the yard, the weight of the wards pressing down the second we were out of the cozy hut.
“Here,” he said softly, reaching out for my hand. My heart leapt and I took it, stunned as I watched him pour what looked like black sludge out of the little iron cauldron onto the trunk of a massive tree. The thick liquid dripped and expanded into an arched door shape. “Ready?”
I nodded, and he pulled me along with him through the new portal.
Chapter 27
Tap
Seir greeted us the moment we stepped back into the hall, his normally jovial expression serious. He forced a smile. “I’m glad you’re back. A new doorway directly to the Dread Forest? Shedoeslike you. Did you have a good visit?”
Phin glanced between us and excused herself. “I’m going to go freshen up and get to work.”
