“You don’t have to?—”
She waved her hand, already walking toward the living area. “It’s alright, it will be good for me.”
Seir looked at me. “It went well?”
I shook my head, unsure what the appropriate answer to his question was. “What is it? Why do you have that look on your face?” I asked.
“Three angels were spotted outside the glade,” he replied, expression grave. I glanced over my shoulder, glad Phin hadn’t lingered. That was probably the very last thing she needed to hear right now. “They were on the same road that Hailon and I took when we fell into the ruins. Coltor said they looked as though they were searching for a break in the wards, like they could sense they were there.”
“When?”
“This morning. Coltor was late coming back from patrol. Hailon filled me in just a little while ago.”
“They’ve moved on though?”
“Yes. They continued north on the road, never stopped, and didn’t turn back. He followed them to be sure. Coltor said they seemed confused about how they’d wandered into a village in the Emankor Valley, but the magical boundary did its job.”
“So did he,” I confirmed. “Do you think it’s possible they showed up there by accident?”
“I don’t know, but them showing up anywhere she’s been feels like more than coincidence.”
My gut churned. I agreed. “Was there any sign of Ramsey?”
“No, but Coltor was watching them, not what might be coming up behind them.”
“Phin didn’t have her bracelet yet when we visited,” I mused as I turned the ring on my index finger, thoughts spinning like they were trapped in a whirlwind. “Did you warn Rylan and Magnus to be watchful?”
“I’m headed there next.”
“Good.” As he turned toward the doorway to d’Arcan, I heard the high-pitched whine of the gate activating and put my arm out in front of him. “Wait.”
Vassago and Greta stepped through, both dressed in heavy coats but looking perfectly thrilled to be going on a little excursion.
“Welcome,” I greeted them.
“What’s the matter?” Vassago asked, immediately noticing our expressions.
“Angels were spotted outside the glade,” I said. “Seir just finished telling me about it.”
Vassago swore.
Greta lifted her hand cautiously. “Sorry, but which way to Phin? I need to speak with her before we continue on to Vincara.”
“I’ll show you.” Seir hustled away with Greta on his heels, leaving Vassago and I staring at one another in the hall. “Would you like to sit?” I gestured toward the living area, and he followed. Seir joined us shortly after we’d gotten settled.
“Is it possible they’re tracking her?” Seir asked.
“I don’t see how.”
“Where is your new mirror?” Vassago asked.
“Here.” I gestured to the low side table beside my recliner.
“Good. Keep it close. I’ll test it from the village. If it works from there as well, I’ll try to fix your original on our way back.”
“I’ll go ahead to d’Arcan and fill Rylan in,” Seir offered, not hesitating to make for the portals. “Bring me back some flowers, would you, Vago? As many white ones as possible.”
“For you? Or for Hailon?”
