I imagined Serafina’s anger would be equally impressive. At least she’d be alive.
“And why didn’t that scaly brother of yours see us off?” Drazen asked. “You lock him in as well?”
If only it were that easy.
“His nest was empty at breakfast,” Kronk added.
“Don’t know.” Last night, he’d seemed off, subdued even, though Sera had gone to great lengths to heal him. Upon waking, I hadn’t sensed his presence in the mountain. Only now that his wounds were healed, there was no reason for him to visit the healing waters.
I really didn’t like leaving Serafina unprotected, but what choice did I have? She certainly wasn’t coming with us.
“Again, he misplaced his dragon brother. Just as he did back in the Fallen Trials.” Kronk said, face drawn with disgust. “No wonder his mate finds him unworthy.”
I clenched my jaw, barely resisting the urge to blast fire at the empty space between Kronk’s ears.
Thankfully, we all fell silent for a time, focused on minding the steep mountain trail until we hit level ground. The path to Nefarr was sparsely wooded, the vegetation struggling to take hold this close to the mountain. Dust kicked up beneath the hooves of our mounts, the ground thirsty for rain. Dark clouds obscured the sun, casting the landscape in shades of grizzled gloom.
As we approached the outskirts, the greenery thickened, bedraggled trees obscuring our line of sight. The lingering stench of scorched homes and smoldering flesh wafted on the breeze, and Gravestone Manor loomed atop the next rise.
Kronk rubbed the back of his thick neck, casting a cautious glance over his shoulder. “We are not alone.”
“I feel it too,” Drazen said, scanning the shadows. “Something is following us.”
Kronk punched his powerful fist into his palm. “I will circle back and deal with them.”
“That won’t be necessary.” I exhaled an irritated puff of smoke, kicking my horse into a faster pace. I knew exactly who was trailing us.
It wasn’t long before we passed through the broken gates of Rottbarry Manor.
Drazen gave a low whistle. “This place has seen better days.”
“Even the false king took better care of Carcerem before we reclaimed his throne,” Kronk said.
We rounded a pile of rubble, and the sight before me set my flame roaring. I hauled back on my reins, too hard, given my mount’s indignant whinny.
“Hello, boys. Took you long enough.”
Serafina perched on the tailgate of a broken wagon, fiery mane twisting in the breeze. The clothing I purchased fit like a second skin.
“Serafina,” Drazen called out, his face alight with far too much appreciation. “You’re looking lovely today. How were your travels?”
“Quiet. Peaceful even, without the blathering of fools in my ears.”
“Ach.” The infernus clutched his hand to his heart. “Don’t be like that now. It wasn’t my idea to leave you behind.”
“I’m certain a man of your fine character wouldn’t dream of doing something so underhanded.” Her green eyes pierced straight through me.
Kronk sent me a sympathetic glance, shaking his head.
How the hell did she break out? I’d even blocked the secret passage. I was a fool for underestimating her. Again.
Before I could retort, the earth trembled. Kronk closed hiseyes, thick lines of concentration etching his brow. “There is much destruction to the land here. Creatures tunneled through the earth with no regard for collapse. The entire area is unstable.”
Drazen’s ruddy completion paled. “Best we’re quick about our business and get out of here before the whole place caves in.”
Once we secured our mounts, we found a patch of ground that Kronk deemed relatively safe.
Serafina set her fists on her hips, determination in the hard lines of her face. “Time to lure them out. Any suggestions?”
