“Come on, love,” muttered Aldeth, his eyes scanning the tree line.
A wave of dark purple magic flowed over the meadow towards the army. Many of the soldiers ducked or braced themselves for the impact, but this spell didn't send them toppling over as Zeeran's had. Instead, their bodies grew limp, and they fell to the ground, completely still.
"Don't worry," said Aldeth, taking in Eramus's horrified expression. "She's only putting them to sleep. They'll wake up well-rested and good as new." He smiled, dropping his hands to his side. His shield disappeared, giving them an unobstructed view of the sea of motionless bodies on the opposite side of the meadow.
Yelene bounded out from the trees, holding her skirts as she ran towards them. "Good work," said Aldeth when she came within earshot. "That should hold them for a while."
"How long will they sleep?" asked Eramus.
Yelene bit her lip and thought for a moment. "A few hours at most. I can't say for sure, but I think it best that we're gone when they wake up. The king will return to Izarden. I don't think he'll ever stop searching for you or your father, but you will be safe on Verascene."
Safe. Eramus didn't believe there was any certainty in that, either. His father had abandoned his attempt at convincing him for the time being, but left with a promise to see him again. Would he come to Verascene? What would he do if Eramus continued to refuse joining him? One thing Eramusdidknow for certain was that Evree would never be safe here in the village.
"I think you're right. May I ask that you help my mother pack our things? There is something I need to do first."
Yelene passed him a knowing smile. "Of course, Eramus. We'll help your mother while you speak to Kieran."
Eramus nodded and glanced to where Arnan's body lay just a few yards away. "What about Arnan? I can't…I don't want to just leave him."
Aldeth placed his hand on Eramus's shoulder. "We'll take his body back to the village. He deserves a proper burial. Go do what you need to do, and we'll meet you back at the cottage."
The battle was over, but his heart still hammered against his chest. He'd planned to talk to Kieran since this morning when he'd proposed to Evree, but that seemed like a lifetime ago. With no time to procrastinate the discussion, Eramus walked to Kieran's cottage and collected his courage to knock on the door.
