The worry in his voice stings against my heart.
“I’m afraid that’s not why I am here, friend,” I whisper, the last word cutting me in the process.
He’s next to me in moments, concern etching his face as his brows furrow together.
He asks quietly, “What has happened?”
My eyes harden as I throw more rocks into the well of my soul.
I inhale, and with an exhale, build my armor thick along my mind, focusing on my duty, forcing myself to betray the man that Alora has said wouldn’t hurt a fly.
The world demands more than it gives.
Deserts drink greedily.
Predators eat the young.
Hatred consumes the gentlest of people.
Wickedness snuffs out all morality, threatened by the hope of others.
“Kassiel?” Zadriel’s eyes shift along my face, searching as his eyes widen.
My eyes darken, the flame of my humanity dimming as I douse it.
I lower my chin, staring at the man before me that offers nothing but warmth in a cold forgotten forest.
“I am here for one reason alone. It has nothing to do with Alora and everything to do about the rebellion you’re part of.” I step closer as understanding washes over his face. “By order of the king, I must take you in.”
Zedriel’s face drops briefly before looking to me again.
He should be eager as a lamb that walks to slaughter and I expect him to fight me, knowing that he’s one of the most adept warriors among The Hidden.
But he doesn't.
In true Zedriel fashion, he steps closer to me, holding his arms outstretched with his palms up.
“Then I will go, as long as you ensure they go free.”
He swallows thickly and nods while the shock of his willingness slices through my body.
Betrayal is a hard thing to do.
But I’m harder.
Chapter 30
Alora
Nothing could have prepared me for the grandeur of the expansive gardens that had been meticulously curated to resemble a sunset but in bloom.
Deep reds, maroons, and plum color tapestries hung along the carpeted pathway. The large wooden beams that the tapestries hung from were so massive, I can only imagine the timber came from the ancient forest.
Looking from Jessamine to Leeson, their expressions mirrored my own. Our nerves were palpable as we caught one another’s gaze. We’d met under the cover of night and prepared for our arrival into King Euron’s grasp. We’d laid out the plan,going over every detail time and time again, until it was second nature.
Jessamine, Leeson, and Rune would go seek out the leirunes where Rune had said they would be hidden in the library. My job was to distract, keep King Euron busy and enamored with my magic so he would not notice others slip away. Magic I finally began to understand in the deepest moments with Kassiel. I’d practiced until Iknewit like Kassiel said I would. It was like coming home. I just had to forgive myself and walk through the door.
Leeson smiles at me and winks. She gives me strength even now.
