Her head shakes, the soft tendrils bouncing in between each jerk. The revelation causes my stomach to sink.
“And where is Caym?”
“He’s checking in with the commanders, he’s safe,” she hastily answers.
Her nimble fingers scour along my arms.
“You’re hurt?” Leeson’s eyes drift to mine, her soft brown eyes sharpening.
She grasps my hand with the makeshift bandage and turns it over in her palm. Before I can stop her, she rips the cloth off, revealing the still bloody slice.
The air hums and thickens as I watch her focus on my cut palm. Her magic, dazzling with its soft blue light, wraps around our clasped hands and charges the atmosphere around us. The coolness of her gift envelops me, relieving the sting and ache I was prepared to endure.
I look away and shift my body, unable to meet her gaze.
My feet twist in their boots, crunching the dead grass. My palm is nearly unblemished now, thanks to her. The Hidden is lucky to have her considering many healers, and others with rarity gifts, have been stolen away by King Euron.
“You shouldn’t expose yourself with soldiers nearby, you know this,” I softly chide, “but thank you.”
“Alora, you’re my dearest friend. It was harmless and quick, none would take notice.” Her lips turn into a slight smile, knowing that her magic is something to be in awe of.
“Plus,” she adds, “you are one of our commanders, it’s to be expected that I’d do anything to keep you safe.” My eyes roll so hard I’m sure she can see the whites. Though I know she says it more to remind me of who I am, my cheeks flush nonetheless.
“Ahh.” I simply nod my head. Before I can ask for another update, a gruff voice comes near.
“Leeson? Alora!” The gravel in his voice is a relief to hear.
“Caym, we’re here!” I turn from Leeson and start off in the direction he called from.
The smoke still billows in front of me, though the flames have begun to die down. This village will be smoldering for days to come if it’s anything like we’ve come across before.
I push past the smokey column in front of me, holding my breath and squeezing my eyes closed. Quickly, the man that I’vespent the last many turns with, jogs into view. He looks frantic, his eyes wide with concern and chest heaving.
Leeson runs past me, her soot filled gown flapping by in her swiftness. I slow my steps, giving her space before coming upon them.
He grips her cheeks while his eyes soften, searching hers. The moons' light glints off his pale blue irises, similar in color to Leeson’s magic. With a deft swoop, he gathers her in his built frame, her form looking even more petite now that she’s in his arms.
They embrace, their lips touching softly before turning more fervent.
I walk slowly up to them and Caym notices me. He pulls away from Leeson and sets her back on her feet. Though she still grips his shirt, her body twists to face mine.
“I told you we’d be safe,” she says the last bit with a hushed tone.
My lips quirk as I watch his gaze return to hers.
“I worry about you always,naymeih.”
For the one I am bound to.
A few moments pass, just enough for the emphasis to linger in the air before he begins again, “Alora, I’m glad to see you as well. Watching you blaze your way into the village on foot was not what we were expecting.” He takes a step closer to me, bringing Leeson with him until he’s standing no more than an arm's length away. “Though your bravery is noted dear friend, I must ask what compelled you to roll around in the soot?”
My eyes slice their way to him and a scowl forms, furrowing my brow into two prominent lines. I can help but notice the mischievous way his eyes twinkle.
Even now, among the sorrow and cruelty, his kinship is refreshing—the familial bond that’s stronger than blood, formed from only true respect and understanding.
“Caym,” I begin, a small smile on my lips, “or should I say, Commander Caym, nice of you to finally join those of us who are actually busy.” I’ve grown accustomed to donning the invisible armor that helps me pretend to be fearless and strong, a warrior who doesn’t let the gaping wounds of my soul bleed.
Sarcasm drips off my tongue as I continue to glare. His eyebrow quirks up and we lock eyes for a few breaths before we rush into an embrace.
