“Except for the blade,” I said, looking from one friend to the next. “I assume it’s hidden in the ether.”
“Even if you could find your way there, no one could pull you back,” Vexxion said. “I’ve never been able to master that spell.”
Zayde shook his head.
“I have to find a way.” I slid off the sofa and gazed at my aunt. “Thank you. I couldn’t do this without you.”
Tears shimmered in her eyes. “Don’t go there. If you do, you may not find your way back.”
“Did you see this?”
She shrugged.
“It could be the only way,” I said.
With Madrood’s plan in mind, we split, each taking a task to put into motion. Dragons and riders from Lydel would fly across the channel and some flights would continue to the northern Weldsbane border to meet up with my rogue forces. Zayde and Layla would go with them to help lead the flights who would ready themselves to attack from the northern and western flanks.
Airia would fly with one of the forces hitting them from the east.
Reyla would meet those sent from Evergorne Court on the shore and give direction. “I’m the best suited for that. Don’t youagree? I’ll ask them about the king. Get an idea of what I’m dealing with.” Her spine stiffened. “He wants a bride. Other than willing, which . . .” She shuddered. “Fuck that. But he didn’t clarify exactly what kind of bride he hoped to receive. If he believes I’m fluffy, he’ll soon learn not to get in my way.”
I hoped things worked out for my friend. She was going into this without any knowledge of what she faced.
“What do you see for Reyla?” I asked my aunt.
She tilted her head around to gaze at my friend. “Danger.”
Reyla snorted and tapped one of the many blades strapped to her body. “Let it come for me.”
“A test,” my aunt added.
“What kind of test?” Reyla’s eyebrows lifted.
“I see the word, not the meaning behind it.” My aunt appeared to be recovering. If that Liege was here, I’d drive a blade through his chest for scaring her. She frowned once more, staring down at her clasped hands on her lap. “An uncertain ending.”
“Nothing new there, but thanks for trying.” Reyla sighed and strode toward the hallway. “I’ll go get ready.”
“Don’t leave without saying goodbye,” Vexxion snarled.
She huffed and kept going, calling over her shoulder. “Goodbye, suddenly irritating older brother.”
It would take time for them to get used to the idea they were siblings and sort out the role they would play in each other’s lives.
“I’m with you, Fury.” Vexxion’s hand landed on my shoulder.
Madrood and a few other dragons would remain here. Me,Vexxion, and my aunt would remain on the island, though not for long.
Once the king’s army reached the edge of mainland Lydel, Vexxion and I would leave to join those attacking from the south.
Despite her protests, my aunt would remain here.
Our full force would confront the king from all directions.
If we didn’t stop him, there’d be no one left to confront him.
May the fates protect us.
62
