After that, we went back to work.
She has fallen into a quick rhythm—actually, a back-breaking speed. She scrubs pots, holds children, and listens to these humans until her eyes can hardly stay open.
Today, we both rose early. She went to train with the elves, humans, and Svanna, while I came to oversee the progress of the crystal suits that Liana and Flova have been working on in orderto retrieve the artifact. Reports indicate that they have a unique feature that I would enjoy seeing.
Thorne has requested to join this particular journey, as he has made it extremely clear he will dive with the rest of us. When someone shoots him a mistrustful glance, he looks unfazed and observant, the same expression that he has had the entire time he’s been in the caves.
There’s something about him—I can’t quite put my finger on it, but I do not trust him. Despite the fact that several seem to appreciate him, including Estela and Ulla.
His quiet, silent presence fades away as my mind swims with things I could do for Estela to help ease the hurt of Melisa leaving. She wears the jewels I’ve given her every day, but there must be something more.
The day that she helped me put on my armor is still fresh in my mind, and I think of her wearing a matching set. Golden plates to protect her soft human flesh. It would be wise.
The idea sticks, and I decide to discuss it with Flova after we’ve inspected the suit.
Thorne takes a deep breath, still walking in silence next to me, and I look at the knives gleaming on his belt.
Curiosity loosens my tongue.
“You are friends with Mrath—did you ever know Arion?”
Thorne stiffens. “I am Thorne thePeredhel—thehalfing. Why would I have any dealings with the Elf King?”
“You tell me,” I say.
No one has been unkind to Thorne or the other members of the sisterhood, but there is discontentment in the air. The crystals can only amplify what others are feeling, so when we look upon this snowy-haired man, sneaking through hallways, I know a few Enduares are reminded of Arion.
He doesn’t respond, and all too soon, blistering heat from the forges greets us before any of my people do.
I spot the back of Liana’s crystal-covered tunic and the familiar bend of Flova’s spine. They stand in front of a table, concealing the suits from my view.
“Ho!” I call out, and Liana looks up.
She nods in my direction and then scowls at Thorne.
At least I have one ally against him.
“Your Majesty,” she says, and I feel proud of her for snuffing our guest.
Thorne grins at her and gives a short bow.
“Mother Liana, a pleasure as always. I love the blue gems you’ve used for your brow jewelry today.” One of his gloved hands reaches up to tap the space on his eyebrow to demonstrate.
Liana purses her lips. “They are my least favorite pieces.”
I stifle a laugh, but she turns to me.
“Estela has not met with me. I’ve reminded her twice, and I had hoped she’d help with this project,” she says.
I frown. “She is… occupied with the humans.”
Liana quirks up her eyebrows. “So I’ve seen. I would appreciate it if you would remind her to come. I’d like to make the final suit with her.”
“Very well. Where are these grand creations?” I ask as Flova turns, giving us a view of the table.
Before me are three suits that glow blue in the forge light, despite looking like they are made of glass. Unlike typical armor that I’ve worn into battle, they aren’t separated into many pieces, and there are no gaps between sections.
In fact, they look more like statues—inflexible and solid.
