Page 199 of Axis of Fire

“We’ll see,” Tarven replied.

And at that exact moment, I realized something horrifying.

Tarven was starting to annoy me even more than Airis did.

Which was honestly quite an achievement...

Considering Airis existed.

******

“We’ll wait until he leaves, then quietly follow him,” Aars said, rubbing his tiny paws together conspiratorially.

We were in Airis’s room, watching him pack a few things into a duffel bag.

“Do you really think this is a good idea for Ria?” Louis asked, sitting beside the bag while occasionally commenting on whatever Airis tossed inside.

He’d been unusually quiet ever since we left the training hall, though I hadn’t paid much attention to it.

The spirits kept distracting me with their constant chatter.

“Isn’t she supposed to have some kind of special seal?” Mortz asked, crossing his arms over his chest. “What if Mataarus tears her apart without one?”

I frowned and looked at Aars.

“You really think I’d risk your life like that?” he asked, raising a brow.

I nodded immediately.

That sounded exactly like something he would do.

Aars clicked his tongue in annoyance.

“The seal’s only purpose is to let Mataarus track incoming visitors. It doesn’t actually protect anyone.”

Could I trust him?

“I’m telling the truth, girl!” Aars snapped, as if he’d read my thoughts.

“Fine,” Mortz muttered. “But how exactly are you planning to figure out whether she’s connected to Mataarus?”

“I’m not going to force you to train with Tarven,” Airis said suddenly, catching me off guard and silencing even the spirits.

Our eyes met.

“But it’s in your best interest to prepare for the Selection as much as possible.”

“Why should I trust someone who clearly doesn’t trust me?” I asked without hesitation.

“He’s just overly cautious.”

“So am I.”

A heavy sigh escaped Airis.

He sat down on the edge of the bed, resting his clasped hands on his knees.

“He’s at his limit,” Mortz observed quietly.