Page 126 of An Archer's Reckoning

Swirling life under the crystalline floor of the Well’s chamber.

My mother’s hand on my shoulder as we stared across the island from her cavern home.

Her cavern home?

Then itallreturned.

My skin pimpled as I remembered the swell of the ocean waves and salty tang of the island air.

The path up the mountain.

The ancient Keeper with his insidious trials.

Irememberedmy mother and her stern gaze when I didn’t give my best.

Órla had given me back my memories.

So many memories . . . years of memories I hadn’t known were gone.

I remembered the little owl as a juvenile, all fuzz and fluff. Tears stung my eyes as I watched her bound onto my chest that first time in the forest.

My heart rose as she cocked her head.

It fell again as my waking mind knew she was lost.

I couldn’t accept it.

Icouldn’tlose her.

I stretched my senses and found the pulse of her Light.

“Órla! Where are you? I still feel you,”I whispered.

When she spoke in my mind, her voice was distant, weak.“I was struck with pure magic from the vein. I cannot heal this wound outside of the Well. I killed as many Kingdom troops in the city as I could, but they sent thousands after the fleeing people of Saltstone. I have only moments before the Well calls me home, but I will try to save your people before I go.”

“I’m coming. Wait for me. Take me with you,”I begged.

“Declan, where I go, you cannot follow.”

“Órla, don’t leave me. Oh, Spirits, please . . .”

“I knew this day would come, when greater needs would call me from your side. This is the way of the Phoenix, to Bond in life and be freed in death.”Her voice was lyrical now, light and breathless, what I imagined her Spirit might sound like.“Know that I love you and go only because I must.”

“Órla! No!”

“While you still live, we may be together again.”

Horror tore at my soul, and I screamed aloud, “Órla, what are you talking about? I need you! I’ve losteverything. You can’t leave me now!”

“If I remain, your people will die.”She paused.“I leave you one last gift, Bond-Mate. Cherish your memories but guard them well. My trust is well placed in your hands . . . as is my heart.”

“Órla!” I screamed as I scanned the sky for any sign of her.

“Órla, wait!”

Silence.

“ÓRLA!”

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