Page 23 of The Mirror in the Mountain

Chapter 12

Bash

My hand shook as I reached for my sword, the cool hilt against my damp palm doing nothing to halt my nausea. Sweat dripped down my back as I started toward the mirror, battle-ready soldiers coming to attention as I passed. Most were already lined up, too well trained to show their nerves even as the impending countdown hovered thickly in the air, charged like the moment before a lightning strike.

A flare of Eva’s terror broke through her hold, her pain twisting my insides like it was my own as I strode toward the enormous silver mirror. I could barely breathe as my own panic overwhelmed me, even as I tried my best to master it—only too aware of how my emotions could affect her in return.

Turning to face my people, I drew my sword as Rivan, Yael, Marin, and Tobias took their places by my side. “We don’t know what we’ll find on the other side of this, so be ready. But leave the False King to me.”

Lowering my voice, I murmured to Tobias. “Let the Solearans know it’s time, whether they’re ready or not.”

I thought my heart might beat out of my chest as I felt her desperation giving way to…was that relief? Tobias held up a pre-written piece of parchment, his hand starting to glow with pure white light.

“Wait,” I gasped.

I reached out through our bond, but all I could discern was a strange sense of regret. The fear was gone, that light, floating feeling definitely a wave of relief.

Had she fought him off? Had she gotten away from him? Was she hurt?

Not knowing what was happening was going to drive me mad. I wrote her yet another message, praying she would see it.

Eva, please, I need to know what’s happening.

Marin took my arm. “Is she…”

Tobias snatched a message from midair that appeared in a bubble of wind. “She’s okay,” he rasped. “The Solearans have her. She’s safe.”

My relief was so potent it brought me to my knees. But I shouldn’t have been surprised that Eva had managed to escape. I had long since realized there was very little she couldn’t do.

Rivan’s eyes met mine as he helped me up. “How did she?—”

Tobias shook his head. “That’s all I know.”

She’s safe.I could feel her on the other side of our bond, calm, despite the bite of her pain, her very presence soothing.

Marin cleared her throat, addressing the surrounding soldiers. “This gives us more time to prepare, but that doesn’t mean we won’t be needed sooner than later. Spread the word. And get some food and rest while you have the chance.”

I shot her a grateful look as they bowed in unison, unable to find the words to even thank her. A clamor once again overtook the hall as swords were sheathed and armor removed. Staring at the rippling mirror before me, I breathed in, counting each second. Trying to find a semblance of calm while I waited impatiently for her response, distantly aware that my friends were discussing the next steps around me.

But there was a tingle on my palm, a message waiting there.

I’m safe. I got away. Don’t go near Soleara, they’re searching for me.

I could feel everyone’s eyes on me as I wrote back as quickly as I could. Yael stepped closer, craning her neck to read my response over my shoulder. Tobias’s gaze bore into the back of my hand.

Hellion, I’m going to need more than that. Where can I find you?

Iridescent words appeared on my palm as I held it up for her twin to read.

Tell Tobias the gate will be open to you soon. He’ll know the way.

Chapter 13

Eva

Bash’s worry for me was a ringing bell in my head as the tunnels started steeply climbing. That and a persistent shiver on my palm finally made me realize there was a message waiting for me. I looked down, trying my best not to trip over my feet. Pari reached out and gripped my arm as I staggered. I couldn’t blame her for not letting go.

Eva, please, I need to know what’s happening.

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