Page 24 of The Bond That Burns

What was I doing? What was I doing? Silently, I kept chanting the words in my head as I led the way outside the Black Keep, trying to project as much confidence as I possibly could.

Outside the air was sharper. Cooler. The breeze had picked up and it bit against my skin as the entire Tribunal Panel and audience of highbloods followed me in a rustling tide of black robes and suspicious mutters.

My heart was pounding as I stepped out into the large cobblestone courtyard that lay in front of the Black Keep. Ahead of us lay the massive iron bridge that connected the island to the mainland and the city of Veilmar.

This had to work. It had to.

All summer, I’d kept my secret. Clung to this one hope. Kept a card tucked up my sleeve. A card I hadn’t dared to play until now.

Nyxaris?I called to him through our connection.

Silence.

Nyxaris?I tried again.Are you there?

There was no response. My heart was a drumbeat of panic in my chest. Around me the highbloods were stirring restlessly. Some were complaining of the cold and wanted to go back inside.

I tried again.Please. If you’re there, please answer me, O Great One. I beseech you.I felt like an idiot, but I had no choice.

“She’s bluffing,” I heard Lord Mortis declare loudly. “Look at her, just standing there. She’s making fools of us all. There’s nothing here. Let’s go back inside. I believe the rider’s fate is clear. We’ll put the matter to a vote.”

“No,” I exclaimed. “Please. Wait.”

Nyxaris, please,I thought desperately.Please don’t do this to me. I know my life is insignificant to you but I swear I’ll keep my word if you help me. I’ll do anything you want.

Still, nothing.

I swallowed hard, trying not to meet anyone’s eyes. Not even Theo’s.

Something in the air shifted.

A low, distant rumble arose, far above us. The sound grew louder with every passing second.

Murmurs went through the crowd.

The sounds became clearer and clearer until there was no mistaking what they were.

Beating wings.

Nyxaris’s voice rumbled through my mind, deep and sardonic.You sound desperate, little wingless one. Did you think I’d abandoned you?

I sucked in a sharp breath.You’re not funny. You know that?

His laughter was a growl in my head.

Why did I have to get the dragon with the sense of humor? Would the other three have been like this?

Oh, but I am. Look at you down there, surrounded by these tiny, pathetic creatures.He paused, as if considering.Perhaps I should make you all wait longer. Teach them proper humility.

No,I said quickly.Please.

Patience, young one. I have kept my promise.He gave another deep rumbling laugh, as rich and deep as his scales.

This time I could hear him from the ground. So could everyone else. Gasps rippled through the crowd.

I tilted my head back, searching the sky. There. Silhouetted against the gray clouds, a dark shadow moved, cutting through the air with incredible grace.

I wasn’t the only one who had spotted the dragon. Screams broke out around me. One highblood man swooned against his partner.

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