Page 48 of Own to Obtain

“The mountain is secured by a row of izak-rock installed at the base. It is a very delicate and special rock that is formed through years of pressure in the Discovery Mountains and when it is turned a certain way it radiates heat,” he explained.

Shaya raised a brow. “I know, I was in there.”

“Well, the rocks regulate the temperature of the mountain range, which means that when the blizzards arrive, it shouldn’t get too cold or icy and there is less damage to the mountains, allowing us to live in them. But the rocks need to be turned and monitored regularly. If it gets too hot or cold, the mountains could crack, especially during a blizzard. We have teams in place that are supposed to regulate the turning consistently.”

“Like on your ship?”

“On the ship we were rotating the rock until it burned at its hottest so we could then break it up, melt it, and use it to fuel the ship. It’s the only thing that ensures the ship will be able to speed across the ocean as quickly as it does.”

Shaya pursed her lips. “It has many uses.”

“It does. And it has come from this land. It makes sense it can protect us. But only if it is handled correctly.”

“So if the people aren’t here, what does that mean?”

“It means they are stuck in the mountains. It’s likely it has become too icy for them to get out. And if the rocks haven’t been turned regularly, it could make that part of the mountain weak. The blizzard is strong enough to destroy the mountain with them inside.”

Shaya inhaled a breath, her eyes wide. “What are you going to do?”

Kardos looked down at her, her eyes wide with concern. He couldn’t help but smile, even though the annoyance from the lack of care of the rocks irritated him, she was so adorable in her bulky furs.

“I have to go and rotate the rock. It’s the only way to ensure that when the heart of the blizzard hits, the entire mountain doesn’t collapse with our people inside.”

Shaya gazed at him, worry in her eyes. “Does it have to be you?”

“It does, Shaya,” he said solemnly as he leaned forward to kiss her. “I am high chief and this is my tribe. I haven’t left them yet, and I have to do what I can.”

Her concern softened as she smiled. “I understand.”

Kardos straightened and lifted her up. “I’m going to the other side of the mountain,” he informed Zolt. “Do you have any carriages that can take me there?”

“The one that you came in is still here,” Zolt said. “But I strongly advise against it, my chief. The heart of the blizzard will be here soon.”

“Noted,” Kardos replied.

An older tribesman, Freyus, stepped forward hesitantly. “My chief, I think it is best if your Omega stays here. It is dangerous out there and I don’t think it is wise for both of you to be out in the blizzard at this time.”

“My Omega has completed her discovery journey,” Kardos said firmly. “She is extremely capable of managing the blizzard. And besides, she will not be separated from me. I will keep her safe.”

Freyus glanced at Shaya, and Kardos felt her nod at him. The tribesman dipped his head respectfully to them both. “Of course, my chief.”

Zolt walked with him to the exit. “Are you sure about this?” he asked, gesturing to Shaya. “We can look after her here.”

“I am sure,” Kardos said with finality that suggested he was finished speaking about it. “She stays with me. But I need a few men who can help.”

“As you wish, my chief.”

It didn’t take long for them to arrive at the other side of the mountain. As Kardos and his men strode against the wind, heading to the izak-rock, a sudden whiz sounded past his ear, and Shaya jolted on his back. “What was that?”

Kardos froze in surprise.

“What is it, Kardos?”

Another few whizzes sounded and Kardos ran to the wall, flattening himself as much as he could with Shaya on his back. His men did the same, spreading out along the valley.

“What is that?” she asked.

“Arrows.” His voice was hoarse with disbelief. “Arrows are being shot at us.”

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