Page 123 of Shrine of Fire

“A good excuse.” I brushed my hand over his cheek. Everything inside me felt tender and new, like the first time I fell in love.

“I’m good for some things.” Stefan smiled at me.

I stole a kiss. “A lot of things, actually.”

“I’ll get the seals ready.” Kalahar picked at his plate. He was still too pale and held himself stiffly. I didn’t want to know what going into the spirit world had done to his strength, and fresh fear poured through me.

At that, every one of them looked up at me.

“What’s wrong?” Hashir petted my hair.

“Kalahar.” I took his hand. “Worried about you.”

He gave me a bright smile. “I am alright, my precious flame. I am winded, but I’ll be okay.”

I drew in a deep breath and released it. Right. No more living in fear and pushing people away. Even though it felt safer.

That safety was an illusion. I would still be as devastated if I lost him, if not more, because I’d also be kicking myself for not showing him how I felt while he was here.

“I love you.” I took the phoenix’s hand in mine.

Kalahar smiled and it was radiant. I basked in his love for a moment and sighed.

“I love you too. We will seal Hella Mora away. I’ll make sure of it.”

“We should send a message to Zara when we land too.” Hashir handed Kalahar some bread. “Let her know we’re going to seal the spirit. Have some backup.”

“Good.” I hadn’t talked to Zara through the mirror tablets recently. I didn’t even know what to say, how to tell her everything that happened. We would have time to catch up after we sealed away the spirit.

We spent the rest of the trip home eating, sleeping, and making love. Cuan showed me some new stitches for my needlework, and it was the perfect calm before the storm.

After I was well enough, I made my way to the top of the ship. I had one last bit of business to take care of before we made landfall.

Lord Baylin was standing at the prow, watching the water crash over the hull.

“Princess?” He frowned. “Are you well enough to be out and about?”

He didn’t know half of what I’d been through. I nodded. “I need to move around, thank you.”

“How is the Crown Prince?” Lord Baylin turned to me, concern etched into his face.

“He’s sore but healing nicely.” I sighed and leaned against the railing. “We’ll be in port in a few days. It will be nice to be back on solid ground.”

“That it will.” Lord Baylin gave me a short bow. “If there’s anything else you need to make your trip more comfortable, please let me know. Admiral Xilas will be held accountable for his nefarious actions, I can assure you.”

It was the perfect set up. “Cuan told me you were quite instrumental in making a solid trade agreement.” I gave Baylin my best court smile. “Know that you have our gratitude for that.”

“I was only doing my duty, Princess. I am sorry you were hurt. We will have stronger measures in the future to make sure it doesn’t happen again.”

I doubted that, but I kept my smile. “One thing troubles me, something I was hoping you could help me with.”

“Anything, my lady.” His eyes lit up a little bit.

I glanced around, even though we were alone. “It’s a matter of sensitivity.”

“You have my discretion.” Lord Baylin gave me a shrewd look. “You will make a fine queen someday, and I hope to assist you the way I’ve assisted the Ember King.

I bet he did.

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