Page 65 of Heart Cradle
Eiran followed her gaze. “Still no bloody change.”
Nolenne stood beside him now, arms folded. “She’ll come back.”
“She’s not just resting. This is deeper, like she’s caught between two strands and doesn’t know which to follow, I can feel her.”
“Well, I didn’t just come to check on your brooding,” Nolenne said quietly. “The king has given me orders.”
That got Eiran’s attention, he sat up straighter, brows drawn. “What kind of orders?”
“Originally, he wanted me to scout along the northern border and check for activity, but after the news… I’m to travel to Delvain with Aeilanna. He wants eyes on the village ruins, to see if I recognise any Avelan tactics or weapon traces. No engagement, just observation, unfortunately.”
Eiran scowled. “Delvain’s near the northern river bend. If it was attacked, it’s close enough to stir the border’s hornet nest.”
Nolenne nodded. “That’s the point I think. He wants confirmation before any response.”
“And you’re taking Aeilanna?” Eiran said, eyes wide.
“Hmm, well, she’s taking me actually. I was going to use stones, but she insisted. Solirra’s recovered enough after the separation for the flight and they say it will do them both good.”
His jaw tightened, but he nodded slowly. “It will, but watch them, and watch yourself.”
Nolenne tilted her head. “You do realise I’ve been doing that since I was nine, and Aeilanna for over a century, Eiran?”
“I’m serious,” Eiran said, eyes hard now. “You’re not just a blade anymore, Nol. You’re known, your face has meaning and you’re one of us, especially flying in on one of Melrathen’s thunder. That makes you a big fucking target.”
Something unreadable flickered across her face. “I always was. Just not always the same kind, being Davmon’s sister has that impact.” There was a long pause before she added, “You know I didn’t choose this life.”
“I heard pieces,” Eiran said quietly.
“I was conscripted, Eiran. They trained us to kill before we could even read maps. They broke us down and told us we belonged to the realm, not to ourselves.” She glanced at Maeve again. “I only know how to fight… Aeilanna reminded me what it felt like to belong to myself… to belong to someone else.”
“You belong here,” Eiran said firmly. “With us.”
“Tell that to the stars.” A faint smile touched Nolenne’s lips, rare and fleeting. “I’ll report back when we land. Two days, if skies are clear.”
Eiran stretched. “If there’s even a hint of danger, you leave. I don’t care what Grandfather has ordered.”
“You’re going to be a terrible king,” she said. “All heart and rebellion.”
“Just don’t make me come after you. I’d bring the whole fucking sky.”
“Eiran, you smell like damp wool and worry.” Nolenne wrinkled her nose. “It’s bloody tragic.”
Eiran huffed. “I’ve had a few other priorities.”
“Even battle-worn soldiers don’t stink this bad. You’re a prince, not a cellar rat.” She gave him a pointed look. “Bathe. I’ll send food up.”
“I don’t need food,” he muttered.
“You do. You’re pale, and your cheekbones are getting aggressive.” She pointed at the bathroom door. “Go. I’ll stay with her until you get back.”
Eiran’s jaw flexed, his gaze dropped to Maeve. “What if she wakes?”
“I’ll call you the moment her eyelashes twitch. Promise, warrior’s honour.” She placed her palm on her heart with a grin.
He hesitated, fingers brushing Maeve’s hand once more. “You swear?”
“I swear it.”
