Page 62 of No Ordinary Drakeling
“Think of how proud he’ll be when you can fly at his side. If I wasn’t so afraid I’d fall from a great height, I might like to fly myself.”
“Perhaps someday Zane will allow you to ride on his back.”
Tiri’s eyes widened. “I didn’t know such a thing was possible. The ground would be so far away if we were in the sky.”
“You do not have to do it if scares you.”
“Can I ask you a question?”
“We are family now, Tiri. You may ask me anything.”
“Did you know my tribe was stealing things?”
Ellery’s expression was sage. “It was why we were in the village that day. We wanted to come to some resolution to get them to stop. They are taking food and other supplies from people who do not have them to give. They struggle to survive in their remote locations.”
“Then I’m glad I left. I don’t want to be associated with thieves.”
“Their actions are not your own, so do not feel guilty over them.”
“I don’t think I want to write to any of them, including the brothers I hardly know. They could be a part of my former chieftain’s plans.”
“You were not close to your family?”
“Sprites aren’t encouraged to find closeness with others in our tribes. It grows too painful when they are killed by the Warrior Sprites if you love them.”
“A rather lonely way to live.”
Tiri smiled. “Which is why I’m glad to be here. I’m not going to hold my heart away from anyone in my new family. Do you miss those you left behind in your village?”
“Like you, I had no one. My mother raised me, and she passed away ten years ago. I have already grown fond of the new men in our lives.”
“I plan to give my full heart to Zane.”
“I am going to give mine to Chrysander if he will allow it.”
“You two make a striking couple. Do you like being Emperor?” Tiri asked as he pulled his needle through a patch he was adding to the shoulder of his tunic.
“I must confess, I still find it hard to believe I am an emperor. There is so much to learn, and I can easily see why Chrysander’s schedule is so busy. Everyone wants a moment of his time for this or that. I am surprised Fate thinks I am worthy of this important duty, but I will not let her or Chrysander down.”
“I can’t imagine you letting anyone down.”
“I like you very much, Tiri.”
“I feel the same for you. Zane has promised I’ll meet the D’Vaires someday. Are they kind?”
“They are wonderful. I predict you will like them a great deal.”
“I hope I don’t do anything to make their name less admired.”
“I know you will not.”
“Can I confess something to you?” Tiri asked.
“Of course.”
“I find Chrysander’s assistant frightening.”
Ellery’s nose scrunched. “I find Wesley hard to like, and I am told he decorated our home.”
