Page 40 of Trials of Dusk and Dreams
“It is not safe,” Bodin scowls at my rising emotion. “They should move to the House of Shadow Tower at the Nexus.”
“Absolutely not.” I slice my free hand through the air. “You tried painting them as dead weight this morning. It didn’t work. I won’t let you do this.”
Geraldine steps back. “Maybe I should leave you to discuss?—”
“No,” I snap, making her flinch. Shit. I didn’t mean to sound so bossy, so I force myself to gentle my tone. “It’s not safe for you there either. Please stay.”
“Willow,” Legion warns.
“If they sleep in the Tower, so do I.”
His eyes flash. He and Bodin share a tense look, clearly holding something back. But I must work with what I know since none of the Six besides Bodin have spoken to me since their littlefamilymeeting.
“If you have something to add, say it,” I challenge. “I’ve told them everything.”
Almost.
“That’s the problem,” Legion counters dryly. “If they know everything, they’re targets.”
“It’s too late. They’re already targets. I can’t un-tell them. I wouldn’t even if I could.”
Bodin growls in frustration. “It will take too long to train them to my standards. I cannot keep you all safe. This is untenable.”
Geraldine clears her throat, drawing our attention. She blushes. “May I suggest something?”
Legion gives a curt nod.
“The other Houses have flowstones and charms for their Chasers. Perhaps you can give us something to protect us from spilling your secrets?”
“Brilliant idea,” I breathe. “But will charms work for you if you’re Nevers?”
“We were Nothings first. And the charms worked when Fox gave us some.”
“Yes,” I agree, remembering. “But we discarded them after Sylvanar . . . well, the point is, they’re gone now. We need to source appropriate stones, right? Aunt Peaches said each type has different magical capabilities.”
I channel my best pleading eyes at Legion and Bodin. Bodin’s scowl deepens, but Legion rubs his forehead, considering.
“I can find stones to work with,” I offer. “Just tell me what you need. I’ll hunt around at B.A.R. while you deal with Cait.”
Bodin whispers to Legion, “This invites trouble.”
“I can still hear you,” I sing, tapping my shifter ears. “And correction—this invites help. More of us working toward the same goal is better. Geraldine’s already found valuable information. They’re looking for more accurate information on the Nightmares. She also raised an excellent point about the wisps in Titania’s temple—what if they’re stolen from humans who woke from the old world?” I tap my chin. “Come to think of it, Styx did say a wisp he gobbled tasted like a happy mortal.”
Geraldine shoots me a look. Technically, I came up with the stolen magic theory, but she was there brainstorming. Semantics. I know she’ll have many more clever ideas. When we met, she timed routes between Towers, always prepared. She has a unique perspective. She needs time to absorb knowledge first. I have faith in her. Besides, I won’t leave them to face more assassination attempts. Their earlier comment today about them being targeted after Sylvanar’s death nags at me.
They’re safer here. If Radiants hunting the Wild Hunt fear entering Shadowfall Keep to kill the dragon, it’s the safest place for my friends.
“And,” I continue, “Peggy used to work on a farm. A dog farm. She wants to work in the stables. Cricket’s already agreed and is excited for help around the castle.”
Bodin stares at Legion, all storm and grump. “If I must prioritize our Shadow’s wellbeing, having another take over my home duties will free up time.”
He pauses, clearly holding back more.
I can’t stop my grin. “Wouldn’t it be better to have allies I trust when the trials start?”
Legion sighs in capitulation, followed by Bodin’s grunt of agreement.
“Very well,” Legion concedes. “We will source flowstones ton?—”
