Page 96 of The Healing Dragon
She crosses her arms and raises a brow. “The enemy isn’t only Lord Duelo and his loyal soldiers. He has allies of other magical capabilities.”
Mel shrugs. “Like it makes a difference. I’ll see you there then.”
“Wait,” I rush after Mel. His steps do not falter, but his paceslows enough for me to catch up. “Lord Duelo is going after his daughter.”
“So,” he says.
“I will give you anything for her safety.” The words do not fully register before they leave my lips, but they are true, as my existence without her is unimaginable. “My soul is yours if you keep her safe.”
“Do you really think I want that thing?” He stops to fully face me. He looks at my chest as if he could see the very soul he shudders at. “All pure intentions and loving emotions, disgusting.” He shakes his head and continues walking to the gates, leaving me looking after him.
Brandon places his hand on my shoulder. The act is meant to be comforting, but it feels too much like condolences. I shake him off me, but don’t move away.
“LeeAnn will take me.” Brandon turns to leave. “There is one other angel outside. If you wish to beat Bianca to him, I suggest you hurry.”
I run for my life.
CHAPTER THIRTY
JANELLE
The hot water of the shower beats at my skin until it turns red. The burning sensation of the heat feels good. It helps pause my thoughts and the images of earlier. I don’t look down for a while, worried I would see Oli’s blood going down the drain. I wash it all off and tell my mind to focus on what is coming.
I’m quick to change into the same training gear I wore the day of the attack. I’ve kept it all this time because the fabric and fit have proven versatile. My fingers move across it and wonder if its true purpose for staying in my possession was to be used when I made things right.
My father will come here again, but this time I will not aid him. I will also not allow him to leave. There is no world where he gets to live while Oli doesn’t. I’ll make sure of that.
The ring of an alarm blasts through the castle, then flashing lights quickly follow. I finish dressing and make my way down to the dining hall. The chatter that normally flows through the halls ceases to a dead silence, only making the alarm noise seem louder. No shouts are heard, but peopleshare comforting words as they move to the prearranged hiding spots.
I walk to the window and look out at the back of the castle. The people outside are motionless, their heads facing the edge of the forest. Then I see them.
The sight of movement causes my heart rate to speed up. Dozens of small duendes descend upon the castle’s protective barrier. Their speed makes a mere flash of movement before they slam into the invisible shield. The protective barrier doesn’t seem to startle them. They climb on top of each other, covering a section of the shield.
I rush into the dining hall where the majority have checked in for marching orders. Roman is arguing with a few of his soldiers as I cross the distance. I’m making my way to him when Santiago appears out of nowhere and takes my arm.
“Any news?” I ask. Referring to the evidently missing King, Bianca and Jesse. “Was the word sent?”
“Not sure it matters. They went to the underworld. There’s no way they’ll get back on time.” Santiago looks over the crowd at the barrier.
The duendes have climbed seven feet up in the air and began punching the barrier with their magic. The shield doesn’t give in, but a blue glow illuminates the spots being hit.
“It won’t give out, right?” A young woman next to me asks no one in particular.
A huff comes from somewhere behind us. “Of course it will not.”
I’m not as confident as them and from the pacing and Roman’s face, I can see he isn’t either. I push forward toward the Royal Force guard, but I’m once again pulled back by Santiago.
“I can help,” I say.
We all know who is behind this and what he wants.
“Without magic? They don’t want your help, Janelle.” He takes a step close until our noses touch. “They will sacrifice you to gain time.” He looks around him, but no one is paying attention to us at the moment. “Roman can’t save you if Brandon isn’t here.”
I rest my palm on his cheek and say, “I never needed anyone to save me, Santiago. I have always saved myself. It’s time I save others.”
His eyes take me in with a new expression. He hesitates but concludes on something as his stiff fingers finally let me go and reluctantly steps back.
No soldier gets in my way as I cross to Roman. Nearby, Isabel sits with Lexi Blue, both of them wearing tense expressions.
