Page 20 of The Gods Veiling
“Mom’s explaining to Laney what’s happening. I’m pretty sure she understands completely, but…she’s going to take this hard.”
“Then just give me a moment. I won’t run.”
His shoulders sag. The genuine fear he has right now cuts me, but I can’t blame him. If him potentially running would cause Mellcom harm, I’d be the same way.
The thought immediately sends fire licking through me.
I would’ve been the same way…had today never happened.
I jerk my head toward the door. “I’ll be out soon.”
He finally takes the hint, and I don’t exhale until I hear the click behind him. I battle the tears that want to fall with each article of clothing I put in my bag.
I finally tell myself enough is enough. Necessities only and nothing here is really necessary. My parents left me with only a bag of clothes, my memories, andmy dreams. What I’m leaving behind are replaceable clothes, blankets, shoes, and books.
Hopefully, whoever packs the house gives it all to someone who needs it more than I do now.
My feet stand frozen in the middle of my room.
Disappointment bombards my system.
All these years, I’ve obediently followed the promises I made to my parents and Meridamus. Twenty long years I’ve kept my word and have never prayed, never gone to the gods, and never entered the Veiling.
It only took one taste of power and a step in the direction to find them, for my brother in all ways but parentage to sell me out.
Straight to the god I’ve never prayed to but have blamed every single one of my problems on.
Maybe even that was breaking a rule.
Now I’m reaping what I sowed.
I tug on my long-buried memories. The images of the faces and the voices of the two people who mean more to me than this whole realm surge across my mind. I let their love for me spread throughout my whole body.
Their last words to me, their unyielding love, faith, and promises ring in my ears. It’s another stab to my heart.
I’m so sorry I won’t be here when you return. I’ll be in Godsden.
Amick
3
“Amick, is the Athenaeum cleared?”
I turn toward the voice and dip my head as the High Chancellor approaches me. “It is, sir.”
“Good. All the Escorts have now departed. The Chancellors and I will be in the Gods Sanctum preparing for the Chosen’s arrival. I expect to be informed of any who may venture in here rather than preparing the Assembly.”
“Of course.”
“I also expect you and your brothers to be front and center at the ceremony. I will not tolerate a repeat of last year. You may relinquish your duties with enough time to return to your home and dress accordingly.”
“We’ll be at the ceremony.”
Not front and center, but we’ll be there.
“Very well. No one in or out of the Athenaeum today. Am I clear?”
“Yes.”
