Page 61 of Path of the Dark
Elias shook his head. “I also know nothing about this coalition between Anthor and Thûn enchanters … and I’ve never heard of Styx.”
“It’s calledStynix,” she spat at him. Ryana was glaring at him now, her self-control slowly slipping. “It was once used to enhance enchanters’ abilities, until they realized that it’s a poison. Apparently, Gael has discovered a way to neutralize its dangerous effects.” Her mouth twisted. “Your father didn’t trust your ability to finish Ninia off … the Stynix would ensure his enchanters can take her on if necessary.”
“I knew nothing about any of this, Ryana,” Elias countered, alarm coiling in the pit of his belly. “You must take me at my word.”
“Must I?” she spat. “Every word that comes out of your mouth is treacherous. You let us all believe there would be peace between our kingdoms. You even convincedme. But you’ll do anything to further the glory of Anthor … nothing and no one else matters. Valor, Honor, and Loyalty indeed.”
Elias shook his head. Ryana’s fury was an impenetrable wall between them. “I make no apologies for who I am,” he replied, his voice clipped. His own temper was fraying now. “But I didn’t plan any of this. All the work I put into those peace negotiations was real. My father isn’t likely to be interested in any of it, but I’m tired of following his lead. I did it for myself, and I spoke to Nathan in good faith.” He heaved a deep breath. “And as for you … that wasn’t planned either. But I’ll not regret it.”
In response, Ryana gathered the Dark in one swift movement and hurled it at him.
Elias had no time to react, or to even try to defend himself. A moment later he found himself lying on his back in the stream, a coil of shadows wrapped around his throat.
Reaching up, Elias tried to pry off the garrote—but it was like taking hold of quicksilver. He couldn’t get a grip on it. All the while it tightened, slowly crushing his windpipe.
Ryana approached, stalking him. He’d never seen her this way. A huntress: fey, beautiful, and as wild as the shadows she wielded. She waded out into the stream and stood over him. “It’s time for you to meet the same end as your brother,” she snarled. “I can’t think of a more fitting death for either of you.”
