Page 67 of Path of the Dark
Her jaw clenched. “I know that … I just wanted more time study … to explore enchantment … to be me.”
Asher’s chest tightened at the anguish in her voice. “You can rule Thûn and still be you.” He moved closer to her then and slung a brotherly arm around her shoulders.
Ninia tensed. She wasn’t used to being touched. However, after a moment, she relaxed against him. They stood in silence under the shimmering sun, listening to the chatter of voices rising up from the streets below and the ever-present clang of iron from one of the many new forges. All the men that Nathan had called from far-flung corners of Rithmar would now have a purpose. The king had announced that they’d ride out the dawn after next.
“You have been good to me,” Ninia said finally. She didn’t look at him as she spoke, almost as if such words embarrassed her. “I will never forget your kindness … your patience.”
Asher cleared his throat, suddenly overcome. “What you said yesterday … about me being sent to kill you,” he began, a rasp to his voice. “I’ll go to my grave regretting what I did.”
“Don’t.” Ninia glanced up at him. “Irana may have given the order, but killing is not part of who you are … that’s all that matters.” She smiled then. “I trusted you from the start, long before Mira did.”
Their gazes locked, and Asher heaved in a deep breath. “I’ll always be here for you,” he replied, giving her shoulder a gentle squeeze. “Remember Veldoras and The Royal City are only a goshawk flight away.”
