Page 61 of Riftborne
“That’s correct. We house large stores of the rare crystal along the Western strongholds, and it seems to be of great interest to the creatures. Obviously, if they were to take it into their possession, Esprithe only knows what devastating effects it would have on Sídhe. We’ve never been rid of it before. There’s a chance that, without it, our focuses would be rendered useless.”
Mercer slid his hands into his pockets before continuing, “As of right now, the Wraiths' strengths seem to be limited to the West. One of our theories is that their powers weaken as they move further away from their homeland. We have defended our resources from many of their attempts to obtain it. Another fear,of course, is that securing the arcanite would allow them to gain enough power to move freely throughout the Isle, perhaps even reaching Luminaria.”
A cold chill rushed down my spine at the thought of an unknown creeping darkness wreaking havoc on the city I called home. On Osta, and Ma.
“The attacks seem to be increasing. We think they’re becoming desperate. We have already lost too many guards and with nothing to show for it.”
He looked past us, his eyes fixed on the back wall as if recalling a memory. “It’s like fighting smoke in pure darkness, all while hearing the whispers of its form twisting around you. You can’t see, you can’t breathe, and it happens so fast you barely have time to think. Once it has you in its grips, you are as good as dead.” His jaw clenched. “I hope none of you will have to face this anytime soon.”
He pursed his lips and exhaled sharply before looking each one of us in the eyes.
“You’re sure as Conleth not ready for it.”
CHAPTER 23
My mind racedas I sprinted out of the classroom. Nausea bubbled in my gut. Wraiths? Unkillable, movingshadows? I shook my head as the gates closed in on me. I was in way over my head.
And I couldn’t tell anyone. Not a soul. I had literally sworn with my blood to keep all of this confidential. How did they all do it? If the threat was truly that serious, how could they sleep at night without telling their loved ones? I wasn’t prepared for this.
I brushed past the gates and the guards from earlier, turning right towards the Central district.
“Fia! Hey, wait up!” The voice tore through my meltdown. I halted, pausing before turning to find Raine jogging towards me. A small dose of relief washed over me.
“Hey Raine.” It was short and not as friendly as I would have liked, but it was all I could manage at the moment.
“Are you training for a marathon?” she teased, placing her hands on her knees and taking a few deep breaths.
A smile tugged at my lips but didn’t fully form.
“I guess I’m a little shocked by the information we learned today.” I winced and looked around nervously.
“Yeah, I get it. Pretty shocking to me as well,” She shrugged, twirling one of her braids through her fingers.
“You live at the Compound?” I asked, my voice still unsteady.
“For now. Just during training.” She looked around the street with wide eyes. “But this city is unreal. The Highlands don't even begin to compare,” she mused, shaking her head.
“You’re from the Highlands?” I had heard people go on and on about how beautiful they were. Territory flush with wineries and orchards. It seemed like a nice respite from the city crowds.
“Unfortunately.” She sighed, looking back at me. “But I’m curious to know more about you. Are you busy now?”
I shifted my eyes, trying to muster an excuse. Raine seemed nice enough, but I was still reeling and in absolutelynostate to attempt a social outing.
“Well, I–”
“Mercer did ask me to fill you in on what you’ve missed.” She angled her head down, grinning wickedly. “I mean, unless you’re too shaken up by the nightmare fuel we learned about today.” The twinkle in her eyes intensified.
I turned her words over in my mind, trying to access my more logical side through the chaos and turmoil. Being seen as weak by my fellow recruits seemed like a terrible way to start off group sessions.
“I don’t have plans.” I smiled, swallowing my anxiety. “What did you have in mind?”
Her grin widened. “Excellent. There’s a pub down the street. Care for a drink?” It didn’t sound like a question. She winked, breezing past me.
“Sure,” I mumbled under my breath, forcing my feet to follow after her. I reached her side, matching the rhythm of her steps. She radiated confidence, swaying her hips as she moved, hardly blinking.
Her eyes were set on some unknown destination ahead, a playful smirk toying at the corners of her lips. She was like adamn lion prowling the streets of Luminaria. I felt sorry for anyone that had the pleasure of her interest. She might just tear them apart.
“Have you been here?” Raine stopped abruptly, pulling a door open. I nearly stumbled into her before looking up, taking in the wooden sign that swung from chains above the door.Rune and Revelry.
