Page 82 of Amethyst and Iron
“So, do you think our hot little wolf is giving Remnant hell right about now?”
Her chuckle turned to a giggle. “I have no doubt. He’s probably turning The Shadowed inside out.”
“Chaotic, wild, ferocious,” I mused. “Just what’s deserved.” I stroked her hair. “He’s also loyal, feels deeply and so bravely. He’s courageous and possesses such a beautiful heart, such a softness that he only gives to us. He’s never been too much. He’s—”
“Perfect.”
“Exactly, Dark Beauty. Perfect.”
“Just like we all are for each other.” She lifted her head from my chest and stared up at me as she told me pointedly, “As we still will be, no matter what alters for each of us along the way.”
“Message received loud and clear.”
“I know this won’t be easy, but you’ll still be here with us, and we’ll figure it out. You really won’t be alone in that.”
“I know, but I may need to be, especially once it starts sinking in.”
“Even then, we’ll still be within reach. Do you hear me, Sylas?”
“I do.”
Another shudder wracked my body.
This time, it was followed by another and another.
Velra tightened her hold around me. “It’s almost over.”
I eased from her and turned to take in the stunning fields of roses, savoring the sight and the serenity of it all, even as I felt something so profound slipping away in the process.
I tried to focus on that.
Her hand slipped into mine, and I added her warmth to that focus, as I shuddered uncontrollably, needing to tighten my hand in hers in order to ground myself and remain upright in this illusionary space.
And then it ceased.
No more shuddering.
Just… emptiness.
“Drop it,” I eked out.
“I can hold it longer if you like. For as long as you wish, actually.”
I shook my head.
And then her power slipped away, the illusion dissipating.
Reality came slamming backand I jolted.
I looked to see Cornelius right in front of me as I laid sprawled in the chair, his glowing hand sweeping over me.
“Nothing,” he reported, looking between me, Cassius, and Velra. “No more magic.” He grimaced, then stepped back, telling me, “It’s done, Sylas.”
All I could manage was a nod.
“You’ll feel a sense of exhaustion for a couple of days, then you’ll be able to function… normally.”
Normally.
