Page 62 of Stone Heart
Vikuth could be trusted.
“Last night, I had a vision. I was in Faery and was speaking to who we call The Wise One—”
“Vulen,” Vikuth breathed, cutting her off.
She nodded, relieved she didn’t have to explain who Vulen was. “Yes, he reached out to me and brought my mind to meet him in Faery.”
“But why would he choose you? How did he do that? You didn’t leave the room. I ensured that—” he stopped abruptly and pursed his lips.
She knew instantly it was he who’d sent Calista, Ajuki, and Manga to her.
“My restful period that you allotted me caused my mind to fall into such a peaceful state where he was able to reach me through my dreams.”
Vikuth nodded and waved her on as they walked down the dark passage. Sconces lined the wall, providing light while they continued on their journey. They followed the maze of passages until it opened into a massive grand hallway.
She spun, looking around the area. A bustle of creatures of all kinds rushed past. Paranormals of many types openly moved through. Stands had been set up as if they were in a market.
“Where are we?”
“This is the central part of the lair. This is the Market Place, were paranormals can come sell, buy, and trade. We’re a people who cannot go out in the daylight. We have basically created cities beneath the Earth’s surface,” Vikuth remarked, glancing around the market with pride.
“This is amazing,” she breathed as she took in all of the vendors and made a mental note to return.
Delicious smells filled the air, and her stomach rumbled, reminding her she’d skipped breakfast. The sounds of music and laughter tinkled. It was an area where paranormals could gather and be themselves. No need to hide from the humans.
“Come on.” Vikuth grabbed her by her elbow and led her toward a tunnel away from the market.
They rushed by vendors, who called out, trying to gain their attention.
She was whisked past the tables and paused at the entry of the hallway, her name being shouted.
“Princess!” A familiar voice.
She turned. Avalena stalked her way to her with three other women Rina hadn’t seen before.
She braced herself upon seeing the fury on the female’s face as she approached her. Rina held up a hand, preventing Vikuth from moving in front of her.
No, she could fight her own battles.
“What is it, Avalena?” she demanded with a calm voice. She refused to step down to the level of the female gargoyle.
“It’s your fault he was captured!” she shrieked, throwing herself at Rina.
The other two women grabbed her by her arms, and she fought against them. “Rhodack would be here if it wasn’t for you.”
The area near them quieted, attentions turned to them. Rina met the curious eyes of those who’d paused to see what the shrieking was for.
“I will get him back,” Rina vowed, meeting the eyes of those who stared at her with a curious nature. She refused to back down from the woman whose eyes held a hatred for her.
“You don’t belong here, princess.” Avalena still struggled against the other women’s grips. “You will leave if I have to—”
“Chose your words very wisely.” Vikuth pushed past Rina and planted himself in front of her.
“But she—”
“Is your lord’s mate,” he hissed, grabbing the flailing woman by the neck. Her body instantly stiffened. “You threaten the princess, you threaten Rhodack and Clan Gahnoth.”
Avalena paused and met his eyes before looking away. His grip on her neck was tight as the crazed woman’s eyes turned to her. Hatred still brimmed in them while she glared at her.
