Page 34 of Bite The Terror That Feeds

It took Cobra several seconds to understand the truth. “She’s going to sail across the world to a continent full of monsters?”

“I told her to remain behind, but she refused.”

“Sounds like a crazy bitch.”

“Or a loyal one.” I wanted her to remain behind for her own well-being, but I knew I would fear for her every moment we were apart. Never let someone do a job when you could do it better yourself. I trusted Viper, but I would never trust anyone as much as myself.

The smile was still on his lips. “That’s a long time to spend with Aurelias.”

“He’s much better company than Father…a million times over.”

“I’ll bring my army to Grayson, where they’ll camp outside the city. But I’ll need to bring food if they’re to maintain their strength. I know how you feel about that, but there’s no way around it.”

Slaves would be forced from their homes to act as a food supply for monsters that had made them into livestock. No, I didn’t like it, but I was in no position to call the shots. “It is what it is.”

“A great king makes great sacrifices.”

“Is that a compliment?”

He gave a shrug. “More of an acknowledgment.”

I stared at him. “Protect Grayson and our people.”

“With my life.” His closed fist moved to his chest. “Be careful, brother. I would be a little sad if you didn’t come back.”

“Just a little?”

He gave another shrug. “A tad.”

“Keep yourself safe, Cobra. Because I’d be a tad bit sad if something happened to you too.”

* * *

My father’s servants provided more clothing and supplies, particularly for Larisa, who didn’t have much besides the clothes on her back. She needed something to survive the cold on the ocean, material that would repel water rather than absorb it.

She packed everything into her bag, her mood quiet.

“You’re under no obligation to come with me.”

She turned to look at me.

“If you’re having second thoughts.”

“Just because I’m scared doesn’t mean I’ve changed my mind.”

“Why are you scared?” I’d never been envious of her abilities until now. I wished I could feel her emotions the way she felt mine, be so in tune with her vibrations that her feelings could wake me up from a dead sleep.

“Well, I’ve never been on a boat…or sailed to the opposite side of the world.”

That was the least of my concern.

“What if it capsizes?”

“That won’t happen.”

“But what if it does—”

“I’ll take care of you, sweetheart.”

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