Chapter Six
Raek walked into theliving space where the others were waiting. He smiled politely. “Before I say anything else, I want to make one thing clear. No one is to engage in any schemes or plans involving Cadence. She is discomfited by contact with her sister, so minimize it. Her activation is not yet stable, and it needs time to develop. That can only happen when she is at ease. She tried to reach for her sister once and was left unacknowledged. Arcady will now have to wait until Cadence is ready. Her scars will also have to be dealt with.”
Im-bar sat up. “I did not notice any on her.”
“You were looking at her hips and thighs. Her back and upper arms are knotted with damage. Old damage.”
Im-bar looked at her files. “I don’t see it.”
“You can feel it. We need to find a healing method before she can use her harmonic skills.” Raek nodded. “She is not to be recruited into any of the defenders, guardians, or peacekeepers. She requires peace. I do not think she has ever had it.”
He paused and looked at the group. “She also doesn’t leave here until after the child is born unless I am with her.”
Salmet blinked. “So, you will come back to active duty?”
“I will. But after years of waiting, I have my partner, and I want to see her whole.”
Im-bar smiled.
Salmet paused. “Khytten, Salat, and the littles are just down the road. Perhaps Khytten could offer an organic assist for the healing of old damage?”
Raek nodded. “That would be welcome.”
Kritz frowned. “You are keeping her here?”
“No. I am offering her refuge. Her pattern indicates she is living on the edge of her nerves. I want to see what she is when she is completely relaxed.” He looked at the amused expression on his sibling’s face.
Kritz blinked. “I accept that need.”
Zera nodded. “There was no specific location stated in the contract.”
Salmet said, “I will keep our recruiters to ourselves.”
Im-bar smiled. “I will keep her safe and work with her to create a schedule. Did you know she writes music?”
Kritz blinked. “Arcady is not musically inclined. So, they are very different people.”
Zera nodded. “I will look for textiles that may be suitable for her. Litha is a master of her craft. She might have to visit, though. I think she would need to see the issue.”
Raek nodded. “We can give you a sample of a suitable composition. Im-bar?”
Im-bar got up. “Just a moment.” She left.