Page 95 of A Tale of Ice and Ash
“It’s a perfect fit.”
Wren gave a mock bow. “All hail the warrior princess.”
Cole entered the tent. “Have you got anything in my size?”
“You’re coming?” Eirwen blinked incredulously.
“If you’ll have me.”
“Won’t your mother wonder–”
“Screw her. Make use of me. Please. I beg you.”
Eirwen would have hated being left behind. “All right.”
Cole flashed her a half-hearted smile, and took whatever Wren offered him. The Huntsman came in to grab a few pieces too, trying not to grin as Wren took her time buckling him in.
A few minutes later, the party was ready.
Garnet patted Eirwen’s hand. “Don’t do anything daft to save my fool of a husband.”
“Wouldn’t dream of it.”
“Don’t push forward recklessly.”
“I won’t.”
“Be careful.”
“Yes, Mama.”
She turned her attention to Cole. “You have everything?”
Cole started. Evidently, he had not expected to be spoken to. “Um, yes ma’am.”
“Good. You watch out down there. Listen to the others. Watch Eirwen’s back.”
“Oh, I, er–”
“I know. That’s why you’re going in the first place.” She gave him a hearty wink and clapped him on the back.
Eirwen pretended not to have heard, and followed after the others. A cold chill burned through the air, a gathering darkness that whispered of something far worse than night.
