Page 65 of Prince of Blaze and Embers
Rosa brought me a bowl of stew that I devoured.
He nodded, his expression easing slightly. "Good. Now, let's get you cleaned up and rested. You'll need your strength for what lies ahead."
As the others continued their preparations, Cade led me to the back room where a basin of warm water awaited. I winced as I removed my clothing, the dried blood pulling at the wounds on my side. Cade's eyes darkened with concern as he took in the extent of my injuries.
"Let me help you," he said , his hands gentle as he cleaned the wounds with a damp cloth.
I hissed at the sting of the water, but Cade's touch was soothing, his hands surprisingly gentle for someone of his size and strength. As he worked, I found myself studying the lines of his face, the way his hair framed his strong jaw, the intensity in his piercing blue eyes. There was a depth to him, a complexity that I had only begun to scratch the surface of.
"Thank you," I murmured, feeling a warmth spread through me that had nothing to do with the injuries.
He looked up, his eyes meeting mine. "You don't need to thank me, Ash. I'm just doing what needs to be done."
But there was more to it, a connection that went beyond mere necessity. As his hands brushed against my skin, I felt a spark, a warmth that sent shivers down my spine. There was a moment of silence, a pause where the world seemed to still around us.
"Cade..." I began.
But before I could finish, he stepped back, breaking the moment. "You should rest now," he said, his voice steady, though I could see the faint flush in his cheeks.
I nodded, feeling a mix of disappointment and relief. "You're right. I should."
He helped me into a fresh set of clothes, his hands lingering for a moment longer than necessary. As I lay down on the bed, he pulled the blankets up over me, his eyes softening. "Sleep well, Ash. We need you at your best for what lies ahead." He leaned down with his lips leading the way. They pressed against mine, and a warmth shot through me like a tidal wave. The warmth had the opposite reaction I would've expected; it made my head spin and my vision soften. I'd been through hell and back, and the claws of slumber raked at me deeply.
As I drifted off to sleep, my mind was filled with thoughts of Cade, of our journey, and of the challenges that awaited us. The road ahead was uncertain, filled with danger and unknowns. But with Cade and the others by my side, I felt a sense of determination and hope that I had never known before. Together, we would face whatever came next.
CHAPTER 31
Morning light filtered through the window, casting a warm glow over the room. I stirred awake, the memories of the previous day flooding back like a tide. The throbbing pain in my side served as a stark reminder of the battles we had faced and the challenges that still lay ahead. I stretched, wincing slightly as my wounds pulled taut, and swung my legs over the edge of the bed.
The house was already abuzz with activity. Bella and Rosa were gathering supplies in the kitchen, their whispered conversations carrying through the air. Hunter was sharpening his sword with a steady, rhythmic sound, while Cade stood by the window, his eyes scanning the horizon with an intensity that made my heart race.
I slipped out of the room, my bare feet padding against the wooden floor. As I entered the main room, all eyes turned to me. Bella rushed over, her glacier-blue eyes filled with concern. "How are you feeling?" she asked, her hand gently brushing against my arm.
I offered a reassuring smile. "I'm okay. Still a bit sore, but I'll manage."
Rosa handed me a mug of steaming tea, the scent of herbs filling the air. "Drink this. It will help with the pain and heal your wounds faster."
I took the mug gratefully, the warmth seeping into my palms. "Thank you, Rosa."
Cade turned from the window, his eyes meeting mine. There was a seriousness in his gaze that sent a ripple of unease through me. "We need to prepare to leave soon. The queen's forces will be looking for us. We can't be here when they find the Sythers' bodies. We need to distance ourselves from this place, and the mystic is quite a ride away. If he's still slumbering in the same place we found him. "
Hunter stood, sheathing his sword with a metallic clang. "Bella and I will gather the rest of the supplies. Rosa, do you have everything you need?"
Rosa nodded, her eyes flickering to me for a moment. "Yes, I have what I need. I'll be heading into the Faewood. I know the forest well; I'll be safe there."
I felt a pang of worry for Rosa, but I knew better than to argue with her. She was a strong woman, resourceful and determined. She had been a loyal ally to Cade, and I respected her deeply for it.
"Rosa, thank you for everything," I said, my voice filled with gratitude. "You've done so much for us. I can't thank you enough."
Rosa's lips curved into a small smile. "It's been an honor, Ash. You’re destined for great things. I have faith in you. Good luck to you all. Show the queen a thing or two for me. I'll be waitin’ when you need me again. And Cade, if we don't meet again, it's been the pleasure of my life serving you. I believe in you. Stay true to who you are, and show this world the true meaning of the word hope."
She walked over to Cade, placed both hands on his temples and brought his head down so that she pressed her aged lips against his brow. He nodded with a serious look of full appreciationfor her. With a final nod, Rosa slung her pack over her shoulder and headed out the door, disappearing into the dense foliage of the Faewood. I watched her go, a mix of admiration and sadness swirling within me. She was a woman of few words, but her actions spoke volumes.
Cade approached me, his expression softening slightly. "It's time to learn how to call your dragon. Now that you're bonded with Errax, she can somewhat hear your thoughts. Keep it simple and clear. Call her in your mind."
I took a deep breath, focusing my thoughts on Errax. I pictured her magnificent form, her deep blue scales shimmering in the sunlight. Come, Errax. I thought, my mind reaching out to her.
For a moment, nothing happened. Doubt crept in, but then, a distant roar echoed through the forest. The sound grew louder, and I felt a surge of excitement as Errax emerged from the tree line, her massive wings flapping powerfully. She soared toward us, a breathtaking sight that filled me with awe and pride.
