Page 82 of The Hunger
Megan conceded to my point with a frown.
“Even if you can hold your breath that long,” Adira said, “it’s a creature of Poseidon and unlikely to speak any language you would understand. We’ll need to collaborate with the mermaid leaders for help.”
“I want to be there when you talk to them,” Megan said.
“There’s no need for that. I know you have other obligations,” Adira said smoothly. “The Council can take it from here.”
“I’ve seen how the Council takes care of things and am not impressed. This governing body does not have the best interest of all species in mind, and that needs to change, starting now.”
“Of course, Fury,” Mr. Quill said, speaking for the first time. “I’ve already made progress toward establishing permanent deliveries to the marshes through the winter months. And, there’s land not far from the marshes that can be used to cultivate fresh produce and give the brownies a means to support themselves.”
“We’ve also reached out to a few of our druid contacts to see what can be done to ensure their safety in the marshes and the fields,” Mrs. Quill added.
Megan calmed slightly and thanked them before looking at Adira.
“When was the last time you checked on Kelsey and Zoe?”
“Kelsey told me she would message me when they are ready to start attending the Academy.”
“But have you checked on them like you check on us? You know, get up all in their business with all the good you do here?”
Adira was smart enough to remain silent.
“And you,” Megan said, looking at Raiden. “Watch yourself, or I’m going to pull out that stick you have up your ass and beat you with it the next time you belittle Eliana.”
He flushed and looked at me. “You’re a good person, Eliana. You’ve proven that by helping me in the past. Please send Fenris home when you see him next. There’s a reason the elders push for wolves to be mated as they grow older.”
“I’ll see you home,” Adira said, disappearing with Raiden before Megan could respond.
Megan exhaled slowly and looked at Anwen.
“Adira’s walking a fine line. I don’t appreciate that she just blew off answering me. I will be there for the conversation with the mermaids. Does the Council understand?”
“We do,” Mr. Quill answered. “I’ll ensure Adira contacts you with a time and place for the meeting.”
She smiled at him.
“Thank you. Now, I think it’s time we head home so Oanen can lecture me for taking off on him.” She took Oanen’s hand and looked at me. “Don’t let the asshat get into your head. You’re beautiful, and I don’t know where I’d be if you hadn’t been brave enough to be my friend.”
With that, she disappeared, leaving me alone with the Quills.
“Any idea where she might have taken Fenris?” Mr. Quill asked. He lifted his phone from his desk. “Raiden just messaged and said he wasn’t at home.”
“If you’re asking if Megan discussed her actions with me beforehand, she didn’t. Raiden might want to check her house. Or maybe not, given her mood. Fenris knows he can’t avoid going home. He’ll show up when he’s ready.”
Mr. Quill nodded, and I left the pair in the study. The day hadn’t gone well, but in Uttira, did any day ever go well?
That made me think of Kelsey and Zoe, and I sent a quick message asking how they were doing.
Kelsey: A little freaked out over the earthquake.
Me: Megan’s looking into why they're happening. If you’d like some company and conversation, I can stop by after school.
Kelsey: Will we be safe with you?
I felt a surge of pity for the pair.
Me: Yes. But be ready for part of our conversation tomorrow to cover how many of the creatures here will lie to you about that if you ask them the same question.
