Page 95 of Light and Shadow
“Peril indeed.” He nods and gestures for me to return through the gallery and down a hall that is tucked under the stairs. I hadn’t noticed it before. Soon he opens a door, and we step into a larger hall.
A loud metal bang sounds from somewhere in the castle, and I jump.
“You’ve nothing to fear here, human. The witch queen cannot touch us.” His chin is high and proud.
“Forgive me, Captain, but I’ve heard that before. The witch queen can’t wield her magic on the western continent, and then a volcano erupted, and a two-hundred-foot fire serpent tried to drown us. We made it to the shore, and a sea monster nearly killed Aaran. We reached your marshland, and portals sucked away eight of my friends including three children. I think youhave no idea what Venora can do.” I rein my anger, and take several deep breaths.
He studies me for an uncomfortably long time. “We will do all in our power to keep you safe. A squad is already being assembled to rescue those taken from your party.” It sounds like a pledge. He points to the right. When we reach a double door, he rushes to open it for me.
“Thank you.” As I pass, I ask, “Will you be leading that rescue, Captain?” It’s a much smaller dining room than I expected. The table could seat perhaps eight and is set for seven.
Brion strides over. “Are you joining us for dinner, Captain?”
“I have already eaten, thank you. Miss Craig was turned around on the west side of the castle. I offered my assistance.”
Aaran rushes over and kisses my cheek. “You look beautiful.” He looks at Rían. “Stay. Hear the full story of our journey. I wouldn’t mind hearing your thoughts.”
“I would like to hear more, if you’re certain I’m not intruding.” He looks at me. “I’ve decided, at Miss Craig’s urging, that I should lead the rescue party.”
Elspeth’s eyes widen before she smiles. “Then you’ll want to be here to ask all your inciteful questions, Rían. Do join us. Harper, you look extremely well in that color. Were you able to rest?” She takes my hand and leads me to a chair to her left. She’s draped in a blue gown, and a gold feather pendant shines in the magic lighting.
Flames shimmer and give off a lovely crackle and light woodsmoke odor in a fireplace with a thick wooden mantel. It spans the length of the table. At the far end of the room is a sitting area. Servants are filling glasses with wine and water. The walls are dark wood panels and the ceiling is painted with scenes of elves frolicking and happy.
“Thank you. I had a bath and a nap. Everyone has been very kind.”
Fancor gives me a warm nod of approval before sitting across from me.
With Aaran on my other side and Brion at the head, we are five for dinner plus Rían, with two empty place settings. “Where are Nainsi and Bert?”
“Gone to see her family. It’s been ten years or more. We’ll see them tomorrow.” Aaran lets his gentle thoughts float into mine. He’s at ease, and it helps me calm a degree or two.
Selina and Jax rush in. “I’m sorry to be late,” she says, her cheeks flushed. Seeing me, she rushes around the table and pulls me from my chair into a warm hug. “It is a great relief that you are here and safe. I will never forget what you did for the people of Clandunna.”
She is so happy to see me, I don’t let go. I wait for her to break the hug first. “I’m happy to see you as well.”
She holds me as if she fears I might disappear. Finally, she releases me. “Are you well?”
“I’m fine.” True or not, it is clearly what Selina needs to hear. “I’m sorry about Avon and Lare.” Especially Lare.
“I’ll not give up hope for Avon’s safe return.” Pulling her shoulders back, she takes her seat across the table.
The first course is served, and Aaran begins our story from the moment he stopped time while I was waiting for my driver’s license.
I listen, dreading my part of the tale.
Chapter Twenty-Five
Aaran
With Harper’s hand slipped through the crook of my elbow, we walk through the grand corridor and into the garden. To me, this is my home, but her eyes are wide and her mouth slightly agape with every new sight.
A maze of rose bushes leads to a center fountain. Late summer means that many flowers are blooming and the air is heady with lovely scents.
One of the maids runs after us and wraps a shawl over Harper’s shoulders.
“Thank you, Mari.”
Mari makes a quick curtsy and runs back inside.
