Page 113 of Queen of Thorns
“And they may get killed!”
“Then, we’ll get killed,” Kari says. “We’re willing to fight with you, risk and all.”
I glance down at her full ballgown. She’s going to fight in that?
“You’re not the only one who can risk your life for a good cause, Cae.” Tyadin crosses his arms.
“On this note, we did have to speak with you Rai,” Rev says. “The ancients are currently at Black Lake.”
Rai’s eyebrows rise. “You are going fight this battle right next to my court?” His nostrils flare.
“Sorry,” I say. “If we get the chance to shift the battle away, we will. In the meantime, do what you can to protect your people.”
“Kari and Ty, you can help Rai protect his city,” Rev instructs.
“Let’s go, before it begins,” Rai says, his voice tense.
Kari nods, but she turns and wraps her arms around me. “You are so brave, Caelynn. You did this. You’re going to rid the world of those monsters for good.”
Ty piles onto our hug before Kari can let go, wrapping his thick arms around the both of us. Rev laughs and joins in, hugging the other side of us. I hold onto my friends tightly.
“No matter what happens, I’m so glad I met you all.”
“Family no matter what,” Ty answers.
Tears well in my eyes, and I don’t bother to hide them even once they let go. “I love you all,” I tell them.
“Us too, Cae. We’ll see you again soon.”
Ty slaps Rev’s upper arm. “I’m proud of you.” He winks. Ty hesitates again, but Kari pulls him down the path toward the capital of the Crackling Court.
I release a breath. “Come on then, let’s kick some monster ass.”
Caelynn
My chest is so tightit’s hard to breathe as we slowly walk down the hill to Black Lake, quietly watching the glassy waters. I’m almost surprised when we reach the edge of the lake and there has still been no change. No monsters prowling toward us. No magical explosions. No death.
