Page 182 of The Orc's Captive Bride
But she didn’t feel the crushing pressure she’d expected. Instead, she felt confident. Certain.
We’re going to succeed. I don’t know how I know. But I do.
“We should gather supplies.” Khorrek’s practical nature reasserted itself. “It’s a hard ride to Kel’Vara.”
“Already done.” Baralt gestured toward a group of packed horses. “We anticipated your success.”
Of course they did. They had faith when I had doubts.
Their faith humbled her and made her even more determined to succeed. Within minutes they were mounted and ready.
Khorrek pulled her up in front of him and settled her against his chest.
“You should rest,” she protested. “You just?—”
“I’m not letting you out of my sight. Out of my arms. Not after—” He stopped, swallowed hard.
She understood. She felt the same desperate need for contact. For proof that they were both alive and together.
“All right. But if you get tired?—”
“I won’t.”
She knew he was lying—she could feel the exhaustion radiating from him—but she also knew he needed this. Needed to hold her. Protect her.
Let him have this. After what he went through. What he sacrificed. He’s earned it.
She leaned back and let herself settle against his warmth.
The camp erupted in cheers as they rode out. Warriors raised their fists and shouted encouragement. Jaella stood apart from the celebration, watching with ancient eyes. She raised one hand. Palm forward.
She’s blessing us.
She raised her own hand in response, and felt power arc between them.
We won’t fail. I promise. Whatever it takes. Whatever the cost.
Then the camp fell behind and the plains stretched out in front of them, vast and empty, but beautiful in the early morning light.
“How do you feel?” Khorrek asked quietly, his breath warm against her ear.
“Different. Stronger. Like I know things I shouldn’t know.”
“What kind of things?”
“The way to Kel’Vara. The pattern of the moon. The exact moment when everything will align.” She paused. “And that we’re going to succeed.”
“You sound certain.”
“I am. Not because of logic or evidence. Because of… faith, I suppose. The goddess showed me the path. All I have to do is walk it.”
His arms tightened around her.
“Then we’ll walk it together.”
“Together.” She covered his hands with hers. “Always together.”
The word felt like a vow. A promise. A truth.
