Chapter 45

“Yes. The tears of the Phoenix have magical properties. They can close open wounds, no matter how grievous. They can cure some diseases. But first and foremost, ingesting two tears will give you eternal life, if—” Conley held up his finger, “—and only if they are given freely.”

Brian tapped his fingers together as he absorbed what Conley was telling him. “So, if you were captured and, God forbid tortured until you cried from the pain…” He shuddered.

“If that happened, and they caught my tears and saved them, it wouldn’t do them any good. It’s the intent behindwhy I cry which gives them their power. To help someone who I think deserves it, or—” Conley took Brian’s hands, “—to keep the man I love beside me forever, if he’s willing.”

Brian looked down at their clasped hands. “If I said I was…”