Chapter 29

  Present Time

  A smile spread across her face, and she turned. “Elorshin,” she threw her arms around the Fae bard. “I did not expect you for weeks.”

  He embraced her back warmly, before holding her at arm’s length, his eyes searching her face. “What has happened?” He asked. “Your eyes are shadowed and bloodshot, and you are wandering the forest like a wraith.”

  “Ah,” she sighed heavily. “What has not happened?”

  “Your husband has returned from war,” he said carefully. “Is all not well with the Lord of the Silver Dragon?” She groaned and leaned forward so that her forehead rested against his chest. He set his chin upon her head. “That is why I have come ahead of the company,” he added. “To see if those who shelter here remain safe.”

  She closed her eyes. “For the time being, they remain safe, although it is a constant battle for Arithen to keep the new Fae servants from the cellars. I have not yet told Sylvin. I should, I know I should...”