Chapter 49: Priorities

Zane and Cole sat on adjacent sides of Skylar at the great, ice conference table. Since returning to Winter Mountain, Skylar had been steeped in non-stop work. They were still recovering from the aftermath of dealing with those birds, and the long absence of the military while defending Autumn Forest.

“It isn’t like our numbers suffered from the conflict with Theros,” Zane said.

“There are still a lot of settlements that need to be rebuilt, though. I think they’ll feel better with a military presence until they feel stronger again,” Cole added.

“We can’t spread ourselves too thin, though,” Zane argued.

“You think Theros will mount some kind of counterattack?” Cole asked arching an eyebrow.

They both turned their heads to Skylar.

The king had been listening but it all seemed so frivolous. He was sitting with his brother and best friend, discussing all the fine details of a kingdom he felt alienated from. There was no longer any warmth in Winter Mountain for him.