“There is some, but much of it ended up vaporized and sucked into space.”
“Meaning even if we bring back the magnetic field and rebuild the atmosphere, we’ll run into arid issues.”
“Are you starting to grasp the severity?” Again, she couldn’t help her terseness. But Reece wasn’t entirely to blame. He simply happened to point out the things they’d tried, the problems they’d encountered, the never-ending failures. But worst of all, his most grievous crime? His determination and the damned prophecy roused a tiny glimmer of hope in Ishtar. Ahope she’d long thought dead, and for that, she wanted to hate him—but couldn’t.
“I understand this is tough for you. You’ve been dealing with this problem for ages before I came along, and I don’t mean to sound like a dick, but maybe that’s the problem.”
“What’s that supposed to mean?”
“You’re too close to the issue. Too emotionally invested. Possibly blind to something that might be right in front of your eyes.”
“And you’re the fresh perspective that will waltz in and fix everything?” She couldn’t help but sound sour.
“Well, the prophecy does say the water bearer is the guy for the job.”
She could have been cruel and pointed out that same prediction mentioned his likely death, but what was the point? The Kukakk was here. It had begun its quest for domination. It might take longer without the Saurus and more of its brethren, but eventually, it would rule over Earth. If Reece wanted to give his life trying to change that, then let him. After all, he did have a point. She’d spent countless lifetimes trying to solve the impossible. What did it hurt to let someone else have a go?
“When would you like to go to Mars?”
His expression brightened. “Really? You’ll take me?”
She shrugged. “Why not?”
“How long will it take us to get there? I should let Aries know.”
“Depends on how much time you need to get ready.”
He frowned. “I’ll require a few hours to gather some equipment.”
“Bring food. There’s nothing to eat in the citadel.”
“How many days’ worth?”
“As many as you think you’ll need to stay.”
“You still haven’t said how long to get there?”
“Seconds.”
He blinked. “Your ship is that fast?”
“No need to take the ship, which takes several days, since I have access to the portal for Mars.”
His eyes almost fell out of his head. “There’s a portal? Since when?”
“Since the construction of this tower. Did you really think we didn’t create an easy way to travel back and forth?” She smirked.
“Hold on. I’ve been through all the portals downstairs. I’d know if any went to Mars.”
“It’s not with the Earth-linked ones.”
“If you had a portal this entire time, why did you bother keeping the ship?”
“Because I didn’t feel like dealing with the Zodiac Warriors every time I wanted to travel. Can you imagine the questions? I’ve been fielding them since I met you.”
Reece offered a sheepish shrug. “What can I say? I find Mars fascinating.”
Only Mars? She’d have to be blind to not notice how his gaze often fell upon her, gleaming with appreciation. How long since a man had desired her? How much longer still since she’d felt a stirring of interest?
