“Elianna,” Veli cut in. “I refused to use strong bursts of magic in general to prevent my coven from finding the book. Since all that is now considered lost, my last declaration no longer holds true. I will do all it takes to ensure our victory. Including some of the darker aspects if needed.”
My eyes flared as a grin formed on my face. “Very well then. And which forms of this magic are you comfortable using?”
As if in answer, dark, swirling wisps emerged from beneath her silver locks as her eyes flashed gold.
“I like the shadows,” she said as a soft smile tilted her lips. “They whisper sweet things in my ears while accompanying me. Like little pets that wish to be loved.Those I plan to put to use in battle.” A look to Zaela. “Among other things.”
Zae’s eyes flared in response.
“You still scare me sometimes,” Avery admitted.
Everyone let out quiet chuckles as the last bit of remaining tension fizzled out.
“And what is it that you possess from the book?” I asked the twins.
“While our time between the pages was slim, we were able to dabble and possess more than just shadows,” Madalae answered as both of their eyes flashed a quick, glowing effect.
“Excellent,” I said. “Regarding your presence in our city, I don’t believe it’s best for you to remain here. We have many frightened people already.”
“We do not wish to stay amongst your mortals,” Empri hissed. “But we shall stay near.”
“Perfect, then we are in agreement. My concern now is when you will know to come back, when your aid is needed.”
Veli let out a huff. “If they stay close, as they claim, I can summon them.”
The twins nodded in agreement.
“Looks like we have quite a bit of reorganizing to do,” I stated. “Welcome to the rebellion, witches.”
I was answered with grinning faces that sat around the table. Their eagerness filled the air, giving me hope that we may have a chance in this after all.
Chapter forty-two
Finnian
Intense discussions of warplanning filled the days that came after the Elora twins’ arrival as we aimed to devise a new plan to bring our mother's war to an end. Once Jace finished clearing enough soldiers, and Veli believed we had knowledgeable healers to minimize casualties, Lia intended to move the troops south.
Lia and Jace’s biggest fear was being unprepared. With time running out constantly looming over our heads, we needed to do everything we could to ensure my sister’s victory—starting with all these preparations.
The mortal’s House of Healers was tucked away in a secluded corner of the city, where my days were now spent. Lia had decided that while Veli worked to teach me, she also may as well bring in as many humans that sought alternate ways to assist in the looming battles.
As the days passed, Veli, along with the other hidden healers that fled Isla, taught us the art of brewing potion remedies, blending salves with herbs, and the proper way to stitch wounds efficiently. Over time, our lessons moved into herbology, where she educated us on healing plants and how to identify their uses by scent, touch, and taste.As I delved deeper into our studies, I grew to be fascinated by not only the differences within fragrances but also the contrasts between a leaf’s smooth and prickled touch.
We each practiced the arts of ailments and stitching, and while none of us could mend broken bones or carved-up skin the way Veli could, aided by her magic, together we could all make a difference and save lives.
Veli approached me after dismissing today's session.
“You are doing significantly well for someone who is only learning. Perhaps you are not such a foolish male after all,” she offered.
I lifted a brow at her. “Who are you, and what have you done with Veli?”
She scoffed and jokingly swiped a taloned hand near my face. “I am only speaking the truth. I believe this was a wise choice. You are much better suited here than where you were planning to be.”
“Perhaps you’re right,” I said with a shrug as we both moved to the door. “You also terrify most of your students. So, perhaps, I just stand out,” I said with a laugh.
She stared up at me through furrowed brows. “The humans need to get over their stance on magical beings.”
“They fear you for good reason,” I stated as we walked down the steps and into the bustling streets.
