“Shift,” Bria screamed, recalling how Kaelan’s wounds healed so fast whenever he shifted and hoping it would save Braden.
A roar suddenly thundered across the shoreline, every head turning, including Bria’s.
It gave Braden the time he needed to let the beast loose.
The man’s arm fell off her, and he ran. Bria did not waste a moment, she ran as well. Ran toward her husband’s powerful roar.
Dreth tried to grab her, but Braden, blood staining the fur of his enormous chest stepped between them.
Dreth didn’t hesitate, he pulled his sword from its sheath and went to plunge it into Braden.
He never got the chance, Kaelan, in beast form charged at him with a roar that felt as if it split the sky, and launched himself at Dreth.
Bria turned away, trusting Kalelan to do what was necessary.
The few men there rushed into the boat, falling over each other and grabbing the oars to frantically row away.
Bria turned back to see Braden lying on the ground, his strength too weak to maintain the beast’s form. She hurried to him, taking hold of his hand and she felt it. His life was draining away.
Kaelan suddenly dropped down beside her, the beast safely tucked inside him.
“Forgive me, Kaelan. I was a fool.”
“You redeemed yourself by saving my wife’s life. I will make sure the tribe knows of your courage and selflessness and what a hero you truly are.”
Braden smiled and struggled to say, “I did well.”
Kaelan rested his hand on Braden’s shoulder. “You make the Thornek Tribe proud.”
Tears fell down Bria’s cheek, still holding Braden’s hand until he took his last breath. “He died in peace.”
“I am glad. His family will be relieved to know that, and the tribe will honor his sacrifice.” He helped her to stand and walked her to the water’s edge.
“My great-grandmother,” Bria said anxiously, “has she been harmed?”
“Nay, she is well and tending to the Hunters’ wounds.” His hand touched her cheek lightly. “And what of you? Are you all right?”
“Why wouldn’t she be? She’s a brave one.”
Kaelan shook his head as Fiora flitted down to rest on Bria’s shoulder.
“You are well,” Bria said, relieved to see her.
“It was a lucky swat,” Firoa said.
“It had to be a pretty good one if it knocked you out,” Kaelan said, taking his wife’s hand.
“A lucky one,” she repeated, flying off Bria’s shoulder. “We best get moving. There is a lot for the king to be told.” She flew ahead, stopped and returned to flit in front of Kaelan’s face. “Sorry for your loss, Kaelan. If you would like, I can have Henry come here when it is dark and he can take Braden’s body to Driochmor where the trees will welcome him to sleep peacefully under.”
“That is very kind of you, Fiora. His family will be pleased to know he is at rest.”
“I will see it done, and by the way, I really liked how you handled that spy. I particularly liked when you tore his hea?—”
“Enough, Fiora,” he snapped.
“What?” Fiora asked, sweetly. “Bria knows what lurks deep in her husband, but she foolishly loves him anyway.” She took off, laughter trailing after her.
“Just when I think—” Kaelan shook his head, then turned taking hold of both her hands. “We have never truly discussed?—”
