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Rion sniffed the air around the child, then looked him over for any injuries. None. “I can. What’s wrong?”
“My friend. She hasn’t been feeling good. The adults won’t tell me anything, but I think it’s bad.”
“Take me to her.” The youngling stared at him for a beat then pivoted on his heel and ran back toward the cabin. Those surrounding the entrance stepped aside, though one braved standing on the threshold as if he might stop Rion from entering.
“I won’t hurt them,” Rion promised. He kept his magic in check, even as he eyed those clutching one another as if this moment might be their last. The male’s chest heaved, then he relented and moved inside.
Rion followed. On a small pile of blankets, a female sat beside a young half-breed and stroked the little girl’s hair, whispering words of comfort. Her head shot up when she scented him and the female froze, her hand still resting on the child’s head.
Rion kept his voice soft. “What’s wrong with her?” The female’s lips trembled. She didn’t speak. Instead, she lifted a corner of the blanket to reveal the child’s foot. It was swollen and severely discolored. Infection. Rion studied the half-breed’s breathing, then marched for the door. Those outside retreated upon his swift exit, but their expressions were hopeful.
“I’ll be back,” he said and swung up onto his horse before kicking it into a gallop.
Rion chided himself. He should have gone back the minute he found these people hiding out. He had no way of knowing how long they’d gone without food or water or clean clothes. They needed supplies and help, and that youngling needed a lot more.
***
The sun had almost set by the time Rion arrived back in Ruadhán. Arianna was waiting for him, as she usually did. He grimaced upon seeing the worry in her eyes. He must have unknowingly sent his feelings of desperation down the bond.
“We need to pack a few things, then I need you to come with me.” Arianna nodded. She didn’t question him or even hesitate as they ran to the kitchens together.
Rion quickly explained the situation as they gathered everything they could get their hands on. The cooks weren’t pleased, but when Arianna had asked for a basket, they’d jumped into action, packing a feast for their queen. He hoped it would be enough.
Rion snagged two large waterskins, stole several thick blankets, and loaded down three horses with more than they should probably carry.
The guards had rotated their shifts by the time they returned to the back platform.
“Going somewhere, my Lady?”
“Only for a little while. I’ll be back before morning.”
The three guards exchanged nervous glances as they eyed her and Rion. “I’m sorry, you want to leave in the middle of the night?”
“It’s urgent,” she insisted. “Someone is hurt.”
He shifted, clearly uncomfortable. “I’m not sure it’s wise. Please consider taking a few warriors with you at the very least.” Rion knew news had probably spread about the attack, but they couldn’t waste any more time.
Arianna shook her head. “I’ll be fine. But please, keep this between us. There’s no reason to cause alarm.” The guard glanced between them again, fear and uncertainty rolling from his shoulders. “Please,” Arianna pleaded. “I’d rather not jump with this many supplies and I think the horses might die of fright.”
At that the guard blanched, then commanded the four standing with him to get into position.
They were on the ground in minutes.
“My Lady,” the guard called, still looking torn with himself.
Arianna gave him a thankful smile. “I’ll be fine, I promise.” Then they were gone, pushing the horses as fast as they could go while she and Rion trotted alongside.
Rion knew the guard would inform his higher ups. He was obligated to. And once Niall discovered the guard had failed to stop Arianna from leaving, he’d lose his position and likely never serve the guard again. Rion would be sure to tell Arianna later, just to ensure that didn’t happen. She needed all the allies she could get.
They rode in silence, letting darkness encase them with its cool embrace. The chill in the air bit against his warm skin, but after a week of hard labor, he found it refreshing. His body was starting to warm again. Whatever damage had been done from Avalon’s magic was finally starting to mend.
Flickering lights came into view within thirty minutes and they slowed to a trot. Two males exited the cabin, those rusty swords drawn as they studied the pair in the darkness. They scented the air and lowered their weapons.
Arianna’s gaze swept over the clearing. She studied the little silhouettes of the homes he’d built and raised her brow. Rion shook his head. She could ask questions later. After she’d tended to the child.
“I brought someone to help,” Rion said by way of greeting. But unlike before, Rion couldn’t restrain his magic. It circled his mate and kept close. He wanted to help these people, but he wouldn’t risk his mate’s safety in the process. They could still be part of the rebel factions against her rule, willing to do anything to tear her down. If that proved to be the case, Rion wasn’t sure what he would do.
Arianna entered and he followed, pausing on the threshold as she studied their desperate faces. “There’s food outside,” Arianna said, “and fresh water. And I packed a few blankets as well.” No one moved. She turned to glance at him before clearing her throat again. “I was told someone was sick?”
