Page 136 of The Dragonrider and the Void

“Perhaps that’s why they’ve sent someone,” Hardin suggested. “Not to demand immediate action, but to offer assistance.”

“The fae, offering help without strings attached?” Cheyanne’s skepticism was evident. “Unlikely.”

“Only one way to find out,” Venrick said, rising from his seat. “Shall we greet our fae visitor together?”

Lark nodded, grateful for their support.

As they left the council chamber, Lark’s thoughts turned to the copper crown still secured at her belt, and to Barrik, somewhere between realms, planning his eventual return. So many responsibilities, so many threats looming on the horizon. Yet for all the burdens she now carried, she felt a strange sense of purpose fulfilled.

“How are you handling all this?” Venrick whispered once they were alone together.

“The path ahead is not going to be easy,” Lark said, allowing herself to admit her vulnerability to him. “Rebuilding Astral City, establishing peace between the kingdoms, honoring an oath to the fae courts, and preparing for Barrik’s inevitable return,” she paused, taking a breath.

“Take a minute. Relax. Don’t worry, Lark. We’ve got this,” Venrick said.

Lark knew that each of these tasks ahead would be a challenge for even the most competent rulers Sataran had ever seen. Together, they formed a labyrinth of responsibilities that was going to test her, and those who were now loyal to her, beyond their limits.

But we’re not alone,Nix’s thoughts entered her mind.

Lark clutched the lark pendant on her neck, inhaling and exhaling deeply. She met Venrick’s sharp greens eyes, those twin pools that made her knees feel weak and the butterflies in her stomach start rising.

With a nod, Lark squared her shoulders and took Venrick by the arm. They approached the private chamber where the emissary from the Summer Court waited for them.

“Let’s do this,” Lark said, putting her hand to the door and pushing it open.