Page 143 of Elysian

“She should choose for herself,” Vera announced. “She has proven herself more than skilled.”

Branwen nodded hard and stepped beside Vera.

“Thank you, girls,” I whispered.

“I see I am outnumbered.”

“Will I be allowed to take a horse?”

Archer rubbed his chin and sighed.

“I will go prepare it for you,” Branwen chirped, pushing the tray into Tabby’s arms. She took off in a rush, her gown fluttering around her legs.

“I will ensure the blame doesn’t fall on you.” I allowed a small smile. “Besides, Cassiel knows me well enough.”

Archer inclined his head, offering me the point. “Be sure to be safe. We always saddle the horses with a satchel of food for circumstances like this.”

“Thank you,” I said, rushing away. It took me time to climb the steps, my hip pinching each time I put my weight on that side.

I pushed the little overhead door up and came out to a group of people still gathering debris. Dawnlight blinded me briefly, the intensity of going from dull light requiring a beat.

“Where do you think you are going?” Damien drawled. I startled, whirling to Damien wiping his hands on a stained cloth.

“To fetch a stubborn Warlord.”

He chuckled. “Brave woman.” Respect and admiration shone in his eyes. I cleared my throat and squeezed my skirt. I was not used to such a look.

“Amara!” Branwen called.

Branwen approached with a man leading a saddled horse by the reins. I moved toward the mare.

“Ho there!” Damien exclaimed. “You plan to travel alone?” He sounded too astounded for it to be a compliment. I patted the horse’s neck, running my hand over her sleek coat.

“Help her up, lad,” the older man prodded Damien.

“I will not put hands on her. Imagine that bondmate of hers.” Damien whistled, holding his palms up. “You are welcome to.”

“I can do it myself,” I huffed, mounting with ease.

“For fuck’s sake, give me one moment.” Damien disappeared.

“Wait!” Tabby cried as she ran to us. The horse neighed, and I patted its neck, tugging at the reins to calm her. “You cannot go alone.”

The sound of thundering hoofs turned us all to a nearing Archer.

“No.” I frowned at Tabby. “You should not be separated again.”

“Amara,” she said, instantly serious. “You have helped free us all. You are owed loyalty as well.”

I could not form words. Another pair of hoofbeats approached.

“What are you doing here?” Archer said, staring over at Damien on a steed.

“Better both of us are there to protect her.” Damien sighed, clicking his tongue on the roof of his mouth to spur the horse ahead of me.

Emotion collected in my throat.

Branwen touched my leg. “Please be careful.”