Page 74 of Twist of Fate

“Fantastic.” Gomez relaxed against his pillows. “I’ve always wanted sentient architecture with excellent abs.”

Connal closed his eyes briefly.

Luke looked toward the gargoyles again. They had returned with information about the warehouse and instructions to protect both humans until Silenus called them to council. Their presence wasn’t a warning that another attack was imminent.

It was proof that the king had kept his word and begun looking for answers.

Connal released Luke’s arm. “Wait in the corridor. We will follow when the king sends for us.”

Igneous and Balthazar stepped away from the wall. Fred remained where he was.

“Fred,” Connal said.

Gomez lifted a hand. “He can stay.”

Fred looked at Gomez, then at Connal.

“The corridor,” Connal repeated.

Fred bowed his head and followed the others. Just before crossing the threshold, he glanced back at the bed.

Gomez waved.

Fred gave him one solemn nod before closing the door behind him.

Gomez pressed both hands to his chest. “We’re best friends now.”

Avaneel made an offended sound.

“Second-best magical friends,” Gomez corrected. “You’re obviously first.”

She considered that, then nodded. Avaneel looked toward the chamber doors. “Zer is with the king?”

“He is,” Connal said.

Fizzwick flew down from the flowering branches and landed beside Gomez. “I will remain with him.”

“And bring pastries?” Gomez asked.

“Many.”

Gomez nodded solemnly. “A seamless transfer of power.”

Satisfied, Avaneel launched from the bed and followed the gargoyles into the corridor, returning to Zer.

Gomez looked back to Luke. “So what happens now?”

“The king hears what the gargoyles found at the warehouse. After that, we need somewhere secure in the human world to examine the drive,” Luke said.

“You’re not going to another drop?”

“No.”

“Or meeting anyone connected to the first one?”

That one Luke couldn’t answer with as much certainty.

“Not until we know what we’re dealing with.”