Page 32

“Hmm…a sad truth, but one that can mostly be overcome. I have faith in you and Keir.”

My cheeks flushed. “He is an exceptional individual.”

“Indeed. When you bind yourself to him, know that you do so with the support of your thunder.”

Breath catching, my lips parted as a gust of smoke filled the air. “Many thanks, ancient one.”

“Your appreciation is unnecessary but understood.” Warmth filled those few words. It was a warmth I dreaded dousing but knew I needed to speak to.

“There have been some concerns with Keir’s previous flight.”

Another pause of silence before Thalia answered with a clipped “tell me.”

I spent the next few minutes explaining the situation with Jaakobah, Eldon, Keir’s father and sister, and the circumstances behind his mother’s death. Thalia quietly listened before finally saying, “I’d heard rumors. I had not realized those rumors revolved around Keir’s previous flight. That is most upsetting news.”

“It is. I do not look forward to the coming trip. Jaakobah has no honor. Keir is strong but⁠—”

“But you fear for his safety,” Thalia rightly anticipated. “Quite understandable. I will speak with the thunder. I believe they will be more than willing to lend whatever support we can should the situation deteriorate to such a point.”

Relief hit hard and swift. “Again, thank you.”

“I do not like the idea of this Jaakobah gaining more influence and power. Left unchecked long enough, his actions are certain to garner the attention of Fairy, and that is attention none of us desire.”

There was a reason Thalia’s opinion held value, and she demonstrated that reason yet again. “Vidia’s offspring will be safe here within the compound,” I felt the need to say even though Thalia hadn’t brought it up.

“Of that I have little doubt.” Amusement filled Thalia’s once-serious voice. “Now, I will let you go so I can spread this joyous news to the rest of the thunder. Let me know when you’ve settled on names for our newest members. They may be a continent away, but Vidia’s offspring will always have a place within our ranks.”

My heart swelled to near bursting with gratitude.

“Take care, Lazarus, and protect that which you have claimed. Your thunder will respect and support your choice. Be well.” Thalia ended the call, leaving me standing there, staring at my darkened phone screen, the quiet of Keir’s kitchen surrounding me, that silence interrupted by the murmurs of his friends.

Tucking my phone away, I headed back toward Keir’s now-crowded living room. Surrounding the twin fireplace in a semicircle, the room was packed, the fireplace cradling Vidia’s offspring impossible to see through the crowd.

“They’re so small,” Jima said as he leaned forward, hands planted on the hearth. Henry sat atop Jima’s head, fiercely gripping Jima’s hair. “I can’t believe they find that comfortable,” he said, pointing to the glowing coals.

“It’s like a sauna on steroids,” Grayson agreed. “I doubt I could stay long in there even in my wisp form.” Hooking a thumb over his shoulder, Grayson motioned toward his bonded. “And Martin would burn up like that.” Grayson snapped his fingers.

“An uncomfortable thought,” Martin said, cringing at the image.

“For you and me both,” Grayson answered, scooting back and placing his body in contact with Martin’s. I’m not sure if it was meant to comfort one more than the other.

“It is indeed peculiar,” Tabitha said, squeezing around Jima. “Mercy, they are cute, aren’t they?”

Towering above all of them, I stood at the back, finally able to see my slumbering nieces. They’d barely been awake when company arrived. Bellies full, they’d soon succumbed to their exhaustion and now lay sleeping, warmly nestled within the burning coals.

Jima bounced back and forth. “I really wanna hold one of ’em.” Turning his head toward Keir, Jima asked, “What does their skin feel like? Is it soft or leathery?”

Finger pressing against his chin, Keir appeared thoughtful before answering. “Mostly soft. A bit like velvet really.”

Deciding I’d been quiet long enough, I said, “Their skin will toughen as they age, becoming thicker and taking on more of a leathery feel.”

“Oh.” Jima’s eyes were wide, his lips parted before a grin pulled their edges. “That’s so cool.”

Elvira hung back ever so slightly. Indeed, she did appear miffed. She’d first apparated with a distinct look of displeasure hardening her features. That displeasure had softened as she continued staring at our newest arrivals. How could it not? Still, she was unusually quiet.

“Eldon will never believe this,” Keir quietly said, now close at my side. “He’ll probably be sorry he missed their hatching. I suppose I could have woken him, but…”

“He could use the rest,” I answered.