“It’s time to change things.You all know I want to go to Anduan to propose the rebellion and ask for support.Now, I feel safe sharing that I’ve felt a call as well.Something is pulling me toward Riva and Anduan—something deep in my spirit and power.”
At his words, Ren’wyn felt a distinct pull from the Void.It wasn’t the usual call to release her magic.Esrin’s declaration stirred something primal in her, a hum resonating along her spine, setting her nerves alight.She rubbed her fingertips together instinctively.Beside her, Fael shifted, and sparks flickered in his eyes like embers stirred by thewind.
Wilerut broke the silence.“I won’t go to Anduan, Esrin.I won’t sail.”His awkward laugh betrayed a hint of embarrassment.
Leta nodded in agreement.“Neither will I.In fact, I’m going to propose something that anyone is free to disagree with.”She gestured toward Fael, Ren’wyn, Esrin, and Zev.“There’s something unusual about the four of you.I think you’re meant to take this part of the journey alone.The rest of us can head to Kareht and meet you once you’ve accomplished your goals on the island.”
The group murmured in agreement, and Ren’wyn noticed Lia and Avonlee exchanging quiet glances.
Avonlee’s gentle voice broke through the conversation, trembling slightly as she spoke.“We’re going to say goodbye here in Luremala.”
The announcement startled everyone, and heads turned toward the two women.
Avonlee continued, squeezing Lia’s hand tightly.“Lia and I want to make a home together.This fight means so much to us, but we don’t have the energy for constant travel and conflict.We want to settle here in Luremala, distribute supplies you send us, and...we want to raise Ohn.He’s been through so much, and we think we can give him love and support as he heals.”
Lia and Avonlee shared a brief, affectionate kiss.The display of devotion touched something deep within Ren’wyn, making her chest tighten.
Esrin leaned back, massaging his brow, his expression one of quiet contemplation.This feltright.Luremala offered a haven, a place where the two women could create something beautiful from the pain they had endured.
After a pause, Esrin turned to Fael.“What do you think?Is there a way to settle them safely?And can we send them funds and supplies covertly?”
Fael stayed relaxed, taking Esrin’s trust in stride, even though Ren’wyn found herself still tensing for an argument.
“Yes,” he replied simply.“And more than that, they deserve the chance to build this life for themselves.”He smiled warmly at Lia and Avonlee.“I think you both know your situation won’t be without risk.Are you certain you’re ready for that?If you want anonymity—freedom from any obligation to our work—we’d understand.”
“We’re ready,” Lia said with conviction.“It’s terrifying, but together, we can be strong.We want to write a new story for ourselves.”
The group voiced their support, and the camp came alive with purposeful activity.Zev retrieved a map of Luremala, and those interested in route planning gathered around the traveldesk.
Ren’wyn left them to it.She trusted her friends to take care of the details.
Instead, she went to check on Ohn and found Relya reading softly to him.The boy looked pale, but his bright eyes and stronger aura gave Ren’wynhope.
“He ate all his lunch,” Relya told her, grinning as she ruffled Ohn’s hair affectionately.“This afternoon, we’re going to take a walk together through the trees.”
When Ren’wyn exited the tent, Fael was waiting for her, his hands reaching forhers.
“How’s he doing?”he asked, his voicewarm.
“Better,” she replied with a small smile.“I think he’s ready to move around again.Relya’s going to take him for a walk later.”
Fael leaned in, pressing a kiss to her forehead.“We’ve charted a course, and Esrin’s ready to move.He’s anxious, and I understand why.His vision, his knowledge—I felt it in my bones too.Someone’s waiting for us, Ren’wyn.For you, for all of us.”
Ren’wyn considered the vibration of her magic during Esrin’s revelation.“I hope it’s a woman,” she sighed dramatically.“I’m getting tired of adding men to this strange little collection of magics.”
That made Fael laugh, and he gave her a quick squeeze.“Walk with me?”he asked, glancing at thetent.
“Yes, I’m donehere.”
Looping her arm through his, they wandered down a forest path until they found a peaceful spot by the stream.They removed their shoes and socks, dipping their feet into the warm, bubbling water.When Fael splashed her, dampening the hem of her skirt, she made a face of mock severity that only made himgrin.
“Riva is exceptionally dangerous,” Fael began, scratching his stubbled chin as he grew thoughtful.Ren’wyn nodded, already aware of the risks.
“I know you know,” he continued, “but it still makes my skin crawl to think of taking you there.You’ll need to tighten your hold on the Void.Many there wouldn’t hesitate to trap or sell you.Every instinct I have is telling me to keep you as far away from those criminals as possible.”
Ren’wyn watched as his long fingers traced his lips and jawline in concentration, and her smile softened.Leaning her head against his shoulder, she snuggled into him, the sun warming her cheeks.
“Esrin said he’d be fine if you and I traveled separately to Riva,” Fael said haltingly.“Would you like that?Time alone together, Imean?”
