he Gales are declaring a victory, but it feels like a defeat. The rescue workers are still pulling people from the rubble, and the entire valley is in a state of emergency.
Only seven guardians remained after Os eliminated the last Living Storm, and three had serious injuries. But it’s enough to hold down the base while they call for reinforcements.
I told them I don’t have time to wait.
Arella and Solana popped my elbow back into place—which sucked a whole lot more without Audra there to distract me.
But thinking about her hurts more. Way more.
Gus too.
I have no way of knowing if they’re okay, but I have to believe Raiden won’t do anything to them.
They don’t have the power he wants.
All he can use them for is bait to try and trap me.
And I’m heading out tonight.
I wanted to go alone, but with my arm down for the count, that probably wouldn’t be a good idea. So I’m bringing Solana and Arella.
Arella, because of her gift—and because every time I let her out of my sight, she manages to betray us.
And Solana to guide us to Raiden’s city—and because I need someone I can trust.
Os wanted to come too, but someone needs to stay here and figure out what to do about all the destruction in the valley. The people in the desert deserve our help and protection. We can’t make up for what they’ve lost, but we can make sure it never happens again.
It was the first real order I’ve given. The first time Os obeyed without question. First time it made sense to be called Your Highness.
It still felt weird.
But I think I’m ready.
I’ve bandaged my arm.
Texted my parents a quick update, followed by about fifty more texts answering all my mom’s questions—she wonders why I never text her.
All I have left to do is change.
The uniform the Gales gave me has gathered dust for too many weeks. It’s time to step into my role.
The pants aren’t so bad—but the jacket is just as itchy as I thought it would be, and it hurt like hell slipping it over my arm.
LET THE STORMS BREAK
And I’m not growing out my hair so it can be in some ugly braid. But I’m a Gale.
A guardian.
And I’m getting Audra back.
Acknowledgments
TK