The Crow King's Wife(70)

To Zoelyn’s amazement Dray didn’t look unsettled by the attention. In fact he was smiling faintly. He nodded slowly to Grim and then looked to Jala. “I understand what you are trying to do for me, Lady Merrodin. Don’t think I don’t appreciate it, but he is right. I don’t want to go to Arovan. I think my presence there would herald the fall of my family.”

“It would depend on how Elijah handled the knowledge. I think he would do what is right by Dray, but he would still have to move carefully to avoid unrest amongst his remaining people. It would require intrigue, and even then it would be difficult.” Valor said quietly and shifted his stance toward Jala. “Regardless of that however this isn’t worth the fight, Jala. Dray doesn’t wish to go, and Grim won’t allow it. To state it bluntly love, I would lose in a fight with Grim and I know it. You might win, but I’m not entirely sure of that. Choose your battles for the best of Merro, Jala, and realize this isn’t one of them.” There was no fear in Valor’s voice. His voice was calm as if he was simply stating facts.

Zoelyn watched in silence as Jala turned to regard Grim once more. She could see the High Lady reassessing him and wondering what she had missed. Grim was a large built man, but to the casual observer he carried no weapons. Only those that knew him very well realized he didn’t need weapons at his side.

“I suppose I lose then.” Jala sighed.

“I’m amazed you didn’t choke on those words.” Grim observed with a snort of bitter amusement.

Valor took a half step forward and opened his mouth to speak, but Jala held up one slender hand and he remained silent. The High Lady watched Grim for another long moment and then smiled sadly. “When Finn died I wanted to lash out at everything too. My emotions were so close to the surface that every word seemed to chafe on my nerves. I’m sorry for your loss, Caleb, and I hope you find peace in Rivana.”

“We will.” It was Dray’s voice that broke the unsteady silence and all eyes turned to regard him. He smiled faintly at Zoelyn and bowed his head to her. “I wanted you to be safe, and you will be in Delvay. I’m going with Shade and Grim. They killed my father before I ever had a chance to meet him. Grim isn’t the only one that owes them Kevala’drin.” He informed her quietly.

Zoelyn nodded slowly. It wasn’t what she had been expecting from him, but it did explain his obsession with training. “I won’t say I like it, but I will say I understand.” She couldn’t think of better words to offer, but both men seemed to accept them. The idea of losing two friends, possibly even three if Shade didn’t return weighed heavily on her, but she knew better than to try to talk them out of it.

Jala’s eyes rose to the storm darkened sky and then looked to Shade. “When do you think you will be able to leave out?” she asked with concern.

“Now.” Shade replied with a smile. He glanced toward the lightening in the distance and his smile widened.

“Shade you will have to fly directly through that to reach Delvay.” Jala protested.

“I know, and it’s exactly what I need. If nature herself can’t stop me how could anything in Rivana possibly have a chance? My ego took a heavy blow, Jala. I need to get my confidence back fully.” he looked ready to say more, but fell silent at the sound of a bowstring twanging loudly behind him.

All eyes shifted to Dray once more as the Blight calmly lowered his weapon and walked toward a crumpled black form in the grass. Kneeling slowly he picked up the crow’s body and drew his arrow from it. “They make good fletching.” He offered in feeble explanation as he noticed their attention. It was only after he had spoken that Zoelyn realized every arrow in his quiver bore black feathers.

“We will get along just fine.” Grim said with a slow smile. He nodded his head slightly and looked to Shade. “We have an appointment in Rivana to keep. Let’s quit wasting time and get it over with.” Turning back he smiled at Dray once more. “I’ll tell you about your father on the flight.” He offered as the Blight moved to stand next to him.

“Really not sure if you should have killed one of Death’s minions right before we fly through a massive storm on our way to an impossible mission, but ah well. What’s a bit more challenge?” Shade said with a sigh before turning back to Jala. “I’ll let you know the moment I head for Glis.” He promised her.

“I will meet you there.” Jala agreed, but her eyes were still lingering on the dead crow.