Chapter 44
SHE calls.
SHE waits.
SHE needs.
And that is all that matters.
I must find HER.
I must reach HER.
I must breathe into HER.
Resh’Agar, they called me once.
But I am no such thing now.
I am only HERS.
Her Bonded.
Her Breath.
Her Silari.
The rune at the nape of my neck snarls and writhes, those on the rest of my body joining in the rebellion. Pain lances through my chest, like my lungs are being ripped asunder.
But I care not.
Because SHE calls.
SHE waits.
SHE needs.
The sudden agony had brought me to the ground. Now, I slam my palms against it, scattering shattered white marble of the Axis Hall in all directions. With a shout, I push against the crippling pain and stand. I grit my teeth, tasting blood.
The Councilors around me stare, their eyes wide and bulging, mouths hanging agape, hands shaking as they point and clamor. Some fall to their knees. But the older ones stay standing. Watching. Waiting.
Moments ago, they were vomiting poison through false smiles and hypocrisy. More arguments against the Sokar. More greed as they filled their coffers and left temples divested of resources and citizens without aid.
And now they look afraid?
No, some look euphoric.
Worshipful.
I feel no guilt as I let down the walls I’ve guarded carefully for centuries.
Vargrún howls. The cracks at my feet deepen. Some of the men scream.
Run, Iridias. Fly to our emberling. I wish to see her unmade.
“Raidō,” I command, and take off through the halls. The Council is forgotten as I follow my instinct to my Bonded.