CHAPTER 40 TYCHO
TYCHO
The first time they hit me with one of these arrows, it was sheer agony.
It’s no better this time around, especially since it knocks me off the horse. I’m distantly aware of Grey and Jax hitting the ground some-where beside me. One of the horses spooks and bolts, because I catch a hoof in the hip before the animal gallops away.
Xovaar’s screech fills the air, and I hear the chain rattle as he takes to the air.
There’s a low murmur from the mob of Truthbringers, but I’ve already drawn my sword, though I know I won’t be able to fight them all off.
Not from the ground, not from my back. Not at all.
But my training is too thorough, my will to live too strong.
Beside me, I’m not surprised to discover that Grey has done the same.
“I can’t shoot,” Jax is gasping. “I can’ t—”
“It’s all right,” Grey is saying. “It’s all right.”
Xovaar hovers in the air above us. He’s at the end of his chain, his hands flexed, his talons ready. There was a moment I thought I might’ve convinced him to help us. But I suppose it’s been too long. There’s been too much harm.
“You will see,” Karyl crows to the Truthbringers as the wind whips around us, stinging my eyes and stealing my breath. I wish Nakiis had more to offer, but any power he has left is barely a shimmer in my thoughts. “This scraver is under my control.”
Xovaar shrieks again, and there’s something desperate to the cry— as if calling for help, or shouting a warning. I’ve never asked Nakiis if there’s a language to their calls, and I don’t suppose I’ll ever get the chance.
“Finish this!” Karyl calls. “Xovaar, finish this.”
The scraver swoops down. I lift my sword. I brace for death.
But instead of driving those fangs and claws into one of us, the scraver launches himself at Lady Karyl, and he tears her apart.