Page 98 of A Trial of War
I couldn’t help but notice that when Skylar’s eyes met Daxton’s, the tension eased from his shoulders ever so slightly.
“We’ve got everyone sectioned off with equal amounts of shifters mixed in with the High Fae. That way, Skylar and I will be able to communicate with everyone during battle if needed.”
I tilted my head toward Daxton. “Handy new trick you’ve acquired, brother.”
“Indeed,” Daxton said as he clapped me on the shoulder. “Come on, Castor. Let’s head toward the southern section of camp. There’s something Skylar and I need to show you.”
“Starting things off with a bang, I see. Oh, joy.”
Nyssa rolled her eyes, but a small, amused ghost of a smile tugged at her lips.
We stepped forward together, moving deeper into the camp that buzzed with activity, and it was almost like magic how the remnants of Solace still felt so alive. Soldiers and shifters moved between the tents, archers creating arrows for their quivers, infantry sharpening blades, while others sat in silence, praying to the gods above for their strength. The scent of pine, smoke, and damp earth mingled with the metallic tang of steel against the cold chill in the air.
War was at our doorstep.
Skylar moved like a ray of light through the camp, her presence commanding without words. Magnus and Shawappeared in their animal forms with an equally large wolf behind them that I recognized as the former alpha, Alistar. It was good to have him here in this fight; his son’s betrayal cut him deep, and his support of Skylar was not taken lightly.
She gave them commands and sent them on their way. Even in human form, my high queen was undisputably the alpha here.
“Everyone, gather your things,” she instructed as we passed by different groups, eyes glinting.
Then, her gaze flicked to the southern edge of the camp, where the open plains stretched toward the next battlefield.
“We need every warrior accounted for. Prepare our march south. We leave by nightfall,” Daxton said.
Shifter and High Fae alike nodded, the subtle tension in their shoulders easing as Skylar moved on. Her instincts were unmatched, even among the best-trained shifters, and her calm efficiency reassured everyone around her.
Thank the gods Daxton’s demeanor was rubbing off.
As if on cue, my brother stepped forward beside Skylar as Gunnar came into view between a row of tents.
“Daxton, Skylar,” he called out. “We’re prepared to march. The wagons are stacked, and some of the shifters are willing to tow them in their animal forms.”
Daxton’s voice was low and firm. “Good. Remain on guard, Gunnar. Our warriors, along with the Aelius troops we have left, will be the first lines of defense, with the predatory shifters woven between them.”
Adohan and his herd of pegasi warriors wouldn’t take the brunt of the assault. As formidable as the flying beasts were, it would be the shield bearers and boots on the ground who would strike first.
Gunnar nodded sharply, already moving to rally the soldiers under his command. Daxton turned to scan the camp, taking stock of what remained intact and what needed attention.
Adohan appeared at the edge of the clearing, and I heard him calling out to his sons. “Astro, Finn, check on your warriors and the pegasi units. Make sure they’re ready for the march south. I want no surprises.”
Even from this distance, I was able to see that Astro and Finn responded immediately, moving toward their respective groups. The winged pegasi stirred as the riders prepared their mounts. Adohan’s gaze met Daxton’s briefly, a silent agreement passing between them.
Skylar’s gaze shifted to Nyssa at my side, her expression softening. “Nyssa,” she said, nodding toward the central tent of the camp. “Find Latte. She’s the lead healer for the shifters. See if you can help organize the wounded and prepare supplies. Or at the very least help ease any tension with the Crimson City healers and shifters.”
Nyssa’s eyes lit up, a small, eager smile tugging at her lips. Without hesitation, she nodded and stepped forward. Her quiet determination radiated through her every movement.
“Good,” Skylar said.
Nyssa gave me a knowing look before moving off, weaving confidently through the camp.
I couldn’t stop myself… Well, let’s be honest, I didn’t want to.
“Nyssa,” I called out, racing toward her. I caught her wrist, pulling her close and pressing a quick, soft kiss to her lips. “Go on,” I murmured against her mouth, “show them what you can do.”
Nyssa’s smile widened, and she ducked under my arm, sending me a quick, gleaming look before vanishing into the throng of shifters.
I released a long breath, watching her go, and shook my head with a grin. “With so much death in her life before this, aiding the healers might help mend her soul.”
