by Harper Wylde
The shadow of the barracks blocked the light that had been reflecting in intriguing patterns off the wings of the princes. “Which way to the Training Mistress’s Office, Emberly?” The voice was so gentle, so warm, it could only have been Jett talking.
I reached across Neel’s chest, careful not to knock into either of his wings, and pointed down the main hallway. “End of the hall, dark wood door. Honestly, Your –“ I cut off at the glance Neel sent me, “Neel, I can walk. I’ve had worse injuries.” It was true, but apparently the wrong thing to say as the men let out rough growls.
“We’ll be talking to the training mistress about that. What’s her name in this barrack?” Hunter queried as he glanced over Neel’s shoulder.
“Mistress Lynn.” I stated as I tried my best not to throw up or pass out. My body was starting to heal the tougher areas now – my ribs, my organs – and it hurt. It was also quickly wearing me out. Healing took energy and strength, I had neither.
Blaine rapped on the Training Mistress’s door as my vision started to gray. I tightened my control of my body. This whole situation was embarrassing enough, and the fact that I would bring embarrassment to Cecilia, Mistress Lynn, and the Elders meant I was in for lashes. The last thing I needed to do was create more of a mess for myself.
Mistress Lynn opened the door and nearly fell backwards in shock. Her wings were a deep, rich brown the same color as her office door. “Your Highnesses!” She executed a graceful bow, her wings flipping out behind her at the practiced motion. “How may I serve you?”
When she glanced up from her prone position she noticed me in Neel’s arms. Her face tightened. “Has this girl offended you? I apologize, Your Highnesses. She should never have been near royalty. We will handle her. It will never happen again.” Her words crackled with a heavy, menacing edge and her eyes would have frozen me if she had born that power.
I couldn’t help it. Pushing myself away from Neel’s embrace I leaned towards Mistress Lynn and emptied all of the blood that had drained into my stomach as well as my meager breakfast. I heard her swear and Flynn laugh before I passed out.
About Quinn Arthurs
Quinn lives in temperamental Ohio. She is a book devotee, a caffeine addict, an absolute klutz, and a worn out mom. She tries desperately to squeeze out the crazy stories that are always playing in her head between constant emergencies at work and home. At least her kids are always a willing audience for her insane ramblings while they're still little! Please stalk her on Facebook by clicking the icon below!
