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Daegon huffed. “What gold do two nomads have, especially after losing everything they carried?”

I had forgotten I told him we were mere travelers.

“Father,” Gabriel said, putting a hand to Daegon’s shoulder. “I trust that they’re good for it.”

The chieftain eyed his son for a moment before letting out a sigh, clearly caving. I only hoped I could find a similar trust and confidence in my own father someday.

“Fine,” Daegon said. “We will supply you with clothing, food, and each a weapon of your choice. But I expect similar items returned with interest.”

Gabriel shook his head in disapproval, but I thought it was a reasonable deal.

“Of course,” I answered. “Your soon-to-be daughter invited us to her and your son’s wedding.” Daegon’s gaze shifted to Magda who stood behind me. “If we can make it, we’ll repay you then.”

Daegon frowned and took a deep breath. “Fine,” he said again. “Gabriel, go gather the supplies for your…friends.”

“Yes, father.” Gabriel walked past us and left, not before planting a kiss on Magda’s forehead.

“I promise we will not return until it is safe to do so,” I assured Daegon. “Thank you, again, for everything.”

He only nodded in reply.

With that, the sisters, Elias, and I left and waited for Gabriel. I looked around, still amazed at the size of the unknown village that belonged to no kingdom.

Within half an hour, Gabriel returned with two packs. “The only thing left to grab are some weapons. My father said it was your choice.”

I looked at Elias who gave me a knowing grin. I turned back to Gabriel with eagerness. “Do you happen to have a bow?”

CHAPTER TWENTY-NINE

The quality of the bow Gabriel brought me was nowhere near to that of the one Trybe made. I vowed that I would get that bow back someday, even if I had to hunt it down. If Volund took it, I would pry it from his cold, miserable hands myself.

Elias asked for a simple dagger – one not so different from my own, except his wasn’t made of silver. I knew now that once Elias got all his powers back, he wouldn’t need a weapon for hunting or protection. His wolf form – his magic – was his greatest weapon. But in the meantime, he could handle the small blade well if needed.

The sisters took us back to Willow, upon our request. I owed her my world, and I could not let us leave without saying goodbye.

When we found her at her home, Magda and Nadia gave us a few minutes of privacy. Once alone with her, it was Elias’s idea to ask if she had any sort of spell or potion that could prevent Sarai’s scrying abilities from finding us.

The prophet shook her head. “We witches can do many, many things, but we have our limits. Wards, for example, can only be constructed around places or things – not living beings.”

“Will the wards around Zolmara block her vision?” Elias asked.

Willow paused, thinking. “Any witches outside of the wards will not be able to see in,” she confirmed.

Elias’s shoulders relaxed. “Thank you,” he said.

“For everything,” I added, stepping over to embrace her tightly. “I will never be able to repay you for what you’ve done for us.”

The witch gently patted me on the back then pulled away. “Your existence is more than enough payment.” I had no idea what she meant by that, but something told me I would someday find out.

We finished our goodbyes, then met with Magda, Nadia, and Gabriel outside of Willow’s house where they waited patiently just as we had asked. Nadia’s eyes appeared to be red from crying.

“You really don’t have to go,” she sniffled. “Maybe you can live here with us!”

I chuckled, and bent down to hug her. “You will live in my heart forever, my dear friend. But I promise we will meet again soon.”

Nadia hugged me so tight I thought my ribs were going to re-break. Then she let go and did the same to Elias. There was no evidence anywhere on his face that he was upset to leave her, but I felt it. Through the bond, I felt the slightest hint of sorrow. She really did grow on him. But from Magda and Gabriel’s perspective, he probably appeared bored and impassive. He was certainly good at putting up a mask.

We said our final goodbyes and promised to be back for the wedding, if our situation allowed. I really hoped it would. I wanted to see them all again. These were some of the nicest, most giving and selfless people I’d known. My beautiful friends.