Page 6 of A Court of Wings and Shadows

The air snapped.

Zander moved with slow, deadly precision until they were chest-to-chest, the air between them taut like a pulled bowstring.

“You may have my father’s ear,” Zander said coolly, “but you donotoutrank me. I’ve taken responsibility for the Thrall Squad, and quite frankly, their lives belong to the crown.”

Remy leaned in closer, the muscle in his jaw ticking. “Riders belong to their dragons.”

Zander’s mouth curled into a smile, dangerous and knowing. “Then we’re in agreement.” He took a step back, lifting his hand toward Kaelith who watched from the edge of the grounds, unmoving. “Since Ashlyn is linked to the most powerful dragon available, I suggest you stand down, unless you plan to explain toKaelithwhy you would be a better protector.”

Kaelith’s growl rolled through the Ascension Grounds like thunder.

Remy’s eyes flicked toward her. He grunted. “Well played.”

Zander’s smile didn’t reach his eyes.

“But this isn’t over,” Remy said, voice low and rough. “I wish a word with each member of Thrall Squad. To pay my respects.”

Zander’s face hardened. “That is your right.”

But his eyes never left Remy’s. And mine? Mine were locked on the man I’d once loved, who now stood on the wrong side of my dragon’s anger.

Remy moved down the line of my squad, one by one, shaking hands with solemn grace. His face was carved from restraint, respectful in the way only soldiers understood. He started with Cordelle, who bowed slightly in that awkward, poetic way of his, then moved to Riven, who clasped his hand with a measured nod. Ferrula, Naia, even Jax and Tae. Each one he met with the same steady grip, the same few murmured words of condolence.

But he came to me last.

And instead of a handshake, he pulled me into his arms.

His grip was firm and familiar, the warmth of his body closing around me like armor I didn’t know I still missed. His breath brushed the shell of my ear, lips barely moving.

“You need to be careful.”

I stilled.

Just for a moment.

The scent of him, leather, steel, the faint trace of mint and fire, dragged me backward through memory. Nights spent curled into him after missions. Whispers beneath stolen sheets. Promises he broke the day he left me.

“I am aware.” I didn’t pull away. “Solei attempted to kill me.”

He tensed, pulled back just far enough to meet my eyes, and there was murder in his expression. “That bitch.”

“Obviously, she didn’t succeed. Siergen saved me.” My voice was quiet. “She’s sworn a life debt.”

His jaw ticked, his fists clenched at his sides. “Then Cyran will send another.”

I didn’t argue.

There was no point repeating Siergen’s warning. We both knew my father would never be swayed by the threat of annihilation. Cyran would rather die than lose face in the eyes of his people.

“Stay with me,” Remy said, suddenly and with surprising softness. “In the castle. Where I can protect you.”

I shook my head. “No.”

His brows knit.

“I need to be with my squad,” I said. “They’ll watch my back if needed, but I’m not defenseless, Remy.Youknow that.”

“I know you aren’t,” he said slowly. “But these are Order assassins, not noble riders who hide behind their dragons.”