Page 42 of Dark Island: Rescue

"Can you start thinking of possibilities?" Wonder asked. "When Annani talks with Areana tomorrow, it would be nice if she could offer Tula some hope. Provided, of course, that the vision was true and Tula is pregnant and in need of rescuing."

"We could theoretically use a variation of Carol's extraction, but the logistics would be much more complex."

Kian was echoing Annani's thoughts.

"Because it's two people this time?" Wonder asked.

"Because of everything. Security has been tightened since Carol's extraction. The rebellion damaged parts of the compound, so there's construction everywhere, which means more eyes but also more chaos. Could work for us or against us."

"But you think it's possible," Wonder pressed.

"I need more information. Confirmation of the pregnancy, how far along, and whether Areana is willing to help."

"She loves Tula like a daughter," Annani said.

"But she loves Navuh as her mate, and she will always choose him over anyone else. That's a fact we can't ignore."

Wonder made a frustrated sound. "So, what do we do?"

"I'll start playing with ideas, maybe bring this to the team. Kalugal might come up with something creative."

Annani cast Wonder an amused glance and took her hand. "You were right. He's already planning."

"I'm considering options. There's a difference. Let me know what you learn after speaking with Areana."

"I will," Annani said. "Hugs and kisses to Syssi and Allegra."

After Annani disconnected, Wonder let out a long breath. "I knew the wheels in Kian's head would start spinning."

Annani set her teacup down and studied her old friend. "You know what I find interesting?"

"What?"

"Kian immediately started talking about logistics. Not whether we should do it, but how. He had already accepted the necessity the moment he heard Tula was pregnant."

"He said he needs confirmation first," Wonder pointed out.

"This is Kian being Kian. Cautious and methodical. He is not waiting for confirmation to start planning."

Wonder leaned back against the couch cushions. "What if Areana doesn't know or knows and doesn't want to help? Kian is right about her always choosing Navuh over everyone else, including her own sons."

"I know my sister. Areana will help," Annani said with certainty. "She may not leave Navuh, but she will not sacrifice Tula. If she can, she will help."

"She's going to be so scared," Wonder said. "Even if Areana agrees to help, even if we have a perfect plan, Tula will be terrified."

"Fear can be useful. It keeps people sharp, careful."

"Or it paralyzes them."

Annani turned back to her friend. "Not Tula. I remember that little girl who used to follow you and me around the palace. She was afraid of many things, but she never let fear stop her from doing what needed to be done."

"That was five thousand years ago."

"People don't fundamentally change. That brave little girl is still in there, and when her child is threatened, she'll find her courage."

Wonder stood to leave, then paused at the door. "I hope Areana doesn't refuse to help."

"She will help," Annani said with more confidence than she felt. "And if not, we will find another way. We always do."