Page 1 of Red Fury

1

Shadow

My leather uniform creaks as I pace outside the Council chambers. My boots thud on the gleaming tiles in the hallway as I go back and forth…back and forth.

Why is this taking so damned long?

I look over at the PA, who gives me a kind smile.

“It shouldn’t be too much longer. Are you sure you don’t want to take a seat? I could get you some coffee, or a juice perhaps?”

I couldn’t put anything into my stomach even if I tried. I’m too nervous.

I give her what I am sure is a tight smile. “Thanks, but I’m good.”

I need to keep moving, or I might just throw up. It’s the only thing keeping me sane right now.

Why am I here?

I run my hands down the front of my tight leather vest, smoothing out wrinkles that don’t exist. I feel hot and sweaty despite the air-conditioning in the building.

In all my years as leader of the Academy, I’ve never been summoned by the full Council. Individual members? Sure. Emergency meetings about problematic Tributes or failed bonding attempts? Absolutely. But the full Council? That’s reserved for matters of life and death.

Or war.

Crap!

My dragon stirs restlessly beneath my skin, sensing my unease.

Easy, girl. Whatever this is, we’ll handle it. We always do. I’m sure it’s nothing. I’m overreacting here, that’s all.

I pause mid-step and close my eyes, taking a deep breath. This place has stood for centuries and has weathered some serious storms.

Why do I feel like I’m about to become part of its history?

I don’t like this one damned bit.

“Shadow.” A voice cuts through my thoughts.

I turn to see Councilor Thorne standing in the doorway, his weathered face giving nothing away. He’s ancient, his silver hair tied back in the traditional Council style. His eyes are filled with intelligence that shows his years.

“We’re ready for you.”

My stomach drops, but I nod anyway. “Yes, sir. After you.”

I follow him through the massive oak doors into the chamber beyond. Including Councilor Thorne, twelve pairs of eyes track my every movement as I enter. The members sit at a curved table that dominates the room. Oh crap, their faces are unreadable.

Thorne takes his seat.

I know them all by name, of course. You don’t reach my position without understanding the political landscape of our island. Seeing them all together like this, united in whatever purpose brought them here today, is worrying, to say the least.

I wish I knew what this was about.

I wish I could have prepared.

It’s the first time I have been summoned here, so despite my nerves, I can’t help but take in the place, because it’s something to behold, with its high, arched ceilings. The walls are lined with paintings of previous council leaders, long since deceased.

“Sit,” commands Councilor Vector from the center of the table.