Page 116 of The Keeper of the Kingdoms

“I’m thankful for Emrys, then.” I smiled.

An ancient male stepped out of a curtained-off area, brushing his hands on his robes as he turned to see who’d come in. He had to be older than Gran. “As I live and breathe, that’s a face I didn’t expect to see again for many moons.”

“Emrys.” A massive smile broke out over Jaxus’ face as he pulled the older male into a hug. “It’s so good to see you.”

They were so touchy. Unlike the flyers I knew. When he’d said they were different here, he hadn’t been kidding.

“And you. Are you well?” Emrys’ question was leading.

“I am.” Jaxus turned to me. “This is my soul-bonded and ryder, Kiera.”

Emrys’ eyes widened, glancing between us. “You jest?”

“No.” Jaxus’ cheeks stretched into a wider grin. “It was quite the surprise.”

“No kidding.” Emrys inspected me much like Gran would. “And a healer? Good taste.” He winked at me and I laughed.

“I didn’t quite have a choice.” Jaxus shook his head, but his happiness didn’t diminish. “But I am lucky.”

“That you are, child.” Emrys took my hands. “It’s wonderful to meet you, Kiera, was it?”

“Yes, it’s lovely to meet you as well.” Much like my gran his presence soothed. “How did you know I’m a healer?”

“Part of my magic is reading that of others. Healing magic has a different scent.”

“Magic has a scent?” I asked, having never heard such a concept even from other Dragons.

“To me, it does. I don’t know about these other beasts,” Emrys said, leaning in like it was a secret. I liked him already. “It’s quite earthy. I knew the moment you walked in.”

“Is my healing magic like that of a Dragon who has the gift?” I asked before thinking about the question.

“Yes, you are one of us now, even if you don’t think you are. The ryder and flyer bond is ancient and sacred—and with a soul-bond, too.” He gave a low whistle. “It creates such a beautiful and unique mixture of magic. You two are lucky to have found each other.” Emrys side-eyed Jaxus. “Speaking of, what brings you back?”

Jaxus let out a breath. “I fear we will be interrupted soon.”

Emrys nodded. “I didn’t think the elders would be happy about you bringing an outsider here. Three fae knowing, leaves us even more exposed.”

“I had no other choice.” Jaxus dropped his voice to barely above a whisper. “I can’t keep a blood oath from my soul-bonded.”

“I’m not sure that will be enough to convince them.” Emrysturned away from Jaxus to face the figures who’d pulled the curtain aside. “Archon. Good to see you.”

A male who was a few inches shorter than Jaxus but about the same age entered, flanked by two younger males. “Good morning, Emrys. I do not mean to be rude, but I don’t have time for pleasantries. I must take Jaxus to the elders. They are convening as we speak.” While shorter than Jaxus, he made up for it in girth. He stood almost as wide as two of Emrys.

“I understand.” Emrys stepped aside. “May the Goddess smile on your needs.”

“Thank you,” Jaxus said, not acknowledging Archon. Instead, he strolled past him out of the tent.

Archon sighed but followed Jaxus out.

I glanced at Emrys. “Should I follow?”

“I would,” he laughed.

FORTY-FOUR

JAXUS

I’d never expected the elders to gather the moment we landed. I knew they’d be upset, but I hoped they would at least understand why I had to bring Kiera here as my mate. The rest of what I suspected I wouldn’t even hint at.