Total pages in book: 138
Estimated words: 129584 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 648(@200wpm)___ 518(@250wpm)___ 432(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 129584 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 648(@200wpm)___ 518(@250wpm)___ 432(@300wpm)
She uttered an oath. “Kuso. Alright, that does tell me how dire it is.”
“Most of them are still mages in training, to boot. Two of them didn’t even know they were mages until the dragons here found them and explained. We’ve had multiple people show up at the gates to be tested because they had mages in their family line but no idea if they were mages or not.”
Sora threw that in because he knew it would shock her as nothing else would.
“Wait, what?!”
“You heard me. That’s how little magic is left in the outside world. We might be the largest depository of magical knowledge still in existence. Everyone else has forgotten magic. Or barely remembers that they have mage ancestors. When I said they had no real knowledge of healing spells, I wasn’t exaggerating. Basic course books, I think that’s all they retained after the war ended.”
“Shimatta. How have they even survived this long?”
“Sheer determination, from what I can see. And they’re good at supporting each other. Their teamwork today was impressive to watch in action. Kaa-san, I can’t keep lying to them anymore. I don’t want to. I’m going to come clean to them tomorrow.”
“Now, wait, Sora, think this through. I’ve never seen you make an emotional decision before.”
“Apparently, I’ve never been riled up enough for my emotions to take over.” Sora himself was a little surprised by it, but he stood by every word that he had just said. He couldn’t stomach this situation any longer.
His mother blew out a stream of air, a sure sign she was stressed. She always did that when her stress levels were through the roof.
“I understand how frustrating it must be for you. And, certainly, their situation sounds grave. I do not underestimate how much trouble the Jaeggi can bring. Ever since I reported this to everyone else, I’ve been getting nothing but stories about some of the things the Jaeggi pulled during the war. The Council has been in near constant meetings. But…”
Sora could hear her hesitation. No doubt she had no idea which way to jump, what would be the best for everyone. As a leader of the family herself, she couldn’t take just one side. She had to consider what was best for everyone.
It was underhanded of him. Nigh smacked of manipulation, in fact. But Sora was feeling upset enough that he did it anyway.
“I think I found my mate.”
His mother gave a high-pitched squeal. “You have not! Don’t pull your mother’s leg.”
“I think I have. The wind dragon who defeated the bomber? His name is Ravi. And I’m…strongly drawn to him. I can’t explain it, Kaa-san.” Sora’s eyes went blind to his surroundings. “He threw himself into danger to protect this clan, that’s how brave he is. How quick thinking. The king appointed him as one of his personal bodyguards, and I can see why. But even as he woke up, in so much pain and confusion, the first thing he did was joke with me. And make sure his clan was safe. He’s not uttered one serious complaint. He’s an incredible man.”
“Have you tried courting him?” his mother asked eagerly.
“I haven’t had the chance. It’s been too hectic here, and I was still sounding out my feelings about him before this shit happened.”
“But do you intend to?”
“I’d damn well like the chance to try, when he’s not hurting. When the family he loves is not fighting for their very existence. But I can’t even contemplate it, not while carrying a false name and identity.”
Sora held his breath and hoped she’d take the bait.
She did, without a single second of hesitation. “I’ll convene a meeting tonight. We’ll be over there in two days. Just wait a little longer before revealing yourself; I need time to get people moving down here.”
As expected of his mother. Sora grinned, bouncing a little on his toes in delight.
“I think I can get Ravi on his feet in two days. Maybe three. You have until then.”
“I won’t need a second longer. Oh, son, I’m so happy to hear that you’ve finally found someone you like! Is he handsome?”
“Gorgeous. And vibrant with life, with a happy personality. My eyes are constantly drawn to him. And I’m usually laughing when I’m with him.”
Even with Ravi wrapped in bandages, that had proven to be the case.
“Even in your rage and heartache for this clan, I can hear your happiness when you say his name. I’m so glad. I was afraid that you wouldn’t ever find someone you liked. Do you think he’ll accept a courtship from you?”
“I have no idea. But I know that he considers me attractive. I barely knew him five minutes when he warned me that I was too handsome, that his clanmates would jump on me quickly. I thought he was joking, but I could tell he liked what he saw, too. He’s been very keen on making me feel welcome here. We eat every meal together, and we had a date that went very well. I think my odds are good.”