Chapter 17
Thorne and I plucked glowing blossoms until our bags were filled, then returned to camp to empty them and partake of a brief lunch. I looked for Neeve, and finally glimpsed her at the far side of the encampment. When she caught sight of me, she turned abruptly away.
Three years until the next harvest, I thought while I chewed my bread and cheese. Neeve would be married by then. Although perhaps she’d find a way to put Kian off, just in case the Oracles’ mad plan to make me the gateway anchor worked.
Of course, I’d be long gone at that point.
Which would leave my stepsister trapped until she produced a child of her own. At that point, she’d be able to go into Elfhame. Provided the babe didn’t kill her at childbirth, as had happened with her own mother.
I sighed heavily and t
