Shady

“They like death. And war. And suffering.”

Ky furrowed her brow at him. “They’re terrifying.”

Ky gave him a sideward glance then looked back into the fire and nodded. Of course he scared her. She’d be stupid to not be scared of him.

“If Strithr or someone woke up first.” Ky shrugged. “I dunno. Maybe not.”

Ky nodded glumly, wiping at her nose. “At least Haelar is waking up first. Could be worse.”

Ky nodded. “Yeah… hopefully it’ll work out… there’s lots of moving pieces.”

“I’m not sure,” she admitted. “Father’s been sick and Gaius treats me like an idiot. I don’t know what the plan is for sure. Just… helping as many people as ...

“We need people to be safe,” she said.

Ky nodded. “Hopefully we can get most people out before that happens. We’re going to evacuate to the East.”

“Well… that’s good, then… I guess.” Ky glanced back at the fire. “Not good the stone trolls aren’t, though.”

Ky cringed at that. “So they’re trying to get away from people before the Long Night?”

She shivered. “What do you think it means?”

“…Oh?” She glanced over at him.

She cringed. “Sorry.”

“Probably annoy my family,” she admitted, staring at the fire. “I’m feeling rather clingy.”