Chapter Fifty-Six - Bait

Nell was furious when Robin told her what else had been discussed at the Council. He’d not been present but had heard it second hand from Melas.

“They talked him into it?”

“No, listen to me, Arielle. It was his idea. The elders foresaw something like this coming and decided it could work to our advantage, ridding the territory of Simon Marchant and his supporters forever.”

“Is that why you weren’t surprised when he mind linked me and told me he’d been imprisoned by his own brother?”

“He also said help is on the way. A two-pronged attack always works better in any battle.”

“Had much experience have you?” she huffed, folding her arms.

It was then he saw fit to disclose his age and credentials. Her jaw dropped.

“I suppose all of you think I’m just a baby.”

“No, Arielle. Your coming was foretold long ago,” Melas said, appearing beside a silver birch.

“That pipe’s empty,” she said. “At least, I can’t smell tobacco of any kind.” She saw their astonished faces. “Have I said something wrong?”