Edge of Darkness ~ A Darkness & Light Novel Book Three Read Free Page A

the slight tremor of doubt trickling beneath the conviction in his words. Donovan had nearly broken him more than once. At one point, Bolin even prayed for the Goddess to take him rather than allow him to be used for Donovan's twisted purposes. Bolin had been weak then, and caught off-guard. That wouldn't happen again. "If you've nothing else, Thadeus, I really need to go."
    "There appears to be no stopping you without a fight."
    A fleeting rush of excitement coursed through Bolin at the comment, as though Thadeus had thrown down a gauntlet in challenge and part of him yearned to snatch it up. The mage's brow furrowed, but the desire left Bolin as quickly as it had appeared. He tipped his head in silent farewell and left the library.

CHAPTER THREE
     
    Mid-morning found Ciara in the midst of one hundred soldiers in full uniform. They waited in loose groups in the barrack's yard, chatting amongst themselves, or making final adjustments to their gear. Bolin's fingers tightened around hers as they neared the carriage bearing Nialyne's body. Garlands of white flowers decorated the four horses drawing it. The same blossoms draped the gold-edged, deep green cloth covering the casket. A glimmer of strong mage magic encased it all, meant to stave off the effects of a prolonged journey. An honor guard of six riders wearing plumed helms surrounded the carriage. They saluted as Bolin drew near and he nodded, his expression carefully neutral.
    A shifting in the ranks forewarned them of Garek's approach as both men and horses moved out of the burly commander's way.
    "You're certain you don't want me and the lads coming?" he asked Bolin.
    "They're due some time. Besides, with me and Dain both gone, someone will need to see to things here. Besides," he angled his head in Ciara's direction. "You've other duties."
    Ciara slipped her hand from Bolin's and settled her fists on her hips. She fixed both men with a hard scowl. "Excuse me? Did you just refer to me as Garek's duty?"
    Bolin blew out a sigh. "It's commonplace for a Lady of the Empire to have her own guards. Whether you choose to acknowledge it or not, that is the position you now hold."
    "I'm quite sure I have no idea what a Lady of the Empire is supposed to do," Ciara said.
    "Which is why it's a good thing I'll be staying until my brother returns," Ariadne said, she and the Emperor arriving together. She stopped beside Ciara and linked arms with her. "I will be more than happy to instruct you in all the finer points of courtly behavior."
    "That gives me something to look forward to." Ciara smiled at the Emperor's sister. She knew so few people in Nisair, it gladdened her that Ariadne wouldn't be returning to her own home any time soon.
    "If you like that sort of thing," Garek rumbled under his breath.
    Ariadne shook her head in resignation. "It is a good thing not everyone detests life at court as much as you and our Lord General."
    "And me," the Emperor said. "But don't let Ellyanna hear that."
    "I'm sure the Empress is well acquainted with your opinion, Brother."
    "Then why is it she insists on throwing those grand galas four times a year, which I am forced to attend?"
    "Purely to annoy you, I'm certain."
    Ciara glanced Bolin's way. The playful banter between the royal siblings served to lighten the overall mood, but did nothing to diminish the heaviness lingering in Bolin's eyes.
    "We should be on our way," he said, and leaned to look past Garek. "Captain Everyn, are we ready to move out?"
    "Aye, General," came the reply. "Just give the word."
    Bolin directed a questioning glance the Emperor's way. "Your Majesty?"
    "As you will, General." The Emperor turned to his sister. "Try not to be too bossy in my absence. It makes me look weak."
    "Whoever believes that is a fool," Ariadne said with a light laugh.
    The yard erupted into motion as the command to mount up got passed down the line. Ciara moved back to allow Bolin room to swing onto Sandeen, but he surprised her by catching her