Page 72 of Dragon Eternal (Dragon Kings 4)
CHAPTERTWENTY-NINE
Once Nia finally fell asleep, Shaw prowled her chamber. Amsden’s visit had rattled her. She’d tried to blow it off, but Shaw had seen the concern in her eyes. He wasn’t surprised the steward had come. In fact, Shaw had expected someone to pay them a visit. Nia wasn’t naïve, so why had she been taken aback?
Was it Amsden? Or was it something more?
Shaw turned his gaze from the window to look at her. She slept deeply. He blew out a breath as he returned his gaze out the window to the city below. He hoped Merrill was watching himself. Something had changed during the night. Shaw couldn’t put his finger on it, but it was there, hanging ominously in the air.
“Merrill?”
His friend responded immediately. “Everything okay?”
“I’m no’ sure. We had a visit this evening. Amsden, steward to the Divine.”
“I take it things didna go well?”
“He was nervous around me, but more than that, his arrival upset Nia.”
Merrill grunted. “Is that because of the man or the visit?”
“That, I doona know. It could be either. Or both.”
“The fact that someone came means they’ve noticed things are progressing.”
Shaw crossed his arms over his chest and glanced at Nia. “Aye. Amsden is a wanker, there’s no denying that.”
“What’s really bothering you?”
“Have you sensed anything?”
Merrill chuckled softly. “You mean other than the utter shite that’s already here?”
“Something’s changed. I feel it.”
“Now that you mention it, I’ve noticed it more in the soldiers. They added a few more to each station. Regular folks have taken notice, too. It’s making them nervous.”
Shaw briefly closed his eyes. “Surely they wouldna be stupid enough to try and take us.”
“I wouldna think so, but the Divine did want to speak to a Dragon King.”
“Nia thinks he wants something more than a few words.”
“Like what?” Merrill asked.
“I wish I knew.”
“Are you worried?”
“If I say no, then I’m a fool. The Divine is an unknown enemy. Nothing ever good comes from underestimating an adversary. Yet, the Divine isna supposed to have magic.”
Merrill sighed loudly. “But we know the bastard is working with someone who does.”
“Precisely.”
“I’d be happier about this entire situation if I were with you.”
That made Shaw grin, but it was gone quickly. “If things do go sideways, get out.”
“I’m no’ leaving you behind.”
“I want you to get out, find Cullen and the others and return. If the Divine wants a fight, then we’ll give him one.”
Merrill made a sound. “If you’re looking for a way to piss off Brandr, that’s it.”
“It willna be us who starts this.”
“I’m no’ sure Brandr will see it that way.”
“He was the one who wanted us in the city. We’ll all have to deal with whatever comes of it. I do have to admit, though, I’ve got a bad feeling.”
Merrill snorted loudly. “I’ve had one from the beginning. This probably isna the time to bring it up, but what are you going to do about Nia?”
“You’re right. It isna the time. Watch your arse.”
