We haven’t voted as a group but it’s clear that’s what Agis wants. It’s also pretty obvious that it’s what we need as well.
“I’m in,” Marshal says, “On one condition.”
“What is that?” Agis asks.
“Once this mission is over, we’re free to go our separate ways. We’re no longer bound to anything or anyone.”
Miya nods in agreement. I feel the swell of anxiety in my chest. Freedom? I know we supposedly have it now, but it still doesn’t feel real.
“I’m in,” Rupert says. “One last mission and we’re done.”
“No more Legion?” Agis says. His voice is tired. We’re all tired, but we can muster the strength to get through a final challenge.
“No more,” I agree. “Maybe that will be enough to get Roland to cooperate for a bit longer.”
Marshal laughs darkly. “Unlikely.”
The five of us stand in a circle, and we place our hands in the center. It’s how we’ve sealed our bond since the first day Camulus forged us as a unit. The idea of going into battle is neither exciting or eventful, it’s another day in a lifetime of similar outcomes, but the idea of it being the last one and on the side of good?
That sends a flicker of energy through all of us.
Maybe there’s an end to all of this after all, and maybe we can douse the flames of hell that are licking at our feet.
11
Hildi
“No.”
The voice that rings out over all the others is Morgan. The firm set of her shoulders and jaw confirm her seriousness. The tears welling in her eyes slam it home.
“Agreed,” says Roland. “The Valkyrie is not part of the deal.”
We’re back in the library, all of us. Five Ravens, Morgan, the six Legion, and me. Positions are divided equally, six vs. six. I’m alone in the middle.
“They want to do it and frankly,” I say, looking at the Guardians, “you can’t.”
Damien’s violet eyes flash in offense. Bunny and Sam have kept their mouths shut.
“What does that have to do with you?” Damien asks.
“They need me.”
“I need you,” Morgan says, hand stroking her belly. “Me and the baby.”
“If I don’t go with them, then there may be nothing to come back to. I won’t risk that.” I approach my friend. “We’ll take your place, and I’ll lead them. Make sure they get the Stone of Knowledge, get it to the temple, and complete the crusade for another millennia.”
Roland mutters a curse under his breath. A curse directed at me. I ignore him, but Dylan doesn’t.
“Do you have a problem?” he asks Roland.
“With a female commander? Yeah, I fucking do. It’s not going to happen.”
“Is this because she kicked your ass in the gym earlier?” Marshal asks, looking to stir the pot.
“No,” he declares, “it’s about the fact she’s not a true warrior. She hasn’t had time on the battlefield like the rest of us and isn’t qualified to lead any of us, anywhere.”
“I stood toe-to-toe with you against the Morrigan. How dare you question my worth,” I shout.