Book 5: Call His Bluff

Isaac

The night before…

I press my phone to my ear as I walk through the castle. It’s early evening, and Cassian is insistent on shifting with me tonight. It’s a perfect night for it, a full moon. The whole city is lit up with lanterns and every temple is decorated for the monthly celebrations that take place during the full moons.

“Mom,” I breathe, my mouth curving into a smile. “I missed your call earlier.”

“How are you, honey? I haven’t heard from you in ages!”

“Busy,” I admit, wincing. “I’m sure Dad and Antony have made you well aware of the situation here.”

“They have.” Her voice is suddenly stern and uneasy. “Antony and your dad are growing concerned. It’s all the talk around Crescent Falls, but it takes so long for news to reach Maatua. Is everything all right?”

“Everything is fine. The threat is far south so far, and I have it handled.” For now.

I keep her chatting for a moment, trying to gauge whether Ella mad