Admon bows. “Of course, I’ll have him detained.” His eyes bore into me, fear written clearly across them. “Be careful, Laurel. I’m not sure we’ve discovered every facet of the situation yet. I fear there’s more to this that we’re not seeing.” I nod curtly, and he turns to leave, Lunaria tracking his every step with the focus of a feline.

“Where do you think they’ve taken them?” Thorne asks, his own worry apparent now that we’re alone. I squeeze his hand in reassurance.

“I recognized several of the fae from a tavern I visited on my way to the Forum meeting. In Echosa. There was open distaste for me when I walked through the tavern as well. They must have a second headquarters there.” Thorne’s eyes light up with knowing.

“The documents we went through in Krantz’s desk mentioned Echosa frequently,” he relays.

“Then let’s go find the Echosan rebel base and get our friends back,” I say with a menacing smile.

“You’re sexy when you’re angry,” he says, the words hollow with our family taken. “But we should wait until the morning.” I start to protest, but Thorne adds, his words firm, “It’s dark outside. I won’t be much use to you until daylight. I want to get them back as desperately as you do. I can barely stand the thought of leaving them there even a minute longer than necessary. But we need to be prepared, especially if it’s just going to be the two of us. Not to mention, I’m still sore from my wounds and you used a lot of magic during that attack. We should rest here for a few hours and let the thayar concentrate fully restore us, then depart as soon as the sun rises.”

Although I want to argue, I know he’s right. Plus, even though my magic is stronger with the concentrate running through my veins, it’s more unpredictable and harder to wield—not a great combination for stealth.

“Fine,” I relent. “But we’re leaving the moment the sun’s on the horizon.” He nods, and I take his hand to lead him to the bathroom. I gently wash the blood from his body, fussing over him as he protests. I wash myself quickly, then we both collapse into bed for a few hours of restless sleep.