Let the Storm Break

CHAPTER 44 AUDRA

It’s cold in the tower.

Chilled air seeping through the bars of my narrow window.

Thick frost coating everything I touch.

Raiden offered me a blanket when he tossed me onto the rough stone floor and barred the heavy iron door. But the only thing I want is my freedom, and since he’s not willing to give that, I’ll find a way to take it.

I’ve combed the walls for the guide Aston mentioned, but he must’ve carved it into a different cell. Maybe the one Gus is locked in. Wherever it is, I’ll find it.

In the meantime I keep my back to the wall, never sleeping—barely breathing. Listening to the mournful wails of the broken Northerlies and promising myself that when Raiden comes for me, I’ll be ready.

He doesn’t believe the secret is lost.

It’s why he’s kept me alive.

Why he’s kept Gus alive.

Waiting for the right time to break me.

But it’s gone.

Everything is gone.

Everything except the gentle breeze I can still feel brushing my skin. Wrapping around me. Still determined to shield me.

I don’t deserve its loyalty.

But in this dark, frozen place, far away from the warmth and peace and things that hurt too much to think about, it helps to have something to hold on to.

And even though I can’t understand the words it sings, I have a feeling I know the theme of its melody.

Hope.