Essence of the Angels (The Starlight Chronicles #2)

Chapter Twelve

Lucy's POV

Kyra and I stayed in our parents's guest house while Jason had been given his own lodging next door. He would be heading into town later to consult with the angels about Valarie, so I assumed he was still asleep when Kyra and I rose early to get ready and leave. We helped ourselves to a quick breakfast from the food the angels had provided us with. We already had rations packed to take with us on our journey—Neo had advised that it might be a few days, perhaps even a week, before we returned.

Both of us jumped when the kitchen door opened suddenly, but it was just Mum. We told her last night about the journey to the Sacred City, though it hadn't been easy. She wasn't happy about Kyra going out in her current condition, and she wished I didn't have to go so soon after returning to her.

"Morning, Mum," Kyra greeted, as brightly as possible. I think she was trying to reassure her. Mum just scowled and wrapped her dressing gown tighter around herself.

"I didn't want to miss saying goodbye," she said. "Not after last time, when I nearly lost you both."

Kyra rolled her eyes knowingly. "Mum, we're going to be fine," she promised as she wrapped her arms around her. Mum hugged her back tightly and buried her head in her hair.

"I'm going to take care of her," I added, moving in to join the hug. "I promise."

I felt Mum shake as she cried, and my heart ached for her. I didn't want her to worry about us, but I didn't know how to fix it, either. Of course she was worried—I didn't think there was any way she couldn't be.

"I'm sorry," she sobbed. "I just don't want to lose either of you."

I gently pried Mum from Kyra's arms and held her at arm's length.

"Mum, look at me," I said firmly, urging her to meet my gaze. "I'm sorry that I've made you worry, and I'm sorry that I've sent you away in the past. I don't want you to fret or feel outcasted by me. Please . . . you have to see me for who I am. For who we both are."

Mum shook her head. "No, I do. I just—" Her words trailed off and I stepped back to make room for what I was about to do.

"You don't, Mum." I summoned my power from my veins and my Starlight shield materialized to life around me. Mum's eyes grew wide, looking at it—she'd seen it before, but I don't think it had sunk in yet.

"You see this shield?" I asked. "Hit it."

Mum tentatively slapped it . . . too gently. I snorted.

"No, hit it like you mean it," I said, with a smile. The corners of her lips turned up, and she tried again—firmer this time.

"You feel how strong that is?" I asked. "Every time I use magic, it gets stronger. I get stronger. The more I go out there and face the Urenphians, the stronger I can make this shield. Which means I can hold it for longer, and I can make it withstand tougher attacks. I promise you that I won't let anything happen to Kyra or myself."

Mum nodded, wiping her tears and shaking her head with an awkward laugh.

"I know, Lucy. I'm just fussing. You're so strong, and I'm so proud of what you can do. I know you'll protect your sister . . . and yourself."

I smiled widely. "Good. Try not to worry too much, okay? We'll be back here before you know it."

A knock at the front door sounded, signaling that Neo was here to collect us. I gave Mum one last hug before grabbing my bag and heading to the door. I opened the door and froze.