Armageddon

Chapter 5: Revelation

Rahim plotted their course as he and Silver heavily discussed the plans to break into Mortemholdt; meanwhile, Selena looked over the prison's blueprints Silver found from his library, showing her and Rahim all the blind spots that he knew existed. It wouldn't be safe for Thor to linger around, nor would there be any room, so once he dropped them off, the group would be on their own until they were ready to meet up again.

"According to Silver's prints," Rahim pointed at the schematics, "their armory would be nearby. We can disguise ourselves as guards until we find your dad, Selena. Then, we can gather back at the exit, and we'll be home free."

Selena felt uneasy with how he made their plan sound. "I feel like it's not going to be as simple as that."

Silver sang, "If all else fails, we'll blow the damn thing up."

Selena shook her head. "No, we don't need the Council on our tails. If Vidar Helios and the others can easily overtake Alfheim, imagine what they could do to us—not to mention if their Nidhoggr battalion are there." Silver and Rahim shivered from hearing their name. "We know Vidar is much more cunning than we give him credit for."

Mortemholdt was about a week's flight from Heaven's Tear; the trio agreed to go over their allotted provisions the day before to ensure they would have enough for about two weeks' worth, including their soon-to-be fourth passenger.

Falling deep into their planning, Silver and Rahim slowly—perhaps not purposefully—omitted Selena from the conversation. Only when she tapped on their shoulders did they realize their mistake and, in reconciliation, attempted to include and ask for her opinions. However, she noticed the two began isolating her once more. She ultimately decided to sit down, biting down on her nails in anticipation, waiting for them to finish their discussion.

Thankfully, Thor's upbeat attitude served as a nice distraction from her friends' rude dispositions; yet, she couldn't help but notice that he had been in high spirits since his meeting with Ebony. I take it that you're enjoying her company?

I am. Ebony is a shapeshifter like Silver, and she prefers to be a dragon. She sat with me for hours, sharing stories of great treasure and battles.

That sounds lovely. Selena couldn't help but feel that he was more than happy with his time with her.

It's not what you think.

Do you like her?

She's fascinating.

You didn't answer my question. Do you like Ebony?

Thor snorted and seemed almost embarrassed to answer. I do but as an acquaintance.

Highly suspecting his lies, Selena bit her bottom lip as she kept her snickering to a minimum not to interrupt Silver's and Rahim's conversation—Thor wouldn't admit it. You can't lie to me. I understand something happened between you two, and I believe you admire her.

I never said I didn't, nor did I deny that something happened. Leave it.

Selena's cheeks burned when she realized what he meant, and her wide grin brightened her entire face. You'll hear it from me for a long time after this.

Oh, don't be rash. Does it matter?

No, it doesn't. Does it bother you that Ebony is a shapeshifter?

No, but does it disturb you that Silver is too? Thor had a point, as the versatility of Silver's nature never occurred to her. Although he could be anyone or anything, Selena still loved him for who he was, not what he was. Besides, she and I only talked.