Hellion's Reckoning
Chapter 49

Vestin’s heart raced as he led his people through the inferno, his eyes scanning the crowd for his sister and friend. The heat was suffocating, and the ground beneath them trembled with each step. He could hear the trees cracking and groaning above him, consumed by the flames. Beside him stood his family, their faces smeared with ash and sweat. They fought back tears as they followed Vestin through the blazing forest. The knights, with their azure shields protecting them, were scattered throughout the group, guiding, and protecting the refugees.

Above them, Ashryn flew with Ruvyn in her arms. Her burning wings cleared a path through the flames as she guided them to safety. Vestin couldn’t help but marvel at her strength and bravery. The slaves were freed thanks to Thaddeus’ clever plan, and Ailog had few allies left to turn to. One by one, the Maenads disappeared into ivy leaves, carried away by the flames. The battle was over, and Bacchus was returning to his father.

As Vestin thought about Bacchus’ words and looked down at the Raven bracelet on his wrist, he realized that one god’s opinion didn’t matter anymore. Even if Keira was the better heir, he still had a place among his people. He didn’t need a title to remind him of his importance, their love for him was enough.

The flames roared around them, casting an eerie glow that danced upon the faces of those fleeing through the burning forest. As Vestin pushed forward, a sense of determination pulsed through his veins. His eyes searched desperately for a glimpse of Keira and Inias amidst the chaos. The crackling of the trees seemed to form a haunting symphony as they succumbed to the fiery wrath consuming them.

His family, resilient and unwavering, stayed close behind him, their expressions a mix of fear and faith. The knights, with their azure shields gleaming amidst the inferno, acted as beacons of hope in the nightmarish landscape. Each step forward felt like a battle won against the encroaching flames. Through the fiery tempest soared Ashryn, her wings ablaze yet radiant with purpose. Ruvyn clung to her, his trust in her unwavering as she guided them through the treacherous terrain.

Looking back through the smoke he saw a flash of blue and red running alongside the crowd. An Elk wasn’t far behind it, but he didn’t recognize the girl riding. He let out a sigh when Inias, Keira, and Styx made it to the front and mounted the two horses waiting for them. They were covered in dirt and blood, but they were alive. Once mounted they charged ahead to the front.

Together they charged forward and one by one the crowd broke into a run. The scent of fresh air was leaking into the burning forest. He turned to his people, seeing the weariness etched into their faces, but also the glimmer of hope that danced in their eyes. Finally, after what felt like an eternity of battling hell itself, they emerged from the burning forest into a clearing that seemed untouched by the devastation. The air was cool and fresh, a stark contrast to the hot, acrid smoke that had filled their lungs moments before. Vestin’s heart swelled with relief as he saw his sister and friend waiting for them at the edge of the clearing.

Keira leapt from her horse and rushed forward to embrace Vestin, her eyes wet with tears. Together, they stood at the edge of the clearing, watching as their people poured out of the burning forest, each one carrying with them a story of survival and courage. The knights formed a formidable barrier around them, their swords now sheathed but their stances still fierce and ready for any threat.

“Those aren’t tears of joy,” Vestin said, delicately wiping away a tear from her cheek with his thumb. “Father…he…” Keira choked on her words, succumbing once again to sobs as she buried her face in her brother’s chest. Inias tenderly placed his hand on her back, offering silent comfort as they watched their home crumble before them. The air was thick with smoke and ash, the smell of destruction and despair permeating every breath.

Vestin’s gaze shifted to Inias, who gave a solemn nod and gently squeezed Keira’s shoulder. She turned and pressed her tear-stained face into Inias’ chest, whimpering softly. His fingers ran through her hair, stroking softly. “He’s still with us,” Inias said brushing a kiss atop her head, squeezing her in his arms. She nodded slowly and looked up at him, “Beside your father, my mother, and Endolyne.”

As the last embers of their home faded into the night, a heavy silence settled upon the group. Their collective grief blending with the crackling of the dying flames behind them. The weight of loss hung heavy in the air; a reminder of the sacrifices that had been made to ensure their escape. As the first light of dawn began to break through the smoke-filled sky, a distant rumble echoed in the distance, signaling the end and a new beginning.

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