Chapter 30

"I'm not allowedto leave our wing," Talia told us. Her frustration flowed through Sig's phone's speaker.

Sig and I were guests of Raider Black. Sig worried that the Novus Leader was trying to decide if he should let us return to the Redds or kill us.

I didn't think we would die.

Black had always been straightforward in our dealings. If he wanted us dead, he would have killed us days ago.

"That means Anton is up to something," Sig muttered.

I was desperate for news about Sage. "What did your maid say last?" Talia's maid was a sister to the healer's apprentice.

"Sage is getting stronger. Miriam is pleased with her healing."

One worry was gone. Sage was alive and, hopefully, would fully recover.

"Two days ago, I sent a package with clothes that included her purse. I've learned that human females are deeply attached to their purses," Talia said, frowning.

"Thank you for taking care of her." I appreciated her support.

"How much longer will you be gone?" she asked, a note of uncertainty in her voice.

"Four or five more days." We were to act as witnesses to what would happen to Charles Burke.

"I'll call when I learn more," Talia said and ended the call.

"She is uneasy," Sig said quietly.

"She's confined to the wing. I'm sure Anton is using his flunkies to communicate, which means she has no recourse. Plus, she feels responsible for Sage."

"Miriam won't let any harm come to your mate," Sig firmly stated.

I prayed that was true. "Miriam has proved to be rather independent before, but I don't like that Sage is with a stranger."

"I'm sure Anton is already focused on spending the reward. He will have lost interest in Sage if he ever had any." Sig rested his elbow on the sofa arm.

I began to pace. "It is concerning that Talia has been confined." The fact was worrying because my half-brother had a history of punishing others for minor offenses. Often, he made up the rules as he went along so that no one was safe.

"Miriam has never been foolish. She knows how important Sage is to you. She will ensure your mate is safe," Sig assured me.

"I wish we were on the road."

"I know you do. However, if we must be delayed, this is not a horrible place to be." He looked around our sitting room. "Food and drink upon demand, fast internet, and a comfortable bed. We could do much worse."

"Black could have locked us in the cell next to Charles Burke." That concern had been in the back of my mind as we'd neared Novus land.

"You have always treated Black and Conal with respect. They understand that you and Anton are different and treat you accordingly." Sig had handled the calls to the Novus Second, alerting him of our impending arrival with the prisoner.

"I cannot help but think the invitation was also a veiled warning. Novus knows how to deal with those who are enemies."

"I would do the same," Sig admitted.

I glanced at my watch. "Tex will arrive within the hour to work on our laptops. He mentioned some easy upgrades."

"We walk a fine line here," Sig warned.

"I do not believe I can ignore a goodwill gesture from this Pack. Black is building something very powerful here, and it would be foolhardy to ignore the opportunity to build a strong connection."

"Now you sound like the heir to the Redd throne," Sig teased.

"I am looking out for our best interests."

"You always do."

I could only hope that upon my return, Sage would forgive me.