Chapter 157: Chapter 157: Nothing's Changed

There was nothing I wanted more than to retreat into the veil, to fly on drach wings away, far away, from the pain I'd just endured. Though, as I returned to the quiet of the rubbery membrane between the planes, my heart settled, soul softening.

I'd done what I had to do. And I would pay the price for my actions. My kids were safe and Quaid was happy. I couldn't begrudge them that. Besides, falling apart now would serve no purpose.

There would be time for beating myself black and blue later. I had music to face and more people to track down so they could yell at me.

Her office was exactly as I remembered it, the faint scent of pine cleaner, the warmth of the wood, her massive desk and leather padded chair. I stood in a sunbeam heavy with dust motes, absorbing the heat while I just breathed and prepared myself for what was about to come.

And opened myself to her power, letting her know I was there.