Iron Flame (The Empyrean, #2)

by Rebecca Yarros

“What has the Empyrean decided?” We aren’t the only ones making choices tonight. “It will be up to the individual dragon. They will not interfere, nor will they punish those who choose to leave and take their clutches and hatchlings with them.” It’s better than the alternative, which was full-scale slaughter of the dragons choosing to fight. “Are you really okay?” I ask him again. The bond between us feels strange, like he’s holding back more than usual. “I lost Solas in a network of caves while I was hunting him, so I was unable to kill him and Varrish myself for their actions. When I do find him, I will prolong his suffering before death.” I understand the feeling. “And Andarna?” “Being made ready for flight. We’ll pick her up on our way out.” He hesitates. “Prepare yourself. She still sleeps.” Knots of apprehension twist in my stomach. “What is wrong? What aren’t you telling me?” “The elders have never seen an adolescent remain in the Dreamless Sleep this long.” My heart plummets.