Page 403 - Fourth Wing

watches the family, curling her hand around the pewter mug of wine

Rhiannon’s mom was kind enough to bring earlier. “Figured at least this
way I’d know you’re safe. What other rules have you broken, sis?” She sips

her wine and cuts a look my way.

A smirk tugs at my mouth as I lift one shoulder. “Maybe a few here and
there. I’ve gotten very good at poisoning my opponents before challenges.”

Mira nearly spits out her wine, slamming her hand over her mouth.

I laugh, crossing one booted ankle over the other. “Not what you were
expecting?”

Respect shines in her eyes. “I honestly don’t know what I expected. I was

just desperate for you to live. And then you went and not only bonded one
of the most powerful dragons alive but a feathertail, too.” She shakes her

head. “My baby sister is a badass.”
“Not sure Mom would agree with that.” I rub my thumb over the handle

of my mug. “I’m not exactly manifesting a signet yet. I’m solid at

grounding and can hold a pretty strong shield, but…” I can’t tell her the
rest, the gift Andarna has given, at least for now, to me. “If I don’t manifest

my signet soon…”
We both know what will happen.

She quietly studies me in that way she has, then says, “Here’s the thing. If

you want your signet to manifest, then stop blocking it by thinking it has
anything to do with Mom. Your power is yours and yours alone, Vi.”

I squirm under her scrutiny and change the subject, my gaze dropping to

her neck. “How did that happen?”
“Gryphon,” she answers, nodding. “Near the village of Cranston about

seven months ago. Thing came out of nowhere in the middle of a village

raid. The wards went down, and usually my signet gives me a little
immunity from the enemy wielders, but not their fucking birds. Took the

healers hours to stitch me up. But it gave me a pretty cool scar.” She tilts
her chin to show it off.