Summary

Tess and Pathka escape Trowebridge and Pathka says they need to get eight miles away before his kin will stop chasing. They find a barn to stay in and Tess thinks about her family, feeling bad for not leaving Jeanne a note. She remembers when she met Pathka a season after Seraphina grew her scales. At the time, their mother had been distraught, believing that Tess’ father would only ever love the dragon, but told the twins they must always love their husbands. Tess had gone to the basement to try and get some time alone, and was locked in there by her Aunt for playing. She found Pathka laying eggs, but the last one was too large and was killing her. Seraphina helped by translating Pathka’s instruction and Tess saved the egg and Pathka herself. Then Pathka offered blessings from...