Contents
Chapter 40 — Oro
Overview
Oro brings Grim to meet Cinder, the Starling child who can help reach Isla. After a tense introduction, Grim wins Cinder’s trust by revealing his dragon, Wraith, leading to an impromptu flight. Cinder reveals lifelong dreams of another world. She agrees to help Grim and Oro rescue Isla.
Summary
Oro brings Grim to Maren’s cliffside cottage to meet Cinder, the Starling they hope can help them reach Isla. Cinder bristles at being called a kid and recognizes Grim as Isla’s husband and former villain. Grim shows no reaction, but tension lingers as Oro confirms they need Cinder’s help.
Trying to win Cinder over, Grim mentions his dragon. When Wraith appears, Cinder’s delight explodes into silver energy. She impulsively launches herself onto the dragon and commands a flight, forcing Grim to portal and Oro to give chase in alarm.
In the skies, Grim manages to join Cinder on Wraith. Seeing Cinder’s joy illuminating the clouds, Oro relaxes and returns to the ground, deciding a moment of happiness is worth the delay despite their urgent mission.
After landing, Cinder shares that she has always seen dragons in her dreams and has dreamed of another world. Grim confirms her willingness to help and, invoking Isla, asks for her aid. Cinder enthusiastically agrees, aligning with Oro and Grim to get Isla back.
Who Appears
- OroBrings Grim to meet Cinder; worries for her safety; supports recruiting her to reach Isla.
- GrimIsla’s husband; initially bristles with Cinder, then wins her trust by revealing Wraith; asks her help.
- CinderStarling child; fearless, ecstatic riding Wraith; reveals lifelong dreams of another world; agrees to help.
- WraithGrim’s dragon; appears on command, takes Cinder on a soaring flight, easing tensions.