"Riona made it clear—Wintertooth was not to be involved," Thorin admitted, his voice low. "But when those ancient vampires were too busy saving their own asses, I called for help."
Puck stiffened. "What?"
It wasn't that he disapproved. Any help was welcome, no matter how small. But Riona had been firm—she wouldn't accept their aid if it meant putting Trudy in danger.
"I mean… I didn't think the vampires would help us," Thorin continued, frustration lacing his words. "With just the three of us—maybe the princess—what chance do we have against the emperor and a demon? Florian isn't the boy we knew anymore. He's a demon now. How do we kill the demon without killing him?"
His reasoning was sound. No one could fault him for wanting to help. But this wasn't about good intentions. No matter how noble, every choice carried consequences—especially when lives were on the line.
Puck exhaled sharply. "Did you call Trudy and Charna?"
Thorin shook his head.
***
