No short dress for the Warrior tonight.
It’s simple in itself, with two straps on the top that dip down to the chest and back. It’s a safe choice to wear in a foreign court, and I can’t help but sigh knowing that the gold of my dress will stand out.
“Golem…” I turn from the mirror after getting ready.
My magical companion takes one look at the frown on my face and nods, almost as if he knows what I’m about to ask.
“I don’t think you should make an appearance tonight…”
Alanna turns from her bed and watches me with narrowed eyes.
“I want you to be with me in the library when I begin my search,” I continue, “and while there’s nothing off about you being seen with me at court, once your presence is known to the Prince and Princess, we run the risk that they may deny your entry to the library. It would be smart to keep you hidden until I’m actually inside its depths, and then I can let you out.”
I walk towards him in apology, “I’m sorry, Golem. The thought didn’t even cross my mind until we entered the throne room earlier. I don’t want to risk it.”
Golem gives me a rare, small smile in understanding.
“I really am sorry,” I say again, reaching out for a tentative hug.
The magical creature wraps his arms around my back just as Alanna walks to the door.
“Come on, Alexis.”
I give him a final squeeze.
“We’ll be back tonight,” I tell him quietly.
Alanna holds open the door and waits for me to walk out, her cool grey eyes shifting from me and Golem. I sigh and stroll into the guest hall that hosts our room, my gaze catching Golem’s one last time before the door closes behind me.
Alanna and I take off down the hall in silence, passing by a few maids and different travelers that also have rooms on this floor. I use the time to study the different flames on the people around us, and quickly note that they really are unique unto the person. Some of the flames are smaller and move under the skin before disappearing, while others are strong in their red swirls and reach out in multiple directions. The Prince’s flames on his chest were the strongest I’ve seen so far, which almost makes me wonder if the strength of someone’s flames alludes to the power of their summoning?
“Can you summon, Alanna?” I ask curiously.
Alanna keeps her cool grey eyes ahead as she nods, “I can.”
Does she want me to pry it out of her?
I plan to, but then I spot a friendly looking girl in the hall and wave my hand in greeting.
“I hate to bother you,” I smile, “but where can we find a drink around here?”
The girl takes in our attire and gives a small grin.
“You’re from the Disce delegation, right? Keep walking down the hall and take a right at the hanging chandelier. Head down the steps and they’ll lead you back to the throne room. The balcony to the left of the room will have drinks set up for you there.”
“You’re the best,” I reply as Alanna rolls her eyes.
We walk until we reach the hanging chandelier. It’s a magnificent piece that sparkles in silver, the hundreds of crystals hanging from it dripping in obvious wealth. To the right of the chandelier and just as the girl directed are a set of stairs that cut down into the mountain. Alanna and I descend to the bottom and are immediately met with the bustling throne room.
Numerous people are rushing between the massive pillars and setting up for the night, so we quickly weave out of their way and walk towards the open-aired balcony that’s hidden off the side of the room. The cold air from outside whips across our faces, but it’s not the coolness that has Alanna stopping in her tracks.
“They’ve summoned the fire here like Barnes…”
I move to stand next to her under the dark sky and look across the balcony. Stationed at different areas are large crates that are filled with the undying fire, the flames roaring to life without burning the logs underneath.
“Was it supposed to be a secret?” I ask her.
Alanna scowls and starts walking to the far edge of the balcony where a few barrels are resting behind a counter. A Pyrenese man stands in front of the drink, his gaze watching us both before he starts to grin.
